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REPORTS OF PROCEEDINGS
CITY COUNCIL OF BOSTON
FOR THE YEAR
COMMENCING JANUARY 1, 1934, AND ENDING DECEMBER 29, 1934
CITY OF BOSTON
PRINTING DEPARTMENT
1935
INDEX
TO THE
CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
THE YEAR COMMENTING JANUARY 1, 1934, AND ENDING DECEMBER 29, 1934
A. Q. Tomasello & Son, Inc.
notice of interest in contract for snow removal received from Joseph A.
Tomasello, member, board of appeal, placed on file, 9
notice of interest in contract from Joseph A. Tomasello, appeal board,
contract for furnishing, installing sewer pipes, manholes, gravel fill in
Boston traffic tunnel, filed, 62
Abatements
real estate: see Real Estate, total abatements 1933 and 1934 to April IS
Absences of Officials from City
Mayor Frederick W. Mansfield, notices filed, May 30 to June 3, 220;
June 22 to 25, 256; Julv 5 to Julv 9, 266; September 20 to 23; October
11 to 19; December 7-11
Washburn, Dr. Frederic A., notice filed, June 18 to August 16, Dr.
Francis X. Mahoney appointed acting institutions commissioner, 229
Acceptance and Laying Out of New Streets
see Street Laying-Out Department
Acts of Legislature
Boston Retirement: see Retirements, Jennings, Louis V. or page 98
1893, chap. 261: see Departmental Transfers
1914, chap. 765, 1915, chap. 63, see Retirements
1928, chap. 174: see Sinking Funds Department, transfer of unexpended
balances on seven projects or page 380, 388, 428
1931, chap. 347: see City Council, resolves
1931, chap. 297: see Street Laying-Out Department, gasoline, fuel oil,
storage fees
1933, chap. 121: see Salaries, reductions continued from 1933
1933, sect. 2, chap. 49: see Loans, welfare expenditure or pages 294,
300, 305
1933, sect. 15, chap. 254: see Election Department, registration, listing
voters or pages 333, 336-338, 369-371
1933, chap. 121: see Clerk of Committees Department, stenographer-
clerk or pages 102, 113; also City Council, ordinances, stenographer-
clerk, clerk of committees department or pages 121, 122
1933, chap. 320: see School Committee Department, reinstatements,
names
1933, chap. 366: see National Industrial Recovery Act and Federal
Loan and Grant Agreements and Federal Emergency Administration
of Public Works
1934, chap. 178: see East Boston, municipal building or page 398
1934, chap. 268, Boylston st. subway car stop: see Boston Elevated
Railway Company, chap. 268, Acts of 1934 or pages 229, 283, 284
1934, chap. 342, repair of Chelsea North bridge: see Loans, Chelsea
North bridge repair or pages 274, 275, 287, 288, 300
1934, sect. 20, chap. 488, departmental transfers: see Zoning Adjust-
ment Board, appropriation or page 345
Address, The Mayor's Inaugural
accounting and budgeting, 3; advisory committee, 4; cash
deficit, 1; city employees, 3; contracts and purchases, 3;
cooperation, 4; fever to spend, 2; finance commission, 4;
financial condition of city, I; public welfare, 4; resumption,
step rate increases, 3; salary reductions, 2; tax payers, 2
Aerial and Holland Block Plans
study of: see Assessing Department or page 223
Agnew, James E., Councilor, Ward 21
committee appointments: Appropriations, Claims, Constables, Public
Lands, Public Safety, 15
improvement orders. Ward 21:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Brainerd rd., 391
Cambridge St., 52
Chestnut Hill ave., 98, 332
Chiswick rd., 127, 145, 175, 355, 363
Commonwealth ave., 31, 35, (3) 263, 272
Englewood ave., 375, 387
Kilsyth rd., 355, 363
Ridgemont St., 358, 363
St. Lukes rd., 399
Union sq., 375, 376
Wallingford rd„ 332
motion:
(establishment, United States shoe factories) reference to executive
committee, 354, 355
objections:
constables' bonds, 156
orders, resolves:
approval, chap. 268, Acts of 1934, 229
extension Boylston st. subway, 391
locker building, Chestnut Hill playground, 98
McLeod Bill, 136
reinstatement Peter Clougherty, 19
re-registration, welfare recipients, 136
transfers to E. R. A., 399 (2)
transfers-police officers, 19
remarks:
approval, chap. 268, Acts of 1934, 229
committee reports, executive ($485,694.50 welfare appropriation), 233
(Boylston st. subway extension stop), 283
McLeod Bill, 136
re-registration, welfare recipients, 136
transfers to E. R. A., 399
transfer-police officers, 19
unanimous consent:
committee reports, executive (welfare appropriation, $485,694.50),
233, finance (police communication loan order), 72
Air=Conditioning
city hospital: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital,
conditioning or page 259
(3)
ALCOHOLIC
(4)
APPROPRIATIONS
Alcoholic Beverage Commission
ll.vili- I'm l< J i < 1 1 1 < > r license: order for review i n ,: I
derision of Boston Licen ing Board, pa ad, 260
Allegiance to Flag Pledge
observance in schools: onlei loie<| el.ool rc|>iilu( ion the pledge
to be repeated bj pupils and teachers at least, once a week during
school year, passed, 1 99
American International Terminal Corporation
loan approval, F. E. A. of P. W.: order to consider prompt approval
of application $16,000,000 from F. E, A. of P, W. for construction of
dock and creation ship terminal. Old Harbor Point, Dorchester,
passed, 224
American Legion
orders: sec Veterans, American Legion, various posts
American Medical Association
air-conditioning city hospital: ace Hospital Department, Boston
city hospital, air-conditioning or page 2.50
Annuities
sec Pensions and Annuities
Anonymous Letters
in re recipients: see Public Welfare Department, anonymous letters or
pages 289, 292
Appeal Board
member appointed: John C. MacDonald vice James H. Fitzpatrick,
filed, 197
notices of interest in contract: see Contracts, notice of interest, name
Appointments
notice from Commonwealth of Massachusetts of persons serving on
licensing board, finance commission, board Boston port authority,
police commissioner, medical examiners, Suffolk County, trustees,
Boston metropolitan district, filed, 213
Bellows, Robert P., commissioner, art commission, vice Charles D.
Maginnis, filed, 197
Briggs, Elmer L., judge, appellate division, district courts, vice Nathan
Washburn deceased, filed, 29
Brophy, Michael J., notice from the Mayor appointed to board of
assessors, vice David B. Shaw, acting assessor, filed, 331
Campbell, John J., deputy sealer of weights and measures, filed, 323
Carey, Charles H., soldiers' relief commissioner, vice John J. Lydon
resigned, 9-placed on file, 10
Carven, Christopher J., acting head, municipal employment bureau,
placed on file, 12
Casey, William J., superintendent, printing department, 4 years, filed,
213
Cochrane, Robert C, medical board for annuities to widows of firemen
and policemen, acceptance received, 62
Doherty, John F., city collector, vice William M. McMorrow, filed, 35
Dorsey, John H., city treasurer, placed on file, 12
Doyle, Wilfred J., acting city clerk temporarily, filed, 29, 30
Dunn, Leo J., director, Workingmen's Loan Association, vice Hyman
Manevitch, filed, 197
Ellis, Alfred, member, zoning adjustment board, vice Patrick H.
Jennings, filed, 197
Evans, Lillian A., probation officer, district court Chelsea, vice Mrs.
Annie E. Guild deceased, at $1,800 annually, referred to county
accounts committee, 382
Fairbanks, Arthur W., medical board for annuities to widows of fire-
men and policemen, acceptance received, 62
Falvey, Daniel J., deputy city auditor, $4,200, filed, 323
Fay, Frederic H., chairman, city planning board, 5 years, filed, 213
Fitzgerald, John F., Boston port authority, vice Thomas J. A. Johnson
deceased, filed, 35
Fitzgerald, Thomas A., street commissioner, vice John J. O'Callaghan
retired, filed, 29, 30
Foley, Henry E., corporation counsel, placed on file, 6
Appoint men! - , Con! intied
hoi. I l)i Ion
medical board for annuitiet to widows of policemen and fin
scej red, 62
physician to city employe* . Bled, 2')
i ox, Cbablbb I.:
.viing chairman and head of statistic!) department, rice James P. lialfc
resigned, Bled, J 07
■ iry. sinking funds commi lion, notice filed, 267
in -, auditor, i years, Bled, 213
acting budget commissioner, filed, 220
Gai.i.aoiij.k, Owes A., member board street commissioners, vice Theo-
dore A. Glynn, placed on file, 12
Gleabon, Romwkll, superintendent, public buildings, placed on file, 12
HlCKEY, William P., iraffi'- commissioner, rice Joseph A. Conry resigned'
placed On file, I")
Hi iii.kv, Patrick J„ chief probation officer, municipal court, South
Boston, $3,000 per annum, referred to county accounts committee, 342
Kiernan, Frank J., superintendent of markets, vice Ambrose Woods,
filed, 35
Kirstein, Louis E., trustee, library department, 5 years, filed, 172;
member, board, port authority, 288
Lambert, Peter L., deputy commissioner, penal institutions depart-
ment, rice George T. Reid resigned, filed, 29, 30
Lane, Richard J., notice of electionby school committee as commissioner
for three years, filed, 382
legal residents, Walter M. Dbiscoll, Wesley J. Backman: see
Election Department, legal resident appointees
Lombard, Laurence M., overseer, public welfare department, vice
Charles J. Mahoney, filed, 172
Long, William P., chairman, park commissioners, 3 years, filed, 213
Loomis, Warren W., superintendent of supplies, rice Philip A. Chapman
resigned, placed on file, 15
MacDonald, John C, member, appeal board, rice Jarnea H. Fitzpatrick,
filed, 197
Mahoney, Francis X.:
acting institutions commissioner, vice James E. Maguire resigned,
filed, 24
acting institutions commissioner, June 18 to August 16, during leave
of absence of Dr. Frederic A. Washburn, notice filed, 229
health commissioner, to 1938, filed, 427
McCarthy, Walter V., deputy commissioner, institutions department,
vice Mary A. Cotter, resigned, 220
McDonald, John F., transit commissioner, vice Nathan A. Heller
resigned, filed, 29, 30
McFarland, Francis J., deputy assessor, filed, 331
McLaughlin, Edward F., fire commissioner, vice Edward M. Mc-
Sweeney, 9-placed on file, 10
Morrissey, William F., deputy assessor, filed, 331
Murphy, Timothy W., principal assessor, vice Neal J. Holland retired,
filed, 29, 30
Murray, Walter A., member, board, street commissioners, vice Charles
F. Bogan, placed on file, 12
nonresident: see City Council, resolves, nonresident appointments,
or page 123
O'Donnell, Lieut. Thomas W., keeper of lock-up, 381
O'Neil, Harry, food inspector in health department, filed, 257
Pierce, George M., confirmed, 259
Quirk, Hilda H., city registrar, vice James J. Mulvey, resigned, placed
on file, 10
Shaw, David B.:
principal assessor, vice Henry L. Daily, resigned, placed on file, 15-
Michael J. Brophy appointed to fill vacancy, filed, 331
chairman, election commission, vice Helen A. Macdonald, for 4 years,
also acting principal assessor vice his own resignation as principal
assessor, filed, 213
Sullivan, Arthur V., transit commissioner, vice Arthur B. Corbett
resigned, placed on file, 15
Tague, Peter F., member, listing board, 1934, filed, 24
Tracey, Daniel: notice from mayor of Cambridge, as street railway
police officer with Boston Elevated Railway, filed, 351, 352
Wadsworth, Eliot, sinking funds commissioner to April 30, 1934, rice
Frederic J. Crosby, resigned, 9-filed, 10; reappointed for 3 years,
filed, 156
Wallace, James H., health inspector, 381
Warren, Clifford P., overseer, public welfare department, vice Morris
Bronstein, filed, 172
Washburn, Col. Frederic A., M. D., institutions commissioner, placed
on file, 15
Appropriations
additional: see Public Welfare Department, appropriations
bonds interest: see General Sumner Tunnel, interest appropriation,
traffic tunnel bonds, series B, or pages 286, 287, 288
I
\PPROPRIATIONS
(5)
BLAKEMORE
Appropriations, Continued
Chelsea North bridge repairs: see Loans
completion E. R. A. projects: see Public Works Department, bridge,
ferry division, orders passed, E. R. A. projects
county: see Suffolk County, appropriations, current expenses
current city expenses and welfare: see Public Welfare Department,
appropriations
Dorchester Day, 1934:
order to include in budget, passed, 41
order to provide sum for proper observance, passed, 182
expenses, $2,000: see Municipal Employment Bureau
health units, personal services: see Budget Department, health
units appropriation
ice for drinking fountains: see Drinking.Fountains, ice
locker buildings, Chestnut Hill playground: see Park Department,
Chestnut Hill playground, or page 98
municipal employment bureau, current expenses: see Municipal
Employment Bureau, appropriations
new city hall, by loan: see New City Hall
Northern ave. bridge: see Northern Avenue Bridge, loans under
chap. 366, Acts of 1933
Parkman Fund: see Park Department, Parkman Fund appropriation
for Common and parks in existence in 1887
playground, East Boston: order for $10,000 by loan, referred to
finance committee, 358-report accepted, first reading and passed, 382-
final reading, passed, 401
police communications system (by loan): see Police Communi-
cation System, loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933
reorganization, $10,000: see Municipal Employment Bureau
sewerage, street reconstruction by loan: see Loans
snow removal equipment, by loan: see Loans
tax anticipation, current expenses: see Loans
transfers between and within appropriations: see Departmental
Transfers, name of department
zoning adjustment board expenses, $3,500: see Zoning Adjustment
Board appropriation, or page 345
Appropriations Committee
members appointed: Councilors Norton, Shattuck, Agnew, Roberts,
Gallagher, Tobin, Selvitella, 15
reports: 236 to 245
\quarium, South Boston
order for 81,000 transfer from Highland pk. improvements for tropical
fish, referred to executive committee, 226-report accepted, order
passed, 233
\rmy Base, South Boston
lease or purchase: see Boston Port Authority, army base, South
Boston, lease or purchase, or pages 53, 80, 81
\rrests for Automobile Thefts
truth of police commissioner's statement: see Law Department,
correctness of police commissioner's statement in re automobile theft
arrests, or page 257
Art Commission
commissioner appointed: Robert P. Bellows vice Charles D. Magin-
nis, filed, 197
Assessing Department
principal assessor appointed:
David B. Shaw, vice Henry L. Daily resigned, placed on file, 15
Timothy W. Murphy, Dice Neal J. Holland, retired, filed, 29, 30
acting principal assessor appointed: David B. Shaw, to fill vacancy
caused by own resignation as principal assessor, filed, 213
, board member: Michael J. Brophy vice David B. Shaw, acting assessor,
filed, 331
j deputy assessors appointed: Francis J. McFarland, William F.
Morrissey, filed, 331
; aerial and Holland block plans: order for department to make study
before abandoning, passed, 223
i militia enrolment list: notice of number liable for enrolment filed,
257
Assessing Department, Continued
reduction of valuation:
order to consider reducing valuation $200,000,000 for 1934, passed,
24— message with communication, filed, 58; order to consider reduc-
tion of at least $200,000,000, passed, 122
order to instruct assessors in re Ward 15, passed, 373
order to investigate with view to reduction in Ward 15, passed, 373
order to investigate property for, in Ward 7, passed, 373
reinstatement, second assistant assessors:
order to consider under stagger system, 85 (Councilor Tobin) motion
to refer to executive committee-(Councilor Murray) motion for
immediate vote— reference to executive committee, motion carried,
86-report accepted, order passed, 94
orders for investigation of possibility of other economies in depart-
ment to allow reinstatement, referred to executive committee, 86,
87-report accepted, order passed, 94
tax assessment information: order under eight heads requested by
council, passed, 30
taxes, Symphony Hall and Repertory Theatre: see Taxes or pages
174, 280
total abatements on real estate information: see Real Estate,
total abatements, 1933 and 1934, to April 15 or pages 137 to 142
Ward 15 reduction in valuations: order to investigate for further
reductions for 1933-34, passed, 354
Auditing Department
acting city auditor: Wilfred J. Doyle, appointed temporarily, filed
29, 30
city auditor appointed: Charles J. Fox, 4 years, filed, 213
deputy auditor appointment: ordinance amending chap. 6, Revised
Ordinances of 1925 allowing appointment, referred to executive com-
mittee, 266-report accepted, ordinance passed, 267
deputy city auditor: Daniel J. Falvey appointed, filed, 323
Christmas payments: see City Employees, December payments or
pages, 388, 397, 398
financial information: order for, under six heads, passed, 30-message
with report, filed, 33-message with report, filed 48
North Grove st. land, buildings: order for information in re date
and amount of sale to Massachusetts General Hospital, also dis-
position of money received, passed, 40
synchronization, accounts with those of welfare department:
order for check before being made public, passed, 93-message with
communication, filed, 95
transfers: 286
see Departmental transfers
Automobile
arrests for theft: see Law Department, correctness of police commis-
sioner's statement in re or page 257
flat rate insurance in state: see City Council, resolves, auto insur-
ance, flat rate in state or page 50
Bank Commissioner
foreclosed and remortgaged property: see Investigation, Foreclosed
and Remortgaging of Property or page 300
Baseball Diamonds
see Park Department
Bath Houses
see Park Department, name of beach
Bay View Section, South Boston
clean, safe water: see Public Works Department, water Bay View
water section, South Boston or page 284
Beaches
cleaning: see Park Department, cleaning beaches
Tenean beach: see Park Department, Tenean beach, land purchase;
cement walks; drinking fountains; shelter
Blakemore Street Bridge
over N. Y., N. H. & H. R.R. tracks: see Streets and Squares, im-
provement orders passed, Blakemore St., Roslindale ur page 204
ILOOD (G)
BOSTON
Mood Transfusions
fees: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital, blood transfusion
fees or pages 374, 375
}|ossom Street Wardroom
additional story: see Public Buildings Department or pages 40, 120
toards
Of Appeal: see Appeal Board
of Zoning Adjustment: see Zoning Adjustment Board
{oats and Steamers
" John H. Sullivan" :
22, 52
Public Work's Department, sale or pages
Jonds
approved:
Boston American League Baseball Company, .r>2
Celtic Association, 214
Herman, Joseph, 174
for city officers, collector: amendment to chap. 3, Revised Ordinances
of 1925, referred to ordinances committee, 246-report accepted,
ordinance passed, 267
constables approved:
list of 45 names approved, on objection of Councilor Agnew bond
of Joseph Herman was accepted without approval, 156
Alviti, Americo (appointed, 1933 Proceedings, page 334, confirmed,
347), 35
Bailey, Chester A., David Belson, Joseph L. Bennett, James A.
Canton, Daniel B. Carmody, Joseph Corviello, Walter F. Delaney,
John J. Dillon, Paul R. Cast, Samuel Goldstein, Solomon Gorfinkle,
Charles H. Jackson, Harry Kahn, Thomas H. King, Abraham
Krinsky, Abraham Landfield, Frank F. Lane, Leslie P. Mann,
John J. Miller, Bernard M. Mullen, Michael W. Ober, Frederick
Partridge, James G. Peters, Philip S. Phillips, Leonard M. Pike,
David I. Rattet, Abraham Rosenberg, Maurice Rosenberg, Albert
M. Sacks, Sidney J. Sheinfeld, Joseph Simansky, Roman J. Vasil,
Harry A. Webber, Maurice Zeeman, 172
Bancroft, Charles A., Abner Goulston, Samuel Goldkrand, Richard
Hegarty, Frank J. Macchia, Fred R. Napolitano, Bert Oppenheim,
Joseph Todisco, Leon Small, Aber Uckerman, Abraham I. Weiss,
213, 214
Bashitsky, David, 330-343-372
Blaustein, Alfred, 382
Blinderman, Eugene, 330-343-351
Blotto, John B., Benjamin Jacobson, Harry Meltzer, John Mil- ]
groom, John Ruggiero, Florian S. Small, 323
Broad, Charles B., George W. Brooker, Edward F. Callahan,
George H. Evans, Maurice J. Glick, John S. Grady, St. Clair E. I
Hale, Bronis Kontrim, Nathan Kravitsky, Maurice Levine, John
A. May, William P. Miles, Patrick H. Murphy, Edward and Emil
Ober, Walter W. Regan, George J. Swidler, Frank J. Staula, John
J. Walsh, 198
Brown, Francis E., Anthony DiSisto, Thomas Freedman, Salvatore
Grassa, Louis Gorfinkle, Spiros Kaliris, George N. Pierce, Abraham
S. Singer, Philip Tepper, Anthony J. Testa, James H. Waugh, 280
Bddd, Louis, Sherman H. Calderwood, Michael F. Simmons, Francis
J. Tobin, 228
Cohen, Sidney (appointed, 1993, Proceedings, page 404), 9
Danberg, Morris W., Jacob Demask, Joseph O. DeSantis, Gilbert
I. Favor, Marks Goldstein, Samuel Gordon, Max Rabinovitz,
Alfred N. Sarno, Israel Spector, 257
Dinubile, Joseph, David Klayman, Louis Levine, Andrew W.
Murphy, 220
Grignon, Walter E., 218, 323, 372
Kaplan, David Benedict, 288
Kenney, William H., 134, 351
Quinn, Patrick J., 330, 343, 372
Schneider, William (appointed, 1933 Proceedings, page 368, con-
firmed, 375), 9
Spanier, Gustav (appointed, 1933 Proceedings, page 388, confirmed,
401), 12
Tarle, Samuel, 351, 372, 396
Welch, John F., 341
liability policy, James J. Davis approved by council, 351
release of sureties:
First Church of Christ Scientist, 387, 388
Bootblack Licenses
see Licenses
Borrowing in Anticipation of Taxes
enactment, chap. II, Acts of 1934: message explaining measure for
protection of purchases of city tax anticipation bonds received, 42
Borrowing Capacity of Boston
debt limit legal borrowing: report from board of commissioners,
sinking funds, acting city treasurer, city treasurer, amount $3,261,-
655.31 estimated, filed, 38
Boston Agawam A. A.
use, Boston Common: see Park Department, Boston Common or
pages 284, 297
"Boston American"
editorial in re slum removal legislation: see City Council, resolves,
slum removal legislation or pages 229, 304, 308
Boston American League Baseball Company
petition for Sunday sports received, 38-granted, 52-bond approved, 52
Boston Consolidated Gas Company
gas service, Hyde Park: see Law Department or page 357
street tights, Dorchester: order to require assurance of adequate and
consistent lighting, passed, 51
Boston Elevated Railway Company
acceptance, chap. 268, Acts of 1934: order for, in re Boylston st.
subway car stop, referred to executive committee, 229-report ac-
cepted, order passed, 283; order for construction, passed, 284
Bennington St., East Boston street car reservation, Swift St. to
Orient Heights: see Public Works Department, street car reserva-
tion elimination or page 281
Boylston st. subway extension stop:
order for acceptance of chap. 268, Acts of 1934 providing for con-
struction of car stop under Beacon st., referred to executive com-
mittee, 229-report accepted, order passed, 283
order for construction by transit department, passed, 284
bus stop, Dorchester: order to restore recently discontinued stops
between Fields Corner and Savin Hill ave., passed, 216
bus transportation free: see School Committee Department, free bus
transportation to Woodrow Wilson School or page 375
finance check-up: see Metropolitan Transit Commission or pages
159, 254
financial condition statistics: order for investigation by Metropoli-
tan Transit Commission of newspaper accounts of statistics compiled
by James T. Swan, C. P. A. in re, referred to executive committee, 135-
report accepted, order passed, 143
five cent fare through General Sumner Tunnel: order for, without
privilege of transfer, passed, 281
jitney discontinuance: see Jitneys, discontinuance of service orders
passed
jitney license petition : see Jitneys, operation license petitions
land purchase, Ward 9: see Park Department, or page 30
order to install waiting room at new South Sydney st. bus platform
passed, 373
proposed five cent fare: resolutions, favoring, copies to be sent to
trustees, passed, 214
railway police:
notice sent Council of release of 39 men, filed, 135
notice sent to City Council of appointment bv city of Cambridge,
filed, 174
removal, unused poles, overhead wires:
order to take up matter, under Federal Emergency Administration
of Public Works program, passed, 7
service surveys: order for, on Bay View line and from Andrew sq. to
East Cottage St., passed, 373
slot machine removal, Fields Corner: order for at Charles st. en-
trance, passed, 290
spare power use: order to consider utilizing unused power for municipal
power requirements and proceed to enactment of legislation, passed, 50
standees, petition for amendment: ordinance amendment allowing
in motor vehicles, referred to jitney license committee, 9
street railway police officer, Daniel Tracey: notice of appointment
by the mayor of Cambridge filed, 351, 352
BOSTON
(7)
BROADCASTING
Boston Freight Terminal
sale, unclaimed baggage: see New York
Railroad or page 323
New Haven & Hartford
"Boston Globe"
clipping July 23, 1934: see Northern Avenue Bridge, repairs or page 285
"Boston Herald" Statement
by the Mayor, October, 1933: order to inform city council as to the
exactness of statement, passed, 122
Boston Housing Committee
appointment proposed: see Slum Clearance, committee appointment
or page 356
Boston Licensing Board
Hyde Park liquor license: order for Alcoholic Beverage Commission
to review issuance, in cases where the Boston Licensing Board has
refused, passed, 259
Boston & Maine Railroad
sale, unclaimed baggage: petition for, referred to unclaimed baggage
committee, 78-report accepted, order for, at public auction, passed, 101
Boston Municipal Research Bulletin No. 5
Municipal Pay Roll: order to print in Proceedings of City Council
of April 9, 1934, passed, 124, 125, 126
Boston Municipal Research Bureau
communication sent Council submitting report recommending elimina-
tion of four engine and two ladder companies to reduce department
costs, filed, 220
Boston National League Baseball Company
petition for Sunday sports received, 49-bond approved, license granted,
62
resolution approving celebration of Maranville Day, Sunday, September
2, passed, 308
Boston Navy Yard
improvements under P. W. A.: resolution that the Navy Depart-
ment include in P. W. A. projects an addition to shop and extension
of ways, estimated cost $500,000, passed, 355-message filed, 361
Boston Port Authority
members appointed: John F. Fitzgerald vice Thomas J. A. Johnson
deceased, filed, 35; Louis E. Kirstein, 288
army base, South Boston, lease or purchase: order to consider
with a view to developing and expanding port of Boston, passed, 53—
message with communication, filed, 80, 81
departmental transfers: message with order, $300, referred to execu-
tive committee, 346-passed, 357
Boston Port Development Company
tax information: see Collecting Department or pages 20, 77
Boston Public Latin School Anniversary
300th celebration: see School Committee Department or page 41
Boston, Revere Beach & Lynn Railroad
railroad police: see Police Department, release of or pages 25, 135, 174
"Boston Traveler" Editorial
order that the editorial be spread upon the records, passed, 175, 176
Boston Yacht Club
cleaning beach: see Park Department, beach cleaning, L st. baths to
Boston Yacht Club or pages 215, 251
Boylston Street Subway Car Stop
acceptance, chap. 268, Acts of 1934: see Boston Elevated Railway
Company, chap. 268, Acts of 1934 or pages 229, 283, 284
legislative action proposed: see Transit Department, Boylston st.
subway extension
Brackman, David M., Councilor, Ward 12
committee appointments: Claims, Finance, Municipal Lighting,
Public Lands, Public Safety, 15-Lincoln Memorial Wreath, 41
improvement orders, Ward 12:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Crawford st., 386
Harrison ave., 30
Homestead St., 299
Howland St., 30
Perrinst., 30 (2), 78
Seaver St., 30
Wakullah St., 30
Walnut ave., 356
Waumbeck st., 30
Wayne St., 257
Wenonah St., 70
motions:
committee reports, executive ($2,000 municipal employment bureau
appropriation), reconsideration and assignment to next meeting,
carried, 233
next meeting, 302, 386
orders, resolves:
advisability, canceling all furloughs, public works department, 313
budget appropriation, health units, 99
clean-up campaign, 160
collection, ashes, garbage, 385 (with Councilors Murray, Doherty.
Englert)
Costigan- Wagner Bill, 204
display of Nazi swastika, 30
flat rate on auto insurance, 50
garaging city motor vehicles, 160
hearsay information in re welfare recipients, 262
Hebrew immigration aid society, 223
hospital service, "Kosher" food, 231
interest on delinquent taxes, 136
investigation, telephone, gas, electric rates, 299
managers, Old South Association, 20
prescriptions, soldiers' relief, 40
proposed five-cent fare, F. E. R. A. employees, 214
repeal, new parking law, 331
support of Tyding's resolutions, 50
telephone meters, 149
remarks:
anonymous letters, 289
budget appropriations, health units, 99
clean-up campaign, 160
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), 240
committee reports claims (Edmund Currie petition) , 235
committee reports, constables, 152
committee reports, executive, snow removal, 100
committee reports, finance (six loan orders), 67
flat rate on auto insurance, 50
hearsay information in re welfare recipients, 262
interest on delinquent taxes, 136, 137
investigation, telephone, gas, electric rates, 299
number of council members, 391
remarks of Joseph Lee, Jr., 107
repeal, new parking law, 331
" share-the-work " stagger system, 112, 113
Sumner tunnel tolls, 306
telephone meters, 149
tolls for Sumner tunnel, 353
unanimous consent:
committee reports, appropriations (1934 budget), 245
commttee report, finance (police communication loan order), 71, 72
Bridges
bridge and ferry division orders passed: see Public Works Depart-
ment
repairs: see Transit Department, bridge repair
Broadcasting Baseball Games
from Parkman bandstand, Common: see Park Department or page
160
BROADCASTING
(8)
CHARLESTOWN
Broadcasting Cost
over WBZ and WNAC: order for the mayor to furnish, and if same are
to bo charged to city, 202-passed, 203
Brookline Avenue Watermain (No. 4214)
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program:
message with order by authority of chap, 366, Acts of 1933, to appro-
priate by loan $350,000, referred to executive committee, 34-report
accepted, order passed, referred to finance committee, 39, 40
message with loan and grant agreement forms, referred to executive
committee, 42—48
message with order approving and authorizing execution of loan and
grant agreements by the Mayor, referred to executive committee,
56-report accepted, 63-second, final reading, passed, 68-eorninuni-
cation from Washington received, 69-final reading, 74
message with order for authority for the Mayor to rescind above loan
and grant agreement order and substitute order approving new
grant, referred to executive committee, 118-report accepted, order
passed, 122
approval of State Emergency Finance Board received, filed, 168
rescission, 1933 loan order: message with order for (loan, $350,000
outside debt limit under chap. 366, Acts of 1933 in Proceedings of
1933, pp. 357, 361, 365, 375), referred to executive committee, 170,
171-report accepted, order read once, passed, 181-second, final
reading, order rescinding, passed, 198
message with report on cost under original loan and grant and amount
of grant under new grant agreements, filed, 205, 206
Bryant & Stratton
tax exempt: see Taxes, exemption or page 400
Budget Department
appropriations and tax orders, 1934:
estimated city total, $44,526,912.03, county total, $3,316,333.34 from
taxes; from revenue, $1,905,045.05; estimated ways and means,
$4,710,400; estimated tax income within tax limit, $31,343,663.30,
236 to 239
appropriations committee report accepted, motion (Councilor Norton)
to return budget to the Mayor and committee for further study,
240, lost, 244-order (Councilor Norton) to pass two-thirds of appro-
priation, 240, rejected, 241-motion (Councilor Goldman) to call
order for recommitment of budget to the Mayor and committee,
lost, 244-motion (Councilor Goldman) to pass budget, out of order,
244-motion (Councilor Murray) in re printing amendment, out
of order, 244-motion (Councilor Fish) to vote separately on four
County items, lost, 244-motion (Councilors Fish and Murray)
to amend budget by laying four County items on table, lost, recount,
prevailed, 244, 245-budget as amended, passed, 245
budget comparison, 1924 and 1934: order for information in re 1934
budget, passed, 98, 99
city: message with budget recommendations, grand total, $38,596,262.58,
referred to appropriations committee, 209 to 213
final recommendations: city maintenance and debt requirement,
$2,217,388.51; county maintenance, $76,006.05; income, $12,039.75;
traffic tunnel interest, $129,686.78, 275, 276, 277, 278-referred to
executive committee, 279-report accepted, motion to vote on all
F-5 items, F-5 items passed, 282; motion to vote A-l items, A-l
items passed, 282; remaining budget passed, 282
health units appropriation: order not to eliminate personal service
items, passed, 99-acknowledgement of receipt of order, filed, 106
public welfare department, copy: order for copy of budget sub-
mitted to state legislative committee, passed, 124
Suffolk County: message with budget recommendations, $3,316,333.34,
referred to appropriations committee, 184, 185, 186-report with
amendment accepted and passed, 236 to 245, inclusive
lump sum form budget, 1934:
fkom taxes, city, county: estimated, $15,521,216.75 for city and
$1,116,600 for county, referred to appropriations committee, 21, 22
from revenue, water income division, City Record, Printing
Department: estimated, $708,000, referred to appropriations
committee, 21, 22
total lump sum form, 1934, $17,345,816.75 ($12,021,216.75 avail-
able inside tax limit): see Budget Department, from income; from
revenue
transfers: 286; see Department Transfers
Building Department
clean up campaign: see Clean-Up Campaign, committee appointment
reinstatement, employees:
order for, passed, 333
order for, of 20 or more, passed, 374
removal of structures, 91, 9S, 95 Elm St., Ward 2: order for, as fire
hazards and menaces to public safety, passed, 374
Bunker Hill Day, June 17
conflict with democratic state convention: see City Council, re-
solves, democratic state convention, or page 78
Pacific coast fleet: see Public Celebrations, Bunker Hill Day, or pages
164, 207, 208
Burdett College
tax exempt: see Taxes, exemption, or page 400
Busses
discontinuance of operation: licenses to operate: stops in Dor-
chester: see Jitneys
free transportation for school children to Woodrow Wilson school:
see School Committee Department, free bus transportation or page 375
C. M. Tyler Company
citizen employment: see General Sumner Tunnel, or pages 18, 61
C. W. A.
communication: see Civil Works Administration
employment of women: see Emergency Relief Administration, under
C. W. A., P. W. A., and E. R. A.
Cables
submarine: see Massachusetts, Commonwealth of, Public Works
Department, or page 24
Catch-basins
orders: see Public Works Department
Cemetery Division
orders: see Public Works Department
Census
inclusion of unemployment data: see Police Department, census
taking including unemployment, or pages 78, 80, 105
figures, with reason for decline or increase: see City Planning
Board, or pages 70, 81 to 84
Changes of Names of Streets
see Streets and Squares, naming, renaming notices received
Chapter 11, Acts of 1934
amendment to sect. 4, chap, 44 of General Laws: see Loans, tax
anticipation, current expenses
Chapter 366, Acts of 1933
see N. I. R. A.; Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works,
Federal Loans and Grants Agreements
Charles River Basin and Charlesbank Park
renaming: see Storrow Basin, or pages 49, 77
Charles Street Widening
unexpended balance, $22,229,76: see Sinking Funds Department,
transfer of unexpended balances on seven projects, or pages 380,
388, 428
Charlestown Improvements
housing project:
order for appropriation by housing director for removal of houses on
left-hand side of Main St., City to Sullivan sq., also proposed
widening, Rutherford ave. and removal of elevated structure, passed
335-message with communication filed, 378
order to appeal for Federal and state housing allotment for districts
between Bunker Hill and Medford sts., from Chelsea st. to Fay
sq., passed, 385
CHELSEA
(9)
CITY
Chelsea North Bridge
loan for repair: see Loans, Chelsea North Bridge, repair
Child Performers
petitions: see Licenses, child performer petitions granted
Christmas Funds
solicitations: see Wayside Army, Inc., or pages 308, 401
Christmas Payments
city pay rolls: see City Employees, Christmas payments, or pages 388,
397, 398
welfare recipients: see Public Welfare Department, Christmas S5
additional payment to recipients, or page 387
Churchill Bequest
order for opinion of law department in re land, Dorchester ave. , once
used as convalescent hospital, passed, 408
Cinder Track
Billings field: see Park Department, Billings Field, or page 401
Citizen Employment
C. M. Tyler Company: see General Sumner Tunnel, or pages 18, 61
Citizenship of Dr. Albert Einstein
bill for: see City Council, orders, Einstein, citizenship of Dr. Albert,
or pages 232, 345
City Clerk Department
inaugural exercises: see City Council, or pages 1 to 4, inclusive
jury list: sent to city council, filed, 225; order to prepare for ballot.
box, passed, 255
notice of reinstatement, Annie Pettee, diet cook, south department, re-
ceived, sent council, filed, 49
City Council
members:
Agnew, James E., Ward 21
Brackman, David M., Ward 12
Doherty, John J., Ward 10
Donovan, George P., Ward 6
Dowd, John F., Ward 8
Englert, Edward L., Ward 11
Finley, James F., Ward 20
Fish, Albert L., Ward 16
Fitzgerald, John I., Ward 3
Gallagher, Edward M., Ward 22
Gleason, Richard D., Ward 9
Goldman, Maurice M., Ward 14
Green, Thomas H., Ward 2
Kerrigan, John E., Ward 7
McGkath, Joseph, Ward 13
Murray, Peter A., Ward 19
Norton, Clement A., Ward 18
Roberts, George W., Ward 4
Selvitella, Henry, Ward 1
Shattuck, Henry L., Ward 5
Tobin, Martin H, Ward 15
Wilson, Robert Gardiner, Jr., Ward 17
election, president: order to proceed to elect, passed, 5-roll call votes,
John F. Dowd elected, 5
chairman pro tern.: Councilor Gallagher, senior member, 5
committees, standing, special, appointed: appropriations, claims,
constables, county accounts, executive, finance, hospitals, jitney
licenses, legislative matters, municipal lighting, ordinances, Parkman
Fund, parks and playgrounds, printing, prisons, public lands, public
safety, rules, soldiers' relief, unclaimed baggage, 15; special committee
for Lincoln memorial wreath, 41
election, stenographer-clerks: Frank W. Leavey and John L.
Maloney, in clerk of committees department, 144
committees appointed:
rules: order to prepare and report rules for council proceedings, 5-
Councilors Wilson, Gallagher, Green, McGrath, Roberts, 5
adjourned meetings: 71, 236
City Council, Continued
flags, ropes, stakes, charges against:
Cathedral Club cross-country run, April 14, passed, 124
Marathon race, April 19, passed, 87
Michael J. O'Connell race. April 19, passed, 135
inaugural exercises: January 1, 1934, presentation by city clerk,
Wilfred J. Doyle, of Rev. John E. O'Connell for invocation; com-
munication from election department; oath of office administered
by Chief Justice Hon. Arthur Prentice Rugg, Supreme Judicial Court
of Massachusetts; oath of office administered to members of city
council; inaugural address, 1, 2, 3, 4
the Mayor's call for meeting: placed on file, 5
Mayor Mansfield's visit: January 8, the gavel was turned over to the
Mayor by President Dowd and the Mayor addressed the Council, 11
motions:
next meeting, 78
Councilor McGrath adjournment, May 7, to May 21, 183
Councilor Green for meeting July 16, motion withdrawn, motion
Councilor Goldman to meet July 16 adopted, 264
Councilor Tobin for July 23, 268
Councilor Fish for meeting August 13, carried, 290
adjournment until December 17, objection, motion withdrawn-
meeting December 10, 386
orders:
chap. 268, Acts of 1934, car stop under Beacon st. in Boylston
subway extension: acceptance, referred to executive committee,
229
American Legion delegates' leave of absence: requesting leave
with pay for attendance at annual convention, Miami, passed, 334
chap. 268, Acts, 1934, Boylston st. subway extension stop accepted,
229
charges against appropriation: order indefinitely to pay James
Fennessey and Michael O'Brien $200 each annually for extra
services, passed, 385
department consolidation: that the legislative committee of
council be instructed to oppose any bill not providing for approval
of council, passed, 14
House Bill 950, reorganization, Boston welfare department:
for legislative committee to appear at hearing in re and report
results to Council, passed, 94
Einstein, citizenship of Dr. Albert: to consider approving bill
in re now before Congress, referred to rules committee, 232-report
accepted, order passed, 245
Lincoln Memorial wreath: order that members subscribe for,
passed, 41 ; the President appointed a committee, Councilors
Gleason, Brackman, Kerrigan, Green, Norton, 41
naming "Storrow Basin": order for, from Charlesbank pk. and
Charles River Basin in view of generosity of Mrs. James J. Storrow,
passed, 49
nonresident employment: see Ordinances or pages, 307, 396, 397
number of councilors: order to record with Massachusetts legis-
lature vote of council favoring amendment changing in view of
difference in voting population, referred to legislature matters
committee, 389, 390, 391
payment, Patrick F. McKeon: see Payments
playground, East Boston: preambles requesting submission of cost
of playground replacing that taken for highway purposes, passed,
323-motion to lay on table until next meeting, carried, 342, 343
retirement medical board, surgeon, neurologist: preamble
designating, referred to executive committee, 31-report accepted,
order passed, 32
St. Lawrence waterway: that the Council go on record as opposed,
referred to committee on rules, 41
Spring St.- Dedham line state highway: preambles and order
that street commissioners be authorized to file with Massachusetts
public works department a petition, waiving all rights under sect. 8,
chap. 81, General Laws, that the Commonwealth take over as
state highway, laying out and taking full charge of, referred to
executive committee, 346— report accepted, order passed, 357-copy
of order of taking over and plan of lay out, filed, 427 , 428
veterans' hospital: order to consider occupying for overflow of
main hospital or shelter for the destitute during the winter the cost
of repairs to be under P. W. A., passed, 373-message with communi-
cation filed, 395
ward redivision: for special committee in accordance with chap. 54,
General Laws, to prepare ordinance, expense to be charged to reserve
fund, passed, 285; Councilors Gallagher, Murray, McGrath, Green,
Roberts, Fitzgerald and Wilson appointed
welfare department investigation: order for appointment of
committee, passed, 87, 91-Councilors McGrath, Fitzgerald, Tobin,
Shattuck, Wilson appointed, 91
ordinances:
assistant city collector appointment: amendment to sect. 7,
chap. 13, Revised Ordinances of 1925, proposed by Councilor Fitz-
gerald, referred to ordinance committee, 343-report accepted,
ordinance passed, 372
CITY
(10)
CITY
City Council, Continued
ordinances:
STENOGRAPHER-CLERK, CLERK OF COMMITTEES DEPARTMENT, AMEND-
MENT to 1929 Ordinances: preambles amending changing "second
assistant clerk" to "two stenographer-clerks," referred to execu-
tive committee, 121— report accepted, order passed, 122
STENOGRAPHER CLERK, CLERK Or COMMITTEES DEPARTMENT, AMEND-
MENT to sect. 5, chap. 3, 1930 Revibed ORDINANCES: preambles
amending salaries, under chap. 121, Acts of 1933, referred to execu-
tive committee, 121-report accepted, order passed, J 22
resolves:
auto insurance, flat rate in State: favoring enactment of legisla-
tion providing, passed, GO
Cardinal O'Connell's ciolden jubilee: preambles extending con-
gratulations, passed, 220; preambles and resolution recognizing
honors bestowed upon cardinal, passed, 375
chap. 347. Acts of 1931 : favoring enactment of legislation extending
time limit, passed, 91-message, filed, 105
city employees discharged: if necessary in interest of economy to
discharge employees only those without dependents, resolution
passed, 102
closing proceedings of council: see Council Adjournment of 1934
or page 420
congratulations to Councilor Goldman: upon appointment
as Assistant Attorney-General of Massachusetts and hoping con-
tinuance of the councilor in the council, unanimously passed, 429
Costigan-Wagner Bill: favoring and urging United States congress
to enact and that a copy of resolutions be sent presiding officers of
both houses of Congress, Senators Costigan and Wagner, also
Massachusetts congress, referred to rules committee, 204
democratic state convention date: preambles and resolution
asking chairman not to set during week of June 17, Bunker Hill
Day, referred to rules committee, 78
discharge, employees by the Mayor: opposing wholesale discharge
of city employees, passed, 107, 108
Doocey, John, reimbursement: see Payments, Ducey, John
E. R. A. projects, completion and continuance of employment
of men: preambles and resolution appealing for, in bridge and ferry
division of public works department, passed, 215
establishment, United States shoe factories under E. R. A.:
favoring, as a means of relieving the unemployment situation
among shoe workers, motion to refer to executive committee, 355
General Sumner tunnel tolls: preambles approving revision of
schedule of rates, schedule and communication from East Boston
Board of Trade, referred to executive committee, 305, 306, 307-
report recommending reference to special committee accepted, 308-
order for committee passed. Councilors Selvitella, Green, Shattuck,
Brackman, Goldman appointed, 308-preambles approving revision
of tolls as submitted by special committee, resolution not adopted,
vote doubted, resolution adopted, 352, 353
Hebrew Immigration Aid Society: preambles and resolution
extending best wishes on occasion of annual flower day, passed, 223
horse and dog racing: favoring a nonprofit-making organization
to run, passed, 374
House Bill 40 of 1934: favoring enactment of legislation establishing
commission to raise additional revenue for Commonwealth and
cities and towns thereof, passed, 91
House Bills 1046 and 1047, New England Telephone and Tele-
graph Company-: favoring passage to bring investigation of charges
to citizens, passed, 78, 79
Joseph Lee, Jr., disparaging remarks: to go on record opposing, in
re South Boston, Roxbury and other sections of Boston, passed, 107
legislation in re part payment, taxes: favoring enactment, passed,
31
life-saving facilities and payment for death of Mary Durant:
favoring placing signals at bathing beaches and draft of petition
to Legislature for payment to mother of Mary Durant, passed, 308
Maranville Day: preamble and approval of celebration on Sunday,
September 2, passed, 308
McLeod Bill: favoring passage in United State legislature, referred
to rules committee, 136
message to President Roosevelt: preambles and resolution to
send congratulations recently voiced by the Mayor in radio address
on unemployment, passed, 91
mortgage payments: preambles calling conference in re moratorium
on foreclosures, postponement of principal payments, reduction
interest rates, passed, 401
motion picture "block system": endorsing movement to ban,
passed, 285
motion picture industry: endorsing present campaign for purifica-
tion, passed, 280
municipal building: favoring enactment of legislation authorizing
construction in East Boston, Ward 1, passed, 13-message with
communications, filed, 23, 24
municipal lighting plant loan: approving enactment authorizing,
outside debt limit, passed, 31
City Council, Continued
resolves:
naming East Dobton tunnel: preambles and resolution to name for
Martin Lomasney, referred to executive committee, 202
national ANTHEMS and display of U. 8. flag: favoring playing of
anthems at close of broadcasts and display of flag at all meetings
held in public buildings, parks, playgrounds, passed, 324
navy yard improvements under P. W. A.: that the Navy Depart-
ment include in projects addition to shop and extension of ways,
passed, 355
Nazi "Swastika": preambles and resolve that the Council goes on
record as opposed to display, referred to committee on rules, 30, 31
Neptune Gardens, East Boston: preambles and resolution to send
Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works, Washington
letter disapproving 33,500,000 allotment H-15 on list sent Chairman
Wilson of executive committee (nee page 09 .Minutes, February 26,
1934) , referred to rules committee, 68
non-resident appointments: opposing taxing citizens of Boston
for, passed, 123
PAYMENTS, LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENT APPROVED AND PASSED: see
Payments, names
PENSIONS, ANNUITIES, LEGISLATIVE ENACTMENT APPROVED AND PASSED:
see Pensions and Annuities, names
permanent court of international justice: that United States
follow tradition and refuse to sanction adherence, referred to rules
committee, 92
precinct officers: against proposed wholesale removal by election
department, adopted, 315
proposed five-cent fares, F. E. R. A. employees: favoring, copies
to be sent to trustees of Boston Elevated Railway Company, passed,
214
reinstatements: see Reinstatements, department, name
retirements: see Retirements, names
Senate Bill 260: indorsing passage of bill for coordination of police
forces, referred to executive committee, 92
shoe code hearing reopening: preambles favoring, with view pro-
tecting industry in Boston and Massachusetts, passed, 384
slum clearance under National Housing Division: favoring
rehabilitation as outlined by Division of Washington, D. C, passed,
87-requesting special message by the Governor to speed up and pass
before adjournment of legislature bills in re, upon request (Councilor
Selvitella) "Boston American" editorial included in Proceedings,
passed, 229-message with communication and resolutions asking
cooperation of Federal Emergency Housing Corporation in rehabili-
tation of slum area referred to executive committee, 304-report
recommending new draft accepted, order passed, 308
thanks to Mr. Yawkey: extending to Mr. Yawkey for providing
work for hundreds on Red Sox Base Ball Club grounds, passed,
101, 102
Tydings resolution, Senate Resolution 154: favoring resolution
condemning discrimination and impression imposed on Jewish
people in Germany, copies of resolution to be sent Senators Millard
Tydings, Key Pittman, Marcus Coolidge, David I. Walsh, passed, 50
work for resident home owners: recommending to Federal, state,
city governments that work be made available on Federal projects
for owners having S600 or less income on equal basis passed, 383, 384
1933 rules, temporary adoption: order for, with exception of rules
13, 24, 34 pending adoption of permanent rules, passed, 5
1934 rules: report of committee received, draft of rules submitted 10, 11,
with order for appointment of special committees (6), 10
special committees:
Lincoln Memorial wreath: Councilors Gleason, Brackman,
Kerrigan, Green, Norton, 41
tunnel tolls: Councilors Selvitella, Green, Shattuck, Brackman,
Goldman appointed, 308
ward redivision: Councilors Gallagher, Murray, McGrath, Roberts.
Green, Fitzgerald and Wilson appointed by chair, 285-order to
increase to nine members, adding Councilors Donovan and Englert .
300-order to include all twenty-two members of council, 301
Welfare Department investigation: Councilors McGrath,
Fitzgerald, Tobin, Shattuck, Wilson
special meetings: tax anticipation loans, 54; West Roxbury high
school. 265; Chelsea bridge repairs, 309
unfinished business: order that all matters referred by 1933 council
be referred to appropriate committees when appointed, passed, 7
City and County Printing
paid by the city: see Suffolk County, printing paid for by city, also
Printing Department, city and county printing
City Documents
claims committee, annual report: ordered printed as public docu-
ment, 428
CITY
(11)
CIVIL
City Documents, Continued
gas service contract copies: see Law Department, gas service, Hyde
Park , or page 387
licenses, permits report: order to print, filed, 292
Municipal Register and city organization: order to charge expense
of printing, passed, 16
No. 39, draft of rules for 1934: see Reports made to City Council,
rules for 1934—5 or page 49
No. 47: see Minor Officers Paid by Fees or pages 116, 144, 150, 153
No. 60: see Jurors, list submitted by city clerk or page 255
opinion, law department in re expenditures: see Police Depart-
ment, legal opinion in re or pages 128 to 132, inclusive
prison inspection committee, annual report: ordered printed as
public document, 428
City Employees
American Legion delegates' leave of absence: see City Council,
orders or page 334
appointment, 300 firemen: see Fire Department, personnel increase
or page 220
appointment, 100 police officers: see Police Department appointment
of officers or page 401
compensation for sickness:
order to consider giving time off with pay sufficient to allow recupera-
tion, on approval of head of department, motion to lay on table
for week, motion withdrawn, order passed, 356, 357
order to consider as above, employees of health department if sickness
might have been contracted during duty, passed, 400
continuance of pay: see Institutions Department, Long Island Hospital
or page 245
credit: see Hospital Department, Boston City Hospital or page 20
December payments:
order for, by December 21 because of Christmas, passed, 388
order for, by December 24 because of Christmas, passed, 397, 398
discharges: resolution for due consideration of financial condition to
prevent injustice to those having no other means of support, passed,
102-aeknowledgement of order, 106
ferry service: order for public works department to restore forty-hour
week to all employees in service, passed, 108-message filed, 119-
message with communication, filed, 146
firemen: order for appointment of 300 more, passed, 400
Good Friday closing: order to close city hall between 12 and 3 p. m,,
order already sent by the Mayor, 98
health unit, personal service: see Budget Department, health units
appropriations or pages 99, 106
internes' pay: see Hospital Department, Boston City Hospital or pages
231, 247
Jewish holidays: order to allow leave of absence without loss of pay,
passed, 308
leave with pay. United Spanish War Veterans: see Veterans, United
Spanish War Veterans or page 245
leaves of absence, May 30: order to all department heads to allow
without loss of pay, passed, 215
Long Island nurses: see Institutions Department, Long Island Hospital
nurses, training school or pages 180, 181, 182
maximum salary increase for clerks: see Hospital Department,
Boston City Hospital, clerks' salaries or page 302
municipal employment bureau's personnel: by unanimous con-
sent of the council Councilor Wilson spoke in re, 429
necessity for services of discharged: see Hospital Department,
Boston city hospital or pages 150, 151, 190
nonresidents employed by contractors: see Ordinances, nonresident
employment or pages 307, 396, 397
old employees of departments: order to consider using by transference
or otherwise instead of new, passed, 383
physician appointed: see Massachusetts, Commonwealth of, public
health commission or page 29
preference to residents: order for departments to give preference
over nonresidents when discharges are necessary, passed, 113
reimbursements for judgments against: see Payments, names
restoration : order to consider replacing on rolls all competent, eligible
employees at no additional cost to city, passed, 383
restoration, building department: order for, passed, 333
restoration or transference: order for, without increased cost to city,
passed, 391
salary reduction of 1933 continued: see Salaries or 5, 6
scrubwomen, employment and hours: order to consider instructing
public buildings department not to discharge or add to hours of work,
passed, 143
second assistant assessors: see Assessing Department or page 331
City Employees, Continued
"share the work" system: order that no worthy employee be dis-
charged until all possibilities of system are exhausted, referred to
executive committee. 111, 112, 113
stagger system alternative for discharge: order to consider, referred
to rules committee, 93
step-rate wage increase: order for information about time when it
becomes effective, passed, 268
vacation prepayment: order for payment at time of leaving for vaca-
tion, passed, 313
City Hall
closing for Good Friday: see City Employees
new building and demolition of old: see New City Hall, loans
under F. E. A. of P. W. program
City Messenger Department
election returns: order to make arrangements for receiving, expense
to be charged to G-3 City Council appropriation, passed, 336
flags, ropes and stakes, orders passed:
Cathedral Club cross-country run, April 14, 124
Marathon race, April 19, 87
Michael J. O'Connell race, April 19, 135
remarks by city messenger in the Council in re attendance of Messrs.
McMurray and Dowling at the Council meeting discussing age
limit for guards and gatemen, 263
City Planning Board
chairman appointed: Frederic H. Fay, member and chairman, 5
years, filed, 213
electrification of railroads: order to consider interesting various rail-
road companies operating in Boston in negotiating Federal loans,
passed, 383
information in re population: order for under five heads with sugges-
tions for increasing, passed, 70-message with report, filed, 81, 82,
83, 84
notice sent Council of interest in contract with public works department
by Fay, Spofford & Thorndike to investigate condition of Northern
avenue bridge, filed, 107
City Printing Plant
transfer from revenue: message with order for $30,077.56, passed, 412
" City Record"
The Municipal Pay Roll: order to print, passed, 124, 125, 126, 127
outside information: order to consider, directing editor to confine
publication to purposes for which it was created, passed 31
City Registry Department
registrar: Hilda H. Quirk appointed, vice James J. Mulvey resigned,
placed on file, 10
Civil Service Commission
extension of list to July I, 1934; extension of list for one year: see
Police Department
notice of approval:
Santiano, Michael: see Reinstatement, penal institutions depart-
ment
reinstatement approvals:
Curran, Dr. Simon F. : see School Committee Department, reinstate-
ments
Falcone, Frank V: see Reinstatements, fire department
Hennessey, Dorothy V.: see Reinstatements, school committee
department
Civil Works Administration
communication to the President and P. W. Administrator Ickes, 31, 32
continuance of employment: order to contact through the Mayor
the Federal Civil Works Administration to prevent dropping workers,
passed, 51
firehouse, prison building erection, Wayfarers' Lodge rescission
orders: see State Emergency Finance Board
housing development opposition: see East Boston Housing De-
velopment or pages 18, 19, 49
CIVIL
(12)
claims!
Civil Works Administration, Continued
number, Boston welfare workers: order to request information in re
working and receiving pay during December, 1933, and January, 1934,
passed, 51-roport received, filed, 316
program, communication in re: information from Federal Emergency
Administrator of Public Works received in reply to letter of Councilor
Wilson for council committee received, 31, 32
welfare survey: sec Public Welfare Department
Claims
abatements:
Kostick, Goodman, 288
interest on deposit:
Mt. Lebanon Cemetery Association, 85
personal injuries:
Alden, Ada F., 106: Alpert, Ruth, 121
Alquist, Carl J., 322: Apelgren, Fannie, 135
Ahonian, George, 340
Baker, Eva A., 171
Baldassare, Americo, 156: Benson, Walter H., 322
Bias, Walter, 255: Bielinki, Frieda, 340
Bigelow, Laura B., 15: Blotcher, Hyman, 38
Bortolin, Ann, 371: Brackett, Etta M., 106
Bradley, Carolyn, 381: Brady, Edward C, 213
Braxton, Matthew M., 121: Brennan, John J., 288
Breskin, Esther, 77: Brogna, Anthony, 135
Brooks, Elizabeth V., 371: Brooks, Lillian, 147
Brown, Jesse H., 193: Byars, George, E. 351
Campbell, Charles F., 279: Campbell, Stella, 255
Capobianco, John, 121: Carlin, William, 12
Carruthers, Alice G., 371: Cataldo, Helen, 213
Chesler, Mrs. L., 48: Conners, Joseph J., 77
Covino, Antonio, 62: Coyne, Rachel E., 255
Cronin, Jeremiah A., 381, 396: Crowley, Katherine M., 330
Daft, Delia, 322: Darish, Rebecca, 135
Decelle, Mary L., 298; Devine, Eileen, 381
DiCenso, Earl, 340: Donovan, Alice M., 97
Dority, Miriam C, 381: Driseoll, Mary, 280
Dub ay, Blanche, 322: Duffy, Joseph F., 381
Duffy, Matilda, injuries to son, 9: Durant, Marie, 7, 9
Durgin, Frank A., 156
Earley, Walter Manning, 371: Ericksen, Elma F., 255
Fay, Annie, 9
Felletter, Mary K., 85: Ferrantino, Benjamin, 351
Fichera, Louis, 77: Findlay, Mabel L., 280
Finley, Irene, 255: Fiore, Angelo, 351
Fiore, Mary, 322: Fishman, Gladys, 147
Forman, Rose, 193: Fort, Irene V., 288
Foster, Henry W., 396: Foye, Mary, 341
Freedman, Lillian, 24: Freedman, Rose, 156, 387
Gardner, Myrtle, 371: Giacoppo, Antoinetta, 381
Giblin, Elizabeth C, 322: Glynn, John, 156
Glynn, Michael, 97: Goddard, Mrs. Asa A., and Jennie B., 156
Goodwin, P. C, 24
Gray, Preston E., 24-report accepted, order for $100, to be charged
to reserve fund, passed, 101
Guterman, Abraham, 7
Hafferty, Mrs. George H., 97: Hamman, Clare, 228: Hannon,
Genevieve G., 9
Harris, Edwin J., 331: Harris, Mildred, 78
Hartnett, Katherine M., 15: Haverty, Mrs. Joseph N., 279
Hirtle, Catherine, 371: Hope, Agnes, 213
Horgan, Margaret T., 351: Howard, Mrs. Daniel, 171
Howard, Edward H., 322: Hubbard, William F., 24
Hufnagel, Bridget C, 381: Hurley, Daniel, 341
Hutchinson, John W., 193: Indelicato, Mary, 305
Ingram, Wanita, 28: Jackson, Anne E., 255
Jeffers, John, 9: Johnson, Gladys M., 255
Kantrow, Mrs. Harry 280: Kasler, Minnie, 38
Katz, Louis, 38-resolution, enactment of legislation authorizing pay-
ment of sum of money, passed, 41-message with veto, filed, 118
Kearney, Margaret, 280: Kelley, Caroline, 171
Kelly, Emma L., 280: Kelly, Joan D., 280
Kimball, Grace O., 171: King, Ida, 78
Claims, Continued
personal injuries:
Knowles, Sarah M., 62: Kozol, Ruth, 15
Krukonih, Mary, 396: Labbe, Teresia M., 171
Lafley, Anna M., 147: Lamphier, Madeline, 147
Lander, Chahles B., 107: Latorella, Rose, 371
Lavery, Louise L., 9: Lcaman, Mary, 255
Lee, Bridget, 322: Leonard, Teresa W., 305
Lifschitz, Fanny, 280: Littlefield, Mary, 156
Long, Edward, 24: Lyon, N. W., 135
Madden, Mary A., 305: Mappen, Morris and Sarah, 7
Martin, Mary E., 396: Matta, Violet, 427
McCarthy, Grace (also property damages), 228
McCarthy, Margaret E., 78
McKenney, Rose, 97: McKinnon, Thomas S., 107
Melancom, Theresa, 85: Miller, Helen E., 7
Mills, Katherine, 381: Minehan, Mildred, 78
Montague, Alice J., 322, 341: Montemagno, Joseph, 305
Morrison, Garfield, 280: Murphy, Irene R., 193
Murphy, Timothy J., 381: Murphy, William F., 228
Nayfe, Lilly, 12: Newman, Ida, 28
Nicholas, Margaret, 371: Noel, Monica, 107
Nolan, Mary L., 15: Noller, Rachel, 28
Norton, Mary E., 38: Nute, Violet O., 29
Nyhan, Nann T., 85: O'Brien, Angelo, 371
O'Callahan, Dennis, 381: O'Hara, Gertrude, 78
O'Kane, wife of Alexander, 15: Pepe, Lillian, 49
Pingiaro, Anthony, 341: Powell, Mary E., 107
Preble, Florence L., 341: Puffer, Louise M., 280
Quast, Henry, 341: Quilty, Martin W., 288
Quirk, Harry, 305: Rees, Alice, 228
Revman, Annie, 29: Reynolds, Anna, 305
Riggs, John, 135: Riordan, Anna, 280
Robinson, Theodore W., 156: Rubin, Bessie, 371
Ryan, Catherine E , 107: Sanger, Joseph H., 288, 298
Shea, John J., Jr., 255: Shea, Patrick N., 298
Sheridan, Ellen M., 121: Sherman, Evelyn M., 331
Sico, Antonette S., 371: Sinopoli, Leo, 12
Slattery, Leo M., 341: Smith, Ada, 280
Smith, Arthur L., 15: Solomont, Chester, 29
Solomon, Helen, 171: Spina, Dominick, 135
Starrett, Betty and Newel Mader, 15: Stead, Myra G., 427
Sullivan, Delia M., 135: Sullivan, Elsie G., 351
Sullivan, Joseph K., 312: Syer, Harry Arthur, 255
Tangusso, Phyllis and Mary, 351: Tenaglia, Antonietta, 312
Thomson, Elizabeth, 298: Tierney, John J., 156
Trachtenberg, Joseph, 298: Tully, Winifred, 85
Tyler, Harry Ward, 305: Twomey, Mary E., 298
Upham, Florence R., 97: Upton, Blanche, 97
Urbanowicz, Monica and Edward, 351: Webster, Eugene C, 62
Welch, Elizabeth F., 121: Welch, William C, 280
Westwater, Frank J., 85: Wheaton, Ernest H., 24
Whitehill, Lenna R., 305: Willis, Ida, 38: Winslow, Gertrude, 341
property damages:
Abbott, Charles P., 280: Abramson, Minnie, 304
Acme Appliance Company, 15: Acone, Ralph, 121
Adams Sales Company, 48: Adolino, Paul, 135
Alaska Fur Shop, 62: Albano, William, 9
Alexander, John, 156: Alibrandi, Laurence, 298
Allen, Ernest A., 48: Anderson, Bertha, 381
Anderson, Carl F., 371: Anderson, H. William, 280
Andrew J. Lloyd Company, 9: Apollo Cake Specialties, Inc., 7
Austin, Grace H., 24: Bagley, James W., 255
Bamberg, Henry F., 288: Barker, Gertrude S., 38
Barker, William H., 219: Barratt, M. W., 351
Barone, Frank R., 12: Barth, Harry, 340
Barton, Perley L., 38: Batal, Joseph A., 85
Bates, Gardner, 15: Beck, Robert S., 77
Bee, Margaret A., 330: Beecher-Hollins Company, 97
Bell Electric Supply Company, 77: Bell, Samuel, 193
Bennett, Joseph, 312: Benstock, Mary J., 381
Bertino, Frank, 427: Black, Abraham, 298
Blake, J. A. L., 381: Block, Ralph M., 255
CLAIMS
(13)
CLAIMS
Claims, Continued
property damages:
Blood, Minola B., 351: Boardman, Reginald, 77
Bonner, William H., 219: J. B. Bornstein, Inc., 255
Borhklli, Angelo, 304: Boston Can Company, 322
Boston Students' Union, 255: Breslin, Ella E., 312
Broadard, James Henry, 24: Brooks, Rose C, 340
Brodrick, Edna M., 371: E. R. Brown Company, 107
Brown, Irving, 7: Bruce, George H., 147
Bryan, W. Medville, 371: Bunshaft, Gordon, 147
Burke, Joseph E., 280: Burton, Roger 0. and Ethel M., 48
Butters, Charles M., 85: Byrne, John J., 213; Byron, Alfred A., 298
Calarese, Eugene, 371: E. F. Caldwell, Inc., 97
Cambridge Paper Box Company, 298: Camiola, Antonio, 62
Camparetti, Dino, 298: Campbell, Margaret, 107
Campbell, Mary A., 255: Caputo, Eleanor, 255
Caracostos, Peter, 107: Carlucci, Maria, 147
Carney, James E., 298: Casey, Caroline, 121
Castle, W. B., 28: Champa, Edith, 193
Charlestown Taxi Service, 15: Cianculli, Charles J., 38
Cities Electric Supply Company, 9: Clapp. Joseph L., 171
Cohen, Israel, 330: Cohen, Louis, 48
Cohen, Rosa, 12: Collari, Louis, 371: Conant, Ralph W., 62
Consumer's Oil Company, 387: Corleto, Mariannina C, 62
Costanza, Pasquale, 62: Courtney, Augusta, 171
Cowan, Charles E., 387: Cronin, Francis L., 427
Cullinane, Anne J., 7: Cummings, Pearl I., 171
Curcio, Elizabeth L., 228: Currier, Harold, 427
Curreri, Josephine, 7
D'Agostino, Angelo, P., 351: Dangora, Joseph R., 219
Davidson, Morris, 305: DeWolfe, E. A., 107
DiCicco, Frederick, 107: DiGennero, Peter, 279
Dillon, Robert A., 341: Dillon, Schuyler, 97, 255
DiNapoli, Olive, 171 : DiNicolo, Arthur, 288
Doherty, John F., 322: D'Orlando & Co., Ltd., 427
Donahue, Michael J. and Mary E., 341: Donoghue, John A., 330
Dorchester Buick Company, 48: Duffley, Margaret E., 24
Duncan, M. F., 213: Dupont, Roland, 97
Dyer & Co., Inc., 351
Eagle Advertising Company, 38: Earle, James G., 9
Edmonstone, William M., 396: Elliott, Margaret, 341
Ellis, James, Company, 381: Empire Linen Service, 107
Enos, Catherine, 255: Epple, Mary E., 85
Epstein, Isaac, 298: Estate Melvin V. Adams, 371
Estate of James Collins, Trustees, 330
Estate, Clara P. Potter, 280
Exchange Club, 97
Fallona, Henry D. and Pearl E., 24: Feeney, James, 9
Femino, Placida C, 12: Fichera, Frank, 279, 305
Finkelstein, R., 322: Finklestein, Rubin, 341
Finn, Timothy, 330: First National Stores, Inc., 9, 219
Fleming, Catherine J., 48: Fogg, Lester R., 38
Foley, Mary A., 331: Foster, Grace, 121
Freedberg, Samuel, 62: French, Ella E., 255
Frye, Dorothy B., 97: Frykberg, George N., 107
Furbush, F. R., 28: Furbush Motor Sales, 12
Gaffney, Helen E., 371: Galvin, William L., 121
Gibbons, John I., 85: Gilberti, Florence L., 387
Gilley, Fred S., 288: Gillis, John J., 396
Gilsomini, David, 9: Glens Falls Indemnity Company, 351
Gold, Jacob, 255, 341: Gold, Samuel and Abraham, 7
Gordon, Morris, 255: Gould, Marie, 7
Gheen, Fannie, 331: Green, Mildred el al., 322
Greenough, Walter, 7: Griffin, Catherine E., 341
Gulf Refining Company (2), 213
Hadge, Sahda, 298: James P. Hahesy, Inc., 322
Hamel, George E., 341: Hanigan, Marianne and William, 24
Hanlon, Helen C, 288: Hanover Buildings and Hub Bowling
Alleys, 28
Harnett, Patrick, 85: Harrington, William, 62, 279
Harris, Jose C, 24: Harty, Margaret M., 24
Harvard Transportation Company, 228: Harvey, E. Gordon, 78
Hatch, N. M., Auction Works, 427: Hawkes, Charles M., 147
Claims, Continued
property damages:
Hayes Pump and Machinery Company, 24
Henchey, Mary K., 341: Hoar, Stephen, J., 24
Hodge, Mrs. Sadha, 279: Hoffman, E. F., 24
R. S. Hoffman & Co., Inc., 147: Holder, Herbert A., 280
Horner, Fred L., 371: Horrigan, Clarence Day, 156
Hotel and Railroad News Company, 97
Howard, Charles, 85: Howard, W. J., 85
Howard, William H., 24: Hunt, Grace M., 78
Hunt, Helen C, 280: Hurley, Dorothy A., 381: Hynes, Thomas F.,
381
Jacobs, Nellie, 255: Janssen, James, 78
The Jay Food Products Company, 24: Jenkins, Harold Hubert, 371
Johnson, William J., 15: Justin, Charles H., 193
Kane, Catherine, 193: Kantrovitz, Nathan, 15
Kanz, John E., 7: Kean, Charles, 280
Kendzerski, Joe, 228: Kehoe, Christopher M., 288
Keystone Realty Corporation, 85: Kirby, Joseph F., 147
Koch, Joseph, 147: Koldubsky, Samuel, 28
Kondratowicz, B., 280: S. S. Kresge Company, 351
Krovitz, E. M., 280
Lacey, James F., 351: Lahood, Joseph, 85
Latham, Joseph E., 85: Loughran, Patrick, 427
S. S. Learnard Company, 85: Le Blanc, Josephine, 280
Leahy, Katherine, 298: Lee, James J., 322
Lee, Patrick F., 280: Legro, Chester G., 255
Lekas, George, 255: Leon, George, 9: Leonard, Catherine G., 97
Leonard, Margaret and Mary, 213: Letvak, Louis H., 255
A. Leuthy Company, 213: Lotto, Abram, 322
Macdonald, Clara I., 280: MacDonald, Bradbury, 351
MacNevin, Earl, 341: Macy, B. F., 427
Macy-Kay Drug Company, 85: Maffeo, Michael, 171
A. Maggioli & Co., 197: Maglio, Ralph, 371
Maher, John F., et al, 341: Mahigian, John S., 322
Mahon, Thomas, 171: Mailman, Suzanne, 351
Makauskas, Agatha, 85: Maloney, Jeremiah, 38
Maloney, Michael, 427: Mappen, Morris and Sarah, 7
Marshalsea, T. C, 15: Martell, John E., 24
Masiello, Nunzio, 171
Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Company, 228
Mattos, Mary G., 85: McCarthy, Abbie L., 97
McCarthy, Grace (also personal injuries), 228: McCarthy &
Vaughan, 280
McCormack, Marie, 85: McCormack, Thomas L., 213
McCormick, Annie E., 48: McDermott, Grace L., 15
McDonald, Daniel J., 9: McLeod, John G., 48
McKenna, Thomas F., 341: McLaughlin, Rose G., 341
McNeill, Richard J., 12: McShane, Ruth M., 396
Mellon, John A., 371: Messia, Angelo, 107
Meta, Lino, 97: Meyers, Gertrude, 351
Miano, Louis, 97: Miller, Samuel, 15
Mininderi, Philip, Jr., 371: Moore, Thomas P., 78
Morgan Brothers Creameries, 331: Morgan, Catherine, 156
Morris Gordon & Son, Inc., 77, 219: Moynihan, John J., 24
Murphy, Joseph A., 351: Murphy, Mary J., 322
Murphy, Thomas, 85: Murphy, Thomas J., 312
N. E. Coal and Coke Company, 171: Nally, Margaret M., 427
Napolitano, Amelia, 193: Hugh Nawn, Inc., 381
Nelson, Frank, 341: Nelson, Lavinia B., 171
Neuber, Walter A., 28: Newcomb, Andrew F., 38
Nickerson, U. H., 78: Nicol, Mrs. William, 38
Noe, Guiseppe, 38: William H. Norris & Sons, Inc., 97
Nuzzolo, Betty, 351
Ober, Albin F., 85: O'Brien, Edward F., 312
O'Brien, Ellen M., 280, 288: O'Connor, Hannah, 171
O'Connor, Mrs. Joseph, 24: O'Donoghue. John F., 298
Ohaman, Mihran, 427: Ohmer Register Company, 255
Pacific Restaurant, 280: Packard Motor Car Company, 29.
Padovani, Joseph, 29: Paine, F. Ward, et al., 147
Pandele, Charles, 255: Pano, Nick K., 24
Parker, Melvin O., 381: Paynter, Adoemma and Elzira Moniz
381
Pearce, Charles A., 38: Pearson, John, 255
CLAIMS (14)
CLAIMS
Claims, Continued
property damages:
Pembroke, a. W., 387: Peters, Ada E., 381
Pickering, D. H., 156: Pokat, David, 62
Policoff, Fhank, 322: Pollen, Jacob, 305
Polsky, David, 322: Porreca, Domenico, 0
Prendergabt, Bridget C, 219: Prendergast, Walter J., 322
Prince Macaroni Manufacturing Company, 371, 381
Puccio, Rosario, 103: Railway Express Agency, 322
Rand, Earl P., 213: Rando, Nicola, 298
Rankins, Frederick, 9: Raskin, Sadie, 280
Ratbhesky, A. C, el at, 312: Riccio, Gennaro, 12, 24
Riley, Mary J., 351: Robinson, Robert, 62
Robinson, Virginia, 135
Rockwood Sprinkler Company op Massachusetts, 78
Rooers, Evonne, 171: H. Rohtstein & Co., 280
Rose, James Warren, 121: Roth, Christine E., 85
Rudnick, Joseph and Benjamin, 280
Russell, Stanley W., 171: Ryan, Mary F., 107
Samuels, Sam, 255: Sands, Edward P., 351
Santoni, Alfred, 280: Santosuosso, Emelia M., 78
Sargent, Cyrus, 312: Sarno, Americo, 427
Schiff, Frank, 107, 280: Schramm, Emma, 193
Schwartz, George, 171: Seery, E. B., 107
Selden Radio, 228: Shapiro, Jacob, 15
Shaw, Joseph W. and Marion E., 255
Sheerin, Joseph V., 15: Sherburne, John, Jr., 213
Sheridan, John, 427: Silverman, Walter, 62
Sinopoli, Leo, 12: Smith, Aaron, 107
Smith, Bernard F., 280: Spector, Oscar, 29
Spillane, Patrick J., 12: Sriberg, Samuel, 341
Standard Cafeteria, Inc., 280, 312: Stoltz, Albert C, 341
Stone, N. & Co., Inc., 351: Stone, Samuel, 121
Sullivan, Daniel P., 107: Sullivan, Frank T., 97
Sullivan, John J., 85: Sullivan, Nellie M., 280, 288
Sweeney, James H., 381: Swetzoff, Benjamin, 305: Synadinos, Zina,
312
Taioli, Malvino, 351: Tatun, Jacob J., 97
Taylor, Shirley, 171: Teton, Frank, 135
Torrielli, Charles, 288, 312: Trapanier, Edgar, 97
Underwood Elliott Fisher Company, 107
Underwood Typewriter Company-, 85
University Realty Company, 298
Verrochi, Hortense, 193: Volpini, Rose, 312: Vye, M. W., 12
Waldman, Henry K., 29: Walker & Co., 12
Walsh, Mabel A., 156: Wantman, Samuel I., 29
Ward, Charles, 371: Warwick, William, 85
Waters, Mrs. P. R., 323: Wax, Benjamin, 85
Webb, David, 427: Weber, Leonard A., 29
Welby, Mrs. D. J., 171, 255: West, Lester M., 171
Whedon, Donald F., 15
Whitcher, Mr. and Mrs. Alson R., and Mrs. Dickinson, 85
Williams, Rayford A., 387: Winer, George, 427
Wiseman, Max, 49: Wolf, Mabel E., 298
Wolk, Oscar, 85: Woodward, Mrs. G. M., 38
Young, Lester B., 7: Young, Morris, 29, 255
Ziskind, Leonard, 85
property loss:
Bateson, Edward, 97: Bernstein, Bernard, 97
Cameron, Mary A., 279: Carey, William T., 371
Concannon, Michael J , 396: Gumming, Gordon A., 171
Dean, Lohaine H., 62: Douglas, Mary H., 24
Dwyer, John J., 371: Freeman, Mrs. Melville C, 381
Gannon, Joseph P., and others, 85: Garneau, Rudolph A., 97
German, Lawrence, 107
Hooper, William, 371: Hughes, Josephine, 24
Macek, James J., 85
Monahan, Edward J., M. D., 396
O'Rourke, Michael, 135
Phillips, S. L., 298
Sansone, Andrew, 15: Scanlon, Margaret, 351, 387
Treworgy, Everett M., 193: Troy, John, 107
Claims, Continued
refunds:
Aldrich, Adella B., 193: American Curtain Company, 97
American-Hawaiian Steamship Company, 322
Andrews, W. A., 288
Bagley, Mary E., 147: Bagnall, William, 17J
Baron, Hyman, 7: Bell, Alice G., 193
Berman & Co., Inc., 15: Bianco, Lorenzo, 9
Boston Baking Company, 330
Boston Fish Market Corporation, 85: Bowker, Percie C, 193
Brambilla, Mario, and Charles A. Colantuono, 213
Brenci, Alfred, 15: Broad, Bella, 371
Bruno, Philip, 38: Burchill, William, 298: Burofsky, Morris, 85
Carpenter-Morton Company, 333: Catanese, Joseph, 85
Chester A. Baker, Inc., 7: Clearey, Stephen T., 351
Cohen, L., 135: Colbath, S. F., 351
Condil, Nicholas, 107: Courakis, John A., 171
Creole Coffee House, 38: Curtin, John J., 305
Darcey, Matthew J., 28: Delaney, M. B., 38
De Mers, Harold T., 85: Deranian, Paul, 85
De Simnoe, Nicholas, 298: Dotoli, Alfred, 193
Drake, Edward, 97
Edwards, T. J., 156: Eliot Brothers, 77
Esterman, Jacob, 193
Federici, Edmund E., 12, 351: The Fenwood, 305
Ford Motor Sales Company, 279: Freda, Joseph, 193
Gagin, Henry A., 351: Gardner, Edward F., 121
Gem Loan Company, 97: Giannino, Domenico, 213
Gilbert, Harry A., 331: Goggin, Maurice J., 9
Goolsky, Nanna, 193: Gordon Supply Company, 387
Grannino, Domenico, 9: Guthro & Harding, Inc., 193
Harrington, Charles H., 48: Harris, John, 255
Hasat Real Estate Corporation, Inc., 147
Haymarket Clothing Company, 48: Herson, Shirley, 9
Hubrite Informal Frocks, Inc., 371
Jessup, Harry, money found, 427: Jones, J. A., 28, 38
Kakatsaki, George, 107: Kenney, Alvin G., 48
Kesner, Morris, 171: Kimmel, David H., 371
Kretchsmar, William, 381
La Centra, Dominic, 135: Legelis, John, 135
Lennon, Anna J., 255: Lexenberg, Louis, 62
Lezberg, Barney, 97: Libby, Mrs. B., 213
Liner, Harry S. and Sarah, 121: Linwood, Ernest, 24
Lyndam, William, 280
MacGraham, C. A., 28: Maglione, A., 85
Martin, James A., 28: Mattapan Citizens' Association. Inc., 7
McCarthy, Daniel F., 213: McDermott, Bridget A., 193
Mignosa, Rose M., 78: Minevitz, Inc., 171
Mitchell, Fred, 396
Mongrain, R. George, Assignee, R. Dunkel, Inc., 298
Morgan Brothers Company-, 49: Morin. Joseph, 381
Mullen, James F., 135: Mullen, Joseph L., 288
Muvrogiannis, Theodore A., 7
Nahabedian, Gervant, 193: Neptune Garage, 331; Nickle, Victor L.,
135
O'Brien, Frank A., 124: O'Flaherty, Mary, 193
O'Leary, Cornelius, 29: O'Toole, Martin J., 85; Oneel, William, 228
Paris, Jacob, 29: Personal Book Shop, 9
Peter Higgins & Nathaniel H. Trafton, 219
Pofcher, Phil., 255: Portland Elevator Company, Inc., 9
Queeney, James H., 15
Raftery, Paul H., 29: Rando, Angelo. 171
Rayfield, Ward C, 298: Richardson Sales Corporation, 305
Rosen, Jennie, 341: Rosenzwicz, Hyman, 97
Roseville Commercial Alcohol Corporation, 7
Rumrill, Lawrence G. ,351: Russell, George, 381
Sager Electric Supply Company, 219: Salvato, D., 312
Sanderson, Morris, 85: Santarpio, Joseph, 193
Scarlata, Vincent, 29: Scotch, Samuel, 12
Sexton, John J., 78: Shapiro, Hyman, 193
Shapiro, Miriam, 107: Shultz, Samuel, 9
Slate, M., 288: Smith, Lillian I., 97
Snyder, William, 280: Suffolk Cafeteria, Inc., 62
CLAIMS (15)
COKE
Claims, Continued
refunds:
Swartz, Henry R., 255
Tarzeian, Hahry, 371: Terranova, John, 147
Thomay, Vincent N., 97
Thompson, Jennie, 49: Timmons, John H., 135, 255
Tinkler, Jack, 387
Valenti, S. A., 12: Vrattos, Steva, 280
Walker, William L., 193: Ware, Joseph V., 49
Weadlick, Edward F., 371: Weiner, David, 121
Weinstein, A., 193: Wells, Henrietta, 298
Wernick, Samuel, 427
West Roxbury Pharmacy, Inc., 97
Wiseman, Rebecca, 280
Yee, Henry. 255: Yee Hoey, 147
Zarokanlos, George M., 49: Zellman, Jack M., 97
reimbursements:
Baler, Minnie, 322
Brennan, Robert F., fire department, 298-payment 34,500 ordered,
324
Bresnahan, Jeremiah C, public works department, 298-payment
ordered, 343.70, 335
Broadway Stationery Company, 193: Cantor, Frank, 371
Collins, Delia E. and Thomas J., 255
Coughlin, William A., park department employee, 381
Crowley. John J., police department, 351
Currie, Edmund, public works employee, 171-order for 3149.12,
recommitted to claims committee, 235, 396
Doherty, James T., park department employee, 9-order for pay-
ment, 101
Doherty, Stephen J., sanitary division employee, 219-report
of claims committee accepted, order, 3110 to be charged to reserve
fund, passed, 257
Fenderson, George, police officer, 305-ordered paid, 3604.04, 335
Flood, Daniel F., police officer, 255-3100 payment ordered, passed,
308
Fordham, Percy L., police officer, 312-ordered paid, 3300, 343
Gilman, Herbert W., fire department employee, 387
Gorman, James D., 12
Gormley, William A., public works department, 7-order for pay-
ment, 101
Hub Laundry Company, 288: Joyce, Gordon, 85-order passed, 135
Killion, Thomas P., 280-report and order for 330, 312
Kirby, David F., public works department employee, 280-payments,
3209 and 3124 ordered, passed, 312, 313
Maher, Michael J., fire department employee, 38-order for pay-
ment, 101
McLaughlin, Patrick H., police officer, 255-order for 342.80 passed,
300
McNulty, Charles B., city employee, 156
Metcalf, Frederick T., police department, 48
Mulhern, Thomas J., 312
Murphy, Edward, public works employee, 298-payment ordered,
368.90, 335
Murphy, Thomas J., city employee, 341
Phaneuf, Edward J., school building department, 9-order for pay-
ment, 101
Pinkham, B. P, 381
Rafferty, Edward J , (2) public works employee, 322-ordered paid,
3154.75 and 359.80, 343
Rand, David S., 351
Richard, Charles E., park department employee, 381
Robinson, Bliss W., 12-order for payment, 101
Russo, Anthony E., 49
Sheehy, John J., 351-payment, 372: Silk, Joseph, 288
settlement, small claims: see Law Department or page 332
unpaid bill:
Dorgan, Daniel J., 351: Hovey & Co., 28
Tilton, Lawrence M., 351
Claims Committee
members appointed: Councilors Brackman, Selvitella, Agnew,
Roberts, Goldman, 15
Claims Committee, Continued
petitions: (19) 7
jtitions: (19) 7; (26) 9; (18) 12; (22) 15; (26) 24; (27) 28, 29; (21 )38;
(20) 48, 49; (16) 62; (22) 77, 78; (41) 85; (33) 97; (27) 106, 107; (14)
121; (17) 135; (16) 147; (15) 156; (29) 171; (29) 193; (9) 219; (49) 279;
(18) 288; (28) 298; (15) 312; (26) 322, 323; (18) 304, 305; (15) 312;
(26) 322, 323; (14) 330, 331; (30) 340, 341; (34) 351; (34) 371; (10)
387; (11) 396; (18) 427
312, 313, 324, 335, 343, 372,
reports: 101, 135, 235, 257, 300, 308
yearly report ordered printed, 428
Claims Settlements
up to $50: see Law Department, settlement small claims or page 332
see Payments, name of individual
Clean-Up Campaign
committee appointment: order for appointment by the Mayor of
public works, fire and building commissioners to manage campaign,
passed, 160
Clerk of Committee Department
city organization, pocket edition: see City Documents "Municipal
Register"
ordinance in re stenographer-clerk: see City Council, ordinances
stenographer-clerk :
order for provision for additional, at 31,800 per annum, minus 15
per cent reduction under chap. 121, Acts of 1933, referred to execu-
tive committee, 102-report accepted, order passed, 113
ordinance in re: see City Council, ordinances
order for election under ordinance passed (page 121, 122), passed, 144-
Frank W. Leary and John L. Maloney elected, 144
Coal
delivery to recipients of public aid: see Public Welfare Department,
coal delivery or pages 229, 230, 252, 253
weighers appointed:
Alexander, James H., 387, 397: Belyea, Sandford H., 184, 214
Bradford, Frederick J., 393, 428: Brown, James L., Jr., 351, 372
Burke, Walter E., 316: Cameron, Fred M., 207, 220
Campbell, Donald, 80: Clements, Fred, 12, 20
Condon, Edward F., 351, 372: Connor, David J., 12, 20 (O'Connor)
Connors, Daniel W., 351, 372: Crosby, Arnold B., 80
Cunningham, Daniel T., 378, 392: Cummings, Edward James, 387,
397
Dienst, Harry W., 184 (Dieust) 214: Doucette, Joseph (see Coke,
weighers appointed), 12, 20
Foster, Henry, 80: Geyer, Walter R., 246, 284
Gordon, Louis, 378, 392: Grant, Raymond O., 303, 312
Harder, W. G., 316: Harlow, William L., 246, 284
Holland, John K., 207, 220: Jamgotchian, John (July 23), 288
Jefferson, John W., 361, 382: Knowlton, Allan, F., 325, 342
Latham, Hazel, 303, 312: Lavien, Ida, 351, 372
Leary, John, 351, 372: Littlehale, Ethel, 80
Long, John W., 15, 25: Lowney, Daniel, 351, 372
Matthews, H. N., 316: McGregor, Robert, 12, 20
McSorley, John R., 95, 114: Mohr, Homer L., 246, 284
Moore, Alfred, 80: Neville, John J., 393, 428
Nover, William F., 310, 323: O'Brien, John H. Jr., 9, 14
Pope, Harold E., 95, 114: Reilly, James, 80
Sheridan, Philip, 351, 372: Stanton, Richard T., 393, 428
Steeves, Margaret A., 12, 20; 361, 382: Steuterman, Henry, 361, 382
Tapley, Warren F., 393, 428: Tigar, Louis C, 303, 312; removal
from office filed, 330
Tucker, Richard Dana, 387, 397: Warnock, William L., 269, 288
West, Bruce, 378, 392: Wilensky, Isaac (July 23)-confirmed, 288
Wilensky, Rubin (July 23)-confirmed, 288: Wilson, Charles M.,
184 (Wison), 214
Zaks, Mary (June 4), 229
Coke
weighers appointed:
Doucette, Joseph, 12
COl.LMAN
(10)
CONSTABLES,
Coleman Disposal Company
cancellation of permit: six Health Dcpai lincnl , .South Boston
waterfront refuse dumping or pages 138, 107, 108, 190
Collecting Department
collector appointed: John F. Dolierty vice William M. McMorrow,
filed, 35
assistant city collector: amendment to sect. 7, chap. L3, Revised
Ordinances, 1925, referred to ordinance committee, 343
department transfers: $333.33 A to F, referred to executive com-
mittee, 311-report accepted, order passed, 313
information, Boston Port Development Company taxes: order
for under two heads, passed, 20-message with report sent by depart-
ment, filed, 77
ordinance in re bond of collector: tee ordinances amendment to
chap. 3, Revised Ordinances, 1925, also Bonds, for city officers, collector
sale for taxes: order not to proceed to sell dwelling houses whereon
the total amount due is $25 or less, passed, 19-mcssage with communi-
cation, filed, 96
Collection of Ashes and Garbage
for city: see Public Works Department, collection, ashes, garbage
Columbia Station
clean up and prevention of dumping: see Health Department,
clean-up, Old Colony blvd. and Columbia station or pages 280, 295
Committees
clean up: see Clean-Up Campaign, committee appointment
licenses and permits: see Licenses and Permits Special Committee
Lincoln Memorial wreath: see City Council, orders
public welfare department investigation: see Public Welfare De-
partment, investigation committee
special constables: sec Constables, Special Committee
standing and special: see City Council
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
see Massachusetts, Commonwealth of
Communication System for Police Department
National Industrial Recovery Act program: see Police Communica-
tions System, loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933 program
Communism
among school children :
order for investigation in re communism as cause of recent strikes
among school children, passed, 158
order for withdrawal of permit for participation in May Day parade
under United Front May Day Conference, passed, 158
Comparative Census Figures
of surrounding towns and cities, and reason for Boston decline
or increase: see Census Figures of Boston, Proceeding of City
Council, 81,82, 83, 84
Compensation for Disease Contraction
in line of duty: see City Employees, compensation
Competitive Bidding
street paving: see Contracts, competitive bidding, street paving
Connolly (R. J.), Inc.
see R. J. Connolly, Inc.
Constables
Animal Rescue League appointments:
Brigham, William E., Houghton, Frederick O., McDonald, Archi-
bald C. (Councilor Roberts) motion to refer to constables com-
mittee, carried, 147-message, 154-report accepted, all confirmed,
161
Constables, Continued
bonds approved:
Alviti, Ambbico (appointed, 1933 Proceedings, page 334, confirmed!
347), 36
Bl.INDKHMAN, KuCKNK, 351
Cohen, Sidney (appointed, 1933 Proceeding , pagi 101), 9
Kenney, William 11., 351
SCHNEIDER, William (appointed. 1933 Proceedings, page 308, con-
firmed, 375), 9-witlidrawal of appointment, 330
Small, Flokian S., 323
Spaniek, Gubtav (appointed 1933 Proceedings, page 388, confirmed
401), 12
civil process with bond appointments:
(155) 134, 135— (109) approved, 151, 152 (Councilor Wilson) motion
to lay on table lost, roll call, motion lost-(Councilor Wilson) motion
to refer to executive committee lost— (Councilor Murray) motion
to vote on each name, out of order-appointments confirmed, 152-
(18) confirmed, 161— (7) confirmed, 174, bond approvals received,
198-5 names withdrawn, 21—4 names, bonds approved, 220-4
names, bonds approved, 228 (21) 218-7 confirmed, 234-2 confirmed,
245-9 confirmed, 280
Bancroft, Charles A., 134-held over, 174-confirmed, 203-bond
approved, 213,214
Bashitsky, David, 330-343-bond approved, 372
Blaustein, Alfred, 330-343-bond approved, 382
Blinderman Eugene, 330-343-bond approved, 351
Blotto, John B. (added to list) 218-308-bond approved, 323
Bornstein, Abraham, 269-288-bond approved, 298
Brown, Francis E., 134, 257, 280
Calderwood, Sherman H., 134, 135-confirmed, 183
Canner, Mitchel, 2 18- withdrawal filed, 351
Dahlquist, Henry G., 134-284-bond approved, 298
Danberg, Morris W., 218-234, bond approved, 257
DeCourcey, Andrew B., 218-bond approved, 298
Demask, Jacob, 218-234, bond approved, 257
DeSantis. Joseph 0., 218-245, bond approved, 257
DiSisto, Anthony, 218, 257, 280
Donabedin, Ashod, 395—428
Favor, Gilbert I., 134-174, bond approved, 257-notice of resignation
filed, 327
Freedman, Thomas, 134, 280
Glynn William A., 134-288
Goldkrand, Samuel, 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Goldstein, Marks, 218-245, bond approved, 257
Gordon, Samuel, 218-234, bond approved, 257
Gorfinkle, Louis, 218, 234, 257, 280
Goulston, Abner, 134— bond approved, 213, 214
Grassa, Salvatore, 218, 234, 280
Grignon, Walter E., 218-323-bond approved, 372
Hayes, Thomas J., 395-128
Hegarty, Richard, 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Horowitz, Charles, 291, 292-308
Jacobson, Benjamin, 291, 292-308-bond approved, 323
Kaliris, Spiros, 218, 257, 280
Kaplan, David Benedict, 134-bond approved, 288-confirmed, 257
Kenney, William H., 134-bond approved, 351
Macchia, Frank J., 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Maffai, Salvatore, 269-288-bond approved, 298
Mains, Robert C, 134-eonfirmed, 284
Meltzer, Harry, 291, 292-308-bond approved, 323
Milgroom John, 291, 292-308-bond approved, 323
Napolitano (Nopolitaro), Fred R., 134, 135-bond approved, 213,
214-removed from office, 394
Oppenheim, Bert, 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Pierce, George N. (M.), 218, 259, 280
Quinn, Patrick J., 330-343-bond approved, 372
Rabinovitz, Max, 218-234, bond approved, 257-appointed 269-288-
bond approved, 298
Ruggiero, John, 269-288-bond approved, 323
Sarno, Alfred N., 218-bond approved, 257
Simmons, Michael F., 134-approved, 174-confirmed, 203
Singer, Abraham S., 218, 257, 280
Small, Leon, 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Spector, Israel, 218-234, bond approved, 257
Tarle, Samuel, 351-372-bond approved, 396
Tepper, Philip, 218, 257, 280
CONSTABLES
(17)
COUNTY
Constables, Continued
civil process with bond appointments:
Tepper, William, 135-confirmed, 220
Testa, Anthony J., 134, 135-confirmed, 183-bond approved, 280
Todisco, Joseph, 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Uckerman, Aber, 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Waugh, James H., 218, 257, 280
Weiss, Abraham I., 134, 135-bond approved, 213, 214
Welch, John F., 291, 292-308-bond approved, 341
information in re appointments: 154
Massachusetts S. P. T. C. A.:
Allen, Harry L., reappointed (Councilor Roberts) motion to refer to
constables committee, carried, 147-message, 154-report accepted,
appointment confirmed, 161
minimum number in all departments: building, 1; collecting. 8;
fire, 1; health, 2; law, 8; welfare, 1; public works, paving,
sanitary, sewer, 9; registry, 1; street laying-out, 6; penal institu-
tions, 1, 154
official position connections appointment:
(58 names) (Councilor Roberts) motion to refer list to constables com-
mittee, carried 147-message withdrawing 10 names, 154-report
accepted, amendment (Councilor McGrath) 22 names be voted
on, amendment to that amendment (Councilor Roberts), 7 names
be voted on separately, 161, 162-amendment (7 names) carried,
164-motion (Councilor Green) one vote for 7 names, 162-7 names
confirmed, 164-motion (Councilor McGrath) remaining 15 names
be laid on table, carried, 164-23 names confirmed, 172 to 174
Duffley, Joseph Leo, 80 (law department), 154— confirmed, 172
to 174-indefinitely postponed, 174
Malloy, James A., 269-288
McNeil, Archibald P., 80 (law department) 154-indefinitely post-
poned, 174
Nado, Clarence A., 80 (law department) 154-confirmed, 172 to
174-indefinitelv postponed, 174
O'Connor, David I., 269-288
Scott, Robert E., 269-288
Slade, Hyman, 146-referred to constables committee, 147-confirmed,
199 (Slate)
Sullivan, Sidney E., 80 (law department), 154-confirmed, 172 to
174-indefinitely postponed, 174
removal from office:
Hirshberg, Harris, 12
Napolitano, Fred R., 394
resignations:
Donovan, Daniel J., 134, 341
Favor, Gilbert I., 134, 174, 257, 327
Lanata, Louis J., assigned to street laying-out department, 121
special committee: 174, 234, 257
van drivers appointed:
Gargan, Patrick A., and Charles M. Shea, (Councilor Roberts),
motion to refer to constables committee, carried, 147-message,
154-report accepted, confirmed, 161
withdrawal of appointments, connected with official positions,
154:
Campbell, William J., Pasquale del Grosso, Joseph W. Ferris,
William A. Kelley, Joseph F. McDonald, Arthur R. Merritt,
Edward M. Richardson, Edward Sandler, Stephen J. Siney, Thomas
H. Staples, see also list page 146
withdrawals, civil process with bond appointments:
Alviti, Americo, Joseph B. Brown, Harry I. Cohen, Max Zimmer-
man, 269
Canner, Mitchel, 218, 351
Carmill, William, Thomas J. Francis, Leon J. Green, John D.
Hayes, John A. Mitchell, 218
Cuddy, George W., 218, 394
Donahue, David A., 134, 291, 292
Farber, Nathan. 134, 291, 292
Glass, Arthur, 134, 304
Hannigan, Francis L., 134, 304
Markow (Marco) Henry, 134, 330
McEachern, Lawrence F., 134, 330
Reinherz. Harry, 134, 291, 292
Schneider, William, 330, see also Constables, bonds approved
Smith, Robert, 218, 394
without bond or authority to serve civil process:
Dundon, Cornelius L., 12, 20-bond approved, 35-confirmed, 172
to 174
O'Brien, John A., 154-confirmed, 172 to 174
Constables Committee
member appointed: Councilors Goldman, Agnew, Roberts, 15
reports: 151, 152, 161, 257
Contracts
competitive bidding, street paving:
order for on park and public works departments street paving, passed,
151— message with communications, filed, 168
order for, passed, 258-message with communication filed, 349, 350
Contracts, Continued
contractors owing taxes: order to direct city treasurer to withhold
payment to any until taxes are paid, passed, 122
E. F. Loonie, Jr., oil contract: see Finance Commission, contract,
E. F. Loonis, Jr., or pages 221, 256
Joseph P. McCabe Company: order for information in re wages paid
to employees in removal of ashes and garbage under contract with
city, passed, 267
McCabe (Joseph P.) Company employees: see Public Works De-
partment, Joseph P. McCabe Company employees or page 373
nonresident employees by contractors and subcontractors: see
Ordinances, nonresident employees or pages, 307, 396, 397
notice of interest:
A. G. Tomasello & Son, Inc.:
received from Joseph A. Tomasello, board of appeal, snow con-
tract, filed, 9
received from Joseph A. Tomasello, board of appeal, furnishing,
installing pipe sewers, manholes, gravel fill, Boston traffic tunnel,
filed, 62
received from Joseph A. Tomasello, member board of appeal, fur-
nishing, laying, relaying water pipes, Arborwav, West Roxbury,
filed, 323
Fay, Spofford & Thorndike: received from Frederic H. Fay, chair-
man, city planning board that public works department has re-
quested investigation of condition of Northern ave. bridge, filed,
107
under P. W. A.: order to confer with Federal authorities about em-
ployment of citizens as contractors, subcontractors and workmen
passed, 336-message with communication and report filed, 365, 366
snow removal: order to consider insisting upon giving contract to lowest
bidders responsible, passed, 399
validity of contracts, General Electric Company and R. J. Con-
nolly, Inc.: see Police Department, legal opinion in re expenditures
or pages 128 to 132, inclusive
Contributions to Unemployment
names of officials: order to consider advising Council in re contribut-
ing ten per cent of salaries passed, 335
Convalescent Hospital
lease to National Civic Federatiou, Women's Division: sec Leases,
convalescent hospital, Dorchester
reopening: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital
sale: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital, convalescent hos-
pital property sale
Coordination of Police Forces
Senate Bill 260: see City Council, resolves
Costigan -Wagner Bill
favoring enactment: see City Council, resolves
Council Adjournment of 1934 Proceedings
resolution of thanks: resolution extending thanks to Councilor
Dowd, President of the City Council, for his able and impartial pre-
sidings during 1934 passed by unanimous rising vote with applause;
President Dowd responded amid applause, 430
Councilor Norton
attitude on presidency of council, 1935: remarks by councilor in re
stating preference for Councilor Fitzgerald, 392
Councilors
number and voting population: see City Council, orders, number
of councilors
County Accounts Committee
members appointed: Councilors Fitzgerald,
Tobin
Green, Fish, Norton,
printing, binding expenditure: order to investigate, passed, 245
report: 356, 401
County of Suffolk
see Suffolk County
DECEMBER
(18)
DOHERTY
December Payments
for city employees: xcc City Kiiiplovccs December |j:i v nnirl or page
,')88, 397, 398
Decentralization, Welfare Activities
orders: *<■<• Public Welfare Depui Imciil.
Dcdham-Hyde Park Gas Company
gas service, Hyde Park: sec Law Department, or page 1357
Dedham Line - Spring Street State Highway
taken over by state: see City Council, orders, Spring st.-Dedham line
state highway or pages 346, 357, 427, 428
Delinquent Tax Collection Committee
under William Minot, Esq.: sec Taxes, committee on delinquent tax
collections
Democratic State Convention
conflict with Bunker Hill day: see City Council, resolves
Dentistry
under E. R. A.: see Public Welfare Department, dentistry allotment,
E. R. A. or page 391
Department Consolidation
opposition to: see City Council, orders
question by Councilor Wilson: information in re sending copy of
order (see City Council, orders, department consolidation) to legis-
lative committee, 93
Department of Interior
Secretary Ickes: see Charlestown Improvements, housing project
Departmental Appropriations
Boston port authority: message with order for $300 referred to execu-
tive committee, 346-passed, 357
Departmental Transfers
auditing department: message with order for $500, A-l to A-2,
referred to executive committee, 340-report accepted, order passed,
342
budget to auditing department: message with order, 81,000, re-
ferred to executive committee, 286-report accepted, order passed, 288
collecting department: order for 5333.33 from A to F referred to
executive committee, 311-report accepted, order passed, 313
hospital department:
message with order for 58,000 from various divisions, referred to
executive committee, 246, 247-report accepted, order passed, 300-
read again, passed, 305
message with order for $45,000 from various divisions to kitchen
furnishing and equipment, referred to executive committee, 246,
247-report accepted, order passed, 300-message with withdrawal
of order filed, 303
message with order for $35,000 from various divisions referred to
executive committee, 350, 351-report accepted, order read once
and passed, 372-final reading, passed, 382
institutions department: order for $30,023.25 from various divisions
to Long Island hospital kitchen and laundry improvements, referred
to executive committee, 361, 362-report accepted, order passed, 388-
final reading, passed, 428
park department:
message and order for $391.65 from B to C and F-ll referred to
executive committee, 330-report accepted, order passed, 335
order for city auditor to transfer $1,000, Highland pk. improvements
to appropriation for animals, birds, etc., referred to executive com-
mittee, 226-report accepted, order passed, 233
park to school committee department:
Fallon field: order for law department to prepare and submit peti-
tion and bill authorizing transfer of two and a quarter acres, re-
ferred to executive committee, 208-order passed, 214
Departmental Transfers, Continued
Parkman Fund to park department:
message with order, 160,000, passed, 317, 335
message with communication and order, $25,000 passed, 346, 347, 3.57
order for 587,000, 191, passed, 281
order for 535,000 transfer, 380-passed, 386
order for 59,000, 394-report accepted, order passed, 402
order for S780.04 passed, 413
public works department:
message with order, from sewer division B-18 to motor division,
motor vehicles $25,000, referred to executive committee, 286-Iaid
on table, 288-motion (Councilor Tobin) to take from table lost,
301-motion (Councilor Finley) to take from table carried, order
passed, 324-message with disapproval of delayed passage of order
filed, 339
message with order for 5370 from D to B referred to executive com-
mittee, 340-report accepted, order passed, 342
sinking funds department from unexpended balances: see Sinking
Funds Department, transfer of unexpended balances from seven
projects, or pages 380, 388, 428
soldiers' relief department: message with order for 5100 from F-8
to H, referred to executive committee, 340-report accepted, order
passed, 342
Suffolk County:
land court: message with order for S25.90 from D to C, referred to
executive committee, 330-report accepted, order passed, 335
municipal court, Charlebtown: message with order for S100,
A-2 to C, referred to executive committee, 340-report accepted,
order passed, 342
medical examiner, bouthern division: message with order for 514,
referred to executive committee, 346-passed, 357
municipal court, South Boston:
message with order 5345 , referred to executive committee, 346-
passed, 357
order for 524 A to C account referred to executive committee, 311-
report accepted, order passed, 313
registry of deeds: message with order for 3823.84, referred to execu- 1
tive committee, 346-passed, 357
H
transfer in revenue, city printing plant: order for 530,077
passed, 412
Dependents' Care
see Public Welfare Department
Detention Hospital
smallpox and leprosy cases: see Health Department, facilities for
handling leprosy and smallpox cases, or pages 159, 167
Dillaway House, Roxbury
ordinance for maintenance: message with draft of, referred to ordi-
nance committee, 27-report accepted, ordinance passed, 49
Discharged City Employees
consideration of financial condition: see City Employees, discharged
Discrepancy in Expenditure Figures
submitted February 10: see Public Welfare Department, information
in re expenditure figures
Dock and Faneuil Hall Squares
unexpended balance $4,964.58: see Sinking Funds Department,
transfer of unexpended balances on seven projects, or pages 380, 388,
428
Doctors under Parking Laws
exemption: order to make all doctors immune, referred to committee on
rules, 336
Doherty, John J., Councilor, Ward 10
committee appointments: Hospitals, Parkman
Soldiers' Relief, 15
improvement orders, Ward 10:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Atherton st., 98
Burney St., 355, 363
Calumet St., 172, 257
Centre St., 70
Fund, Prisons,
30HERTY
(19)
EAST
Doherty, John J., Councilor, Ward 10, Continued
improvement orders, Ward 10:
Cherokee St., 98
Day St., 285, 294
Francis St., 257
Gay Head st. (2) 124, 145
Grotto Glen rd., 98, 106
Huntington ave., 324, 338
Mozart St., 98
Parker St., 50, 76
Perkins st. (2) 385
Priesing St., 156
Walden st., 156
Whitney st., 41
orders, resolves:
clerks' salaries, Boston city hospital, 302
collection, ashes, garbage, 385 (with Councilors Murray, Brackman,
Doherty)
condition, Jefferson playground, 344
cutting aid, welfare recipients, 298
E. R. A. projects, city hospital, 223
establishment, United States shoe factories (with Councilor Selvi-
tella), 354, 355
employment of citizens, 336
health unit, Ward 10, 25
hot water for showers, 203
land, Grotto Glen rd., 98
payment, city hall employees for full time of vacation in advance, 313
payment of employees, 245
redivision of wards (with Councilors Gleason, Kerrigan, Finley,
Goldman), 301
retirement, Margaret Hurley, 385
roping off Centre St., 135 (with Councilors Murray, Englert, Finley)
sand boxes, Jefferson school, 223, 229
transfer Long Island student nurses, 263
remarks:
condition, Jefferson playground, 344
cutting aid of welfare recipients, 298
employment of citizens, 336
establishment. United States shoe factories, 354, 355
information in re fuel concerns, 398
land, Grotto Glen rd., 98
payment, city hall employees for full time of vacation in advance, 313
payment of employees, 245
sand boxes, Jefferson school playground, 229
transfer, Long Island student nurses, 263
)onovan, George P., Councilor, Ward 6
committee appointments: Ordinances
Prisons, Public Lands, Public Safety, Soldiers' Relief, 15-manager,
Old South Association, 20
improvement orders, Ward 6:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
D st., 354, 368, 369
Dorchester ave., 385
E St., 354, 368
East Sixth st., 123
Flood sq., 79, 81
Gleason (Andrew J.) circle, 298, 310
O St., 123, 145
Old Colony St., 323
West Third st. (2) 289, 297
motions:
committee report-finance (Northern Avenue bridge loan order), 71
orders, resolves:
age limit, guards and gatemen, East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel,
263
annuity, Thomas E. Goggin, 19
cleaning beaches, 215, 262
drinking fountain, Buckley playground, 285
flushing streets in hot weather, 284
notice, applications for gasolene permits, 298
P. W. A., firehouse, Engine 44, 41
redivision of wards, 300
reinstatement, David I. Barry, 299
releasing land, East Broadway and N st., restrictions, 299
remarks of Joseph Lee (with Councilor Kerrigan), 107
repairing Northern Avenue bridge, 263, 285
use, Christopher J. Lee playground, 164
remarks:
age limit, guards and gatemen, East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel,
263
committee reports, finance (six loan orders), 64
committee reports, public lands, 388, 389
establishment United States shoe factories, 354, 355
notice, application for gasolene permits, 298
remarks, Joseph Lee, Jr., 107
repairing Northern Avenue bridge, 263
welfare payments, single men, 261
•onovan (Timothy F.) Boulevard
order to so name new East Boston highway, passed, 343
Dorchester Day, 1934
appropriation: see Appropriations
Dorchester Health Unit
order for the Mayor to include in his 1935 financial plans, passed, 398
Dorchester A\unicipa! Building
proposed erection, 1935: order to include in budget, passed, 398
Dowd, John F., Councilor, Ward 8, President of Council,
1934
elected president of council: 5
improvement orders, Ward 8:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Hunneman St., 257
Reed's ct., 98
orders, resolves:
horse and dog racing, 374 (with Councilor Norton)
ice in drinking fountains, 221
leave of absence, American Legion delegates, 334
municipal lighting plant, 31
roping off, Union Park St., 124
reinstatement Fulton P. Wesson, 124
remarks:
welfare payments, single men, 260, 261
special meeting called: 265
visit of the Mayor: January 8, gavel turned over during a speech of
greeting to members of council, 11
Doyle, Wilfred J.
inaugural exercises: see City Council
Drinking Fountains
ice: order for appropriation for supply during summer, passed, 221
installation: see Park Department
Dumping of Refuse
South Boston waterfront; Tenean beach and Hallet st.
Dorchester: sec Health Department
E. F. Loonie, Jr.
contracts, automobile oil: see Finance Commission, contract, E. F.
Loonie, Jr., or pages 221, 256
E. R. A.
location of work: see Federal Emergency Relief Administration
see also Emergency Relief Administration
East Boston
traffic tunnel formally named General Sumner tunnel at opening
highway: named Donovan (Timothy F.), blvd., 343
lighting system surveys: 98, 226, 227
municipal building construction: order to accept chap. 178, Acts
of 1934 in re referred to executive committee, 398-report accepted,
order passed, 401-message with veto filed, 411
opposition to expenditure for housing under C. W. A.: order to
take action in re because of consequent real estate values referred to
rules committee, 18, 19-report accepted, order passed. 49
orders: see General Sumner Tunnel or East Boston, tunnel named for
Martin Lomasney
playground orders: see Park Department, East Boston playground or
pages, 323, 342, 343, 350, 358, 382, 401, 411, 429
pumping station unexpended balance, $4,456.39: see Sinking
Funds Department, transfer of unexpended balances on seven pro-
jects or pages 380, 388
welfare branch establishment: see Public Welfare Department,
decentralization, East Boston branch or page 202
EASTERN
(20)
nxcisr
Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Company
jitney license petitions: see Jitneys, operation licence petitions
jitney license revocation: see Jitneys, revocation of license
Einstein, Dr. Albert
citizenship bill in Congress: see City Council, order*, Einstein
citizenship of Dr. Albert
Election Department
certification election of the Mayor and City Council: see City
Council
chairman, commission appointed: David B. Shaw vice Helen A.
MacDonald, 4 years, filed, 213
member, listing Board: Peter F. Tague, appointed for 1934, filed, 24
additional officer at each precinct: see Police Department
additional space for resigistration: order for, passed, 266, 267
legal resident appointees: order requesting check of residence for
evidence of legal voting rights in Boston, passed, 124
list of persons eligible for jury duty sent and filed, 255
list of supervisors appointed: list submitted by Councilor McGrath
and included in Proceedings, 402 to 407, inclusive
pari mutuel betting and June 17: copy of referenda votes compared
with Chelsea, Revere, Winthrop, filed, 388
precinct officers' removal: see City Council, resolves, precinct officers
registration, listing voters: three orders under six heads in re party
affiliation, number in all 367 precincts, time of listing under redivision
of wards, passed, 333-message with report, filed, 366, 367, 368-
message with report from corporation counsel, 369, 370, 371, filed,
371
returns, November 6: see City Messenger Department, election
returns or page 336
special liquor vote election, January 23, 1934: communication,
stating results, received, filed, 24
state election: order for in re governor, and other officials and five
referenda, passed, 341, 342
suspension sects. 55, 56, 57 of chap. 54, General Laws: order for
at election November 6, passed, 342
supervisors' pay: order to pay supervisors at recent state election $9
per day, referred to executive committee, 386-report, order passed,
402 to 408, inclusive
vote, liquor license: communication from department to city council
of results November 6, filed, 381
voting booth locations: order to consider having study made, passed,
204-message with communication, filed, 269, 270; order to consider
relocating, passed, 289
Elizabeth Peabody School
transference of pupils, razing building and turning of land over
to park department for playground: see School Committee
Department
Ely, Governor Joseph B.
copy of letter sent by Councilor Shattuck to the President of United
States in re income tax receipts to offset real estate tax burden, re-
ferred rules committee, 143
Emergency Conservation Work
for unemployment: see Harbor Island Forestation
Emergency Finance Board
approval, water main (Elm Hill), 8700,000 and police communications
system, $350,000 received, filed, 213
approval, school, high and intermediate, project 4217 P. W. A., filed,
381
welfare expenditure loan, 33,800,000 under sect. 2, chap. 49, Acts of
1933, approval sought, 294
Emergency Relief Administration
approval, bridge and ferry division projects: order requesting by
Administrator Hall of two projects, Charlestown bridge repairs and
survey of all city bridges, passed, 222
cinder track, Billings field: see Park Department, Billings field, or
page 401
r-mergency Relief Administration, Continued
completion, bridge and ferry work:
E. R. A. PROJECT*):
preambles and resolution to appeal to Federal Administrator Carnej
and Local Administrator Hall to continue labor until completioi
of projects, passed, 215-message with communication, filed, 249-
order to again continue work until August 15 at least, passed
263-mcssage with communication, filed, 272
order for, under bridge und ferry division, public works depart
ment supervision, 5 project* listed below, passed, 222 (2 orders)
Chelsea Viaduct-Meridian st. bridges', Longfellow bridge repairs
painting 6 ferry slips; recreation pier, Ward 1; Blakemore st
bridge, repairs— message with communications, filed, 252
order to continue work until August 15, passed, 263
dentistry allotment: see Public Welfare Department, dentistrj
allotment, E. R. A. or page 391
drinking fountain, Buckley playground: order for park department
under E. R. A. funds to install drinking fountain and settees, passed
285-message with communication, filed, 292
employment of women under C. W. A., P. W. A. and E. R. A.
order to consider investigating number (990 out of 11,681), passed
324-message with report, 327, 328, 329, 330
order to ask employment of at least 2,000 out of 11,500 employed
passed, 334
establishment, United States shoe factories: see page 354, 355 m
City Council, resolves, establishment, United States shoe factoriei
under E. R. A.
hospital projects, continuation:
order requesting Administrator Hall to continue projects now it
operation, passed, 223-message with communication from trustee;
of hospital, 265
order to continue work until August 15, passed, 263
information, in re unused funds: order for, of approximately $280,
000 balance, referred to executive committee, 400, 401
Jewish holidays: order to arrange with E. R. A. and P. W. A. that
leave of absence be granted to Jews with pay on religious holidays
passed, 308-message with communication, filed, 311, 312
repairing Ward 7 sidewalks: order for under E. R. A. program,
passed, 408
small parks, congested areas: see Federal Emergency Relief Ad
ministration
telephone, gas, electric rates investigation: order for funds from
E. R. A., passed, 299
transfer of workers from soldiers' relief rolls: order for soldiers
relief department to report number transferred since September,
1934, passed, 399-message with report, filed, 409
transfer of workers from welfare rolls: order for public welfare
department to report number transferred since September, 1934.
passed, 399
workers, information in re:
order under three heads from departments, passed, 398
order under four heads from departments, passed, 398
order for total number employed, passed, 398
Engine 44 Fireboat Station
new buildings, under F. E. A. of P. W.: see Fire Department or
pages 41, 56
Englert, Edward L., Councilor, Ward 11
committee appointments: Ordinances, Playgrounds and Parks,
Printing, Public Lands, Public Safety, 15
improvement orders, Ward 11:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Amory St., 334, 347
Arborway, Jamaica Plain, 307, 373, 393, 394
Atherton st., 98
Beech Glen St., 332
Boylston street, 230,
Cedar st., 257
Green St., 323, 249
South st., (2) 172, 307, 322
motion:
next meeting, 408
orders, resolves:
collection, ashes, garbage, 385 (with Councilors Murray, Doherty,
Brackman)
payments, James Fennessey and Michael O'Brien, 385
payment to John Ducey, 91
printing Municipal Register, 16
reimbursements, John Doocey, 229
roping off Centre st., 135 (with Councilors Murray, Doherty, Finley)
remarks:
next meeting, 264
Excise Tax
snow removal trucks: order not to pay for use of trucks until excise
tax has been paid, passed, 115
EXECUTIVE
(21)
FINANCE
Executive Committee
chairman appointed: Councilor Wilson, 15
petitions: 12, 15, 24, 38, 49, 62, 85, 97, 107, 135, 147, 156, 171, 193,
213, 219, 228, 245, 256, 323, 341, 371, 372, 381, 387, 396
reports: 32, 39, 52, 62, 93, 99, 113, 122, 151, 181, 182, 204, 214, 225
282, 300, 308, 313, 324, 335, 342, 357, 372, 386, 388, 401
Exempted Property
taxes, proposed effort to put on lists: see Taxes, exemption, or page
400
Exeter Theatre
tax exempt: see Taxes, exemption, or page 400
Expense (Divided) of Northern Avenue Bridge
by railroads using: see Northern Avenue Bridge, repair expense shared
!F. E. A. P. W.
I see Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works
Fallon Field
' transfer, 2\ acres to school committee department: see Depart-
mental Transfers, park to school committee department, Fallon Field,
or pages 208, 214
Farragut Beach
' cleaning beach: see Park Department, beach cleaning, L st, bath to
Boston Yacht Club, or pages 215, 251
-ay, Spofford & Thorndike
| notice received of interest in contract with public works department sent
by Frederic H. Fay, chairman, city planning board, filed, 107
:ederal Civil Works Administration
communication: reply to inquiry from Councilor Wilson received,
31,32
number and continuance of Boston workers: see Civil Works
Administration
:ederal Emergency Recovery Administration
location of work: order for assignment of men to work nearest their
homes, passed, 331, 332
:ederal Emergency Administration of Public Works
American International Terminal Corporation loan for ship
terminal, Old Harbor Point, Dorchester: see American Inter-
national Terminal Corporation, loan approval, F. E. A. of P. W.
communication: reply to inquiry from Councilor Wilson for the council
committee received, 31, 32
communication in re details approved: communication in reply to
request for information in re projects already approved under
$10,565,000 allotment to Boston, 69
courthouse: see Suffolk County
firehouse, Engine 44 under P. W. A.: see Fire Department
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933, N. I. R. A. programs: see
names of projects as follows, Brookline Avenue Watermain; Hospital
(Surgical) Buildings; Northern Avenue Bridge; Schools, High and
Intermediate; Sewer Construction, Street Reconstruction; Watermain
Construction
Neptune Gardens, East Boston: see City Council, resolves
removal, unused poles, overhead wires: see Boston Elevated Railway
Company
sidewalks, Wards 7, 8: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders
passed, Southampton St., Wards 7, 8
swimming pool, Franklin pk.: order for construction as E. R. A.
project where recently found subterranean reservoir could be used,
passed, 332
Woodrow ave., Ward 14, under $1,000,000 project: message with
communication, filed 104, see also Streets and Squares, improvement
orders passed
Federal Emergency Housing Corporation
slum rehabilitation: see City Council, resolves, slum clearance under
National Housing Division
Federal Emergency Relief Administration
American Legion pk. locker building: order for park commissioner
to arrange for erection under F. E. R. A., passed, 148-message with
communication, filed, 155
John H. L. Noyes playground enlargement: order to arrange for
under F. E. R. A. passed, 148-message with communication, filed, 155
North ferry recreation pier, Ward I:
order for public works commissioner to arrange for, with explanatory
statement, passed, 147, 148-message with communication referring
to park department, filed, 155
order for continuation projects now under construction, E. R. A.,
under public works department, bridge and ferry division, passed,
222
order to request Roswell G. Hall, E. R. Administrator, to continue,
under supervision of bridge and ferry division, public works de-
partment, passed, 222
pay, schoolhouse project: order to ask Administrator Hopkins to pay
more than day laborer schedule for work on schoolhouses, passed, 232
recreation pier, East Boston (proposed): see Park Department'
recreation pier, East Boston, see also F. E. R. A., North ferry recreation
pier, Ward 1
single men and women employment: order to consult with
F. E. R. A. in Washington in re employment of, where there are one
or more dependents, passed, 386
small parks, congested areas: see Park Department
work distribution: resolution favoring fair distribution regardless of
^ political party or section, passed, 221, 222
See also Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works; Federal
Loan and Grant Agreements
Federal Loans and Grants Agreements
under chap. 366, Acts 1933, N. I. R. A., and F. E. A. of P. W.
programs: see Brookline Avenue Watermain; Hospital (Surgical)
Building; Northern Avenue Bridge; Schools, High and Intermediate;
Sewer Construction; Street Reconstruction; Watermain Construction
cost of projects under original loan and grant agreements and amount
of grant under new grant agreements, filed, 205, 206
Fences
Walworth st.
passed
Ward 20: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders
Federal Reserve Bank System
assets, closed banks which were members: see McLeod Bill
Ferry Service Employees
forty-hour week: see City Employees
Finance Commission
Boston city hospital: report sent the Mayor and City Council, filed,
193 to 197
contract, E. F. Loonie, Jr.: order for investigation in re oil contract,
passed, 221-report sent, filed, 256
East Boston tunnel land-takings: see Reports made to City Council
land-takings, General Sumner tunnel: see General Sumner Tunnel,
land-takings
recommendation, street paving: see Park Department, paving recom-
mendations by finance commission and Public Works Department,
paving orders passed, finance commission recommendations
1934 real estate abatement: order to investigate, passed, 137, 138, 139,
140, 141, 142-report sent, filed, 233, 234
snow removal: order to investigate expenditure, $700,000 during recent
storms and report to city council, referred to executive committee, 98-
report accepted, new draft of order passed, 100
Finance Committee
members appointed: Councilors Green, Shattuck, Fitzgerald, Wilson,
Brackman, McGrath, Kerrigan, 15
reports: 40, 63-68, 71-74, 144, 233, 234, 382
MNI.r.Y
(22)
FITZQERALB
Finley, James F.f Councilor, Ward 20
committee appointment*: Ho pital . Ordinance*, Playground* and
Parksi i 'i in' mgi I 'ri ionj, I B
Improvement orders, Wnrd 20.
iron details: :••'■ Street* and Squares, names
Bogandale rd.i 31/3, .'i:'7
( Ynlrc st., 151
Corey Ml. ,C() 174, 180, 187, 188
Dwinell Bt„ 316, :i27
Eastbourne Ht., 866
La Orange m(.. 323
Vermont St., 200
Walworth st., 355, ,'100
Washington Ht., ut West Roxbury parkway, 384
Weld si. (3) 174, 175, 180, 187, 188
Westover st. at Weld Ht., 316
motions:
transfer in sewer division, carried, 324
orders, resolves:
additional lighting, Fallon field, 332
cinder track, Billings field, 401
congratulations to Councilor Goldman, 429 (with Councilor Wilson)
construction of streets, 384
employment, nonresidents, 307
Permanent Court of International Justice, 92
roping off Centre at., 135 (with Councilors Murray, Englert, Doherty)
use, United States veterans' hospital No. 44, 53
utilization, veterans' hospital, 373
remarks:
cinder track, Billings field, 401
committee reports, executive, West Roxbury schools under F. E. A.
of P. W., 207
committee reports, finance (six loan orders) 65, 06
construction of streets, 384
employment, nonresidents, 307
Permanent Court of International Justice, 92
utilization, veterans' hospital, 373
Fire Department
commissioner: Edward F. McLaughlin appointed, vice Edward M.
McSweeney resigned, 9-placed on file, 10
appointment of firemen:
order for 100 more, passed, 342
order for 300 more, passed, 400
clean-up campaign: see Clean-up Campaign, committee appointment
elimination 4 engine, 2 ladder companies: see Boston Municipal
Research Bureau
firehouse Engine 44, under Federal Emergency Administration of
Public Works program: order to consider including, passed, 41-
message with communication, filed, 56
flooding certain streets: order to consider, during hot weather where
there are many children and to use sprinkler shower baths attached
to hydrants, passed, 258-message with communication filed. 272
leases: see Public Buildings Department, leases, or page 385
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933: see Firehouse Construction,
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program
pension annuities: see Payments, Baldwin, Mrs. William A., Mc-
Namara, Mrs. Bernard F.
personnel increase: order to appoint 300 more men, referred to execu-
tive committee, 220
reimbursements to employees: see Payments, names of persons,
Maher, Michael J.; Brennan, Robert F.
reinstatement order passed: Falcone, Frank V., 97-order passed, 99,
100
"right of way" summonses: order to consider giving right to issue to
motorists not observing rule to prevent accidents and claims therefor,
passed, 24— message with communications, filed, 132
sale, old material: message with communication and order for, referred
to executive committee, 28-report accepted, order passed, 32
station, Ward 13: order to consider building in section, 32,000 people,
where there is none, passed, 220, 221
Firehouse Construction
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program:
message with notice of disapproval by State Emergency Finance i
Board of loan order (Proceedings, 1933 pp. 376, 383, 402, 405, 406),
33
message with order to rescind order SI, 075,000, referred to executive
committee, 33-report accepted, order passed, 39-second, final
reading, passed, 63
First-Aid Kits
at beaches: see Park Department, various beaches
Fish, Albert I.., Councilor, Ward lb
committee appointments: County Accounts, Hospitals, Jitney
Licenue, Ordinances, Ifi
amendments: committee report finance (police communication loan
order), 73
improvement orders, Wurd 16:
j 0 it details: fee Streets and Square*, name-
Adams It., 182, 186. 187, 323
Ashmont st., 98 (2), 204, 218
Centre St., 98
Proet ave., 223
Lenoxdalc ave., 232, 248
Neponsct ave., 98
motions:
committee reports, executive ($2,000 municipal employmenl hureat
appropriation) , 233
committee reports, public lands (lay on table), 388, 38S
disposition, convalescent hospital property, 428, 429
next meeting, 290
proposed confirmation of minor officers, 144
orders, resolves:
appointment, firemen, 400
appointment, policemen, 401
city printing (with Councilor Murray), 214
conditions of Churchill bequest, 408
dump permits, J. P. McCabe Company, 156
employees, Joseph P. McCabe Company (with Councilor Tobin), 373
fees, storage of gasolene, etc., 136
free bus transportation for school children, 375
holiday, May 30, 215
land near Tenean beach, 30
observance, Dorchester Day (with Councilors Tobin, WiLson,
McGrath, Goldman), 182
operation, busses, Dorchester, 206
payments to J. P. McCabe Company, 102
police officers, 267
proposing Good Friday city hall closing, 98
reinstatements, Michael McCormack, 16
reopening convalescent hospital, 159
requested appointment, 300 firemen, 220
Tenean beach improvements, 147
wage scale paid by McCabe, 267, 268
ordinances:
deputy city auditor, 266
point of information:
committee report, finance (police communication loan order), 72
remarks:
appointment, firemen, 400
city printing, 214
committee, welfare department investigation, 88
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), 244, 245
committee reports-ordinances, 49
committee reports public lands, 388, 389
constables' confirmations, 172
convalescent hospital property, 228, 400
dump permits, J. P. McCabe Company, 156
Fourth of July celebration, 258
free bus transportation for school children, 375
inspectors, building department, 374
police officers, 267
requested appointment, 300 firemen, 220
wage scale paid by McCabe, 267, 268
Fitzgerald, John I., Councilor, Ward 3
committee appointments:
County Accounts, Finance, Legislative, Public Safety, Unclaime
Baggage, 15
Ward Redivision, 285
Welfare Department Investigation, 87-91
improvement orders, Ward 3:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Albany St., 87, 104, 105
Chardon St., 300, 311
Charles st. (3 orders) 262, 272. 273, 296, 297, 332, 339
Harrison ave., 30
Leverett, Nashua and Brighton sts., 385
Nashua St., 19, 145, 385
North St., 300, 311
Pike's alley, 14, 61
Portland St., 41
Washington St., 385
orders, resolves:
additional amounts for ward, municipal buildings, 40
committee, investigate welfare department, 87
coordination, police forces, 92
information from assessing and auditing offices, 30
information from city planning board, 70
information in re Elizabeth Peabody school, 284
lease, fire station, Leverett St., 385
loan, new city hall, 69
Massachusetts General Hospital, North Grove st., 40
naming "Storrow Basin," 49
FITZGERALD
(23)
GEORGE
Fitzgerald, John I., Councilor, Ward 3, Continued
orders, resolves:
reinstatement William S. Foster, 19
slum clearance, 87
survey hospital facilities, 49
use, baseball diamond, Boston Common, 284
ordinances:
appointment, assistant collector, 343
point of information:
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), 243
remarks:
abatements on real estate, 140
committee, investigate welfare department, 87, 88
appropriations (1934 budget), 243; committee reports, county ac-
counts, 401
cost of broadcasting, 203
coordination, police forces, 92
East Boston housing development, 19
information from city planning board, 70; in re Elizabeth Peabody
school, 284
naming "Storrow Basin," 49
"share-the-work" stagger system, 112
Flag Day
March 4, Inauguration Day observance: order to make March 4
Presidents' Flag Day in recognition of twenty-four presidents in-
augurated previous to Act changing inauguration to January, referred
to rules committee, 68, 69
Flag, Pledge of Allegiance
school pupils and teachers: see School Committee Department
Flags, Ropes and Stakes
used for street celebrations: see City Messenger Department
Flooding Streets
during hot weather: see Fire Department, flooding certain streets;
Public Works Department, flooding streets orders passed
Food Inspector
appointment: see Health Department
Food and Lodging Cards
substituted for cash: see Public Welfare Department, information
in re food and lodging cards
Forest Hills Station
train stop: see New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, train
stop, Forest Hills station or page 119
Forestation of Boston Harbor Islands
Emergency Conservation Work: see Harbor Islands Forestation
Fourth of July
celebration: see Public Celebration, Fourth of July
Franklin Park Golf Links
accident payment: see Payments, Ducey, John
Franklin Union
former teacher's pension: see Payments, Connelly, Fred W.
Free Passes
East Boston ferries: see Reports to City Council
Fuel Companies
names and promptness of deliveries: order for information under
three heads passed, 398
Furloughs
canceling: see Public Works Department, furloughs
Gallagher, Edward M., Councilor, Ward 22
committee appointments:
Appropriations, Municipal Lighting, Parkman Fund, Rules (page 5),
15
Ward Redivision, 285
chairman pro tern.: 5
improvement orders, Ward 22:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Bayard St., 69, 80
Bigelow St., 98
Coolidge rd., 257
Faneuil St., 98, 358
Foster St., 358
Franklin st., 358
Hobson st., 356
Hooker St., 257
Holman St., 257
Murdock st., 357
Nonantum St., (2) 386
North Harvard St., 357
Royal St., 257
Sparhawk St., 357
orders, resolves:
matters referred from 1933, 7
reinstatement, Mrs. Mary E. Garfield, 12, 13
work for home owners, 383
remarks:
committee reports, executive (Boylston st. subway stop),
work for resident owners, 383, 384
284
Garaging City Motor Vehicles
names, addresses, number of cars stored: see Public Works Depart-
ment, outside garaging of city cars or page 160
Gasolene Storage
fees under chap. 297, Acts of 1931: order to establish graduated fees
for storage, passed, 136
notice of hearings: order that street commissioners send Council
notice of hearings on petitions, passed, 91
legal opinion in re ex-
General Electric Company
contract validity: see Police Department,
penditures
General Laws
chap. 54: see City Council, orders, ward division
chap. 54, section 23: see Election Department, supervisors' pay
chap. Ill, sect. 92: see Health Department, smallpox hospital closing
sects. 55, 56, 57 of chap. 54: see Election Department, suspension for
election November 6
sect. 8, chap. 81: see Spring st.-Dedham Line State Highway
General Sumner Tunnel
formerly called East Boston Tunnel
naming East Boston tunnel for Martin Lomasney: preambles
and resolution in re and sending copy of resolutions to the Governor,
House of Representatives and Senate of Commonwealth, referred to
executive committee, 202-report accepted, order passed, 204
age limit, guards and gatemen: order requesting reason for limiting
age, passed, later referred to executive session by acting president
McGrath, 263-message with communication, filed, 273
citizen employment, tiling work: order for conference of transit
commission and C. M. Tyler Company in re, passed, 18-message
with communication, filed, 61
five cent fare without transfer privilege, order passed, 281
interest appropriation, traffic tunnel bonds, series B: message
with order for $22,750 for interest payment, referred to executive com-
mittee, 286, 287-report accepted, order passed, 288
land-taking settlements: see Reports made to City Council
order for finance commission to consider prices and true value, referred
to executive committee, 353, 354-report accepted, order passed, 372
toll schedule:
report, special committee: preambles and resolution with schedule
of tolls, 352-report accepted, resolution not adopted, Councilor
Selvitella doubted vote, resolution adopted, 352, 353
revision: see City Council, resolves, General Sumner tunnel tolls
special committee: order for, passed, Councilors Selvitella, Green,
Shattuck, Brackman, Goldman appointed, 308
George Robert White Fund
see White (George Robert) Fund
(ilRMAN
(24)
ORAIN
German Consulate
Nazi "Swastika": »<•<; City Counoil, resolves
Qleason (Andrew J.) Circle
naming circle at Castle Island, 208, 310
Qleason, Richard D., Councilor, Ward 9
committee appointments: Finance, Legislative, Ordinances, Prisons,
Soldiers' Relief, 15— Lincoln Memorial Wreath, 41
doubt of vote:
catch-basin cleaning by welfare laborers, 344
improvement orders. Ward 9:
kor details: sec Streets and Squares, names
Cumston pi. (2) 289, 29,r), 297
Cumston st. (2) 289, 295, 297
Elmwood st., 257
Juniper ter., 308
Norfolk st. (2) 41, 132
Ray st. continuation, 114, 295
motions:
appearance of children petitions, 12
public welfare orders (reference order concerning Ward 9 to executive
committee), 202
orders, resolves:
Costigan-Wagner Bill, 204
land for playground purposes, 30
payment, city hospital internes, 231
redivision of wards (with Councilors Kerrigan, Finlev, Goldman,
Doherty), 301
repairs, G. A. R. building, 46 Joy st., 315
requested reinstatement, Fulton P. Wesson, 91
thanks to Mr. Yawkey, 101, 102
wreath for Lincoln memorial, 41
remarks:
Andrew J. Gleason circle, 299
committee reports: executive (departmental transfers, kitchen
equipment), 300; snow removal, 100
investigation, telephone, gas, electric rates, 299
redivision of wards, 300
thanks to Mr. Yawkey, 102
transfer, sewer division, 324
unanimous consent:
Andrew J. Gleason circle, 299
redivision of wards, 300
Goldman, Maurice M., Councilor, Ward 14
congratulations of council proposed by Councilors Wilson and Finley
in re appointment as Assistant. Attorney-General for Commonwealth
of Massachusetts passed, 429
committee appointments: Claims, Constables, Playgrounds
Parks, Parkman Fund, 15
amendments:
abatements on real estate, 141
Long Island hospital nurses, 182
improvements orders, Ward 14:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Blue Hill ave., 223, 231, 242, 248, 252, 331, 342
Bowdoin ave., 91
Bradshaw st., 156
Columbia rd., 257
Ellington St., 281
Esmond st., 165
Floyd st. (2) 157, 186, 187, 285
Greenwood st., 91
Hansborough st., 50
Harvard rd., 156, 187, 188
Iola st., 177, 188
Kingsdale st., 157, 186, 187
Lucerne St., 263
Mascot st., 91
Rosseter st. , 98
Stanwood St., 263
Talbot ave. (2) 70, 80
Woodrow ave., 51, 91, 104
Woolson St., 157
motions:
bond approval, 174
committee reports, appropriations (1934 budget), 244
confirmation, civil process constables (7 names), 174
constables' confirmations to confirm all but Hyman Slate (Slade, page
147), 172
convalescent home property, Dorchester, 400
next meeting (meet July 16) carried, 264
orders, resolves:
anonymous letters, 289
approval, House Bill 40, 91
change, parking limit hours, 331
confirmation of constables, 203
Goldman, Maurice M., Councilor, Ward 14, Continued
orders, resolves:
continuation, E. R. A. projects, 222, 263
display of Nazi swastika
elimination, Bird st. crossing, 383 'will. Councilor McGrath)
footpath, Ormund st. ami blue Hill eve., 342
golden jubilee, Cardinal O'Connell, 220
health unit, 51
Hebrew immigration aid society, 223
hospital service, "Kosher'' food, 231
in re motion picture industry, 285
observance, Dorchester Dav (with Councilors Tobin, Fish, Wilson,
McGrath), 182
payment, Louis Katz, 41
proposed navy yard improvements, 355 (offered by Councilor Selvi-
tella)
redivision of wards (with Councilors Kerrigan. Gleason, Finley,
Doherty), 301
revocation, license to Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Company
(with Councilors Selvitella, Kerrigan), 289, 290
ruling on shorts, 298
six grade, Charles Lowe school, 231
stenographer, clerk of committees department, 102
support of Tydings resolution, 50
swimming pool. Franklin park, 332
use, Elevated spare power, 50
point of information:
committee reports, executive (final budget recommendations), 282
remarks:
anonymous letters, 289
change, parking limit hours, 331
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), 244
committee reports, constables, 152, 161, 162, 164
committee reports, finance (six loan orders), 05
constables' confirmations, 172
continuation, E. R. A. projects, 222, 263
convalescent hospital property, 228
swimming pool, Franklin park, 332
welfare aid, single men, 260
unanimous consent:
committee report-finance (police communication loan order), 72
sewer equipment transfer, $25,000, 301
Good Friday
closing city hall: see City Employees
Goods
weighers appointed, confirmed:
Augusta, Roe, 27-40: Barton, Herbert P., 154-174
Cacace, Emil: 269-288; 361-382: Callinan, Martin A., 303-312
Colorussi, James J., 361: Dalmasa, Paul, 226-259
Dooley, Leo J., 316: Dunton, John A., 361-382
Fay, Edward A., 156-174: Feeney, John Patrick, 80
Finn, Martin J., 167-199: Flaherty, Thomas, 27-40
Flynn, Warpen, 12-20: Fuller, Robert, 226-259
Geyer, Walter R., 246-284: Gublin, James, 76-94
Harlow, William L., 246-284: Hiqgins, Campbell S., 56-79
Jamgotchian, John (July 23)-confirmed, 288
Kee, William W., 269-288
Kelly, Thomas R., 154-174: Kennedy, Norman P., 316
King, Royal, 278-392: Leary, John, 351-372
Lowney, Daniel, 351-372: McCann, Albert P., 303-312
McCarthy, John J. (see Grain), 12-20
McColgan, Hugh P., 167-199
McSorley, John.R., 95-114: Moore, Richard J., 27-40
O'Sullivan, Jeremiah J. P., 154-174: Paresky, Herbert, 310-323
Pope, Harold E., 95-114: Roberts, Frank W., 184-214
Ryan Joseph F., 310-323: Sheehy, Edward E., 154-174
Sheridan, Philip, 351-372
Grain
measurers appointed, confirmed:
Colorubso, James J., 361, 382
Leary, John, 351, 372
Leydon, John, 361, 382
Lowney, Daniel, 351, 372
McCarthy, John J. (see Goods), 12, 20
Sheridan, Philip, 351, 372
GREEN
(25)
HOME
Green, Thomas H., Councilor, Ward 2
committee appointments: „,,.„, ^ , / -s
County Accounts, Finance, Legislative, Public Safety, Rules (pageo),
15
Lincoln Memorial Wreath, 41
Ward Redivision, 285
amendments:
inspectors, building department-out. of order, 374
improvement orders, Ward 2:
fob details: see Streets and Squares, names
Charlestown housing, widening Rutherford ave. and removal of
Elevated structure, 335
North Mead St.: 164, 207
motions:
committee reports, constables (one ballot for seven names), 162
Long Island hospital nurses (refer to executive committee), 181
next meeting (July 16) withdrawn, 264
Sumner tunnel tolls-referring to executive committee and asking
attendance of transit commissioner, 307
welfare payments, single men, 261
objections:
committee reports, constables (objection to roll call on vote), 164
orders, resolves:
attendance of school children at movies, 70
date of democratic state convention, 78
election returns, 336
elimination of puttees (with Councilor Selvitella), 182
extension of time limit, chap. 347, Acts of 1931 (offered by Councilor
Selvitella), 91
Federal Emergency Relief ruling, 232
hot water, shower baths, 182
investigation, foreclosed and remortgaged property, 300
June 17 celebration, 164
land for parking space, 335
leave without loss of pay, 245
Maranville Day, 308
motion picture machines in schools, 70
removal, dilapidated buildings, Ward 2, 374
removal, precinct officers, 315
slum removal legislation, 229
small parks, 182
in re step-rate increases in wages, 268
use of radio, Long Island, 204
points of information:
age limit, guards and gatemen, East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel,
263
committee reports executive ($2,000 municipal employment bureau
appropriation), 233
Long Island hospital nurses, 181
sewer equipment transfers, $25,000, 301
special committee, public welfare, 144
remarks:
abatements on real estate, 141, 142
committee reports, constables-doubt of vote, 152
committee reports, constables, 164
committee reports, finance (six loan orders), 65
removal, precinct officers, 315
unanimous consent:
committee report, finance (police communication loan order), 72
Grotto Glen Road
filling in: see Public Works Department, filling in Grotto Glen rd. land
Handball Courts
erection: see Park Department, Mt. Ida playground or pages 164, 190,
191
Harbor Islands Forestation
under Emergency Conservation Work: order authorizing heads of
departments or park commissioners having care of Boston harbor
islands to grant permission to United States of America to enter for
work, referred to executive committee, 84
Harvard Stadium
tax exempt: see Taxes, exemption, or page 400
Health Department
commissioner appointed: notice from the Mayor, Francis X. Mahoney
appointed for term ending 1938, filed, 427
sanitary inspector: notice of appointment, James H. Wallace, filed,
381
Health Department, Continued
clean up, Columbia sta. and Old Colony blvd.: order to prevent
further dumping of banana stalks, passed, 280-message with communi-
cation, filed, 295
compensation, for sickness contracted on duty: order to consider
allowing time off with pay allowance, passed, 400
facilities for handling leprosy and smallpox cases: order for in-
formation in re, passed, 159-report sent, filed, 167
food inspector: Harry O'Neil appointment filed, 257
necessity for separation for leprosy and smallpox wards: order
in re, passed, 150, 151-report sent, filed, 167
payless furloughs: order for copy of September 28 order continuation
and rescission of a previous order, passed, 334, 335
report of surveys and progress of orders: order to consider furnish-
ing report and information in re progress of various orders, passed, 178
retirement, medical board designations: preamble and order for
neurologist and surgeon, referred to executive committee, 31-report
accepted, order passed, 32
retirements: see Retirements, individual names
smallpox hospital closing:
order for information in re authority under General Laws, chap. Ill,
sect. 92, and Revised Ordinances, 1925, chap. 16, sect. 3, passed,
148, 149-message with communication from law department,
filed, 197-report from corporation counsel filed, 256; order for in-
formation in re control of hospital by health department, passed, 197
South Boston waterfront refuse dumping: order for cancellation
of permit, as safeguard to health and for prevention of pollution of
bathing beaches, passed, 136— report sent the Council, filed, 167, 168-
message with communication from health commissioner, filed, 190
Tenean beach and Mallet St., Dorchester: order to revoke dumping
permits issued to J. P. McCabe Company, passed, 156-message with
communication from health commissioner, filed, 190
Health Units
city budget appropriations, personal services: see Budget Depart-
ment, health units appropriations
Dorchester district: see White (George Robert) Fund or page 41
Dorchester: order to include in 1935 budget plans, passed, 398
Heath sq., Ward 10: see White (George Robert) Fund
Ward 15: order for, under P. W. A., passed, 388
Woodrow and Blue Hill aves., Ward 14: see White (George Robert)
Fund or page 51
See White (George Robert) Fund
Hearings
gas service, Hyde Park: see Law Department, or page 357
shoe code, reopening: see City Council, resolves, shoe code hearing re-
opening, or page 384
submarine cables: see New England Telephone and Telegraph Com-
pany
Heaters in Police Cars
orders: see Police Department, heaters for police cars, or pages 8, 401
Hebrew Immigration Aid Society
preambles and resolution extending best wishes on the occasion of annua
flower day, passed, 223
High and Intermediate Schools
loans: see Schools, High and Intermediate, loans under F. E. A. of
P. W. program
Holidays
May 30: see City Employees, leaves of absence, May 30
Jewish: see Emergency Relief Administration
June 17, legal holiday: see Election Department, pari-mutuel betting,
and June 17, or page 388
Holland Block and Aerial Plans
study of: see Assessing Department, aerial and Holland block plans
Home Owners Loan Corporation
mortgage payments: see City Council, resolves, mortgage payments,
or page 401
HOSPITAL
(20)
INFORMATION
l lospital Council
co-operation: ■■ Hospital Department, boepital council
Hospital Department
Huston City Hospital:
AIM CONDITIONING:
order to consider in u .section of new Union," , |. . .1, Z.'i'.l
ULOOD TKANHFUBION KKEM:
order for information regarding procedure when |>:i i i.i , i i unable
to pav 825 fee, passed, 374, 376 message with communication
filed, 395
CLERKS1 halaiiieb:
order to increase maximum, $1,500 to $1,000, punned, 302
CONVALESCENT HOSPITAL!
order for sale of property, passed, 157-message with communication,
filed, 228-latcr in session read again, 228
order to reopen, passed, 159-mcssage with communication filed,
228-later in session message re-read, 228
order in re Churchill bequest passed, 408-message with com-
munication filed, 409-message withdrawing rental oiler, filed,
413-report from law department in re Churchill bequest filed,
427
motion and order for lease to National Civic Federation, Massa-
chusetts Women's Division, to indefinitely postpone matter of
lease to National Civic Federation, order indefinitely postponed,
428, 429
CREDIT TO CITY EMPLOYEES:
order to extend reasonable credit to city employee patients, passed,
20
E. R. A. PROJECTS, CONTINUATION:
order to continue projects now in operation, passed, 223-message
with communication filed, 265
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT:
report received, filed, 193 to 197
hospitax, council:
order to consider forming with private hospitals giving free service,
passed, 289
internes' pay:
order to consider paying a dollar a day to cover necessary expenses,
passed, 231-message with communication filed, 247
"KOSHER" FOOD FOR JEWISH PATIENTS:
order for service, passed, 231-message with communication filed,
265
MATERNITY CASES:
order to consider admitting all cases regardless of payment if
resident of city, passed, 204
NECESSITY FOR SERVICES OF DISCHARGED:
order for information in re, passed, 150, 151-message with com-
munication from president, board of trustees, city hospital, filed,
190
NONRESIDENT PATIENTS:
order for information in re, passed, 157-message with report, filed,
208
relief recipients night calls: order to assign sufficient number on
staff to respond at all times, passed, 373
RESTRICTION OF PATIENTS:
order to accept no patients able to pay except emergency cases,
referred to rules committee, 52
surgical building:
order for trustees to furnish information under ten heads, passed,
49, 50
message in reply to executive committee letter, filed, 56
see Hospital (Surgical) Building, loans under F. E. A. of P. W.
program
survey of faciliites:
order for under seven heads by Dr. Frederick H. Washburn, referred
to hospitals committee, 49-report sent Council, filed, 57
order for report and information in re progress of various orders
relative, passed, 178
UNITED STATES VETERANS' HOSPITAL NO. 44:
order to consider utilizing building as convalescent hospital, passed,
53-message with communication, filed, 95
veterans' hospital:
order to consider use for overflow of main hospital or shelter for
destitute during winter, the cost of preparation to be under
P. W. A., passed, 373
departmental transfers:
FROM VARIOUS DIVISIONS TO KITCHEN EQUIPMENT:
message with order for $45,000 referred to executive committee,
246, 247-report accepted, order passed, 300-message withdrawing
order, 303
message with order for S35.000 referred to executive committee,
350, 351-report accepted, read once and passed, 372-second
reading, passed 382
from various divisions to laundry building furnishing and
equipment:
message with order for $8,000, referred to executive committee,
246, 247-report accepted, order passed, 300-read again, passed,
305
Hospital Department, Continued
reinstatement, diet cook, South department: ><•« KeiiiHtatementx,
hospital department, Pettee, Annie
retirement, Mary .1. Define:
order referred to executive committee, 'JS8 report accepted, order
pitted, 388
Hospital (Surgical) Building (No. 4207)
loans under P, E. A. of P. W. program:
mi-age with order by authority of chap. 366, Acts of 1933, to appro-
priate by loan $1,500,000, referred to executive committee, 34
report accepted, order passed, referred to finance committee, 39
-loan and grant agreements for above loan received, referred tc
finance committee, 42—48; message with approval from Washington
and order approving grants and execution by the Mayor, referred'
to executive committee, 56-report accepted, 63-final reading,
passed, 68— communication from Washington, 69— second, final
reading, passed, 74; message with order to rescind above loan
and grant agreements and substitute order approving new grant
agreement, referred to executive committee, 118-rcport accepted,)
order passed, 122; approval of State Emergency Finance Board
received, filed, 168
recibsion, 1933 loan order: message with order for (loan, $2,000,000
outside debt limit, under chap. 366, Act« of 1933 in Proceedings,!
1933, pp. 357, 361, 365, 375) referred to executive committee,
170, 171-report accepted, order read once, passed, 181
comparison, loan interest: message with report on cost under
original loan and grant and amount of grant under new grant agree-
ments, filed, 205, 206
Hospitals Committee
members appointed: Councilors Doherty, Murray, Fish, Kerrigan,
Finley, 15
House Bills
40 of 1934, additional revenue: see City Council, resolves
950, reorganization welfare department, Boston: see City Council
orders
1046 and 1047, New England Telephone and Telegraph Company:
see City Council, resolves
Housing Division
appointment of committee: see Slum Clearance, committee appoint-
ment
East Boston: see East Boston Housing Development
Federal aid: see Legislation, slum clearance
Charlestown : see Charlestown Improvements, housing project or I
page 385
housing, widening Rutherford ave., removal of Elevated struc-
ture: see Charlestown Improvements, housing project or page 335
resolution: see City Council, resolves, slum clearance under National
Housing Division
unemployed women: see Unemployment, housing for women or
pages 369, 388, 389
Ice
for drinking fountains: see Drinking Fountains, ice; Public Works
Department, ice for drinking fountains
Improvements
including acceptance, laying out, extension and widening of
streets; automatic traffic signals; lighting, paving and resur-
facing of streets; sidewalk assessments and construction: see "
Councilors' orders, resolves, also, Streets and Squares, improvement
orders passed
Information Requested
authority for transfer of control, smallpox hospital: see Law
Department, smallpox hospital, opinion in re or pages 158, 159
blood transfusion fees: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital,
blood transfusion fees or pages 374, 375
in re Boston's population : see City Planning Board
in re comparative budgets: see Budget Department, comparison, 1924
and 1934
from comptroller in re circulation costs: see Library Department,
attendance of former comptroller before the Council or page 224
INFORMATION
(27)
JITNEYS
Information Requested, Continued
continuance of employment: see Civil Works Administration
delinquent tax collection progress: see Taxes, committee on delin-
quent tax collections
discharge, Mr. Balfe: see Statistics Department, information in re
documental records: see Public Welfare Department, documental
records requested
Elizabeth Peabody school: see School Committee Department, infor-
mation in re
in re E. R. A. workers: see E. R. A., workers, information in re
facilities for handling smallpox and leprosy cases: see Health
Department
financial condition statistics: see Boston Elevated Railway Com-
pany
financial statement under six heads: see Auditing Department
under four heads: see Municipal Employment Bureau, information
requested
free passes, East Boston ferries: order for number given and used
during 1933, passed, 20
fuel companies, names, deliveries: see Public Welfare Department,
fuel company names and deliveries or page 398
general management under ten heads: see Public Welfare Depart-
ment
land, buildings, North Qrove St.: see Auditing and Treasury Depart-
ments
monthly report to council: see Public Welfare Department
necessity for separation for leprosy and smallpox cases: see
Health Department
necessity for services of discharged: see Hospital Department,
Boston city hospital
Neptune Gardens housing project: see Neptune Gardens, East
Boston
nonresident patients: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital
nonresident recipients: see Public Welfare Department
number Boston workers: see Civil Works Administration
publicity, real estate abatement records: see Real Estate Abate-
ments, publicity, information from law department
snow removal expenditure: see Finance Commission
stamps used: see Public Welfare Department, stamps used officially
by department
statement by the Mayor: see Boston Herald Statement
surgical building: see Hospital Building, Boston city hospital
tax assessment statement under eight heads: see Assessing Depart-
ment
taxes, Boston Port Development Company: see Collecting Depart-
ment
taxes. Symphony Hall and Repertory Theatre: see Taxes
total abatements, real estate, 193J and 1934 to April 15: see Real
Estate Abatements
unused funds: see Emergency Relief Administration, information in re
unused funds or pages 400, 401
Ward 1, types of cases, visitors, signatures, recent checking of
cases: see Public Welfare Department, Ward 1, information
welfare department: see Public Welfare department, information,
1928 to 1933 and Ward 1 information
welfare recipients assigned to city departments: see Workers from
Public Welfare Department
Inspectors, Building Department
reinstatement: see Building Department, reinstatement of employees
or page 374
Institutions Department
commissioner appointed: Colonel Frederic A. Washburn, M. D.,
placed on file, 15
deputy commissioner appointed: Walter V. McCarthy vice Mary A.
Cotter, resigned, filed, 220
leave of absence, Dr. Frederic A. Washburn: from June 18 to
August 16 during leave Dr. Francis X. Mahoney appointed acting
commissioner, 229
Long Island hospital:
order to continue pay of employees when absent on account of death
in family, passed, 245
care of discharged inmate: order to consider making provision
for, passed, 41
nurses, training school: order not to discharge until they receive
diplomas, referred to executive committee, 180, 181-report recom-
mending new draft accepted, new draft amended, passed as amended,
182
radio for patients: order to allow use, passed, 204
Institutions Department, Continued
resignation:
Maguire, James E., commissioner, 24
transfer of funds: order for $30,023.25 from various divisions to Long
Island hospital kitchen and laundry improvements referred to execu-
tive committee, 361, 362-report accepted, order passed, 388-final
reading, passed, 428
Investigations
automobile oil contract: see Finance Commission, contract,
E. F. Loonie, Jr., or pages 221, 256
county printing and binding: order for investigation by county
accounts committee, passed, 245
finance commission: see Real Estate, investigation by finance com-
mission or pages 137 to 142, 233, 234
Metropolitan Transit Commission: see Boston Elevated Railway
Company, financial condition statistics
remortgaging foreclosed property: see Investigation of Foreclosing
of Property, 300
school committee department: see Communism, among school*
children
telephone, gas, electric rates: see E. R. A., telephone, gas, electric
rates investigation or page 299
Ward 15 reduction in valuations: see Assessing Department or
page 357
J. P. McCabe Company
see McCabe (J. P.) Company
Jewish Holidays
without loss of pay: see Emergency Relief Administration and City
Employees
Jitney License Committee
members appointed: Councilors Roberts, Selvitella, Murray, Fish,
Kerrigan, 15
petitions: (13) 29, (3) 38, 39, 85, 135, 193, 256, 280, 312, 381
reports: (2) 68, 113, 220
Jitneys
bus stop restorations:
Boston Elevated Railway Company: order for between Fields,
Corner and Savin Hill ave., passed, 216
discontinuance of service orders passed:
Boston Elevated Railway Company: Brent st., Ward 17, 300
discontinuance, operation of busses:
Boston Elevated Railway Company: Milton st. and Lenoxdale
ave., passed, 206
free transportation: see School Committee Department, free bus
transportation to Woodrow Wilson school, or page 375
liability policy, James J. Davis: for transportation of school children,
approved, 351
operation license petitions:
Boston Elevated Railway Company:
Brookline-Boston line, Brooline ave. to Kenmore sq., 85
Brookline-Boston line on Brookline ave. to Kenmore sq., 193
Brookline-Boston line at Huntington ave. to Kenmore sq., 280
Brookline-Boston line at Huntington ave. and Kenmore station, 312
Causeway and Portland sts. to Charles and Cambridge sts., 381
Central sq., East Boston to Boston Airport, 135
Centre and La Grange sts. to Centre and Mt. Vernon sts. junction
372
Centre and South sts. junction and Green and Washington sts.
Jamaica Plain, 29
Cleveland circle to Boston-Newton line on Beacon St., 341
Dudley st. terminal, Roxbury and Codman sq., Dorchester, 29
Everett and Mills st. junction to Freeport St., 29-granted, 68
Fields Corner station to junction, Blue Hill and Geneva aves. over
Columbia rd. and return over private way, Park st. and Dor-
chester ave., 256-report accepted, order passed, 264
Kenmore sq. and junction, Brookline ave. and Boylston st., 29-
granted, 68
Massachusetts ave. and Boylston st. junction and Dudley st. ter-
minal, 29-report accepted, license granted, 113
Massachusetts ave. and Boylston st. junction to junction of Queens-
bury and Jersey sts., 193-granted, 220
Neponset station and Dudley st. terminal, 29
Pierce sq., Dorchester and Dudley st. terminal, 29
Rowes Wharf and junction. Summer st. and Viaduct leading to
Commonwealth pier, 29
JITNEYS
(28)
LAW
(132) 26; (133) 75;
(95) 291; (84) 309;
Jitneys, ( 'ontinued
operation license petitions:
IIumtiin El.EVVl'EO RAILWAY COMPANY:
Somerville-Boston line at Cambridge at. and Seollay aq., 29
BomerviUe-Boston Line at Main st. unci Sullivan ><|. terminal, 29
Spring hi. mid Caledonian ave. junclioii mid junction Hyde Park
hvc. und Cummina highway , weat Roxbury, 29
Sullivan aq. terminal ana Boston-Everett lino at Alford hi ., 29
Webster mid Summer Bts. junction und Boston Airport, Bast Bo ton,
29
Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Company:
Boston-Revere line und Bourdinun hi. (3), 38, 39-report accepted,
granted, 113; order revoking license, referred to jitney license
eommittee, 289, 290
rcioc.ii ion of license:
Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Company:
order revoking referred to jitney license committee, 289, 290
survey of service: order for, of lines from Andrew sq. to East Cottage
st. und Buy View line, passed, 373
"John H. Sullivan"
sale of ferryboat: see Public Works Department
June 17 Legal Holiday
vote results: copy of referenda affirmative votes compared with Chelsea,
Revere, Winthrop, filed, 388
Junior College Courses
establishment: 223, 269
use of high schools for teaching college subjects: see School Com-
mittee Department, high schools as junior colleges
Jurors
drawn for Superior Civil Court: (138) 5, 6; (136) 26; (135) 75, 76;
(136) 103; (135) 166, 167; (94) 217, 218; (94) 291; (125) 309, 310;
(108) 325; (127) 359, 360; (112) 377, 378
drawn for Superior Criminal Court: (104) 6;
(135) 103; (134) 166; (160) 217; (63) 263, 264
(70) 325; (104) 359; (153) 377
list submitted by city clerk:
list of persons qualified received and filed, 255
order for city clerk to prepare list for ballot box, passed, 255
Keeper of Lock-Up
appointment of Lieut. Thomas W. O'Donnell filed, 381
Kelly's All Stars Baseball Team
use, Christopher J. Lee playground: see Park Department, Chris-
topher J. Lee playground, or pages 164, 191
Kerrigan, John E., Councilor, Ward 7
committee appointments: Hospitals, Jitney Licenses, Playgrounds
and Parks, Printing, Soldiers' Relief, 15-Lincoln Memorial Wreath,
41
improvement orders, Ward 7:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Andrew sq., 69, 70, 81
Bateman pi. and N st., 231
Belden St., 114, 124, 145
Boston pi., 215
Boston St., 324, 347
East Eighth st., 69, 70, 81
East Ninth st., 224
East Sixth st., 268, 302, 310, 311
Edison green, 98
EUery st. (3) 358, 361, 362
Frederick st., 182, 186, 187
G St., 199
Hardy St., 30
Humphreys pi., 102, 120
Kemp St., 315, 316
Mercer St., 356, 362, 385
Mt. Vernon St., 391
Newman st., 308
Old Colony ave., 323, 373, 378, 379
Phillips pi., 164, 292, 385
Power St., 315, 316
Preble st., 373, 378
repairing ward sidewalks under E. R. A., 408
Southampton St., 324, 331, 340
Story and Fifth sts., 391
Wendover St., 50
West Ninth st., 290
Kerrigan, John E., Councilor, Ward 7, Continued
motions:
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), to pass budget as is
243
orders, resolves:
ussesHinents, Ward 7, 373
better protection of bathers, 308
branch welfare office, Ward 7, 231
bus service, Bay View line, 373
cleaning beaches, 215, 262
( lolumbue pk., 335
eligibility of single men and women, 386
first-aid kits, L st. baths, 182
flooding Columbus pk. for skating, 408
furnishing safe water, Bay View section, South Boston, 284
"Look Out for Children" signs in front of all schools, 331
national anthem on radio, 324
night calls for medical aid, 373
payments, James Fennessey and Michael O'Brien, 385
permit, Coleman Disposal Company, 136
playground, Ward 7, 391
redivision of wards (with Councilors Gleason, Finley, Goldman ,
Doherty), 301
remarks of Joseph Lee, Jr. (with Councilor Donovan), 107
revocation, license to Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Com-
pany (with Councilors Selvitella, Goldman), 289, 290
sewer Phillips pi., 164
signs, cages at Franklin pk. zoo, 262
snow work, 69
traffic conditions, Columbia rd., 231
remarks:
committee reports finance (six loan orders) , 66
permit, Coleman Disposal Company, 136
remarks, Joseph Lee, Jr., 107
Kneeland Street Improvement
unexpended balance, $8,852.45: see Sinking Funds Department,
transfer of unexpended balances on seven projects or pages 380, 388,
428
Kosciuszko (Thaddeus) Circle
South Boston: order for at intersection, Columbia rd. , Old Colony ave.
and Strandway passed, 284-letter from president of United Polish
Societies of South Boston thanking Council for naming, filed, 312
'Kosher" Food
service in hospital: order to make adequate provision for, passed, 231-
message with communication from trustees of hospital filed, 265
L Street Baths
see Park Department
Laborers
restoration of pay: see Public Works Department, restoration, laborers'
pay
work schedule: order to consider restoring six-day basis and taking
men off furlough list, passed, 280, 281
Land
purchases, parks, playground: see Park Department, land pur-
chases
takings: see General Sumner Tunnel, land takings
Law Department
corporation counsel: notice of appointment by the Mayor of Henry
E. Foley, placed on file, 6
correctness, police commissioner's statement in re automobile
theft arrests: order for corporation counsel to confirm or correct,
passed, 257
gas service, Hyde Park: order to consider having corporation counse,
take charge of hearing before Massachusetts Public Utilities Depart-
ment in re reduction of rates, Ward 18, also to recommend having
Boston Consolidated Gas Company render service in that ward,
passed, 357-message with contract copies referred to municipal
lighting committee, 387
institution and prosecution for tax arrears: see Taxes, titles on
property in tax arrears, or pages 164-165, 192
LAW
(29)
LICENSES
Law Department, Continued
opinion in re Churchill bequest: see Hospital Department, Boston
city hospital, convalescent hospital, or pages 408, 427
petition and bill for transfer of land, Fallon field: see Departmental
Transfers, park to school committee department, Fallon field
police department expenditures, opinion in re: see Police Depart-
ment, legal opinion in re expenditures, or pages 128 to 132
police listing date: see Election Department, registration, listing
voters
publicity, real estate abatement records: see Real Estate publicity,
information from law department, or pages 137-142, 218-219
settlement, small claims: order for assistants and investigators to
settle up to $50 subject to approval of corporation counsel, referred
to ordinance committee, 332
slum clearance by Federal aid: see Legislation or page 20
smallpox hospital, opinion in re: order in re authority of the Mayor
to transfer care from health to hospital department, passed, 158, 159
validity, revocation of licenses: order for opinion in re during absence
of one of three members, passed, 333-message with opinion, filed, 345
Legislation, Continued
telephone meters: order authorizing legislative committee to petition
for compulsory, free meter for registering number of calls made,
passed, 149, 150
time limit extension, chap. 347, Acts of 1931: see City Council,
resolves
Tydings resolution, Senate Resolution 154: see City Council,
resolves
Legislative Matters Committee
members appointed: Councilors Shattuck, Fitzgerald, Green, Gleason,
Tobin, 15
appearances before State legislature:
INDORSEMENT, HOUSE BlLL 950:
order for, in re reorganization, Boston welfare department, passed, 94
OPPOSITION TO UNAPPROVED DEPARTMENT CONSOLIDATION: Order for,
passed, 14
petitions: 149
Leases
army base, South Boston: order to confer with Boston Port Authority
in re for development, passed, 53-message with communication,
filed, 80, 81
Dorchester convalescent hospital to National Civic Federation, Women's
Division, for use of unemployed women, 400-opinion of law department
in re conditions of Churchill bequest, passed, 408-message with
communication filed, 409— message withdrawing rental offer, filed,
413-report from law department in re Churchill bequest , filed, 427-
motion to indefinitely postpone lease order carried, 428, 429
engine 6 fire station: order for, to Post Headquarters, Casimir Pulaski
Post 269, American Legion, for five years at one dollar a year, referred
to public lands committee, 385
Washington st. school, Jamaica Plain: communication received
from school committee rescinding lease (Proceedings, 1933, page 374)
and requesting authorization for lease to West Roxbury District
Veterans' Association and 55th Artillery, A. E. F., Jamaica Plain,
filed, 62-order to authorize, passed, 68
Lee, Joseph, Jr.
disparaging remarks in re condition of certain sections of Boston:
see City Council, resolves, Joseph Lee, Jr., disparaging remarks
Legislation
additional revenue: see City Council, resolves, House Bill 40
attendance of school children at movies: order for legislative
matters committee to draft bill for presentation to state legislature
regulating hours, referred to executive committee, 70
Boylston St. subway car stop: see Boston Elevated Railway Com-
pany, chap. 268, Acts of 1934
coordination, police forces: see City Council, resolves, Senate Bill 260
municipal building: resolution favoring authorization of erection,
passed, 13-message with communications, filed, 23, 24
New England Telephone and Telegraph Company charges:.
see City Council, resolves, House Bills 1046, 1047
1933, chap. 320, in re reinstatement procedure: see Proceedings,
1934, under Veto of Resolutions for Reinstatement, page 145
in re number of councilors: see City Council, orders, number of
councilors
part payment, back taxes: see City Council, resolves
payments, legislative enactment approved, passed: see Payments,
names
pensions, annuities, legislative enactment approved, passed:
see Payments, names
petition in re interest on delinquent taxes: order for legislation for
reduction from eight per cent to five per cent, passed, 136, 137
racing bill amendment: order to petition for anactment of amendment
to provide for approval of Selectmen in towns and Councilors in
cities and in Boston all profits over expenses be turned over to city
welfare department for expenses, passed, 372
reinstatements, legislation authorizing, approved and passed:
see Reinstatements, names
reorganization, Boston welfare department: see City Council,
House Bill 950
repeal, parking law: order for legislative committee to file hill to
incoming Legislature for, rule suspended for passing, doubt of vote,
order referred to executive committee, 331
"right of way" summonses: see Fire Department
slum clearance by Federal aid: order that corporation counsel make
study of Federal law in re, toward state legislation for Federal grants,
passed, 20
Leprosy and Smallpox Buildings
see Health Department
Library Department
trustee appointed: Louis E. Kirstein, for five years, filed, 172
attendance, former comptroller before Council: order to request
for information in re reduction of circulation costs against increase of
current appropriation, passed, 224
branch, Ward IS:
order for establishment on Bowdoin St., passed, 342-message with
communications "no funds" filed, 379, 380; order for, under P. W. A.,
passed, 388
Licenses
bootblacks: (4) 15; (3) 62, 98; (9) 198; (4) 257; (6) 305; (6) 352;
372; 428
child performer petitions:
Laughran, Ursula M., 245
Roxbury Post 44, A. L. Auxiliary, 12
child performer petitions granted:
Breiding, Viola K., 219-225
Brymer, Katherine I., 213-214
Burke, Alice, 171-182
Carney, Ellen F., 228-232
Carroll, Elizabeth G., 85-93
Casey, Anne Marie, 12, 193-204
Children's Welfare Association of East Boston, 193-204
Colonial Operating Company, 219-225
Connell, M. Theresa, 193-204
CUHRAN, JOSETTE P., 213-214
Dadmun, Ida H., 62-62
Dolan, Gertrude, 171-182
Donovan, Rev. Father William, 193-204
Earle, William, 396-402
Edna Stertz-Shirley Ruby School, 171-182
Geary, Mary A., 256, 264
Goodman, Gertrude, 156, 161
Govone, A. Marie, 135, 143
Greene, Anna M., 193, 204
Hall, Lucille Perry, 171, 182
Hamilton, Florence I., 256, 264
Hawes, Ruth, 193, 204
Hayes, Mary V., 171, 182
Healey, Mary A., 219, 225
Hogan, Lavinia, 193, 204
Horlich, Sarah, 121, 122
Karabelnick, Ella, 193, 204
Kehoe, Marie, 219, 225
Kennedy, Marion H., 97, 99
Leeman, Adrienne K., 219, 225
Leonard, Josephine, 193, 204
Leonard, Josephine J., 387, 388
Lord, Anne M., 228, 232
The Lyllion F. Rose School of Dancing, 147, 151
Lyons, Esther, 219, 225
LICENSES
(30)
LONG
Licenses, Continued
child performer petitions granted:
Mahtehhon, Bichnadette, 211), 225
McDehmott, Kay A., 210, 225
McNamee, Elizabeth G., 220, 225
McShane, Ruth M., 15, 171, 182
O'Gorman, Kathkmne C, 193, 204
Oliver, Dorothy M., 156, 101
Potts, Michael J., 38, 39
1'noNSKY, Freyda, 171, 182
Ring, Mary E., 193, 204
Russell, Benjamin H., 156, 161
Ryan, Marie, 121, 122
Sacco, Mildred C„ 121, 122
Sheridan, Veronica R., 135, 143
Sidman, Rose E., 121, 121
Simpson, Harold B., 220, 225
Staley, Delbert M., 171, 182
Taylor, Ruth M., 147, 151
Thayer, Edwin T., 97, 99
VlLES, LlLLAFRANCES, 97, 99
Warden, Phyllis G., 213, 214
Westling, Gertrude, 156, 161
R. H. White Company-, 341, 342, 427
Winslow, Miriam, 121, 122
Wyman, Lilla Viles, 147, 151
newsboys: (84) 15; (57) 62; (74) 98; (87) 198; (47) 257; (100) 305;
(130) 352; (49) 372; (36) 428
parking spaces: order to license only to people responsible for care
of cars during storage or parking, passed, 376
revocation validity: order for corporation counsel opinion in re
during absence of one of the three members, passed, 333-message
with opinion filed, 345
Sunday sports petitions:
Boston American League Baseball Company, 38-granted, 52— bond
approved, 52
Boston National League Baseball Company, 49-bond approved,
license granted, 62
Gaels of Boston, Inc., 171-granted, 182
Welch, William R., 171-granted, 204
transient vendor:
Shaw, Eleanor K. (under name F. A. O. Schwarz), approved, issued,
381
Licenses and Permits, Special Committee
appointment of committee and survey under seven heads:
order to obtain and send to city council information from all city
departments under seven heads, referred to executive committee,
259-report accepted, order passed, 264-message and report, report
ordered printed as city document, filed, 292
order for appointment, to investigate and fix proper charges, referred
to executive committee, 259-report accepted, order passed, 264
Lighting Streets
automatic traffic lights: see Traffic Commission
orders passed: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
Lincoln Memorial
wreath: see City Council, orders, or page 41
Liquor
sale in Hyde Park: sec Boston Licensing Board
special election vote results received, filed, 24
vote from election department: sec Election Department, vote,
liquor license, or page 381
Loan and Grant Agreements
Federal: see Federal Loan and Grant Agreements, under chap. 366,
Acts of 1933
Loans
appropriation, playground: see Appropriations, playground, East
Boston
county appropriations: see Suffolk County, appropriation, current
expenses
Loans, Continued
Chelsea North bridge repair:
message wilh order under provisions, chap. 342, Acts of 1934, for loan
$84,000 for repairs, referred to executive committee, 274, 275-rcport
accepted, read once and passed, 282-read and passed, 300
message with order for loan outside debt limit 884,000 under chap.
342, Acts of 1934, referred to executive committee, 287-rcport
accepted, order passed, 288-read and passed, 300
city hall (new): see New City Hall, loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933,
and New City Hall, loan
hospital (surgical) building; Northern Avenue bridge; schools,
high and intermediate; sewer construction; street reconstruc-
tion; watermain, Brookline Avenue; watermain construction :
sec under name of project, loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program
locker building, Chestnut Hill playground: «e<: Park Department,
Chestnut Hill playground
rescissions:
under F. E. A. of P. W. program: see Brookline Avenue Bridge;
Hospital (Surgical) Building; Northern Avenue Bridge; Schools,
High and Intermediate; Sewer Construction; Sewer Reconstruction;
Street Reconstruction; Watermain Construction
i'irehouse construction; pribon buildings; wayfarers' lodge:
see projects named, loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program or chap.
366, Acts of 1933
order to limit following loans to amounts borrowed — Brighton fire
station, 366,000, 1928; Commonwealth ave., traffic signals, 840,000,
1929; Brighton courthouse, $120,000, 1930; Charities Administra-
tion building, 8275,000, referred to executive committee, 294— report
accepted, order passed, 300-order, 300-second reading, passed, 305
tax anticipation, current expenses in excess of 82,000,000: see
Loans, tax anticipation, current expenses
sewerage works: message with communications and order for 81,000.000
to meet appropriation for, referred to finance committee, 23-message
with request that amount be reduced to 8250,000, referred to finance
committee, 28-report accepted, new draft for $2.50,000 read once and
passed, 40-second, final reading, passed, 63
snow removal equipment: order for appropriation by loan, 8400,000,
referred to finance committee, 69
street reconstruction: message with communications and order for
81,000,000 to meet appropriation for, referred to finance committee,
23-message with request that amount be reduced to 8250,000, referred
to finance committee, 28-report accepted, new draft, 8250,000, read
once, passed, 40-second, final reading, passed, 63
tax anticipation, current expenses:
message with communication and order for $30,000,000, read once,
passed, 5-second, final reading, passed, 10
message with order to limit 830,000,000 loan order above to $2,000,000
and rescind order to authorize borrowing in excess of $2,000,000,
referred to executive committee, 42-report accepted, 52-(Councilor
McGrath) motion to lay on table passed, 53-message with commu-
nication from counsel relative to chap. 11, Acts of 1934, sect. 4 of
chap. 44, General Laws amendment, council voted to take orders
from table, 54-first reading, 54— passed, 55-second, final reading,
passed, 63
message with order for $28,000,000 appropriation by loan under
amendment chap. 11, Acts of 1934, to sect. 4 of chap. 44, General
Laws, referred to executive committee, 42-report accepted, 52—
(Councilor McGrath) motion to lay on table, passed, 53-message
with communication from counsel, council voted to take order from
table, 54-first reading, 54— passed, 55-second, final reading, passed,
63
message with order, 815,000,000, temporal loan, current expenses,
referred to executive committee, 247-report accepted, order passed,
264-second reading, passed, 266
order for $7,500,000, referred to executive committee, 361-report
accepted, passed on first reading, 372-second, final reading passed,
382
under chap. 366, Acts of 1933, program: see Firehouse Construction,
Northern Avenue Bridge, Communication System, Prison Buildings,
Wayfarers' Lodge
welfare expenditure: message with order under sect. 2, chap. 49,
Acts of 1933, $3,800,000, dependents, old age, and mothers' aid relief,
referred to executive committee, 294-report accepted, order read once,
passed, 300-read again, passed, 305
Lomasney, Martin
naming East Boston Tunnel for: sec East Boston Tunnel
London and Lancashire Indemnity Company of
America
bond for Celtic Association, 214
Long Island Hospital
inmate, care of discharged: order to consider making provision
until settlement has been established, passed, 41
see Institutions Department
.OONIE
(31)
MAYOR
_oonie, E. F., Jr.
: contracts: see Finance Commission, contract, E. F. Loonie, Jr.
^ow-Cost Public Streets
. programs: see Public Works Department, low-cost streets, or pages
391 and 399
^owell, Nashua and Causeway Streets
unexpended balance $125,374.73: see Sinking Funds Department,
transfer of unexpended balances on seven projects
Maranville Day
I celebration, Sunday, September 2: see City Council, resolves, Maran-
ville Day
Market Department
i superintendent appointed: Frank J. Kiernan vice Ambrose Woods,
filed, 35
Mary Durant, Mother of
1 payment: see City Council, resolves, lifes saving facilities and payment
for death of Mary Durant
Massachusetts, Commonwealth of
i notice of appointments and service of persons on licensing board, finance
commission, board of Boston port authority, police commissioner,
medical examiner, Suffolk County, trustees Boston metropolitan
district, filed, 213
public health commission:
Physician for City Employees: notice of appointment, Dr. John
A. Foley, under chap, 340, Acts of 1933, filed, 29
public utilities commission:
order for use of best legal talent in re rate cases, passed, 344
gas service, Hyde Park: see Law Department, or page 357
public works department:
Spuing St.-Dedham Line, State Highway: see City Council, orders,
or pages 346, 357, 427, 428
Submarine Cables: notice sent city council of hearing on petition
to lay, across Fort Point channel, by New England Telephone and
Telegraph Company, filed, 24
race tracks: see racing, track in Boston, or page 374
sale by city, $17,380.30: see Sales, land taken for parks, East Boston,
or pages 274, 323, 358
Massachusetts General Hospital
land, buildings, North Grove St.: see Auditing or Treasury Depart-
ments, North Grove st. land and buildings
Massachusetts Memorial Hospitals
land, buildings, North Qrove st.: see Auditing or Treasury Depart-
ments, North Grove st. land and buildings
release of restrictions, 748 Harrison ave.: message with communica-
tion, preambles and order for release satisfactory to law, park and
public works departments, referred to public lands committee, 104-
report accepted, order passed, 182-second, final reading, passed,
198, 199
Massachusetts Public Utilities Commission
(see Massachusetts, Commonwealth of, public utilities commission
Massachusetts Real Estate Owners' Association
use, Parkman bandstand: see Park Department, Boston Common,
or pages 313, 314
Maternity Cases
city hospital: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital, maternity
cases
Mayor, The Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield
appointments:
constables: 12; 80; (155) 134; 135; (64) 146; 147; 154; 218; (7) 269;
330; 341; 351
appointments, withdrawals:
constables: 154; (5)218; (4)269; (3)291; (2)304; (3) 330; 351; 394
departmental :
names and department: see Appointments, names
(1) 6; (3) 9; (1) 10; (5) 12; (5) 15; (2) 24; (5) 29, 30; (3) 35; 107;
156; (3) 172; (4) 197; (6)213; 220; 256; 257
minor: 9, 12, 15, 27, 56, 76, 80, 95, 116, 154, 167, 184, 207, 226, 246,
269,303,310,316,325,351,361,378,387,393,428
Boston Herald statement: see Information Requested
council meeting calls: 5, 309
inaugural address: 1, 2, 3, 4
information in re progress of special council committee on public welfare
requested of council, referred to public welfare committee, 146
jurors drawn: 5, 6, 26, 75, 76, 103, 166, 167, 217, 218, 263, 264, 291,
309, 310, 325, 359, 360, 377, 378
messages, communications:
action of land court on tax titles, 192
additional information concerning re-registration of public welfare
cases, 248, 250
additional land, John Marshall school, 270
additional police officers at election, 347
additional quarters, Lucy Stone school, 249
age limit, guards and gatemen, East Boston (General Sumner) Tunnel,
273
Andrew J. Gleason circle, 310
anonymous complaints against welfare recipients, 292
annual budget recommendations for city, 209 to 213
appropriations: city printing plant, 412; to cover interest, 286, 287 ;
municipal employment bureau, 9, 266, 316; from Parkman
Fund, 191; public welfare department, 168, 208, 209, 246; snow
removal, 95; West Roxbury schools, 265, 266; zoning board, 345
approval, new surgical building, 56
arc light, Ward 6, 350
assignment of graves, 409, 410; welfare stamps, 320 to 322
automobile registration by welfare recipients, 250
automatic traffic signals, 76
availability, public welfare records, 119, 120, 133, 134
Belden st., Ward 7, 191
bidding for street paving, 168
blood transfusions, 395
Blossom st., building, 120
Bogandale rd., Ward 20, 327
borrowing, anticipation of taxes, 42, 54
Boston Elevated Railway finances, 254
branch library, Bowdoin St., 379, 380
branch welfare office, Ward 7, 253
Brown ter., Ward 19, 132
burial, welfare recipients, 410
cancellation of parking tags, 349
catch-basin, Bay St., 295
census figures of Boston, 81
census of unemployed, 80
Charles st., traffic, 272
check-up, April 1, residents, 116; welfare cases, 227; active welfare
cases, 249
citizens, P. W. A. projects, 365, 366
city hospital employees, 190
cleaning catch-basins, 286, 339
cleaning South Boston bathing beaches, 270
complaints in re new parking law, 338
concerning bonds of city officers, 246
construction, Faneuil st., 379
construction, sewer, Phillips pi., 292
continuance: all E. R. A. projects, 272; E. R. A. projects, 252,265;
continuance of men at work under E. R. A., 249
contracts, Boston Consolidated Gas Company, 387
convalescent hospital property, 228
Corey st.. Ward 20
cost, indoor gymnasium, Columbus pk., 338
danger signals, Dorchester ave. bridge, 316
date, police listing, 369, 370, 371
decentralization, welfare department, 106, 116
delivery of coal to welfare recipients, 252, 253
Dillaway House, Roxbury, 27
disapproval, payment, John Ducey, 116; Louis Katz, 118
discrepancy, public welfare monthly reports, 120, 121
drinking fountain, Buckley playground, 292
dumping, Old Colony blvd., 295
dump permits, Ward 16, 190
Dunlap st., one-way street, 76
Dwinnell St., Ward 20, 327
East Boston street lighting system, 226
elimination of puttees, 191; stigmatizing designation, 410
estimates, Northern ave. bridge, 96
excluding trucks, West Canton St., 338
excursions, Randidge Fund, 226
expense, repairing Northern Avenue bridge, 287
extension, list of appointments, police department, 105
Fallon field lighting, 348
fence, Henry L. Pierce school, 193; Walworth St., 366
MAYOR (32)
MAYOR
Mayor, The, Continued
messages, communications:
final budget recommendations, 275 to 279
finance commission reports in re tunnel takings, 41.'!
financial condition, discharged employees, 106
first-aid kit, 192
flooding certain streets ^ r hot weather. 272; Columbus pk., 410
forestation, harbor islands, 84
form of grant agreement in re sewers, 133
40-hour week, ferry service, 110, 146
free rides, East Boston ferries, 116
free transportation, busses, 380
Furnival rd., Ward 1!), 379
granolithic sidewalks, Cumston st. and pi., 297; West. Third st., 297
grant for school buildings, 393
Grover st., Ward 19, 133
handball courts, Mt. Ida playground, 190, 191
Harmon st., Ward 18, 133, 339
Harvard rd., Ward 14, 187, 188
hearsay information in re welfare recipients, 270
hospital kitchen equipment, withdrawal of order, 303
housing, slum clearance, 304; project, 378; unemployed women, 369
Humphreys pi., Ward 7, 120
improving beach at L street, 251
improvements, Tenean beach, 154, 155
incorrect statement by welfare recipients, 251
indoor gymnasium, Columbus pk., 349
information: concerning active public welfare cases, 249; from
public welfare department, 348: in re city hospital, 57; on financial
matters, 33; concerning name, number of welfare visitors in Wards
9, 13, 250; from recipients of aid, 228; traffic commissioner, 34
installation, traffic signals, 81, 303, 412
Iola St., Ward 14, 188
Jefferson playground foundations, 368
John H. L. Noyes playground, 155
junior college courses in Boston high schools, 269
kitchen, laundry buildings, Long Island, 361, 362
"Kosher" food at city hospital, 265
land conveyed to Commonwealth by Boston, 274; Grotto Glen rd.,
106; Ward 7 playground, 412; for West Roxbury high school, 189
lease, army base, South Boston, 80
leave of absence, Jewish holidays, 311, 312
legal opinion in re licensing board acts, 345
letting paving and sidewalk contracts, 349, 350
loans: in anticipation of taxes, 5; Chelsea North bridge, 287; and
grant agreements, 42-48, 56; order, $375,000, Northern Avenue
bridge, 117; current city expenses, temporary, 247; sewerage
works and reconstruction of streets, 23, 28; welfare expenditures,
294
location, voting booths, 269
low-cost public streets, 411
men transferred to E. R. A., 409
milk for welfare recipients at lower than retail prices, 253, 345, 409
monthly report, public welfare, 62, 145, 146, 189, 317
new city hall, 33
new city hospital kitchen, 350, 351
nonresident patients, city hospital, 208
nonsettlement aid recipients, 227
North Mead st. steps, 207
Northern Avenue bridge and police communication system, 28
opinion, corporation counsel in re police department expenditures,
128-132; opinion, tax sales, 96
overtime work, collection of ashes, 394
paying internes, Boston city hospital, 247
payment, snow removal, 119
pedestrian lines, Commonwealth ave., 272
pedlers' licenses held by welfare recipients, 250, 251
period, meeting city councilors (welfare director), 58
personal receipt, welfare recipients, 251
personal service, health units, 106
personal signature and oath, registration, welfare cases, 250
playground, East Boston, 350
pledge of allegiance to American flag by school children and teachers.
249
police census, unemployed, 105
police communications system grant, 169
prescriptions, recipients of soldiers' relief, 76
progress, committee on public welfare department, 146
property at 178 Hillside St., 254, 255
proposed lease to Women's Civic Federation, 409
proposed name of Storrow Basin, 77
proposed purchase, land, Tenean beach, 81
proposed razing, Elizabeth Peabody school, 296
proposed reduction of assessed values, 58
protection of children, Arborwav 393, 394
public welfare, 269; expenditures, 1928-1933, 118
public works projects, 117
purchase, articles for welfare by supply department, 253
reconstruction, Wards 9, 12, 14 streets, 132
records, statistics department, 119
reconstruction, Hyde Park ave., 61
reconstruction, repair, Northern Avenue bridge, 310
records of tax abatements, 218, 219
recreation pier, East Boston, 155, 188, 189
reinstatement, Fulton P. Wesson, 105
removal from office, Louis C. Tigar, 330
removal of restrictions on land, 104
Mayor, The, Continued
messages, communications:
removal Elm St., structure, 380, 381
removal of tree, 190
removal of rock, Quincy st., 394
repairs, Chelsea North Avenue bridge. 274, 275; Joy st. building. 316;
Northern Avenue bridge, 273
hepavino: Bowen St., Ward 7, 251; Catherine st., 348; Cumston st.
and pi., 295; East Sixth st., 310, 311; North and Chardon sts.,
311; Pike's alley, 61; Southampton st., 340; Wards 7 (2), 10, 21
(3) 22 (4)
reports: dump permits, 167, 168; election commissioner, 366, 367,
368; finance commission on settlement for land-takings, 35; licenses
and permits, 292; municipal employment bureau, 192, 193; public
welfare department, 303; public welfare overseers, 337, 338;
smallpox hospital, 167; on various traffic signals, 378, 379
rescissions: balances of loans (4) 293, 294, 380; loans, 33; $1,000 00|
Northern Avenue bridge order, 117; public works projects orders
(8), 170
resident C. W. A. workers, 316
resurfacing streets, 387; Nixon st., 207
Richmond rd., Ward 18, 340
right of way, fire apparatus, 132
salary reductions for 1934, 5
sale, ferryboat "John H. Sullivan," 22; junk, 27; land, North
Grove st, 48; tubercular reacting cattle, 395
sand boxes, Jefferson school playground, 271
Savin Hill bath house, 105
shower baths, Charlestown playgrounds, 191
sidewalks, Ashmont st., 218
signs on cages, Franklin pk. zoo, 273
sixth grade, Charles Logue (Lowe, page 231), 271
state highway, Spring st. to Dedham line, 346
statistical information, overseers of public welfare, 58-61
street construction, Wards 3, 6, 7, 10, 21, 145
structural shop, navy yard, 361
submission, 1934 budget, 21
Suffolk County budget, 184, 185, 186
supplying milk to welfare recipients, 252
swimming pool, Franklin pk. , 348, 349
synchronizing certain accounts, 95
temporary loan, 87,500,000, 361
tennis courts, Mt. Ida playground, 251, 252
tiling work, East Boston tunnel, 61
traffic conditions, Columbia rd., 270
traffic officer, Allen and Charles sts., 296, 297
traffic signals: Blue Hill ave., 252; Charles and Chestnut sts., 339;
Columbia rd. and Quincy St., 303; Columbus ave. and Dartmouth
st., 295; Commonwealth ave., 247; Day and Heath sts., 294, 295;
near Emily Fifield school, 207; Homestead and Harold sts., 340;
Jamaicaway, Riverway and Huntington ave., 338; Pierce sq., 364;
Quincv st. and Columbia rd.. 27; South st., 322; stop signs, Amory
and Bovlston sts., also Ward 21, 347, 348; Ward 19, 349; survey,
Tremont and Washington sts., 325, 326, 327; Ward 3, 104; Wards
6, 12, 22, (5) 368, 369; Ward 7, 347; Ward 11, 248; Ward 14, 248;
Ward 16, 248
transfers within departmental appropriations:
aquarium, 226; hospital buildings. 246; Parkman Fund, 317; audit-
ing, public works, Soldiers' relief and Suffolk County, 340; ceme-
tery division, park department. 330; part of Fallon field, 208;
funds, 286; (2) 311; 330; 346, 347, 380, 394, 413; officers, 120;
sinking fund, 380
use, baseball diamond, Boston Common, 297; Christopher J. Lee
playground, 191; U. S. Veterans' hospital, 44, 95; welfare stamps
and cards, 317 to 320
vacancies, police department, 56
vacant land for mothers' rests, 219
veterans' hospital, West Roxbury, 395
wage scale paid by McCabe, 271
warning (Look Out for Children) signals, 362
water supply, Bay View section, 293
watermain construction grant, 169
Weld st.. Ward 20, 188
welfare department: expenditures. 106: information in re Ward 1,
322; visitors, Ward 1, 227
withdrawal, new city hall order, 57; of offer in re convalescent home,
413
women employed, Federal projects, 327
Woodrow ave., Ward 14, 104
notice of absence from city:
May 30 to June 3, filed, 220; June 22 to 25, 256; July 5 to July 9, 266
removal from office:
Hirshberg, Harris, constable, 12; Napolitano, Fred R., 394
resignations:
names and details: see Resignations, names: pages (3) 9, 10; (4) 15;
24; (2) 29, 107; 327
retirements:
names and details: see Retirements, names: (2) 29-30
vetoes:
annuity to widow of Sergeant Clark, 253, 254
car stop, Boylston st. subway, 293
East Boston playground, 411
granolithic sidewalks, Ward 7, 361
municipal building, East Boston, 411
4AY0R
(33)
MINOT
Mayor, The, Continued
vetoes:
payment to John Doocey, 253
probation officer's salary, 361
reinstatements: Peter Cloughertv, William Foster, Michael McCor-
mack, 23; John T. Flatley, Roland P. Green, Fulton P. Wesson, 145
resolve, chap. 347, 105
sidewalk. Gay Head st., 145
sidewalk, Nonantum st., 411
sidewalk, Old Morton st., 105
sidewalk orders, 80
sidewalk orders (7) 186
Weld st., Ward 20, 186, 187
McCabe (J. P.) Company
I dumping of refuse: see Health Department, South Boston waterfront
refuse dumping and Tenean beach and Hallet St., Dorchester
employees on garbage collection, Dorchester district: see Public
Works Department, Joseph P. McCabe Company employees or
page 373
snow removal payments withheld: see Public Works Department,
snow removal orders passed or page 102
wages paid under contract for removal of ashes and garbage:
see Public Works Department, wages paid under contract or pages
267, 271
visit of greeting to city council, 11
McGrath, Joseph, Councilor, Ward 13
chairman pro tern.: 112, 144, 260
committee appointments:
Finance, Municipal Lighting, Public Lands, Rules (page 5), Unclaimed
Baggage, 15
Ward Redivision, 285
Welfare Department Investigation, 87 to 91
amendments:
committee reports; constables (to include 22 more names), 161: con-
stables (lay 15 names on table), 164
improvement orders, Ward 13:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Auckland st., 30, 98
Blue Hill ave., 30, 35
Dewey st., 257
Glen way St., 383
Monadnock st., 373, 387
Saxton st., 25
South Sydney St., 373
Virginia st., 373, 387
motions:
appropriation, municipal employment bureau, 9
committee reports, executive (tax anticipation loan,) 53
next meeting, 183
orders, resolves:
additional room for election department, 266, 267
amendment, racing bill, 372 (with Councilor Roberts)
authority, closing smallpox hospital, 148
automobile arrests, 257
check-up, Elevated finances, 159
cleaning up Columbia sta. and Old Colony blvd., 280
electrification of railroads, 383
elimination, Bird st. crossing, 383 (with Councilor Goldman)
financial condition, Boston Elevated Railway Company, 135
fire station. Ward 13, 220
flag day, 68
Fourth of July celebration, 258
information, health department in re smallpox, 159; asked of the
Mayor, 122; public welfare department, 108
laborers' pay, 257
message to President Roosevelt, 91
new division of wards, 285
observance, Dorchester Day (with Councilor Tobin, Fish, Wilson,
Goldman), 182
opinion, corporation counsel in re smallpox hospital, 158, 159
police listing, residents, 99
purchases, public welfare department (2 orders), 229, 230
re-censorship, motion pictures, 280
reinstatement; John T. Flatley, 121; Roland P. Green, 121
restoration day laborer's pay, 280; Savin Hill bath house, 91
shower baths, 257
taxes, Symphony Hall, Repertory Theatre, 174, 280
point, information:
committee report, executive (tax anticipation loan), 52
loans and rescissions, 63
remarks:
abatements on real estate, 138, 139, 140, 142
additional amount, municipal employment bureau, 245
additional room for election department, 266, 267
authority, closing smallpox hospital, 148, 149
check-up, Elevated finances, 159
McGrath, Joseph, Councilor, Ward 13, Continued
remarks:
committee reports; appropriations (1934 budget), 241, 243, 244;
finance (police communication loan order), 72, 73; finance (six loan
orders), 66; investigate welfare department, 89, 90; public lands,
388, 389
decentralization, welfare department, 92
East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel, land-takings, 354
electrification of railroads, 383
fire station, Ward 13, 220, 221
flag day, 69
Fourth of July celebration, 258
hospital conditions, 150
information requested, welfare overseers, (2) 17, 108, 109, 110, 111
loans in anticipation of taxes, 5
number of council members, 390, 391
public welfare orders, 201, 202
real estate taxes in various cities, 178, 179, 180
stamps used by public welfare department, 176
tax anticipation loan orders, 54
use, Boston Common and Parkman bandstand by Massachusetts
Real Estate Owners Association, 314
unanimous consent:
committee report executive (Beacon st. stop in Boylston st. subway
extension), 283
McLeod Bill
assets of closed banks under Federal Reserve System: resolution
favoring passage of Bill providing for repayment of depositors in
full by national government taking over assets (Councilor Shattuck)-
motion to refer to executive committee, objection being raised, reso-
lution referred to rules committee, 136
Medical Night Calls for Aid
by welfare and soldiers' relief recipients: order to assign sufficient
number on staff to respond, passed, 373
Medical Board for Annuities to Firemen's and Police=
men's Widows
appointment notices received: see Appointments, under names,
Drs. John A. Foley, Arthur W. Fairbanks, Robert C. Cochrane
Memorial Day
May 30, leaves of absence: see City Employees, leaves of absence,
May 30
Metropolitan District Commission
renaming Charles River basin and Charlesbank pk.: see Storrow
Basin
Metropolitan Transit Commission
finances check up, Boston Elevated Railway Commission: order
for, passed, 159-message with report from law department, filed, 254
investigate newspaper accounts, financial condition of Boston
Elevated Railway: see Boston Elevated Railway Company, finan-
cial condition
Militia Enrollment
list of persons liable: see Assessing Department, militia enrollment list
Milk for Welfare Recipients
at lower prices: see Public Welfare Department, milk at lower prices
for recipients
Minor Officers Paid by Fees
communication from the Mayor submitting appointments under City
Document No. 47, 116-called up under unfinished business-(Coun-
cilor Fish) motion to assign list for a week, 144~(Councilor Selvitella),
motion to postpone action until after executive committee meeting,
150-committee, Councilors Selvitella and Norton-appointments
confirmed, 153
Minot, William, Esq.
order for information in re progress of committee for collection of delin-
quent taxes, passed, 151
MORTGAGES
(34)
NATIONAI
Mortgages
payments; see City Council, resolves, mortgage payments, or page 401
Morton Street Improvement
unexpended balance $16, ,50ft. 65: see Sinking Funds Department,
transfer of unexpended balances on Beven projects
Mothers' Aid
see Public Welfare Department
Motion Pictures
attendance of school children:
order for legislation regulating hours of attendance, referred to execu-
tive committee, 70
"block system":
preambles and resolution against, passed, 285
machines in schools:
order for appropriation for installation in Boston schools for educa-
tional purposes, referred to executive committee, 70
purification:
resolution endorsing campaign and calling for meeting of board of
censors, passed, 280
Municipal
buildings:
dorchester: see Dorchester Municipal Building, proposed erection,
or page 398
east boston: see East Boston municipal building, or page 398
ward 1: see City Council, resolves
ward 3: see Public Buildings Department
employment bureau:
acting head: Christopher J. Carven, filed, 12
APPROPRIATIONS, CURRENT EXPENSES:
message with order, §2,000 chargeable to reserve fund passed, 9-
report accepted, 40; message with order, S2.000, to be charged
to reserve fund, referred to executive committee, 226-report
accepted, motion (Councilor Fish) to lay on table, lost, order
failed, lack of votes cast, motion (Councilor Brackman) for
reconsideration of rejection of order, motion, reconsideration
and assignment to next meeting, carried, 232, 233-order passed,
245
message with order, S2.500 chargeable to reserve fund referred to
executive committee, 316-report accepted, order passed, 324
appropriations, reorganization: order for 810,000 chargeable to
reserve fund referred to executive committee, 33-report accepted,
order in new draft ($10,000 vice §2,000), passed, 40
information requested: order in re from January, 1933, to May, 1934,
passed, 175-report received from bureau, filed, 192, 193
personnel: by unanimous consent of the Council, Councilor Wilson
spoke in re, 429
expense policy: order for the Mayor to consider adopting a broad,
general policy, passed, 160
lighting committee:
members appointed: Councilors McGrath, Norton, Brackman, Gal-
lagher, Wilson, 15
lighting plant:
loan legislation: resolution approving enactment to authorize loan
outside debt limit for establishment, passed, 31
parking space within city limits: order to consider feasibility of
securing land for free parking near business district referred to execu-
tive committee, 335-report with new draft deleting "free," sub-
stituting "municipal," passed, 335
pay roll from "City Record," March 24, 1934: order to print in
Proceedings of Council for April 9, 1934, passed, 124, 125, 127
"Register" printing: see City Documents
Murray, Peter A., Councilor, Ward 19
committee appointments:
Hospitals, Jitney Licenses, Parkman Fund, Printing
Ward Redivision, 285
Prisons, 15
improvement orders, Ward 19:
fob details: see Streets and Squares, names
Arborway, Jamaica Plain, 307, (2) 373, 374, 393, 394
Atherton st., 98
Boylston St., 175, 355
Brown ter., 92, 132, 133
Catherine St., 323, 348
Cedarwood rd. : lay out, accept, 281
Centre St., 68, 81, 172
Chestnut ave., 374, 379
Clive St., 355
Furnival rd., 334, 379
Good way rd., 285
Murray, Peter A., Councilor, Ward 1", Continued
improvement orders, Ward 19:
Green St., .')2.'i
Grover St., 92, 133
Hyde Carl avi ,31
Moraine, Boylston, Centre sts. and South Huntington ave., 385, 412
Caul Gore st.., (2) 355
Perkins St., (2) 385, 412
Sheridan Bt., 257, 372
South st., 307
Sunset ave., 31
Washington st., 391
motions:
committee reports, constables, vote each name, 152-confirmatioB
executive appointments adding John B. Blotto, 308
proposed reinstatement, assessors, motion for vote, 86
orders, resolves:
appointment, additional firemen, 342
city printing, 214 (with Councilor Fish)
collection, ashes, garbage, 385 (with Councilors Englert, Dohertv
Brackman)
exemption of doctors, parking laws, 336
in re laborers' working schedule, 280
lease Washington st. school, 68
payment, December pay rolls, 388
payment, snow removal, 68
roping off Centre St., 13.5 (with Councilors Englert, Doherty, Finley
train stop at Forest Hills, 199
utilization, veterans' hospital, 373
point of information:
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), 244: constables, 152
executive (52,000 municipal employment bureau appropriation)
233
East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel land takings, 354
remarks:
advisability, canceling all furloughs, public works department, 313
appointment, additional firemen, 342
blood transfusions, 375
bridge over Blakemore st. , Roslindale, 204
collection, ashes, garbage, 385
committee reports: appropriations (1934 budget), 245; executive
snow removal, 100
compensation, certain city employees, 357
convalescent hospital property, 228
East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel land takings, 354
five-cent fare on Elevated through General Sumner tunnel, 281
inspectors, building department, 374
in re laborers' working schedule, 280, 281
loan, Chelsea North bridge, 287
remarks, Joseph Lee, Jr., 107
restoration day laborers' working schedule, 280
tolls for Sumner tunnel, 353
utilization, veterans' hospital, 373
visit from Mayor, C. W. A. program in Boston, 11
N. I. R. A.
see National Industrial Recovery Act
Names of Streets
improvement orders passed: see Streets and Squares
naming, renaming orders passed: see Streets and Squares
National Anthem
on radio: see City Council, resolves, national anthem and U. S. flag
National Civic Federation
housing unemployed women: see Unemployment, housing fo
women, or page 369, 400, 408, 409, 413
National Housing Division
slum clearance: see City Council, resolves
National Industrial Recovery Act
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933: see Brookline Avenue Water
main; Firehouse Construction; Hospital (Surgical) Building; New Cit3
Hall; Northern Avenue Bridge; Police Communication System; Sewe;J
Construction; Schools, High and Intermediate; Street Reconstruction
Watermain Construction; Wayfarers' Lodge
sidewalks, Wards 7, 8: see Streets and Squares, improvement orderi
passed, Southampton st.. Wards 7, 8
NAZI
(35)
NORTON
Nazi "Swastika"
German consulate: see City Council, resolves
Neptune Gardens, East Boston
under Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works, non-
Federal project: H'I5: see City Council, resolves
housing project: order for information from the Mayor in re state-
ment in City Record, passed, 93
New City Hall
loan: order to appropriate by loan SI, 800,000 for demolition of old and
erection of new building, referred to finance committee, 69
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933: message with order for appro-
priation by loan $1,800,000 for demolition of old and erection of new
building, referred to executive committee, 34-report accepted, order
passed, 39-referred to finance committee, 39, 40-message withdrawing
loan order, filed, 57-finance committee report accepted, order for
loan rejected, 68
New England Telephone and Telegraph Company
equitable charges: see City Council, resolves, House Bills 1040 and 1047
New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad
bridge over Blakemore St., Roslindale: see Streets and Squares, im-
provement orders passed, Blakemore St., Roslindale
elimination, Bird St. crossing: see Public Works Department, Bird
st. crossing elimination, or page 383
sale, unclaimed baggage: petition for, October 29, Boston Freight
Terminal, 323
train stop. Forest Hills stations: order to take up with officials of
road, passed, 199
Newsboy Licenses
sec Licenses
Newspaper Editorial
quotation: see Public Welfare Department, decentralization
Non -Federal Projects for Boston
Councilor Wilson submitted his telegram to assistant, Federal Emer-
gency Administration of Public Works, Washington, and communi-
cation in reply, 69
Non -Residents of Boston
appointments: sec City Council, resolves, non-resident appointments
North Ferry, Ward 1, East Boston
recreation pier: see Park Department, recreation pier, East Boston
Northern Avenue Bridge
contract with Fay, Spofford & Thorndike: see Contracts notice of
interest in Fay, Spofiord & Thorndike
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933 programs: communications to
the President and P. W. Administrator Ickes with reply, 31, 32
message with engineers' estimates received, referred to executive
committee, 96, 97
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933:
message with order by authority National Industrial Recovery Act for
appropriation by loan outside debt limit, $1,000,000, referred to
finance committee, 28-report accepted, first reading and passed, 40-
committed to finance committee, 40-laid on table, 71-report ac-
cepted, order rejected, 114-rejection reconsidered, motion to lay
on table, lost, order finally rejected, 115
message with order to rescind above order, and order for new appro-
priation of $375,000 for repair, referred to finance committee, 117—
report accepted, order for rescission of first order and new order for
repair, passed, 144-final reading, passed, 160-message with order
authorizing grant agreement for $103,000 referred to executive com-
mittee, 310-report recommending, order passed, 313
Northern Avenue Bridge, Continued
repairs:
order to direct transit department to make repairs, passed, 175
order for public works commissioner to proceed at once with repairs,
passed, 263-message with communication, filed, 273
order to consider requiring railroads using bridge to pay proportionate
share, passed, 175-message with opinion from corporation counsel,
filed, 287, 288
order to take immediate steps to repair or replace, clipping from Boston
Globe included in records, order passed, 285
Norton, Clement A., Councilor, Ward 18
committee appointments: Appropriations, County Accounts,
Municipal Lighting, Soldiers' Relief, 15-Lincoln Memorial Wreath, 41
improvement orders, Ward 18:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Commonwealth ave., 216, 247, 248
Harmon st., 122, 133, 285, 339
Hvde Park ave., 31, 61
Richmond rd., 285, 340
Savannah ave., 356
motions:
committee reports-appropriations (1934 budget), return for study, 240:
executive, snow removal, to lay on table, 100: finance (police com-
munication loan order), lost, 71
loans and rescissions, (for separation of items), 63
orders, resolves:
advisability, canceling all furloughs in public works department, 313
air-conditioning city hospital, 259
blood transfusions, 374, 375
bridge over Blakemore St., Roslindale, 204
broadcasting baseball games, 160
care, discharged Long Island inmate, 41
catch-basin cleaning, welfare department laborers, 344
citizenship, Dr. Albert Einstein, 232
city scrubwomen, 143
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), 240, 241: committee
on health department survey, 178
compensation for certain city employees, 356, 357
compensation, chief probation officer, South Boston, 356
contracts under competitive bidding, 258
decentralization, welfare activities, 25, 31, 92, 153, 165, 177, 204
discrepancy in figures submitted, 93
dispensing with coats, certain police officers, 259
distribution of work, 383
employment of women, 324
expenditures, snow removal, 98
fair trial for new parking law, 334
Federal aid for slum clearance, 20
Federal employment of women, 334
flooding certain streets during hot weather, 258
former city employees, 383
free passes, East Boston ferries, 20
gas service, Hyde Park, 357
golden jubilee, Cardinal O'Connell, 375
graves for welfare recipients, 382
heaters in police cars, 8
horse and dog racing, 374 (with Councilor Dowd)
in re hospital council, 289
information in re Neptune Gardens housing project, 93: in re unem-
ployed, 78
inspectors, building department, 374
junior college courses, 223
license to sell liquor in Hyde Park, 259
location, voting booths, 204
Long Island hospital nurses, 180, 181
low-cost streets, 391, 399
maternity cases, city hospital, 204
matter in City Record, 31
milk for welfare recipients, 223, 232, 344, 356, 391
money for dentistry, 391
opposition to St. Lawrence waterway, 41
patients, Boston city hospital, 52
pay allowances to certain nurses, 400
payless furloughs, health department, 334, 335
payment, delinquent taxes, 151; snow removal trucks, 115
policy in municipal expenses, 160
preference to former city employees, 391
protection of public, public utilities rate cases, 344
R. F. C. aid in tax payments, 334
race tracks in Boston, 374
real estate taxes in various cities, 178
reduction, assessed values, 24: real estate valuations, 122
repairing Boston bridges, 290
resignation. Secretary Walter V. McCarthy, 204
"share-the-work" stagger system, 111
slum clearance in Boston, 356
snow-removal contracts, 399
soldiers' relief, 10
stagger system for city employees, 93, 123
stigmatizing designations, 382
street paving, 151
study, additional revenue, 334: aerial and Holland block plans, 223:
location of voting booths, 289
NOR l<>\
PACIFIC
Norton, Clemen! V., Councilor, Ward 18, ( Continued
liatlon "( "'
i ,. , ■ , mpt4 d pruperi . hk> titles to property, 164
ill, pi i eonl conti Ibul Ion b; oerl (Hi
u • . I
■ I :ii Ihv. 20
welfare deparlmi
polnl "i Informal Ion !
committee rei executive (tax anticipation loan), ■">-
license, Eastern M a chum ■ I
MO
remai k
abatemenb real •■ lata, 137, 138, 1 1 1
additional a unt, municipal omploymonl bureau, 245
ml vi ability, canceling all furlough , publii department, 313
air-conditioning oity no
blood
■i . . le, 204
broadoa! ' ins, ',:l oball games, 160
oatch-bn in cleaning, welfare department labon
uni i: reports: appropi (1934 budget), 237. 210, 241,
243, 244: appropriations ($1,000,000 welfare aid), 231 ; I 5485,694 50
order), -'::i 152, 162 163 164 executive (municipal
employ men I bureau loans), '10: (housing development) , 49: (final
budget reco endations), 2S2: finance (police communication loan
order), 73, 74: (nix loan orders), 64. 67
committee, investigate welfare department, 91
compensation for certain oity employees, 356, 357
constables' confirmations, 173, 174
decentralisation, welfare department, 92, 177 178
employment of citizens. East Boston tunnel, 18
establishment. United States shoe factories, 354, 355
fair trial for new parking law, 334
Federal aid, slum clearance, 20
Federal employment of women, 334
flooding certain streets during hot weather, 258
former city employees, 383
Fourth of July celebration, 258
gas service, Hyde Park, 357
graves for welfare recipients, 382, 383
history, police commissioner appointments, 429
in re hospital council, 289
information requested, welfare overseers, 17, 18
inspectors, building department, 374
junior college courses, 223
license to sell liquor, Hyde Park, 259
loans and rescissions, 63
location, voting booths, 204
Long Island hospital nurses, 181
maternity cases city hospital, 204
matter in Cily Record, 31
milk: welfare recipients, 232; milk for welfare recipients (with com-
munication from welfare department of New York City, 356,
391
money for dentistry, 391
payless furloughs, health department, 334, 335
payment, delinquent taxes, 151
policy in municipal expenses, 160
preference to former city employees, 391
protection of public, public utilities rate cases, 344
R. F. C. aid in tax payments, 334
race tracks in Boston, 374
real estate taxes in various cities, 178, 179
reduction, real estate valuation, 122
revocation, license of Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Com-
pany, 290
"share-the-work" stagger system, 111, 112
snow-removal contracts, 399
"stagger" system, 122
study, additional revenue, 334; location of voting booths, 289
tax-exempt property, 400; tax titles to property, 164, 165; taxes owed
by contractors, 122
ten per cent contribution by certain officials, 335
traffic lights, Commonwealth ave., 216
use, high schools as junior colleges, 232
welfare department; doctors in public schools, 343; payments, single
men, 261
unanimous consent:
tolls for Sumner tunnel, 353
O'Connell, Cardinal
golden jubilee: preambles and resolutions conveying congratulations,
passed, 220; preambles and resolution recognizing honors bestowed
passed, 375
ordination celebration: order that the Mayor and Council take part
in fiftieth anniversary celebration, passed, 182
Old Age Assistance
see PubUc Welfare Department
OM Colony Boulevard
cleaning up, Columbia ltd.: ■• Bealtl Department, clean-nfl
mi) oid Colony blvd.
"Old Ironsides"
welcoming ceremonies: order that Boston through the Mayor take
pari in on May 13, pawed, 182
Old South Association
malingers elected by Council: I ouin loi Donovan and Shattuck, 20
Ordinances
amendment to allow standees: <c Boston Elevated Railway
pany
amendment to chap. 3, Revised Ordinances, 1925: amount paid
for bonds for city officers and employees to be paid by respective
departments, referred to ordinances committee, 246-report accepted,,
ordinance, passed, 267
in re appointment deputy city auditor: amendment to chap. 6,
Revised Ordinances of 1925, sect. 9, referred to executive committee, i
266-report accepted, ordinance, passed, 267
in re clerk of committees department: see City Council, ordinances
stenographer-clerk, clerk of committees department, amendments to
1929 Ordinances and sect. 5, chap. 3, Revised Ordinances, 1930
Dillaway House maintenance: see Dillaway House, Roxbury
nonresident employment: order for committee on ordinance to-1
consult with law department tn re prevention of, passed, 307-reporti
from law department received, filed, 396, 397
revised ordinances, 1925, chap. 13, sect. 7: see City Council, ordi-'
nances, assistant city collector appointment or page 343
revised, 1925, chap. 16, sect. 3: see Health Department, smallpox
hospital closing
Ordinances Committee
members appointed: Councilors Fish, Gleason, Donovan, Englert
Finley, Tobin, Selvitella, 15
reports: 49, 372
Organization of City Government
pocket edition: sec City Documents, Municipal Register
P. W. A.
approval project 4217 schools, high and intermediate received frorr
Emergency Finance Board, filed, 381
bathhouse, gymnasium: order to include in Federal project thi
erection at -5300,000 on Leverett, Nashua and Brighton sts. lane
owned by city, passed, 385
electrification of railroads: see City Planning Board or page 383
employment of women: see Emergency Relief Administration
under C. W. A., E. R. A. and P. W. A.
employment of citizens: see Contracts, under P. W. A.
erection and equipment of indoor gymnasium at Columbus pk.
South Boston: see Park Department or page 335, 336
navy yard improvements: see Boston Navy Yard, improvement;
under P. W. A. or page 355, 361
projects, loans, rescissions: see name of project, loans under F. E. A
of P. W. program or chap. 366, Acts of 1933
Jewish holidays: see Emergency Relief Administration
removal of rock, Quincy St., Ward IS: see Streets and Squares
removal of rock under P. W. A.
street construction project appeal: order to include in program
sum for acceptance and construction of unaccepted streets, motioil
to include accepted streets, passed as amended, 384
veterans' hospital utilization: see City Council, orders, veterans
hospital or page 373
Ward 15 improvements: orders (4) resurfacing Hamilton and West
ville sts., branch library, municipal building, health unit passed, 381
Pacific Coast Fleet
Bunker Hill Day, June 17: see Public Celebrations, Bunker Hill Daj;
June 17
PARI
(37)
PARKING
Pari-Mutuel System of Betting
vote results: copv of referenda affirmative votes compared with Chelsea,
Revere, Winthr'op, filed, 388
Park Department
chairman appointed: William P. Long, member and chairman, 3
years, filed, 213
American Legion pk., East Boston:
under F. e. R. A.: see Federal Emergency Relief Administration,
American Legion pk. locker building
beach cleaning:
order to make South Boston beaches safe for bathing by clearing of
rubbish, cans and broken bottles, passed, 262-message with com-
munication, filed, 270
beach cleaning, L st. bath to Boston Yacht Club:
order for, also along Farragut beach, passed, 215-message with
communication, filed, 251
Billings field: order to consider constructing under E. R. A., passed,
401
Boston Common:
order for department to arrange for broadcasting baseball games
from Parkman bandstand, passed, 160
order to allow use by Boston Agawam A. A. of baseball diamond one
evening a week, passed, 284-message with communication, filed,
297
order to grant use, September 16, of Parkman bandstand to Massa-
chusetts Real Estate Owners Association, passed, 313, 314
Buckley playground: see Park Department, drinking fountain orders
passed or pages 285, 292
cemetery division: "pauper's" graves, burials: order for assignment
of lots and burials and elimination of such stigmatizing designations,
passed, 382, 383-message with communication, filed, 410— message
with communication, filed, 409, 410
Charlestown playgrounds: order to furnish hot water for shower
baths during summer, passed, 182-message with communication, filed,
191
, Chestnut Hill playground: order for $25,000 appropriation by loan
for construction of locker building, referred to committee on finance,
98
Christopher J. Lee playground: order to allow Kelly's All Stars
baseball team to use playground one evening a week, passed, 164-
I message with communication, filed, 191
Columbus pk.:
orders for erection of indoor gymnasium under P. W. A. program
and estimate of cost of equipment, passed, 335, 336— message with
communication, filed, 338-message with communication, filed, 349
order to flood for skating season, passed, 408-message with com-
munication, filed, 410
drinking fountain: order for installation, Rev. Thomas W. Buckley
Playground, South Boston, from E. R. A. funds, also setting up of
settees, passed, 285-message with communication, filed, 292
East Boston playground:
preambles and order for estimate of cost of replacing playground taken
for highway purposes, passed, 323-motion (Councilor Selvitella)
to lay on table until next meeting prevailed, 342, 343-message with
communication, filed, 350- message with veto, filed, 411-order
requesting reconsideration of veto, passed, 429
order for 810,000 appropriation by loan, referred to finance committee,
358-report accepted, first reading and passed, 382-final reading,
passed, 401-order requesting reconsideration of veto, passed, 429
Elizabeth Peabody school land: see School Committee Department,
Elizabeth Peabody school, information
Fallon field:
order for additional lights, passed, 332-message with communication,
filed, 348
see Departmental Transfers, park to school committee department,
Fallon field
forestation, harbor islands under Emergency Conservation
Work: see Harbor Island Forestation or page 84
Franklin pk.:
order to place signs on cages of various animals, giving name and
history, passed, 262, 263-message with communication, filed, 273
order for swimming pool as E. R. A. project using location of recently
found subterranean reservoir, passed, 332-message with communica-
tion, filed, 348, 349
Jefferson playground: order, with school buildings department, to
investigate condition of foundation, passed, 344-message with com-
munication, filed, 368
! John H. L. Noyes playground, Ward 1:
under f. E. r. a.: see Federal Emergency Relief Administration,
John H. L. Noyes playground enlargement
L st. baths:
order to equip with first-aid kits, passed, 182-message with communica-
tion, filed, 192
order to clean along Farragut beach to Boston Yacht Club at L st. bath,
passed, 215-message with communication, filed, 251
Park Department, Continued
land purchase, Ward 9: order to consider, from Boston Elevated
Railway Company, for playground, Guild, Bartlett sts. and Lambert
ave., passed, 30
life-saving facilities and payment for death of Mary Durant:
resolution favoring passed, 308
Mt. Ida (Ronan) playground:
order to provide for erection of handball courts, Dorchester, passed,
164-message with communication filed, 190, 191
order to install tennis courts and baseball diamond backstop passed,
224-message with communication filed, 251
naming, renaming orders passed:
Charles River basin and Charlesbank pk. : see Storrow Basin
Gleason (Andrew J.) circle: see Street Laying-Out Department,
naming, renaming streets and squares
Thaddeus Kosciuszko circle at intersection Columbia rd., Old Colony
ave. and Strand way, 284
Parkman Fund appropriation for Common and parks in existence
in 1887:
order for $87,000 for maintenance and improvement, referred to
Parkman Fund committee, 191-report accepted, order passed, 281
message with order for $60,000, referred to executive committee, 317-
report accepted, order passed, 335
message with communication and order for $25,000 for maintenance
and improvement, referred to executive committee, 346, 347-
report accepted, order passed, 357
message with order for transfer from fund §35,000 to park department,
referred to executive committee, 380-report accepted, order passed,
386
message with communication and order for $786.04 passed, 413
paving recommendations by finance commission: order for com-
petitive bidding and less expensive paving on minor streets passed,
161-message with communication filed, 168
payment, accident, Franklin pk. golf links: resolution passed, 91-
veto filed, 116
Randidge Fund orders: see Randidge Fund
recreation pier, East Boston:
order to arrange for loan under F. E. R. A. passed, 159, 160-message
with communication from park commissioner filed, 188, 189
see also, Federal Emergency Relief Administration, North ferry recrea-
tion pier, Ward 1
reimbursement to employees see Payments, names of individuals,
Doherty, James T.
reversal of ruling on "shorts" : order for, referred to parks and play-
grounds committee, 298
Savin Hill beach: order to make available for use, bath house recently
damaged by fire, passed, 91-message with communication filed, 105
shower baths: order for opening of baths Saturday afternoons during
summer passed, 257
small parks under E. R. A.: order to take up with officials of Federal
Emergency Relief Administration the taking of vacant land in con-
gested areas for playgrounds and mothers' rests passed, 182-message
with communication from public buildings department filed, 219
Tenean Beach:
cement walk, order to replace present, passed, 147-message with
communication filed, 154, 155
drinking fountains, order to install, passed, 147-message with com-
munication filed, 154, 155
land purchase, order to allow at present assessed value, referred to
public lands committee, 30-report accepted, order passed, 68-
message with communication filed, 81
shelter, order for erection, passed, 147-message with communication
filed, 154, 155
transfers within and between departments: see Departmental
Transfers
tree removal orders passed:
ward 19, 175— message with communication filed, 190
Ward 7 playground proposed: order to consider taking land, Story
and Fifth sts., for playground, passed, 391-message with communica-
tion filed, 412
Ward 10 playgrounds: order to furnish hot water for showers during
summer passed, 203
Parking
complaints: order for traffic commission to record with name and
address passed, 335-message with communication filed, 338
immunity from law for doctors: see Traffic Commission, parking
law, immunity for doctors, or page 336
land in business district: see Municipal Parking Space, land within
city limits
law recently enacted by Legislature: see Legislation, repeal, parking
law
parking limit: see Traffic Commission, parking limit
open space licenses: order for information in re permits issued, under
six heads, passed, 398, 399
PARKING
(38)
PENSION!
Parking, < lontinued
real rlctloni:
opposition: order [or, against drastic oode, proposed by private
garage owners, passedi 61
■paces lor storage <>f cars: see Licenses, parking spaces, ■</• page -'(7(1
tagging law: order to consider giving new law ii f :iir try-out, referred
to executive co ittee, 334
Parkman Bandstand
use, Massachusetts Real Estate Owners Association:
Department, Boston Common, or pages, 313, '•\ I
Park
Parkman Fund Committee
members appointed: Councilors Gallagher, Murray, Doherty, Gold-
man, Shattuck, 15
report: 281
Parkman (George F.) Fund
appropriation for Common and parks in existence in 1887: nee
Park Department, Parkman Fund appropriation
Parks and Playgrounds Committee
members appointed: Councilors Finley, Tobin, Goldman, Kerrigan,
Englert, IS
Pauper's Stigmatization
graves, burials: order to consider eliminating such designations
passed, 382, 383
Paving Streets
orders passed: see Streets and Square?, improvement orders passed
fair, competitive bidding and less expensive: see Contracts, fair,
competitive bidding, street paving
Payless Furloughs
copy of order: see Health Department, payless furloughs, or pages
334, 335
Payments
Baldwin, Mrs. William A., husband late of fire department, petition,
228-order for SI, 000 passed, 282, 283 (executive committee reports)
Breed, Ferdinand E.: claim, Proceedings, July 10, 1933, 345 (under
Ferdinand E. Breed), reimbursement, police department, S250
charged to reserve fund, passed, 135
Brennan, Robert F.: reimbursement, employee, fire department,
claim, 298, ordered $4,500 to be charged to reserve fund, passed, 324
Bresnahan, Jeremiah C: of public works department, order for
$43.70 reimbursement, report accepted, order passed, 335
Clark, Mrs. John C. E.: petition, 329, Proceedings, 1933-order for
annuity, to be charged to pensions and annuities appropriation,
police department, report accepted, order passed, 232-message with
veto filed, 253, 254
Connelly, Fred W.: resolution favoring pension, former teacher in
Franklin Union, passed, 13-message with communication filed, 23, 24
Currie, Edmund: claim, 171-order for $149.12, reimbursement as
employee, public works department, recommitted to claims commit-
tee, 235
Cusack, James J.: claim, Proceedings, 1933, 360-report accepted,
order, $212.10, passed, 101
Daley, John J.: claim, Proceedings 199, 389-report accepted, order,
$150, passed, 101
Doherty, James T.: claim, 9-report accepted, order, $243, passed,
101 (park department, reimbursement)
Doherty, Stephen J.: order for $110, public works department
employee, report accepted, passed 257; order for $55 passed, 257
Doocey, John: resolution approving legislation authorizing payment
for loss of eye at Franklin pk. golf links passed, 229-message with
veto filed, 253
see also, Payments, Ducey, John
Ducey, John: resolution approving legislation authorizing payment
for loss of eye at Franklin Pk. golf links passed, 91-message with veto
filed, 116
see also, Payments, Doocey, John
Fenderson, George L., of police department, order for $604.04 reim-
bursement, report accepted, order passed, 335
Payments, Continued
Penncsscy, James: order to pay indefinitely $200 yearly for extn
ervices chargeable to City Council, A-l, appropriation passed, 38
I lood, Daniel F.: order (claim, Proceedings, 255) for $100 for reim
bursement as police department member, report accepted, orde>
pa ed, 308
Ford ham, Percy L., police olfieer, order for S300, reimbursement
chargeable to reserve fund, passed, 343
Qormley, William A.: petition for, 7-report, claims cornmiih
accepted, order for payment, $149.34 to be charged to reserve fund
(payee employee, public works department.) passed, 101
Gray, Preston E., (claims, 24) order for $100 passed, 101
Gustin, Mrs. William M.: petition, 85-report accepted, no furthe
action neccesary, 284
Hanley, Mrs, George J.: order for $1,000, and $200 annually fo
two minors, to be charged to appropriation, pensions and annuitia
of police department, report accepted, order passed, 232
Joyce, Gordon: claim page 85, reimbursement, police department
$15.15, passed, 135
Katz, Louis: resolution favoring enactment of legislation authorizing
(claim page 38), passed, 41-message with veto, filed, 118
Killion, Thomas P.: report with order for $30 accepted (claim pagi
280), order passed, 312
Kirby, David F.: claims committee report and order for $209 anc
$124, claim page 280, accepted, orders passed, 312, 313 (public work:
department)
Maher, Michael J.: claim page 38-report accepted, order, $35.35
passed, 101 (fire department)
Malloy, Mrs. James T.: petition, 256-order for S1.600, passed, 282
McDonald, Mother of David: resolution approving enactment ol
legislation for extension of time in re, passed, 13-message with com-'
munications, filed, 23, 24
McKeon, Patrick F.: order for S200 yearly for extra services to bei
charged to appropriation A-l of Council, passed, 91
McLaughlin, Patrick H.: order for $42.80 (claims, reimbursement
police officer), report accepted, order passed, 300
McNamara, Mrs. Bernard F.: petition, 24-report accepted, no|
further action necessary, 284
Murphy, Edward, of public works department, order for $68.90 re-
imbursement, report accepted, order passed, 335
O'Brien, Michael: order to pay until further notice $200 annually
for extra services, chargeable to City Council appropriation A-l,
passed, 385
Phaneuf, Edward J.: claim page 9-report accepted, order, S1.00C
passed, 101 (school committee department)
Robinson, Bliss W.: claim page 12-report accepted, order $42.55
passed, 101
Sheehy, John J.: public works department employee, reimbursement
$15 to be charged to reserve fund, report accepted, order passed, 372:
Pedestrian Lanes
painted white: see Traffic Commission, pedestrian lanes
Penal Institutions Department
deputy commissioner: Peter L. Lambert, appointed vice George T,
Reid resigned, filed, 28, 29
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program: see Prison Buildings,
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933
reinstatements: see Reinstatements, penal institutions department,
name
tubercular reacting cattle sale: message with communication and
order referred to executive committee, 395, 396-report, order passed,
402
Pensions and Annuities
petitions:
Baldwin, Mrs. William A., husband late member, fire department,
228-order for $1,000, passed, 283 (executive committee reports)
Brickley, Mrs. James, husband late of police department, 381
Clark, Mrs. John C. E., husband late of police department, to be
charged to pensions and annuities appropriation, police department
(petition, Proceedings, 1933, page 329), 232-message with veto
filed, 253, 254
Connelly, Mrs. Patrick., husband late member, fire department,
341-report accepted, petitioned disapproved by medical board, 402
Daley, Mrs. Thomas F. A., husband late of police department, 371
Gustin, Mrs. William M., husband late member of police depart-
ment, 85-report accepted, no further action necessary, 284
Hanley, Mrs. George J., husband late of police department, 107-
report accepted, order passed, 232
PENSIONS
(39)
PRINTING
Pensions and Annuities, Continued
petitions:
Mallot, Mhs. James T., husband late of police department, 256-
order for $1,600 per annum, report accepted, order passed, 282
(executive committee reports)
McNamara, Mhs. Beenabd F., husband late member, fire depart-
ment, 24-report accepted, no further action necessarjr, 284
O'Leaky, Mrs. Daniel W., husband late of, fire department, 323
Prendergast, Mrs. Maurice J., husband late of fire department,
323-report no further action, petition disapproved by medical
board, 402
Ralph, Mrs. John G., husband late member, police department, 372
resolutions approving legislative enactment authorizing pay-
ments, passed:
Connelly, Fred W., 13
Goggin, Thomas E., former employee, Suffolk County and city, 19
Permanent Court of International Justice
resolution that Congress follow traditional foreign policy by refusing to
sanction adherence to, as being detrimental to best interests of United
States, referred to rules committee, 92
Physician for City Employees
notice of appointment: see Massachusetts, Commonwealth of, public
health commission
Pier for Recreation, East Boston
North ferry, Ward 1 : see Federal Emergency Relief Administration,
North ferry recreation pier, Ward 1; see, also Park Department,
recreation pier. East Boston
Planning Board
city: see City Planning Board
Playgrounds
see Park Department, names
Police Commissioner Appointments
history: Councilor Norton reviews history of previous appointments
under Governors Draper and Foss, 429, 430
Police Communications System (No. 8200)
loans under chap. 366, Acts of 1933 program:
communication to the President and P. W. Administrator Ickes re-
ceived with reply, 31, 32
message with order by authority of National Industrial Recovery
Acts of loan outside debt limit, $350,000, referred to finance com-
mittee, 28-report accepted, passed, committed again to finance
committee, 40-report accepted, motion to lay on table, lost, 71,
72-amendment for reduction to $275,000, out of order, 73-second
final reading, passed, 74
message with grant agreement forms, 155-order to grant the Mayor
authority to execute new agreements, referred to executive com-
mittee, 155, 156
approval of State Emergency Finance Board received, filed, 168
message with order for approval and authority for execution by the
Mayor of grant agreements for 30 per cent of cost ($350,000),
$88,500 (copy of grant inclosed), referred to executive committee,
169-report accepted, order passed, 181
message with report on cost under original loan and grant and amount
of grant under new grant agreements, filed, 205, 206
notice of approval of $350,000 project by Emergency Finance Board,
filed, 213
Police Department
additional officer at each precinct: order to provide one at each
voting precinct, November 6, as special officers from civil service list,
passed, 332-message with communication, filed, 347
appointment of officers: order for 100 more, passed, 401
census taking, including unemployed information: order for,
inclusion of data concerning unemployed, passed, 78-aeknowledge-
ment placed on file, 80-message with communication, filed, 105
communications system, under chap. 366, Acts of 1933: see
Police Communications System (No. 8200)
coordination of forces: see City Council, resolves, Senate Bill 26
Police Department, Continued
dispensing with coats:
order (Councilor Norton) to consider allowing certain police officers,
during extreme heat, passed, 259
order (Councilor Fish) to allow uniformed officers during summer
months, passed, 267
destruction, tags, prior to October 1: report on order referred today,
October 1 (?) to cancel or destroy all tags issued for parking viola-
tions not filed in court before this date, accepted, order passed, 335
extension of civil service list to July 1, 1934: order to request,
passed, 93-message with communication, filed, 105
extension of civil service list for one year: order requesting Civil
Service Commissioner to extend, passed, 144
heaters for police cars:
order for police commissioner to consider making appropriation for
installation during winter, passed, 8
order as above, passed, 401
keeper of lock up appointed: notice of Lieut. Thomas W. O'Donnell,
filed, 381
legal opinion in re expenditures: received from the Mayor opinion
of corporation counsel in re future payments in excess of appropria-
tion and validity of contracts with General Electric Company and
R. J. Connolly, Inc., message filed, opinion ordered printed as city
document, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132
listing carefully: order to be extremely careful in listing on April 1
as the list is a basis for welfare payments, passed, 99— message with
communications, filed, 116, 117
listing voters, date of: message with opinion of corporation counsel,
filed. 369, 370, 371
officer at Arborway: order to assign for duty during school hours at
Arborway, junction with Pond and Burroughs sts., passed, 373, 374-
message with communication, filed, 393, 394
pensions, annuities: see Payments, Mrs. John C. E. Clark; Mrs.
Thomas F. A. Daley; Mrs. William M. Gustin; Mrs. George J.
Hanley; Mrs. James T. Malloy; Mrs. John G. Ralph
prosecuting officers: order to remove from district and municipal
courts and assign to active duty, referred to rules committee, 19-
report accepted, order passed, 49-message with communication, filed,
120
puttee elimination: order to eliminate puttees as part of summer
uniform, passed, 182-message with communication, filed, 191
reimbursements: see Payments, Ferdinand E. Breed; Daniel F.
Flood; George L. Fenderson; Gordon Joyce; Patrick H. McLaughlin;
Percy L. Fordham
reinstatements: see Reinstatements, police department, names
release, police officers: s
notice from Boston, Revere Beach & Lynn Railroad in re Benjamin
P. Smith and Irwin L. Van Vorst, filed, 24
notice from Boston Elevated Railway in re 39 men, list, April 10,
1934, filed, 135
notice of appointment by city of Cambridge to Boston Elevated Rail-
way, filed, 174
station 12 sale: order, December 4, 1933, Proceedings, page 389, for
$11,250, referred to public lands committee, report accepted; order
for sale, $5,000, read once, passed, 135-second, final reading, passed,
161
street railway police: notice of appointment, Daniel Tracey, by the
mayor of Cambridge for service on Boston Elevated Railway, filed,
351, 352
traffic conditions check-up, Washington and Tremont sts.: order
for by police and traffic departments, passed, 214, 215-message with
reports, filed, 325, 326, 327
traffic officers: order to place at junction, Charles and Allen sts., and
Charles and Leverett sts., from 8 a. m. to 11 p. m., passed, 262-mes-
sage with communications, filed, 296, 297
vacancies: order to request filling and to allow for extension of time
if appointments are delayed after July 1, passed, 41-message, with
communication, filed, 58
Policy of Municipal Expenses
broad, general policy: see Municipal, expense policy
Precinct Officers' Removal
resolution against: see City Council, resolves, precinct officers
Prescriptions for Medicine
soldier and sailor recipients of aid: see Soldiers' Relief Department
Printing Committee
members appointed: Councilors Englert, Finley, Murray, Kerrigan,
Selvitella. 15
PPINTINO
10,
PUBLIC
Print in^ Depart men!
•uperlntendenl appointed: William J Cam I ■ i , filed, 213
city and count} printing lei that all printing paid for bj city be
done In olts plant, rof( rrod to appropri ition commit tee, 214
ui< and count) printing: •• tnv< tii printing and
binding
legal opinion "• "' expenditure!: »»« Police Dopartmcnl
the municipal payroll i>> the Mayor: ordoi to incorporate, al 0 in
Boston Municipal Research Bureau, Bulletin No. 0, in the Proceedings
of Citj Couneilol Vpril 0, 1934, pa ed, 124, 125, 126
"municipal register": order to prinl passed, 10
Prison Buildings
loans under chap. .106, Acts of 193.$:
di approval by State Emergency Finance Board of 1933 order oul ide
debt limit of §800,000 received, 33
message with order to rescind order (Proceedings of 1933, pp. 251,
260, 273, 274, 27f., 376, 38.'i, 400, 401, 405, 400. outside debt limit,
5800,000), referred to executive committee, 33 report accepted,
rescission ordered, 39-.second, final reading, passed, 63
Prisons Committee
members appointed: Gleason, Donovan, Dolierty, Murray, Pinley, 15
annual report ordered printed us public document, 428
Probation Officer
Chelsea district court; South Boston municipal court: .(Suffolk
County, probation officer, or pages 342, 356, 361 and 382
Prosecuting Officers of Police Force
transfer to active duties: see Police Department
Public Buildings Department
superintendent: Roswell Gleason appointed, placed on file, 12
Blossom st. wardroom: order to include in 1934 budget sum for erec-
tion of additional story, passed, 40-message with communications,
filed, 120
city hall (new) loan: see New City Hall, loans under chap. 366, Acts
of 1933
Dillaway House, custody and management: see Dillaway House,
ordinance for maintenance
engine 6 fire station: see Leases, or page 385
repairs, 46 Joy st.: order to complete in building occupied by Robert
A. Bell Post 134, G. A. R., passed, 315-message with communication,
filed, 316
scrubwomen: see City Employees, employment and hours
small parks under E. R. A.: see Park Department
station 12 sale: see Police Department
Ward I municipal building: see City Council, resolves
Ward 3 municipal building: order to include in budget sum for erec-
tion, Blossom st., passed, 40
Public Celebrations
Boston Public Latin School: see School Committee
Bunker Hill day, June 17: see City Council, resolves, democratic
state convention
order to communicate with Congress in re participation of Pacific
Coast fleet in celebration, passed, 164-message with communica-
tions, filed, 207, 208
Dorchester day: see Appropriations
Fourth of July: order for submission of message to director of public
celebrations by the Mayor, passed, 258
"Old Ironsides" welcome, May 13: see "Old Ironsides," welcoming
ceremonies
Public Lands
city property, survey for sale: order for, passed, 157
178 Hillside st. property, fire menace: see Sales
North Grove st. land sale to Massachusetts General Hospital:
see Auditing and Treasury Departments
sale, land, East Boston: see Sales, land taken for park purposes, East
Boston
release of restrictions, petitions and orders:
748 Harbison ave. and East Newton st. : message with communi-
cation, preambles and order for release satisfactory to law, park
and public works departments, referred to public lands committee,
104— report accepted, order passed, 182-second, final reading,
passed, 198, 199
Public Lands Committee
members appointed: Councilori Donovan, Englert, Agnew, Bracfl
man, McGrath, 1 5
reports: 68, 135, IH2, 257, 323, 388
Public Safety Committee
members appointed: Councilors Agnew, Selvitella, Green, Fitzgerald
Donovan, Englert, Brackman, 15
Public Utilities
rate cases, legal advice in re: nee Massachusetts, Commonwealth of
public utilities commission «r page 344
Public Welfare Department
J., 256; Lombard,
overseers appointments filed: Finn, William
Lawrence M., 172; Warren, Clifford P., 172
anonymous letters: order that the status of recipients be not affected
Ulilll urea-aTion* ;u<- |jj <,ven , pu '-.1, _':VI inr- ;ij/<- \-.nlj , oni In uriiru-
tion filed 292
appropriations:
message with order under sect. 2, chap. 49, Acts of 1933. $3,800, OOOe
for dependents, old age, mothers' aid relief, referred to executive
committee, 294— report accepted, read once, passed, 300- read I
again, passed, 305
message with order for $5,600,000 (dependents, old age assistance, \
mothers' aid) referred to executive committee, 168, 169-report
accepted, orders read once, passed, 182
message with order for S485.694.50 (operating expenses), referred to j
executive committee, 168, 169-report accepted, order passed, 182-1
report accepted, order referred to executive committee (on Coun-
cilor Roberts' motion), 231-report accepted, motion (Councilor;'
Roberts) to lay on table carried, doubted, motion lost, order passed, !|
232, 233
message with order for immediate appropriation from taxes, SI, 000, 000,
referred to appropriation committee, 208, 209-report accepted,
order passed, 230, 231
message with order for appropriation, SI, 000. 000- or dependent aid,
S750.000, mothers' aid, S125.000, old age assistance, 8125,000,
referred to executive committee, 246- report accepted, order passed, '
267
budget submitted to state legislative committee: see Budget
Department, public welfare department copy
careful resident listing by police: see Police Department, listing
carefully
catch-basins cleaned by department laborers: order to consider, in
place of private contractors, passed, vote doubted, order rejected, 344
Christmas $5 additional payment to recipients: order for, passed,
384
Civil Works Administration loan: see State Emergency Finance
Board, Wayfarers' Lodge loan
coal delivery: order for purchase of coal by department at wholesale
prices and debvery to recipients, passed, 229, 230-message with
communication filed 252. 253
cutting aid to recipients: order not to stop when member of family is
in hospital passed, 298
decen tral izat ion :
order to consider in re activities, passed, 25— message with communi-
cation from executive director, filed, 116
order to decentralize, newspaper editorial quotation submitted
passed, 31
order for, by overseers, passed, 92-statement (Councilor Tobin), 92,
93-message stating movement started for decentralizing filed, 106
order for the Mayor to consider passed, 153
order to consider, into various sections of city passed, 165
order to consider, passed 177, 178
order to consider, into various parts of city passed, 204
east boston bbanch: order to consider decentralization and estab-
lishment of branch passed, 202
wabd 7 branch: order to establish in central location passed, 231- .
message with communication filed, 253
ward 15 branch: order to estabhsh when the work is decentralized,
passed, 205
dentistry allotment, E. R. A.: order to confer with administrators
relative to such allotment passed, 391
documental records requested: order for any documents, cardsj
statistics, records, requested by special council committee of investi-j
gation of department, passed, 108, 109, 110, Ill-acknowledgment I
filed, 119, 120-message with communication filed, 133, 134
fuel company names and deliveries: order for information in re j
under three heads passed, 398
general management information: order to furnish under tenj
heads, 16-passed, 18-report sent Council, 58-filed, 61
hearsay information: order not to stop aid without investigation
passed, 262-message with communication filed, 270
information in re discharge Mr. Balfe: see Statistics Department
5UBLIC
(41)
PUBLIC
3ublic Welfare Department, Continued
information:
EXPENDITURES, 1928 TO 1933:
order under eight heads passed, 99-message with report from
auditing department filed, 106-message with communication
filed, 121
order under three heads passed, 99-message with report from
auditing department filed, 106-message with report filed, 1 18, 1 19
expenditure figures: order for reason for discrepancy referred to
executive committee, 93-report accepted, order passed, 93, 94
food and lodging cards: order for manner of substituting for cash,
motion to bring Mr. Dowling before Council carried, 261— permis-
sion asked for inclusion in records of radio broadcast, 261, 262-
permission for inclusion in records of letter to Mr. Dowling, 262
recipients, checking methods, visitors:
order for new applicants to sign affidavit statements passed, 199-
message with acknowledgment of order filed, 250
order for new applicants to sign affidavit statements, passed, 199—
message with acknowledgment of order filed. 250
order about aliens among Wards 9 and 13 recipients, referred to
executive committee, 199 to 202— report recommending new
draft accepted, new draft order passed, 205-message with report
filed, 322
order to forward weekly notice of changes in status of recipients,
passed, 199
order about identification cards, referred to executive commit-
tee, 199, 200-report recommending amendment accepted, order
as amended passed, 205-message with communication. 269
order about method of dealing with incorrect statements, im-
proper stamping of work cards, drunkenness, passed, 199-message
with communication filed, 251
order to check names of recipients holding pedlers' licenses in
Boston, passed, 199-message with acknowledgment of order
filed, 250, 251
order for personal receipt for allowance except when check was
given, passed, 199-message with acknowledgment of order filed,
251
order to check registry of motor vehicles for names of aid
recipients, passed, 199-message with acknowledgment of order
filed, 250
order for information regarding address and right to vote, passed,
199-message with acknowledgment of order, filed, 248, 250-
message with report filed, 322
order as to most recent date ward 9 recipients have been visited
ok checked up, referred to executive committee, 200, 202-
report recommending new draft including Ward 13, passed, 205
order about visitors in Ward 9, 200-referred to executive com-
mittee, 202-report recommending new draft including Ward 13,
accepted, order passed, 205-message with acknowledgment of
order filed, 250-message with report filed, 322
order in re above order requesting information at once passed
314, 315
orders for department to furnish in re above 11 orders, passed, 224
investigation committee appointment: order for special committee
to investigate and report by April 9, 1934, 87-referred to rules com-
mittee, 88-objection and request for vote (Councilor Fitzgerald), 88-
order passed, 91-committee appointed, Councilors McGrath, Fitz-
gerald, Tobin, Shattuck, Wilson, 91
loan for expenditures: see Public Welfare Department, appropriation
by loan
milk at lower prices for recipients:
order to make arrangements for deliveries, passed, 223-message with
communication filed, 252
order to consider selling at 8 cents a quart, passed, 344-message with
communication filed, 345, 346, 356
order to consider supplying at 8 cents a quart, passed, 232-message
with communication filed, 253
order as above passed, 391
order as above passed 400-message with communications filed, 409
monthly reports to city council:
order to furnish under four heads, 16-passed, 18
received and filed:
January, 62
March, 145, 146
April, 189
September, 317 (2), 348
February, May, June, July, 337, 338
nonresident recipients: order for information in re passed, 157
paupers' graves, burials: see Park Department, cemetery division, or
page 382, 409, 410
proposed resignation request: order to consider requesting resigna-
tion of Walter V. McCarthy, secretary, referred to executive com-
mittee, 204
purchasing by supply department: order to consider having all pur-
chasing turned over to purchasing agent, passed, 229. 230-message
with communication filed, 253
recipients assigned to city departments, under five heads:
order that the Mayor ascertain information in re passed, 176, 177
order for department to furnish information in re above order passed,
224
recipients examined by department doctors: order to recon-
sider decision to send doctors to public schools to examine recipients
passed, 343
Public Welfare Department, Continued
report of surveys, by (Catherine Hardwick: order to furnish to
Council passed, 214
re-registration of recipients:
order in re completion and number on new rolls, passed, 215-message
with report, filed, 303, 304
order in re above order, passed, 314, 315
order for, to be taken in district in which recipients reside passed, 136
resident C. W. A. workers: see Civil Works Administration, number
Boston workers
stamps used officially by department:
order for information under ten heads passed, 176, 177-message with
report filed 320 to 322
order for department to furnish information in re above order passed,
224
order for information as above orders passed, 314, 315-message with
report filed, 317 to 320
survey by statistics department: order to obtain authorization under
Civil Works Administration for survey, enlargement and completion
of Consolidated Index, Cross Reference system, 13-passed, 14-report
sent Council filed, 48
synchronization, accounts with auditing department: see Audit-
ing Department
Ward 1 information:
order in re checking list of recipients passed, 157-message with com-
munication filed, 227-message with report filed, 322
order for department to furnish in re above order passed, 224
order in re 2,935 cases, citizenship of recipients passed, 157-messagc
with communication filed, 227, 228
order for department to furnish in re above orders passed, 224
order in re visitors passed, 157-message with communication filed, 227
order for department to furnish in re above order passed 224
order in re signatures and addresses of recipients, passed, 157-message
with communication filed, 228
order for department to furnish in re above order passed, 224
weekly meeting with Council: order that Secretary McCarthy set
definite period weekly passed, 20-message with communication from
department making weekly appointment filed, 58
workers transferred to E. R. A.: see Emergency Relief Administra-
tion, transfer from welfare rolls, or page 399
Public Welfare Special Committee
members: Councilors McGrath, Fitzgerald, Tobin, Shattuck, Wilson
date of first meeting: information in re requested by Councilor
Green, 144
progress of committee, request of the Mayor: message from the
Mayor in re referred to public welfare committee
partial report: emphasis on re-check of dependent and unemployed
recipients, report accepted, 161-suggestion received from the mayor
and report accepted, 223
report, extension of time for: order to grant, for filing report passed
124
Public Works Administration
see Federal Loan and Grant Agreements; National Industrial Recovery
Acts; Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works; Loans
Public Works Department
accept and lay out orders passed: see Street Laying-Out Department
Bird st. crossing: order to negotiate with New York, New Haven &
Hartford Railroad for preparation of plans for elimination passed, 383
bridge, ferry division:
forty-hour week, ferry service: see City Employees, ferry service
free passes, east boston ferry: see Information Requested and
Reports to City Council
loans under chap. 366, acts of 1933: see Northern Avenue Bridge
bridge, ferry division orders passed:
Blakemore st., Roslindale, 204
see also, below list of projects under E. R. A.
North ferry recreation pier (2 orders), 222
E. R. A. projects approved:
order for public works department to direct two projects, Charles-
town bridge repairs and survey of all city bridges, passed, 222
E. R. A. projects:
preambles and resolution for appeal for continuance of men on em-
ployment rolls until completion of projects, passed, 215-messages
with communication filed, 249
order for completion, supervision of department 5 projects listed
below, passed, 222 (2 orders)
order for additional appropriation in budget for completion of 5
projects listed below, $10,850 to cover cost for work under
E. R. A., passed, 222
recreation pier, Ward 1
painting 6 ferry slips
Longfellow bridge repairs
Chelsea Viaduct-Meridian st bridges
Blakemore st- bridge repaiis
mimic
(42)
PUBLIC
Public NNOrKs Department, Continued
bridge, ferry dlvlilon ordora passed:
None ii i us \ i i -.1 i .11 ii .11 ni, i 1 1, proceed it once with repair work,
..I, 203
catch-basin orders passed:
ordei lo consider having ba in cleanedb ivoll n departmenl laborers
instead ol by private ooi itoi po ed, vote doubted, order
rejeoti d, 3 1 1
Ward '•'. Hi, 286 (tran [( i
Ward 20, 358
cemetery division order.-, passed: order to continue collection bj
employees ol departmenl instead of by contracl as contemplated
in Elm Hill, Jamaica Plain, Roxbury di tricl , referred to executive
ittee, 386 report accepted, ordei passed, 380
clean-up campaign: set < tlean-Up I ampaign, committee appointmenl
contract competitive bidding: order to assign contracts undei c
petitive bidding for permanent and smooth paving and artificial
tone sidewalks, passed, 258
contract with Pay, Spofford & Thorndike: see Contracts
edgestone order passed: Ward 16, 373
under F. C R. A.:
Noiitii ferry HKCitKATiON pier, Waiid I.: see Federal Emergency
Relief Administration
fence order passed: Ward 20, 355
ferry service, forty-hour week restoration: see City Employees,
ferry service
nllii ig in Grotto Qlen rd. land: order to, and put in proper condition,
passed, 98-message with communication, tiled, 100
flooding streets orders passed:
order for in congested sections, South Boston, during hot weather,
passed, 284
see alsu, Fire Department, flooding certain streets
furloughs: order to consider canceling at once, passed, 313
Joseph P. McCabe Company employees: order to prevent working
overtime without extra pay on Dorchester district collection contract,
passed, 373-message with communication from contractors, filed, 394
lighting orders passed:
kor details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
for names of streets: see Councilors' improvement orders, Wards
Ward 1, 50
Ward 3, 30, 41
Ward 6, 289, 385 (2)
Ward 7, 30, 231, 358, 385 (2)
Ward 10, 41, 70
Ward 13, (2) 25
Ward 14, 51; (2) 91; 263; 383
Ward 19, (3) 355
Ward 20, 151,315
Ward 21, 52, 175
lighting system survey:
order for under six heads, passed. 98-message with communication
filed, 226, 227
loans: ,
under chap. 366, Acts of 1933: see Northern Avenue Bridge
FOR SEWERAGE, STREET RECONSTRUCTION: See Loans
snow removal equipment: see Loans
low-cost streets:
order to consider program passed, 391-message with communication,
filed, 411
order to consider plans for spring, 1935, passed, 391
Northern avenue bridge: see Northern Avenue Bridge, loans under
chap. 366, Acts of 1933, program
outside garaging of city cars: order for report of monthly rental,
names and addresses of garages, also number of motor vehicles stored,
passed, 160
paving orders passed:
for details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
for names of streets: see Councilors' improvement orders, Wards
Ward 3, 14, (2) 300
Ward 6, (2) 123
Ward 7, 124; 199; (2) 224; 225; 268, 290, 302, 308, 324, 356, 358
(2) 391
Ward 9, 41, (2) 289
Ward 10, 124. (2) 156, 355
Ward 11, 332
Ward 12, (4) 30, 70, 78
Wakd 14, 50, (2) 91. (3) 156, 157, 165
Waed 19, 323
Ward 20, 206
Ward 21, 127, (2) 355, 358, 375, 391, 399
Ward 22, (2) 357, (2) 358, 386
competitive bidding for street paving contracts, 258-message with
communication filed, 349, 350
Public Works Department, Continued
recommendations by finance commission: order for fair, competil
ir.e bidding and less expensive paving on minor -trectH, panned, 151-
mt &ge with communication. Died, 168
reconstruction of streets; sewer construction, replacement
water main construction, replacement, Brookline ave : He,
Loans, undei Federal Emergencj Admini tration >,f Public World
program
reconstruction orders passed:
i OB DETAILS: /tee Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
rOB NAMES 01 BTBBBT8: nee Councilors' improvement orders. Wards
Ward 18, 31
Ward 19, 31
Ward 22, 358
reimbursements to employees: see Payments, name of individual.
Bresnab&n, Jeremiah C; Currie, Edmund; Doherty, Stephen J.
Gormley, William A.; Kirby, David F.; Murphy, Edward
reinstatements: see Reinstatements, public works department, name
removal of rock, under P. W. A.: Ward 15, 373
removal of trees: order not to remove on Adams st. incident to cod
struction and sidewalk work, passed, 332
rescission of orders: sidewalk orders, Adams st., Ward 17, passed
332 333
restoration, laborers' pay:
order to consider, to prevent discrimination between departments
passed, 257
order for information regarding action, if any, taken for restoration
passed, 280
resurfacing orders passed:
for details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
FOR names of streets: see Councilors' improvement orders, Wards
Ward 13, (2) 373
Ward 14,70, 263,281, 285
Ward 15, 299
Ward 16, 223
Ward 17, 157, 214
Ward 20, (2) 174
safety island order passed: Ward 3, 19
name and details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders
passed
sale, "John H. Sullivan": order to authorize at public auction 8500,
referred to execctive committee, 22-report accepted, order passed, 52
sand boxes for steep grades: order to install at Washington st. and
West Roxbury parkway, Ward 20, for safety at grade, passed, 384
sewer division order passed: Phillips pi., Ward 7, 164-message with
communication filed, 292
sidewalk assessment orders passed:
Ward 1,382
Ward 4, 172, 257
Ward 7, 98, 182
Ward 8, 98, 257
Ward 9, 257
Ward 10, (3) 98, 172, (2) 257
Ward 11, 98; (3) 172; (2) 257; (2) 331, 372
Ward 12, 135, (2) 172, 257, 331
Ward 13, 98, 172, 257, 372
Ward 14, (2) 98, (2) 157, 257, 331
Ward 15, (5) 98, 177, 257
Ward 16, (4) 98, 182, (2) 204
Ward 17, (3) 98, (2) 135, 182
Ward IS, 135, 382
Ward 19, 98, 172, 257, 372
Ward 20, 331
Ward 21, 98, 172, 372, 382
Ward 22, 98; 135; 172; (4)257; (2)372; (2)382
sidewalk orders passed:
for details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
for names of streets: see Councilors' improvement orders. Wards
Ward 6, 289, 323
Ward 7, 323, 331, 358, 408
Ward 8, 331
Ward 9, 41, (2) 289
Ward 10, 124
Ward 12, 78
Ward 14, 70
Ward 15, (repair) 299, 372, 373
Ward 17, 31, 94, 323
Ward 19, 391
Ward 20, (2) 174, 323
Ward 22, 69, 356, 386
>UBLIC
(43)
RELIEF
5ublic Works Department, Continued
snow removal orders passed:
appropriation, CURRENT expenses: order for $750,000, 9.5, 96-
motion (Councilor Norton) to lay on table, defeated, 100-motion
(Councilor Roberts) to reduce amount to $125,000, defeated, 100,
101-order as introduced, adopted, 101
employment, men with own equipment: order to employ men
denied by iack of department equipment, passed, 69
excise tax on trucks: order not to pay for use of trucks until pay-
ment, passed, 115-message, filed, 119
expenditure, $700,000: see Finance Commission
J. P. McCabe Company payments: order to withhold until infor-
mation in re location where trucks were used, referred to rules
committee, 102
order to consider insisting all contracts be given to lowest responsible
bidders, passed, 399
overtime pay: order to pay foremen, clerks, inspectors, laborers for
overtime, passed, 68
steps, North Mead St., Ward 2: order for continuance of repair work,
passed, 164
street car reservation elimination: order to confer with Boston
Elevated Railway officials for, Bennington St., East Boston, from
Swift st. to Orient Heights, passed, 281
transfers: sewer division to motor vehicles, $25,000, 286-laid on table,
288-motion to take from table carried, order passed, 324
wages paid under contract, J. P. McCabe Company: order for
information in re, passed, 267-message with communication, filed, 271
water, Bay View section, South Boston: order for provision of safe,
clean water for use of residents and information as to action pro-
posed, passed, 284
white way order passed: Ward 3, 385
Juttees
elimination, police officers: see Police Department, puttee elimination
R. F. C.
tax relief: see Relief Finance Corporation, aid in tax payments
R. J. Connolly, Inc.
contract validity: see Police Department, legal opinion in re
expenditures
Racing
bill amendment: see Legislation, racing bill amendment, or page 372
nonprofit making organization: see City Council, resolves, horse
and dog racing
track in Boston: order to consider having one of the two tracks in
Massachusetts located here, passed, 374
Radio
use at Long Island by patients: see Institutions Department, Long
"Island hospital, radio for patients
national anthem: see City Council, resolves, national anthem on
radio and display of U. S. flag
Railroad Police Officers
Boston Elevated Railway Company: see Police Department, release
of; appointment of by Cambridge
Boston, Revere Beach & Lynn Railroad: see Police Department,
release of
Randidge Fund
appropriation, excursion expenses: order for $5,000 for recreation
purposes and transportation of children, to be charged to reserve
fund, referred to executive committee, 226-report accepted, order
passed, 233
Real Estate
comparative study of taxes, various cities: order for, 178, 179
investigation by finance commission: order for, of abatements on
J value $20,000 or more from January 1 to April 15, 1934, with names
of firms or individuals petitioning, passed, 137 to 142-report received,
filed, 233, 234
Real Estate, Continued
necessity for relief in taxation: see Taxes, necessity of taxation relief
for real estate
publicity, information from law department: order for information
in re availability for inspection by public of records and original
petitions, passed, 137 to 142-message with communication from law
department, filed, 218, 219
total abatements, 1933 and 1934, to April IS: order for information
from assessing department, passed, 137 to 142
$200,000,000 valuation reduction: see Assessing Department
Recipients of Public Aid
see Public Welfare Department
Reconstruction of Streets
orders passed: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
Recreation Pier, East Boston
North ferry. Ward I: see Federal Emergency Relief Administration,
North ferry recreation pier, Ward 1
Red Sox Baseball Club
work through Mr. Yawkey for unemployed: see City Council,
resolves, thanks to Mr. Yawkey.
Reduction of Taxes
interest, delinquent taxes: see Legislation, petition in re — or page
136, 137
valuation: see Assessing Department, reduction of valuation (2) or
page 373
Refuse Dumping, South Boston Waterfront
see Health Department
Reimbursements
city employees: see Payments, names
Reinstatements
assessing department:
second assistant assessors: see Assessing Department
fire department: Falcone, Frank V., 97-99, 100
hospital department, south division: Pettee, Annie: petition, 49-
order approved, passed, 52
penal institutions department: Santianno, Michael: notice, referred ,
to executive committee, 78-order approving, referred to executive
committee, 79-report accepted, order passed, 93
police department:
Clougherty, Peter: resolution, 19-vetoed, filed, 23; Flatley,
John T.: resolution, 121-vetoed, 145; Foster, William S.: reso-
lution, 19-vetoed, filed, 23; Green, Roland P.: resolution, 121-
vetoed, 145; McCormack, Michael: resolution, 16-vetoed, filed,
23; Wesson, Fulton P.: order, passed, 91-message, communica-
tion, filed, 105, 106; order passed, 124-vetoed, 145
public works department: order for, of David I. Barry, passed, 299
school committee department:
Curran, Dr. Simon F., referred to executive committee, 147-order
for under chap. 320, Acts of 1933, report accepted, order approved,
151; Garfield, Mrs. Mary E.: notice, filed, 12-order approving,
passed, 13; Hennessey, Dorothy V.: communication, filed, 98-
order passed, 99
Release of Restrictions
East Broadway and N St.: preambles and order for release, referred
to public lands committee, 299
Harrison aye.. No. 748: see Massachusetts Memorial Hospital, release
of restrictions
Relief Finance Corporation
aid in tax payments: order to consider conferring with chairman of
R. F. C. on a plan to aid Boston property owners meeting tax pay-
ments, passed, 334
I.'l I II I
'Hi
RESERVE
Relict for Real Estate
H. P. Ci aid; "• Rellel finance Corporation, aid menl
taxation relief: .■ i I taxation relief fop real estate
Remortgaging Foreclosed Propertj
Investigation by bank commlieloner: order for. pa cd 00
Removal from Offic e
com tables: ■ • The M ayor and Constables
Removal of Trees
kdams st.: ■' Streete and Bquarcs, improvement ordei pa ed,
Adams st., Ward 17
Renaming Streets and Squares
si , Streets and Squares
Repertory Theatre Taxes
see Taxes
Reports Made to City Council
appropriations committee: 230 to 24.')
Boston city hospital:
message with communication from trustees of hospital department
filed, 57
report received from finance commission filed, 193 to 197
Boston Elevated Railway finances: report from law department
received and filed, 254
Churchill bequest: sec Hospital Department, Boston city hospital'
convalescent hospital, or pages 408, 427
citizen employment on contracts and subcontracts: see Contracts,
under P. W. A., or pages 336, 365, 366
claims committee: 101, 135, 235, 257, 300, 308, 312, 313, 324, 335,
343, 372, 428 (ordered printed, 428)
comparative census figures, probable reason for decline or in-
crease: see City Planning Board, information in re population
constables (regular): 151, 152, 161, 257
constables (special committee): 174, 234, 257
Council rules, 1934-35: rules of 1933 recommended with addition
of rules 27, 33 and order for appointment of special committees, 10-
rules adopted, 11
county accounts committee: 356, 401
debt limit borrowing for 1934: see Borrowing Capacity of Boston
decentralization: see Public Welfare Department
dumping permits, Ward 16: see page 190
executive committee: 32, 39, 52, 62, 93, 99, 113, 122, 151, 181, 182,
204, 214, 225, 282, 300, 308, 313, 324, 335, 342, 357, 372, 386, 388, 401
expenditures, 1928-1933: message with report received, filed, 118, 119
finance committee: 40, 63 to 68, 71 to 74, 144, 233, 234, 382
financial statement: see Auditing Department
on fire department: see Boston Municipal Research Bureau
free passes, East Boston ferries: message with report received, filed,
116
information in re applications and placements: see Municipal
Employment Bureau, information requested
jitney licenses committee: 68, 113, 220
land takings, East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel:
message with report from finance commission with recommendation,
35, 36-filed, 37
message with report from finance commission filed, 418 to 427, in-
clusive
licensing board acts: see Licenses, revocation, validity, or pages 333
and 345
monthly reports: see Public Welfare Department
nonresident patients, city hospital: see Hospital Department,
Boston city hospital, nonresident patients
North Grove st. land sale to Massachusetts General Hospital:
report received from auditing department, filed, 48
Northern ave. bridge: see National Industrial Recovery Act, chap.
366, Acts of 1933 program
oil contracts, E. F. Loonie, Jr.: see Finance Commission, contract,
E. F. Loonie, Jr.
ordinances committee: 49, 372
Reports Made to City Council, Continued
I'.ulm.iii fund commit tec: 28)
police department expenditures, counsel opinion: see Police IJe-
partment, legal opinion in re expenditures
prison inspection coin mil t cc annual report: ordered printed, 428
probation officer! South Boston municipal court: me Suffofl
' lounty, or page • ■'■
public lands committee: 68, 185, 182, 257, 323, 388
public welfare department: re-registration, 303, 304; workers under
O. W. A., 316
registration, listing voters: •• ill-hull Department, or page* 339
168, 867, 368
rules committee: 48
smallpox hospital: nee Health Department, smallpox hospital closing
smallpox hospital facilities for care: see Health Department, faiili-
ties for handling smallpox and leprosy cases
soldiers' relief committee: 10, 20, 25, 30, 39, 52, 08, 78, 85,
122, 143, 149, 172, 199, 220, 257, 266, 281, 298, 312, 323, 341,
352, 372, 382, 408, 409
South Boston waterfront refuse dumping: tee Health Department
special liquor vote election, January 23, 1934: see page 24
special committee on public welfare: 124, 161, 223
special committee, toll schedule: report with preamble- ami resolu-
tion and revised schedule, report accepted, resolution rejected, vote
doubted, resolution adopted, 352, 353
statistical information: see Public Welfare Department, general \
management information
synchronization, accounts of welfare and auditing departments:
see Auditing Department
taxes, Boston Port Development Company: see Collecting Departs
ment
traffic lights, Commonwealth ave.: message with communication !
from traffic department filed, 247, 248
unclaimed baggage: 101, 334
vote, liquor license: see Election Department, vote, liquor license, or
page 381
Washington and Tremont sts., traffic conditions: message with
reports from traffic commission filed, 325, 326, 327-further report
filed, 363, 364
welfare recipients: see Public Welfare Special Committee, partial
report
Re-Registration of Public Welfare Recipients
see Public Welfare Department, re-registration of recipients
Rescissions of Loans
Brighton courthouse, firehouse, Charities Administration build-
ings, Commonwealth ave. traffic signal system: see Loans,,
rescissions
Brookline Avenue water mains, school constructions, street re-
construction, (surgical) hospital building: see foregoing projects,
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program
firehouse construction, prison buildings, Wayfarers' Lodge: see
foregoing projects, loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program
Northern Avenue Bridge: see foregoing project, loans under F. E. A.
of P. W. program
sewer construction: see Sewer Construction, loans under F E. A. of
P. W. program
tax anticipation $28,000,000: see Loans
watermain construction: see project named, loans under F E. A. of
P. W. program
Reserve Fund
charges against:
current expenses: see Municipal Employment Bureau, appro- :
priations, current expenses
excursions: see Randidge Fund, appropriation, excursion expenses j
FIRE DEPARTMENT, REIMBURSEMENT OF EMPLOYEES: See Payments, •
names of persons
gray, preston E. (petitions referred, page 24), order for S100, passed,
101
PARK DEPARTMENT, REIMBURSEMENT OF EMPLOYEES: See Payments, :|
names of persons
POLICE DEPARTMENT, REIMBURSEMENT OF EMPLOYEES: See Payments, :]
names of persons
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, REIMBURSEMENT OF EMPLOYEES: S<
Payments, names of persons
reditision of wards committee expenses: see City Council, orders,;
ward redivision
Reserve
(45)
ROBERTS
Reserve Fund, Continued
, charges against:
reorganization" expense: see Municipal Employment Bureau,
appropriation
SCHOOL BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT, REIMBURSEMENT OF EMPLOYEES: see
Payments, names of individuals
see Municipal Employment Bureau, current expenses
ZONING ADJUSTMENT BOARD:
order for S3, 500 for expenses referred to executive committee, 245-
passed, 357
Residents of Boston
I appointees, Walter M. Driscoll, Wesley J. Backman, legal resi-
dents: see Election Department, legal resident appointees
1 listing: see Police Department, census taking, including unemployment
information and listing carefully
. preference in retention of position: see City Employees
Resignations
balfe, james p., statistics department, filed, 107
bronstein, morris, public welfare overseer, filed, 172
chapman, philip a., superintendent of supplies, placed on file, 15
1 conry, Joseph A., traffic commissioner, placed on file, 15
corbett, Arthur B., transit commissioner, placed on file, 15
' cotter, mary a., deputy commissioner, institutions department, filed,
220
i Crosby, Frederic J., sinking funds commissioner, 9-placed on file, 10
. daily, henry l., principal assessor, placed on file, 15
donovan, daniel J., constable, filed, 341
favor, gilbert i., constable, filed, 327
. fitzpatrick, james H., member, board of appeal, filed, 197
heller, nathan a., transit commissioner, filed, 29, 30
Jennings, Patrick h. , member, zoning adjustment board, filed, 197
lavata, louis j., constable, street laying-out department, filed, 121
lydon, john j., soldiers' relief commissioner, 9- placed on file, 10
macdonald, Helen a., member, election commission, 213
maginnis, charles d., art commissioner, filed, 197
■ maguire, james e., institutions commissioner, filed, 24
mahoney, charles j., public welfare overseer, filed, 172
manevitch, hyman, director, Workingmen's Loan Association, tiled,
197
mcsweeney, edward M., fire commissioner, placed on file, 10
mulvey, james j., city registrar, placed on file, 10
1 reid, George t., deputy commissioner, penal institutions department
filed, 29, 30
proposed request for: McCarthy, Walter V., secretary, public welfare
department, referred to executive committee, 204
Restoration of Pay
laborers: see Public Works Department, restoration, laborers' pay
Restrictions
East Broadway and N st. release: preambles and order for release of
restrictions, referred to public lands committee, 299
on land, removal of: see Public Lands, release of restrictions orders
passed
parking: see Traffic Department and Streets and Squares, improvement
orders passed
patients at Boston city hospital: see Hospital Department
traffic: see Traffic Department and Streets and Squares, improvement
orders passed, name of street
Resurfacing Streets
orders passed: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
Retirement, Medical Board
| designation of physicians: see Health Department
Retirements
deane, mart j., hospital department, filed, 388
Holland, neal j., principal assessor, filed, 29, 30
Retirements, Continued
hurley, Margaret, under Acts, 1914, chap. 765, referred to executive
committee, 385-report accepted, order passed, 386
jennings, louis v., resolution favoring enactment of legislation making
eligible for allowances under Boston Retirement Act, passed, 98
o'callahan, john J., street commissioner, filed, 29, 30
riseman, frank, health department laborer, 228-report accepted, order
passed, 232
Return of E. R. A. Funds
unused: see Emergency Relief Administration, information in re unused
funds or page 400, 401
Revenue for City
study for attaining additional: order to consider ordering imme-
diately study of possible methods of obtaining, with a view to presenta-
tion of plan to legislature, passed, 334
"Right of Way" Summonses to Motorists
legislation : see Fire Department
Roberts, George W., Councilor, Ward 4
committee appointments:
Appropriations, Claims, Constables, Jitney Licenses, Rules (page 5),
15
Ward Redivision, 285
amendments:
committee reports, constables (vote separately on 7 names), 161, 162
improvement orders, Ward 4:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Columbus ave., 225, 262, 272, 295
St. Botolph St., 257
West Canton St., 307, 338
motions:
appointment of constables, 146, 147
committee reports: appropriations ($485,694.50 current expenses,
welfare department), 231: executive, snow removal, 100: (special
public works department transfer), 288: (welfare appropriation
$485,694.50) lay on table, carried, doubted, lost, 232, 233; finance
(six loan orders) ; previous questions moved, 68
orders, resolves:
adoption, rules of 1933, 5
amendment, racing bill, 372 (with Councilor McGrath)
appointment, committee to report rules, 5
certain appointees, legal residents, 124
closing proceedings, 430
complaints in re new parking law, 335
Costigan-Wagner Bill. 204
credit to city employees at hospital, 20
discharge, city employees, 102
discharge, second assistant assessors, 86
distribution, F. E. R. A. work, 221
House Bills 1046 and 1047, 78, 79
information on proposed surgical building, 49, 50
roping off streets (with Councilor Shattuck), 87
sale, dwelling houses, 19
point, information:
committee report: appropriations ($485,694.50 current expenses,
welfare department), 231: executive, 288: executive ($485,694.50
welfare appropriation), 233
point of order:
committee reports: appropriations (1934 budget), 244: constables, 164
remarks:
blood transfusions, 375
certain appointees, legal residents, 124
cleaning catch-basins (transfer appropriations), 339
closing proceedings, 430
committee reports: appropriations (1934 budget), 239, 244: con-
stables, 161, 162, 163: executive (Boylston st. subway extension
stop), 283, 284: (municipal employment bureau loans), 40: ($2,000
municipal employment bureau appropriation), 233: snow removal,
100: ($485,694.50 welfare appropriation), 233: finance (six loan
orders), 64, 65, 67
constables' confirmations, 173
discharge: city employees, 102: second assistant assessors, 86, 87
distribution, F. E. R. A. work, 221, 222
establishment, United States shoe factories, 354, 355
installation, traffic lights, 262
proposed confirmation of minor officers, 144
revocation, license of Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Com-
pany, 290
telephone meters, 149, 150
transfer, sewer division, 324
welfare payments, single men, 260
unanimous consent:
cleaning catch-basins (transfer appropriation), 339
RONAN
(46)
SCHOOLS
Ronan Park
1 1- 1 1 1 1 1 -. courtii ■ Pork Department, Mt, i<ln playground
svelt, Pn
donl
preamblea And >•- oluti i Incorporate congratulation foi unoi
ni i-n.. 1 1 . |. . ed. 01
copj "i lottoi ini bj Councilor Shatluck to the Pre idonti
of relief fur real atitate and inotbodu ol iuIi titute taxation, referred to
committee on rules, 142, 143
Roping Off Streets
... i itj Mo songor Department, Ho "I lakes, orders passed,
and City Council, flags, ropi . take , chargi i i
Rules for City Council
I9JJ: tee City Council, rule for 1033, temporary adoption
19.14: committee appointed to prepare and report. 5; report made to
council, id adopted, 1 1
Rules Committee
members appointed: Councilors Wilson, Gallagher. Green, McGrath,
Roberta, 5, 15
reports: 40, 245
Safety Islands
names and details: sec Streets and Squares, improvement orders
passed, also Councilors' orders, resolves
St. Lawrence Waterway
opposition: sec City Council, orders
Salaries
reduction continued from I9J3: message with order for, under
authority sect. 3, chap. 121, Acts of 1033, placed on file, 5, 6
Sales
convalescent hospital property: sec Hospital Department, Boston
city hospital
178 Hillside st. property: preambles and order for sale (Proceedings,
1933. page 374. referred to public lands committee) — message with com-
munication complaining of condition from building commissioner,
filed, 254, 255-report of committee accepted, order for sale passed,
257-final reading and passed, 281. 282
"John H. Sullivan": see Public Works Department
land taken for parks. East Boston: message with preambles and
order for sale to Commonwealth of Massachusetts §17,380.30, referred
to public lands committee, 274-report accepted, order passed, 323-
second reading, passed, 358
old material: see Fire Department
police station 12: see Police Department, station 12 sale
tubercular reacting cattle: see Penal Institutions Department,
tubercular reacting cattle sale or pages 395, 396
unclaimed baggage: see Boston & Maine Railroad
unpaid taxes: sec Collecting Department, sale for taxes
Sand Boxes
Jefferson school playground: see School Committee Department
School Buildings Department
election, commissioner: notice from school committee department,
Richard J. Lane for three years, filed, 382
reimbursement of employees: see Payments, names of persons
Jefferson playground: order, with park department, to investigate
condition of foundations, passed, 344
School Committee Department
attendance of school children at movies: see Motion Pictures
Boston Public Latin school: order to arrange for city participation
in 300th anniversary, passed, 41
School Committee Department, Continued
Clnirlci I. owe (Logue, pg. 270 school: order to considci conduction
i .| 23] me tags with communication, filed, 271
election, school buildings commissioner: notice in re Richard J.J
Lane fo« three ■■ •■ . Sled, 382
lli/ubcth Peabody school, information: order lor, with reference!
to transfei '.f pupils, razing building and turning over land to parkfj
department forpl md n i I 2X4 n.<- 5agc with communication,!
Bled, 290
free bus transportation to Woodrow Wilson school: order to
furnish to children in Cushing Hill lection, Dorcbi U < , p a ed, 375 ]
Henry L. Pierce school: order for repair of fence, passed, 175-messagel
Icnrv I.. I'iltcc school: onn-r
with communication, filed, 193
high schools as junior colleges: '.nl'-r to consider using, for those
unable, because ol depression, to enter college after being graduated
from high ichool, passed, 232
investigation, communism among school children: see Com-
munism, among school children
Jefferson school:
order for sand boxes and sec-saws, passed, 223
order to arrange for installation, sand boxes and sec-saws, passed,:
229-messsige with communication, filed, 271
John Marshall school: order to take land adjacent for play space,)'
i ed, 215-message with communication, filed, 270
junior college courses: order to consider establishing, passed, 223-1
message with communication, filed, 269
leases: see Leases, Washington st., school
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program: see Schools, High and"
Intermediate
Lucy Stone school: order for permanent additional quarters at early
date, communications received, order passed, 158-message with ■
communication, referring to letter page 158, filed, 249
motion pictures machines: see Motion Pictures
reimbursements: see Payments, Phaneuf, Edward J.
pensions, annuities: see Payments, Connelly, Fred W.
pledge of allegiance to flag by pupils and teachers: order to require
as school regulation at least once a week, passed, 199-message with
communication filed, 249
reinstatements:
Cuhran, Dr. Simon F., supervising physician, public schools, approved
by civil service commission, referred to executive committee, 147 !
Garfield, Mrs. Mary Evelyn, clerk of business manager, notice ■
sent city council, 12-order approving, passed, 13
Hennessey, Dorothy V., secretary, Practical Arts high school,
notice sent city council, 98— order approving, passed. 99
transfer, land, Fallon field, from park department: sec Depart-
mental Transfers, park to school department, Fallon field
Schools
Boston Public Latin: sec School Committee Department
Charles Lowe (Logue, pg. 271): see School Committee Department i
Elizabeth Peabody: see School Committee Department, Elizabeth
Peabody school information
Emily Fifield: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed,
Torrey St., Ward 17
Federal loans: see Schools, High and Intermediate, under F. E. A. of
P. WT. program
Henry L. Pierce: see School Committee Department, Henry L. Pierce
school
Jefferson, sand boxes: see School Committee Department, Jefferson
school
John Marshall, land for playground: see School Committee De-
partment
Lucy Stone: see School Committee Department
use of high, as junior colleges: sec School Committee Department,
high schools as junior colleges
Washington st. school lease: sec Leases
West Roxbury high, land for: see Schools, High and Intermediate
Schools, High and Intermediate
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program:
message with order by authority of chap. 366, Acts of 1933 to appro-;
priate by loan ?2,000,000 referred to executive committee, 34- i
report accepted, order passed and committed to finance committee, j
39-loan and grant agreements received, referred to finance com-
mittee, 42^18
message with order of approval from Washington and order approving I
grants and execution by the Mayor, referred to executive committee, I
56-report accepted, 63-final reading and passed, 68— communication i
from Washington, 69-second, final reading, passed, 74
message with order for authority for the Mayor to rescind loan and'
grant agreements above and substitute order approving new grant j
agreements, referred to executive committee, 118
jiCHOOLS
(47)
SHARE
Schools, High and Intermediate, Continued
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program:
approval of State Emergency Finance Board received, filed, 168
rescission, 1933, loan order: message with order for (loan 82,000,000
outside debt limit under chap. 366, Acts of 1933 in Proceedings
of 1933, pp. 357, 361, 365, 375) referred to executive committee,
170, 171-report accepted, order read once, passed, 181-second,
final reading, order for rescission passed, 198
West Roxbtjry high and intermediate schools:
order for construction of intermediate school and addition to
Robert Gould Shaw school costing $1,200,000, referred to execu-
tive committee, 265, 266-report accepted, order passed, 267-
final reading, passed, 281
order for authority to engage in construction of intermediate school
and addition to Robert Gould Shaw school costing 81,200,000,
referred to executive committee, 265, 266-report accepted, order
passed, 267
order authorizing execution and deliverance to United States of
America grant agreements No. 4217 for 8552,000, 30 per cent of
cost and approving grant referred to executive committee, 393-
report accepted, order passed, 402
West Roxbury high, land for: message with order authorizing the
Mayor to prepare and submit to General Court petition and bill
for transfer of portion of land from park department to school
committee department, letter withdrawing above order, explanation
later, filed, 189
message with report on cost under original loan and grant and amount
of grant under new grant agreements, filed, 205, 206
pay for work on schoolhouses: order for the Mayor to ask for
modification of pav ruling, paving more for labor on schoolhouses,
passed, 232
vote by Massachusetts Emergency Finance Board in re received,
filed, 381
copy of vote of State Emergency Finance Board in re school con-
struction project, filed, 428
Scrubwomen
employment and hours: see City Employees
Selvitelia, Henry, Councilor, Ward 1
committee appointments: Appropriations, Claims, Jitney Licenses,
Ordinances, Printing, Public Safety, 15
doubt of vote: tolls, Sumner tunnel, 352
improvement orders, Ward 1:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Bennington st., 50, 226, 227, 281
Meridian St., 50, 76 •
Porter st., 281. 303
motions:
committee reports, claims (reimbursement, Edmund Currie) for
recommission, 235
constables' confirmations-for roll call, 174
minor officers paid by fees-postponement, 150
necessity for relief of real estate, reference to executive committee,
143
orders, resolves:
abatements on real estate (3 orders), 137
additional welfare money for Christmas, 384
advance payment, on pay rolls, 397, 398
appointment, non-residents, 123
appropriation for East Boston playground, 358
compensation for supervisors, state election, 386
completion, E. R. A. projects, 215
committee on tunnel tolls, 308
contract, E. F. Loonie, Jr., 221
cost of broadcasting, 202
discharge of employees by the Mayor, 107
East Boston: branch, welfare work, 202: housing development, 18;
playground, 429
elimination of puttees (with Councilor Green) , 182
elimination, street car reservation, Bennington St., 281
employment of citizens, East Boston tunnel, 18
establishment, United States shoe factories (with Councilor Doherty),
354, 355
five-cent fare on Elevated through General Sumner tunnel, 281
heaters in police cars, 401
ice in drinking fountains, 221
information taxes of Boston port authority, 20
John H. L. Noyes playground, 148
locker building, American Legion pk., 148
municipal building, Ward 1, 13, 398
naming East Boston tunnel for Martin Lomasney, 202
Neptune Gardens, East Boston, 68
notice of hearings, gasoline permits, etc., 19
payments of mortgages, 401
placing E. R. A. men, 331, 332
playground, East Boston, 323, 401
proposed reinstatement of second assistant assessors, 85
proposed use of army base, 53
re-censorship, motion pictures, 280
Selvitelia, Henry, Councilor, Ward 1, Continued
orders, resolves:
recreation pier, Ward 1, 147, 159
reopening shoe code hearings, 384
restoration, forty-hour week, 108
return of E. R. A. funds, 400
revocation, license to Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Com-
pany (with Councilors Goldman, Kerrigan), 289
Sumner tunnel tolls, 305
Timothy F. Donovan blvd. , 343
tolls, Sumner tunnel, 352
welfare payments, single men, 259
point of information:
committee reports appropriations (1934 budget), 240
minor officers paid by fees, 150
transfer of appropriation (laundry building, city hospital), 305
remarks:
abatements on real estate, 137, 141
appointment, non-residents, 123
blood transfusions, 375
committee reports: appropriation (1934 budget), 239, 240: claims
(Edmund Currie petition), 235: executive, snow removal, 100
completion, E. R. A. projects, 215
contract, E. F. Loonie, Jr., 221
cost of broadcasting, 202, 203
discharge of employees by the Mayor, 107
East Boston; branch, welfare work, 202: housing development, 18, 19:
playgrounds, 429
employment of citizens, East Boston tunnel, 18
establishment, United States shoe factories, 354, 355
five-cent fare on Elevated through General Sumner tunnel, 281
Fourth of July celebration, 258
hospital conditions, 151
ice in drinking fountains, 221
notice, applications for gasoline permits, 298
placing E. R. A. men, 331, 332
proposed reinstatement of second assistant assessors, 85, 86
race tracks in Boston, 374
recreation pier. Ward 1, 147, 148, 159
restoration, forty-hour week, 108
return of E. R. A. funds, 400, 401
slum removal legislation ("Boston American" editorial included in
record), 229
Sumner tunnel tolls, 305, 306, 307
tolls, Sumner tunnel, 352
welfare cases, Ward 1, 157
welfare payments, single men, 260, 261
unanimous consents:
redivision of wards, 300
revocation, license of Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Com-
pany, 290
Senate Bill
260, coordination, police forces: see City Council, resolves
Sewer Construction (No. 4193)
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program:
message with order by authority of chap. 366, Acts of 1933, to appro-
priate by loan 81,000,000, referred to executive committee, 34-
report accepted, order passed and sent to finance committee,
39, 40-report accepted, final reading passed, 63-68-communication
from Washington, 69
message with loan and grant agreement forms received, referred to
executive committee, 42—48
message with order authorizing execution and delivery of agreements,
referred to executive committee, 56-report accepted, order to
authorize the Mayor to execute, passed, 74
message with order authorizing the Mayor to rescind above order and
substitute order approving new grant agreement, referred to
executive committee, 133-report accepted, rescission order and
substitute, passed, 143
approval of State Emergency Finance Board received, filed, 168
message with report on cost under original loan and grant and amount
of grant under new grant agreements, filed, 205, 206
rescission, 1933 loan order: message with order for (loan under
chap. 366, Acts of 1933, pages 376. 383, 398, 399 in Proceedings of
1933-outside debt limit, $1,000,000), referred to executive com-
mittee, 170, 171-report accepted, read once, passed, 181-second,
final reading, order rescinding, passed, 198
Sewers
orders passed: see Public Works Department, sewer division orders
passed
"Share-the-Work" System
see Stagger System
siivrrucK
(4«;
south!
Sh.it tucK, Henrj I ... Councilor, Ward 5
commit iir j 1 1 •!•>«» i ■ i • mi hi i
Ipproprint b, Finance, Legi lative, Parkman Fundi 16 man ■
in, I Bouth \ isoi -in i in ii. 20 Welfare Department Investigation,
s. 01
amendments:
miiiiii- roporte, appropriat (1034 budget), 240
improvement orders. Ward 5:
i mi details: ii ■ Bl reel i and Square , name
Boaaon it., 78, 81
mot ions:
compensation, oortain oity employees, 357
V(i i eod Bill, 136
mil estate taxes, various cities (previous question), I so
Bumner tunnel tolls, referring to City Council committee, 308, 307
orders, resolves:
allowance for Bocial law library, 388
Ku.it Boston (General Sumner) tunnel land-takings, 353
hospital conditions, 150
information: in connection with budget, 08, 09; welfare overseers (2)
10
necessity for relief of real estate. 142, 143
roping off streets (with Councilor Roberts), 87
point, information:
budget appropriation, health units, 99
committee reports, appropriations (1934 budget), 243, 244
constables' confirmations, 172
loans and rescissions, 63
remarks:
abatements on real estate, 140, 141
budget appropriation, health units, 99
committee reports: appropriations (1934 budget), 239, 240:
constables, 163, 164: executive, snow removal, 100: West Roxbury
schools under F. E. A. of P. W., 267: finance (six loan orders), 64,
66: investigate welfare department, 90, 91: constables' confirma-
tions, 173, 174
contract, E. F. Loonie, Jr., 221
cost of broadcasting, 203
East Boston: housing development, 19; (General Sumner) tunnel
land-takings, 353, 354
establishment, United States shoe factories, 354, 355
hospital conditions, 150, 151
information: on proposed surgical building, 50: in connection with
budget, 99: requested, welfare overseers, (2) 16, 17
inspectors, building department, 374
necessity for relief of real estate, 143
next meeting, 264
repeal, new parking law, 331
"share-the-work" stagger system, 113
Sumner tunnel tolls, 307
tolls for Sumner tunnel, 352, 353
use, Boston Common and Parkman bandstand by Massachusetts
Real Estate Owners Association, 314
Shoe Code
hearings: sec City Council, resolves, shoe code hearing reopening or
page 384
Shoe Factories
establishment by United States under E. R. A.: see pages 354,
355 or Gity Council, resolves, establishment, United States shoe
factories under E. R. A.
"Shorts" Ruling
reversal: see Park Department, reversal of ruling on "shorts"
Shower Baths
hot, during summer: see Park Department, playground or ward
Sidewalks
orders passed: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
Single Men and Women
employment, E. R. A.: see Federal Emergency Relief Administration,
single men and women employment or page 386
Sinking Funds Department
commissioner: Eliot Wadsworth appointed to, April 30, 1933, vieet
I rederli I I ro by re igned, 9 filed. 10; reappointed f'.r 3 years,!
Bled, 156
organization: notice of election of Eliot Wadsworth, chairman!
Rupert 8, Carven, lecretary, filed, 16; Charles J. Fox, secretary, 2571
transfer of unexpended balances on seven projects: mi sage wits
order for transference to BUlking funds of unexpended balances of j
out ide of debt loan-i for Lowell. V> out and Causeway Hts.,1
(126,374.73; Charles Bt, widening, $22,229.76; Morion i improve-
ment, $16,306.65; Docl and Fancuil Hall iqs., $14,964.58; Knecland
st. improvement, $8,852.45; East Boston pumping station, $4,456.36;
Summer and (. -t ., widening, $1,714.04; total, $183,898.57, referred
to executive committee, 380 report ai-o ' ed, 'iSH final
reading, passed, 428
Signals
automatic traffic: see Traffic Commission
Slot Machines
removal, Charles st. entrance: see Boston Elevated Railway Com-
pany. slot machine removal, Fields Corner
Slum Clearance
committee appointment: order to consider appointing a few depart-
ment heads to a Boston Housing Committee to deal with Federal{
and State authorities directly, passed, 356
Federal aid: see Legislation
resolution favoring: see City Council, resolves, slum clearance undei ;
National Housing Division
Smallpox Hospital
authority for transfer of control: see Law Department, smallpox1
hospital, opinion in re
closing: see Health Department, smallpox hospital closing
facilities for handling smallpox and leprosy cases: see Health
Department
necessity for separation, leprosy and smallpox wards from hospi-
tal buildings: see Health Department
Snow Removal
appropriation, current expenses, contracts, employment, men
with own equipment, overtime payment, withholding pay-
ments, J. P. McCabe Company: see Public Works Department,
snow removal orders passed
equipment appropriation: sec Public Works Department, loans
Social Law Library
order to pay from Suffolk County accounts SI, 000 for maintenance and
enlargement passed, 388
Soldiers' Relief Committee
members appointed: Councilors Kerrigan, Norton, Donovan, Gleason
Doherty, 15
reports: 10, 20, 25, 30, 39, 52, 68, 78, 85, 122, 143, 149, 172, 199, 220
257, 266, 281, 298, 312, 323, 341, 352, 372, 382. 408
Soldiers' Relief Department
commissioner: Charles H. Carev appointed rice John J. Lydon resigned
9
aid, state and city, to soldiers and sailors, orders passed:
January, 1934, 10. 20, 25
February. 30, 39, 52, 68
March, 78, 85
April, 122, 143, 149
May, 172, 199
June, 220, 257
July, 266, 281
August, 298
September, 312, 323
October, 341, 351
November, 372
December, 382, 408
medical prescriptions: order to reestablish system of issuing, passed
40-message with communication, filed, 76
workers transferred to E. R. A. : see Emergency Relief Administration
transfer of workers from soldiers' relief rolls, or page 399, 409
South Boston and Lincoln Power Stations
use of spare power by city: see Boston Elevated Railway Company
SPECIAL
(49)
STREET
special Committees
. constables: see Constables, Special Committee
licenses and permits: see Licenses and Permits, Special Committee
public welfare: see Public Welfare, Special Committee
' toll schedule: see General Sumner Tunnel, special committee on tolls
Special Council Meetings
adjourned meeting: 71, 236
called by city clerk: 54
called by President John F. Dowd: 265, 286
called by the Mayor: 5, 309
jury drawing: 359, 360
'Stagger" System
city employees: see City Employees, stagger system alternative for
discharge
equal sharing: order to consider requesting that all share alike from
department heads down, referred to executive committee, 122
second assistant assessors: see Assessing Department, reinstatement
second assistant assessors
"share the work": see City Employees
State Election
order for, passed, 341, 342
State Emergency Finance Board
approval of seven projects under chap. 366, Acts of 1933: see Street
Reconstruction; Sewer Construction; Hospital Buildings; School
Buildings; Brookline Avenue Watermain; Police Communications
System; Watermain Construction
National Industrial Recovery Act, chap. 366, Acts of 1933: see
New City Hall, loans under chap. 366. Acts of 1933
1933 loan under chap. 366, Acts of 1933, see Fire and Prison Build-
ings; Wayfarers' Lodge
Stations
fire, Ward 13: see Fire Department, station. Ward 13
police. No. 12, East Fourth St., South Boston: see Police Department,
Station 12 sale
Statistics Department
acting chairman and head of department: Charles J. Fox vice
James P. Balfe resigned, filed, 107
information in re discharge Mr. Balfe: order for, from the Maj'or
in re precautions taken to insure safety of records of welfare depart-
ment, passed, 114-message filed, 119
"Municipal Register": see City Documents
welfare department survey: see Public Welfare Department
Stenographer-Clerks, Clerk of Committees Department
Frank W. Leaver and John L. Maloney elected to serve at SI, 800 per
annum minus 15 per cent reduction, 144
Step-Rate Wage Increases
when effective: see City Employees
Storrow Basin
order to request Metropolitan District Commission and Boston park
commission to change name of Charles River Basin and Charlesbank
pk. to Storrow basin in view of interest and money received from Mrs.
James J. Storrow, passed, 49-message with communication, filed, 77
Street Construction Project
appeal for further funds from P. W. A.:
struction project appeal, or page 384
see P. W. A., street con-
Street Laying-Out Department
commissioner appointed:
Thomas A. Fitzgerald vice John J. O'Callahan retired filed, 29, 30-
notice of organization, Owen A. Gallagher, chairman, and Cornelius
A. Reardon, secretary, filed, 78: Owen A. Gallagher appointed
vice Theodore A. Glynn, placed on file, 12; Walter A. Murray vice
Charles F. Bogan, placed on file, 12
accept, lay out orders passed:
for details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
for names of streets: see Councilors' improvement orders, Ward
Wards 7, 50, 102, 215
Ward 9, 308
Ward 10, 156
Ward 14, 177
Ward 16, 223
Ward 17, (4) 7
Ward 18, 122, (2) 285, 356
Ward 19,31,281, 285,334
Ward 20, (2) 315
construction orders passed:
details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders
names: see Councilor, improvement orders passed, Ward 19, (2) 92
extension order passed: Walter R. White sq., Ward 15, 215
footpath, Ormond st. and Blue Hill ave.: order for, passed, 342
gasoline, fuel oil, storage fees:
order for graduated fees under chap. 297, Acts of 1931 , passed, 136
gasoline, fuel oil storage permits:
order for notice of hearings in respective districts to be sent Council,
passed, 91
order for notification of councilor representing district when applica-
tion is made by mail, passed, 298
land-taking order passed: John Marshall school playground, passed,
215
lighting orders passed:
Lucerne St., Ward 14: 263
see also Public Works Department, lighting orders passed
naming, renaming streets and squares notices received:
for details: see Streets and Squares improvement orders passed
for names of streets: see Councilor's improvement orders
Donovan (Timothy F.) Blvd., Ward 1: order to so name new state
highway, East Boston, passed, 343
Gleason (Andrew J.) circle, at Castle Island, passed, 298-message
with communication, filed, 310
Ward 5, 62, Ward 18, 78, Ward 19, 62, Ward 20, 62
parking licenses:
order to limit to applicants who accept responsibility for automobiles
in their care, passed, 376
order for information concerning permits issued, under six heads,
passed, 398, 399
permit for parade: order to withdraw permit for May Day parade
from United Front May Day Conference unless assured no school
children shall participate, passed, 158
repaving orders: see Public Works Department
reconstruction, relocation: see Public Works Department, recon-
struction orders passed
resignation: Lanata, Louis J., constable, 121
sale of land taken for park purposes, East Boston: sec Sales
Spring st. — Dedham line state highway: sec City Council, orders
taking of vacant land for playgrounds and mothers' rests: see
Park Department, small parks under E. R. A.
widening order passed: Ward 20, (2) 174
Street Reconstruction (No. 4205)
loans under F. E. A. of P. W. program:
message with order by authority of chap. 366, Acts of 1933 to ap-
propriate by loan $1,000,000, referred to executive committee,
34-report accepted, order passed and referred to finance com-
mittee, 39
message with loan and grant agreements forms and approval from
Washington received, referred to executive committee, 42-48
message with order approving loan and grants and authorizing execu-
tion of same by the Mayor, referred to executive committee, 56-
report accepted, order passed, 63-68- communication from Wash-
ington, 69-second, final reading, passed, 74
message with order for authority for the Mayor to rescind above loan
and grant agreements and substitutes order approving new grant
agreements, referred to executive committee, 118-report accepted,
order passed, 122
approval of State Emergency Finance Board received, filed, 168
message with report on cost under original loan a.nd grant and amount
of grant under new grant agreements, filed, 205, 206
order for sidewalk construction Wards 6, 7, 17, 20 under federal loan,
passed, 323
see Streets and Square, improvement orders passed, Old Colony
ave., La Grange and Adams sts.
bescission, 1933 loan order:
message with order for (loan $1,000,000 outside debt limit under
chap. 366, Acts of 1933, pp. 357, 361, 365, 374, 375, 376, 383,
398, 399 in Proceedings of 1933), referred to executive committee,
170, 171-report accepted, order read once, passed, 181-second.
final reading, passed, 198
si r 1 1 rs
(50)
struts
si reel b and Squares
Improvement orden passed:
Idami n . W Mm 16: Idowalk, both ids . Gallivan blvd. to
Ploroe sq., 1H2 message with Dommunieatlon and veto, Sled, 180,
is: repeal ordei lei N I K- \ ind i' W \ po ed, 323
Idams bt., w aki) 17: against removal ■>' tree*, 332; sidewalk, both
i,i, ' lalllvan blvd, to Pierce sq , 182 message with commuiiieu
tion and veto( filed, 186, 187; repeal order under v I. k. A. and
r \\ \ po od, 123 ordei to " oind Foregoing ordei po ed
332, 333; alio ordoi go ed Deeembei 19, 1032, and July 31 , 1033,
to be rescinded, 332, 333; idowall a o mont, 135
Ai.ium bt., Waiiii .i: traffic signals, at Broadway, *7 message with
communication, filed, 104, m>">
\iiis St., Ward 3: ei Streets and Squares, improvement o lei
po od, < 'harles si . Ward •'!
Amuov mt.. Ward -'2: sidewalk assessment, 382
Amihiv mt., Ward 11: stop signs, at Boylston St., 334 'message with
communication, filed, .'147
Andrew »«., Ward 7: traffic signals, 09, 70-mcsHagc with communi-
cation, filed, 81
Alrborwat, Waadb ii and 10: officer at Pond and Burroughs sts.,
373 message and communication, filed, 393, 394; traffic IikIi t>. at
South Bt,, 307— at Pond and Burroughs sts., 373
Aiiden hi-., Waiii) 22: sidewalk assessment, 135
Ahhmont ST., Ward 16: sidewalk assessment, (2) 98; sidewalks.
No. 250 and 256 between 276 and 296; No. 298 between :{()2 and
328; No. .'1.'12; No. 340 to Adams st., 204-mcssagc "included in
$1,000,000 Federal project, 218
AthertON si., Ward 10: sidewalk, 98
Atberton St., Ward 1 1 : sidewalk assessment, 98
Atherton St., Ward 10: sidewalk assessment, 98
Auckland st., Ward 13: arc lights, at Elton St., 2,5; sidewalk assess-
ments, 98
Bateman pl., Ward 7: lights, at N St., 231
Bay bt., Ward 9: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders
passed, Ray St., Ward 9
Bayard St., Ward 22: sidewalk. North Harvard to Myrick st., 69-
message with veto, filed, 80
Beacon st., Ward 5: traffic signals, at Berkeley, Clarendon, Dart-
mouth, Exeter, Fairfield, Gloucester, Hereford sts., 78-message
with communication, filed, 81
Beech Glen st.. Ward 11: paving, 332
Belden st., Ward 7: one-way street; Dudley to Holden St., 114;
paving, 124-message with communication, filed, 145
Bennington st., Ward 1: lighting, better system, Central to Day
sq., 50— message with communication, filed, 226, 227; street car
reservation elimination conference, 281
Bigelow st., Ward 22: sidewalk assessment, 98
Blakemore st., Roslindale:
bridge over New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad tracks,
order to expedite work, passed, 204
order for bridge and ferry division, public works department to
continue work on bridge in cooperation with Federal grants,
passed, 222
order to request E. R. Administrator Hall to continue project
under supervision of bridge and ferry division, public works
department, passed, 222
Bloomington st.. Ward 16: accept, lay out, 223
Blue Hill av., Ward 12: sidewalk assessments, 331
Blue Hill ave., Ward 13: traffic signals, at Qunicy st., 30-message
with communications, filed, 35
Blue Hill ave., Ward 14: footpath at Ormond St., 342; sidewalk
assessments, 331; traffic signals, at Talbot ave.. Harvard and
Angell sts. intersection. 223-message with communication, filed.
252; at Hazleton st., 231-message with communication filed, 248
Bogandale ed., Ward 20: accept, lay out, 315-message with com-
munication, filed, 327
Boston pl., Ward 7: accept, lay out, 215
Boston st. , Ward 7: warning signs, bridge between Blake ter. and
Ralston st., 324-message with communication, filed, 347
Bowdoin ave., Ward 14: lighting, substitute electricity for gas, 91
Bowdoin ST.. Ward 15: branch library, 342-message with com-
munication, filed, 379, 380; sidewalk assessments, 98
Bowen st., Ward 7: paving, Dorchester to F st., 224, 225-message
with communication, filed, 251
Boyd st.. Ward 15: repair sidewalk, 299; resurface and repair, 299
Boylston st., Ward 11: stop signs at Amory st., 334; traffic signals
at Amory St., 230-message with communication, filed, 248
Boylston st.. Ward 19: arc light at Clive st., 355; removal of tree,
at No. 43, 175
Bradbury St., Ward 22: sidewalk assessment, 382
Bradshaw st., Ward 14: paving, 156
Brainerd rd., Ward 21: paving, 391
Brookline ave.: watermain construction loan, 34, 39, 40, 42, 4S,
56, 63, 68, 69, 74, 118, 122, 168, 170, 171, 181, 198, 205, 206
St reel s rind Squares, Continued
Improvement orders passed:
BnoWH tkh., WARD IS: • ol itrecl . !i-' message with
communication, filed. 132, I 13
BuRNEl -i Ward hi paving, 355 message with communication,
no funds, filed, 303
Burnett mt.. Ward 11: sidewalk a e ment, 172
Calumet mt.. Ward 10: sidewalk assessment, 172. j',7
CamBRIDOE mt.. Ward 21: arc light, at Cambridge ter., 52
Camiiiiidoe ht., Ward 22: traffic lights at North Harvard st., .'J .", 7
1 "ini Bun •!.. Ward 19: paving, :)2.'; message with communication,
filed. :M8
' i i, .ii mi., Ward 11: sidewalk assessment, 257
Cedarwooo rd., Ward 19: accept, lay out, 281
Centre st.. Ward 10: white way lighting, Lamartine st. to Hvde
sq., 70
CENTRE ht.. Ward 16: sidewalk assessment, 98
Centre st., Ward 19: sidewalk assessments, 172; traffic signals, st
Boylston and Moraine sis., 68-message with communication,!
filed, 81
Centre st.. Ward 20: are light, at Central st., 151
Chardon bt., Ward 3: paving, 300-message with communication, I
filed. :ill
Chmii.es ST., Ward 3:
"stop" lights at all streets Cambridge to I/everett sts., 262
i r.ilfi, signals, automatic at junctions with Allen and Chambers sts., I
262-message with communication, filed, 272, 273
traffic officers, 8 a. m. to 11 p. m. at junctions with Allen and ■
Leverett sts.. 262-message with communications, filed, 296, 297 '
traffic signals, at Chestnut st., 332-message with communication,^
filed. 339
Cherokee st., Ward 10: sidewalk assessment, 98
Chestnut ave.. Ward 19: traffic light at Boylston St., 373-message, '
"no funds" communication, filed, 379
Chestnut Hill ave.. Ward 21: sidewalk assessment, 98; stop signs
at Wallingford rd., 332-message with communication, filed, 332
Chestnut St., Waed 3: traffic signals at Charles St., 332-message
with communication, filed, 339
Chiswick rd., Ward 21: arc light, Nos. 66-70, 175; paving, Com-
monwealth to Chestnut Hill ave., 127-message with communica-i
tion, filed, 145; 355-message with communication, filed, 363
Cliff st.. Ward 12: sidewalk assessment, 172
Clive st., Ward 19: arc light at Boylston St., 355
Coleridge bt., Ward 1: sidewalk assessment, 382
Columbia Blvd.: clean-up and prevention of banana stalk dumping,
280
Columbia rd. , Ward 7: order for survey of traffic conditions South
Boston, from H to N st., 231-message with communication and
list of regulatory rules, filed, 270, 271
Columbia rd., Ward 14: sidewalk assessment, 257
Columbia rd.. Ward 15: sidewalk assessment, 257; traffic signals,
Quincy st., 281-message with communication, filed, 303; at railroad
bridge, Cevlon St., 372-message with communication "no funds,"
filed, 379
Columbus ave., Ward 4: traffic signals, at Dartmouth St., 225;
262-message with communication, filed, 272, 295
Commonwealth ave., W'ard 18: study of lighting needs to speed up
traffic, 216-message with report filed, 247, 248
Commonwealth ave., Ward 21; pedestrian lanes painted white at
Chestnut Hill ave., Allston St., Warren st., Union sq., 263-message
with communication, filed, 272; traffic lights, at AUston St., 31; at
Warren st. , 31-message with communication, filed, 35
Coolidge rd.,Ward 22: sidewalk assessment, 257
Corey st.,Ward 20: resurfacing, from Weld st. to new boulevard.
174; sidewalk, full length, both sides, Weld st. to new boulevard,
174-message with communication and veto, filed, 186, 187; widening.
Weld st., to new boulevard, 174— message with communication,
filed, 188
Cornwall st.. Ward 11: sidewalk assessments, 372
Crawford st., Ward 12: traffic signals at Humboldt ave., 386-
message with communication "no funds." filed, 412, 413
Cummins Highway, Ward 18: sidewalk assessments, 382
Cumston pl., Ward 9: paving. 289-message with communication,'
filed, 295; sidewalk, full length, both sides, 289-message with veto,'
filed, 297
Cumston st., Ward 9: paving, 289-message with communication
filed, 295; sidewalk, full length, both sides, 289-message with veto,"
filed, 297
D street. Ward 6: traffic signals at West Broadway also West!
Sixth st., 354- message with communications filed, 368, 369
Davis st.. Ward 13: sidewalk assessment, 172
Day st., Ward 10: traffic signals at Heath st., 285-message with
communication, filed, 294
Dewey St., Ward 13: sidewalk assessment, 257
TREETS
(51)
STREETS
treets and Squares, Continued
improvement orders passed:
Dorchester ave.. Ward 6: removal subway entrance at West
Fourth and Dover sts., 385
Dover St., Ward 6: removal subway entrance at West Fourth st.
and Dorchester ave., 385
Draper ST., Ward 15: sidewalk assessments (5) 98
Druid st., Ward 17: accept, lay out, 7
Dudley st., Ward 7: arc light at Phillips pi., 385
Duncan st., Ward 15: edgestone, Granger pi. to Leonard St., 373.
sidewalk, full length, both sides, 177-message with veto, filed, 186;
187
Dunlap st., Ward 17: "one-way" order, 41-message with communi-
cation, filed, 77
Dunreath st., Ward 12: sidewalk assessment, 172
Dwinnell ST., Ward 20: accept, layout, 315-message with communi-
cation, filed, 327
E street, Ward 6: traffic signs at West Third St., 354-message with
communication, filed, 368
East Eighth St., Ward 7: traffic signals, at L st., 69, 70-message
with communication, filed, 81
East Ninth st., Ward 7: paving, 224
East Sixth st., Ward 6: paving, K st. to Farragut rd., 123-message
with communication, filed, 145
East Sixth St., Ward 7: paving, 268-message with communication
filed, 310,311; 302
Eastbourne ST., Ward 20: catch-basin lower end at Westbourne st.,
355
Edison green, Ward 7: sidewalk assessment, round park, 98
Ellery ST., Ward 7: arc lights, 358; paving, 358-message with com-
munication-no funds-filed, 362; sidewalk, full length, both sides,
358-message, no funds, filed, 361
Ellington st., Ward 14: resurfacing, Erie st. to Old rd., 281
Elm st., Ward 2: removal of dilapidated buildings at Nos. 91, 93, 95,
374-message with communication, filed, 380, 381
Elmwood st., Ward 9: sidewalk assessment, 257
Emerson st., Ward 6: arc light at K st., 385
Emerson ave., Ward 17: accept, lay out, 7
Englewood ave., Ward 21: paving, 375-message with communica-
tion "no funds," filed, 387
Esmond st., Ward 14: paving, 165
Faneuil st., Ward 22: paving, 358-message and communication,
filed, 379: sidewalk assessment, 98
Field St., Ward 4: sidewalk assessment, 172
Fifth st. , Ward 7: playground, proposed taking of land at Story st.,
391
Flood sq.. Ward 6: traffic signals, 79-message with communication,
filed, 81
Floyd St., Ward 14: paving, 157; resurfacing, 285; sidewalk. Blue
Hill ave. to Lucerne St., 157-message with communication and
veto, filed, 186, 187
Foster st., Ward 22: paving, 358-message with communication,
no funds, filed, 362; sidewalk assessment, 172
Francis St., Ward 10: sidewalk assessments, 257
Franklin st., Ward 22: paving, 358-message with communication,
no funds, filed, 363
Frederick St., Ward 7: sidewalk, full length, both sides, 182-
message with communication and veto, filed, 186, 187
Frost ave., Ward 16: resurface, 223
Furnival rd., Ward 19: accept, lay out, 334-message with communi-
cation, filed, 379
G ST., Ward 7: paving, 199
Gallivan Blvd., Ward 17: sidewalk, at No. 249, 31; sidewalk
assessments, (2) 98
Gay Head St., Ward 10: paving, 124-message with communication,
filed, 145; sidewalk, 124-vetoed, 145
Gleason (Andrew J.) circle: naming in honor late Andrew J.
Gleason the Castle Island circle, 298-message with communication,
filed, 310
Glenway st., Ward 14: lighting at Bradshaw st., 383
Goodway rd., Ward 19: accept, lay out, 285
Green St., Ward 11: "stop" signs all side streets entering, 323-
message with communication, filed, 349
Green St., Ward 19: "stop signs" all side streets entering, 323
Greenwood st.. Ward 14: paving, York to Harvard St., 91
Grotto Glen rd., Ward 10: filling in land, 98-message with com-
munication, filed, 106
Grover st., Ward 19: construction of streets, 92-message with
communication, filed, 133
Hamilton St., Ward 15: resurfacing under P. W. A allotment, 388
Hano st., Ward 22: sidewalk assessments, 372
Streets and Squares, Continued
improvement orders passed:
Hansborough st., Ward 14: paving, 50-message with communica-
tion, filed, 132
Hardy st., Ward 7: arc light, at Marine rd., 30
Harmon st., Ward 18: accept, lay-out, 122-message with communi-
cation, filed, 133; accept, lav out, 285-message with communica-
tion, filed, 339
Harold st.. Ward 12: traffic signals at Homestead st., 299-message
with communication, filed, 340
Harrison ave.. Ward 3: lighting system, Essex st. to Broadway
extension, 30
Harrison ave.. Ward 12: traffic signals, at Warren st., 30-message
with communication, filed, 34
Harvard rd., Ward 14: accept, lay out, 156-message with com-
munication, filed, 187, 188
Heath sq., Ward 10: health unit, 25-communication received from
manager, filed, 121
Hobson ST., Ward 22: sidewalk, from Faneuil to Hobart St., 356
Holman ST., Ward 22: sidewalk assessment, 257
Homestead St., Ward 12: traffic signals, at Harold St., 299-message
with communication, filed, 340
Hooker St., Ward 22: sidewalk assessment, 257
Howland st., Ward 12: paving, Warren to Harold st., 30-message
with communication, filed, 132
Humboldt ave., Ward 12: traffic signals at Crawford st., 386
Humphreys pl., Ward 7: accept, layout, 102-message with com-
munication, filed, 120
Hunneman st., Ward 8: sidewalk assessment, 257
Huntington ave., Ward 10: traffic lights at Jamaicaway and River-
way, 324-message with communication, filed, 338
Hyde Park ave., Ward 18: reconstruction. Forest Hills to Read-
ville (with Councilor Murraj'), 31-message with communication,
filed, 61
Hyde Park ave., Ward 19: reconstruct, Forest Hills to Readville
(with Councilor Norton), 31
Iola st., Ward 14: accept, lay out, 177-message with communica-
tion, filed, 188
Jamaica st., Ward 11: sidewalk assessment, 257
Jamaicaway, Ward 10: traffic lights at Riverway and Huntington
ave., 324-message with communication, filed, 338
Juniper ter., Ward 9: accept, lay out, 308
K st., Ward 6: arc light at Emerson St., 385
Kemp St., Ward 7: lighting, at Power st. on Dorchester ave. bridge,
315-message with communication, filed, 316
Kilsyth rd., Ward 21: paving, Brookline line to Lanark rd., 355-
message with communication, no funds, filed, 363
Kingsdale st., Ward 14: sidewalk, 157-message with communica-
tion and veto, filed, 186, 187
La Grange St., Ward 20: sidewalk, Centre to Vermont st., north-
easterly, 323
Lenoxdale st., Ward 16: beacon lights at Milton street, 232-mes-
sage with communication, filed, 248
Lucerne St., Ward 14: lights, at Woodrow ave., 263
Mascot St., Ward 14: lighting, substitute electricity for gas, 91
Medway st.. Ward 17: sidewalk assessment, 98
Mercer st , Ward 7: arc light at Telegraph st., 385; paving, 356-
message with communication, no funds, filed, 362
Meridian st., Ward 1: traffic signals, at Condor St., 50-message
with communication, filed, 76
Monadnock st., Ward 13: resurfacing, 373-message with communi-
cation "no funds," filed, 387
Moraine st.. Ward 19: traffic lights, junction with Centre, Boylston
sts. and South Huntington ave., 385-message with communication
"no funds," filed, 412
Mt. Everett St., Ward 15: sidewalk assessment, 98
Mt. Vernon St., Ward 7: paving, 391
Mozart St., Ward 10: sidewalk assessment, 98
Munroe st., Ward 12: sidewalk assessment, 135
Murdock St., Ward 22: paving, 357-message with communication,
no funds, filed, 363
Nashua st.. Ward 3: bath house and gymnasium at Leverett and
Brighton sts. under P. W. A., 385; safety island at Cotting and
Minot sts., 19-message with communication, filed, 145
Neponset ave., Ward 16: sidewalk assessment, 98
Newman st., Ward 7: paving. 308
Newport st., Ward 13: sidewalk assessments, 372
Nightingale st., Ward 14: resurfacing, 70-message with communi-
cation, filed, 132
Nixon st., Ward 17: resurfacing, 157-message with communica-
tion, filed, 207
STREETS
(52)
STREETS
St recta and Squares, Continued
lmprovomonl orderi pasted:
Nonamim bt., W Mil' 22: paving, S '• ■ ■■ mi ■•■■ with
veto, Bled, 411
\ i w mm. '' paving. 41 mo« age with communication!
filed, 132; sidewalks, full length, both idi 11
North mi., \\ aki) .'(: paving, 300 message with communication,
Bled, 31 1
Norte Harvard bt., Ward 22: traffic lights al Cambridge, 357
me ige •■■■ ith communication, Bled, 368
North Mead §t., Ward 2: repairing Btops, 184 message with com-
munication, filed, 207
() bt., Ward 6: paving, 123 mes age with communication, Bled, 145
Old Colon? ave., Ward 6: sidewalk, Dorchester ave. to Mt, Vernon
st., 323
Old Colony ave., Ward 7: .sidewalk, Dorchester ave. to Mi. Vernon
st., 323; traffic signals :ii Preble St., 373-message "no funds,"
filed, 878, 870
Old Morton bt., Ward 17: sidewalks, both sides, Morton to Kiver
st., 94-vetoed, 105
Ormond st., Ward 14: footpath at Rlue Hill ave, 342
Parker st.. Ward 10: traffic signals, at Heath St., 50-message with
communication, filed, 76
Paul Gore st., Ward 19: arc light at Beecher st., also at St. Peter
st., 355
Perkins St., Ward 10: Traffic signals at South Huntington ave.
and at Jamaicaway (2) 385
Perkins st., Ward 19: traffic signals at Jamaicaway and at South
Huntington ave, 385-message with communication "no funds,"
filed, 412
Perrin ST., Ward 12: paving, full length, 30, 78-message with com-
munication, filed, 132- sidewalk, full length, both sides, 78-message
with veto, filed, 80
Phillips pl., Ward 7: arc light at Dudley St., 385; sewer construc-
tion, 164-message with communication, filed, 292
Pierce so.., Ward 17: traffic signals or officers at Dorchester ave.
and River st., 332-message with report, filed, 364, 365
Pike's alley, Ward 3: paving, 14-message with communication
filed, 61
Pomeroy ST., Ward 21: sidewalk assessment, 382
Porter St., Ward 1: traffic signal at Chelsea st., 281-message with
communication, filed, 303
Portland st., Ward 3: lighting, better system, 41
Power St., Ward 7: lighting at Kemp st., on Dorchester ave. bridge,
315— message with communication, filed, 316
Preble St., Ward 7: traffic signals at Old Colony ave., 373-message
with communication, filed, 378
Priesing st., Ward 10: paving, 156
Quincy ST., Ward 15: removal of rock under P. W. A. at Barry
and Bellevue sts., 373-message and communication, filed, 394;
sidewalks, Barry and Bellevue sts., both sides, 373; traffic lights
at Columbia rd., 13-message with communication, filed, 27
Ray- st., Ward 9: catch-basin, continuation of Ray to Circuit St.,
1 14-message with communication, filed, 295
Readvtlle st., Ward 18: sidewalk assessment, 135
Reed's ct., Ward 8: sidewalk assessment, 98
Richard ter.. Ward 17: accept, lay out, 7
Richmond rd., Ward 18: accept, lay out, 285-message with com-
munication, filed, 340
Ridgemont St., Ward 21: paving, 358-message with communica-
tion, no funds, filed, 363
Riverway, Ward 10: traffic light at Jamaicaway and Huntington
ave., 324-message with communication, filed, 338
Rosseter ST., Ward 14: sidewalk assessment, 98
Royal st.. Ward 22: sidewalk assessment, 257
St. Botolph St., Ward 4: sidewalk assessment, 257
St. Lukes rd., Ward 21: paving, 399
Savannah ave., Ward 18: accept, lay out, 356
Saxton St., Ward 13: arc lights, at Belfort st., 25
Seaver ST., Ward 12: traffic signals, at Humboldt ave., 30-message
with communications, filed, 35
Sheridian ST., Ward 19: sidewalk assessment, 257, 372
South St., Ward 11: sidewalk assessments (2) 172; traffic lights
at Arborway, 307-message with communication, filed, 322
South St., Ward 19: traffic lights at Arborway, 307
South Sidney st., Ward 13: bus waiting room on platform, 373
Southampton St., Ward 7: paving, 324-message with communica-
tion from P. W. A., filed, 340; sidewalks under P. W. A. No. 4205,
National Industrial Recovery Act project, from Andrew sq. to
Massachusetts ave., both sides, 331
Southampton St., Ward 8: sidewalks, both sides, Andrew sq. to
Massachusetts ave. under P. W. A. No. 4205, National Industrial
Recovery Act project, 331
streets .-inci Square Continued
improvement orders paused:
SPARHAWS BT., Ward 22: paving, 367 message with communication,
no funds, filed. 362
Stamwood ST., Ward 14: resurface, Blue Hill ave. ", Columbia rd.,
263
Story st., Ward 7: playground, proposed lakinR of land at Fifth
«t., 301
Bummer bt.. Ward 20: Kidcwalk oaseesmente, 331
Sunset ave.. Ward 10: accept, lay out, -ii
Sutherland rd., Ward 21: sidewalk assessment, 172
Talbot ave., Ward 14: sidewalk, Blue Hill ave. to southerly line of j
Franklin field, 70-mexsage with veto, filed, HO
Toi'Lin hi., Ward 15: sidewalk assessment (2) 98
ToRRET st., Ward 17: traffic signals, Emily Fificld school, 175- ,
message with communication, filed, 207
Tremont and Washington sts: traffic conditions, cheek-up, 214, 215
Union sq., Ward 21: traffic lights, 375, 376
Union st., Wards 21 and 22: sidewalk assessments, 372
Vermont st., Ward 20: paving, Corey to Baker st., 206
Virginia st., Ward 13: resurfacing, 373-message with communica-jj
tion "no funds," filed, 387
Wakullah bt., Ward 12: paving, full length, 30-messagc with com- 1
munication, filed, 132
Walden ST., Ward 10: paving, 156
Wallingford rd., Ward 21: stop signs, at Chestnut Hill ave., 332-'
message with communication, filed, 332
Walnut ave., Ward 12: traffic signal at Warren st., 356-message;
with communication, filed, 369
Walter R. White sq., Ward 15: extension, by inclusion, Hamilton
st. and Columbia rd., land, 215
W^alworth ST., Ward 20: replace fence along railroad bridge, 355-;
message with communication, filed, 366
Ward 7 "Look Out for Children" signs in front of all schools, 331-
message with communication, filed, 362; repair brick sidewalks
under E. R. A. program, 408
Washington and Tremont sts.: traffic check-up, 214, 215-message
with reports , filed, 325
Washington St., Ward 3: white way, Stuart st. to Broadway, 385 :
Washington St., Ward 19: sidewalk, front of Healey playground, 391
Washington St., Ward 20: sand boxes for steep grades at West
Roxbury parkway, 384
Waumbeck ST., WrARD 12: paving, Warren st. to Humboldt ave., 30-
message with communication, filed, 132
Wayne St., W'ard 12: sidewalk assessment, 257
Weld St., Ward 20: lighting at Westover st. intersection, 315; resur-
facing, Maple to Corey sts., 174; sidewalk, full length, both sides,.
Maple to Corey sts., 175-message with communication and veto
filed, 186, 187; widening. Maple to Corey sts., 174r-message with
communication filed, 188
Welles ave., Ward 17: resurfacing between Washington st. and
Talbot ave., 214
Wendover st., Ward 7: accept, lay out, 50
Wenonah st., Ward 12: paving, 70-message with communication,
filed. 132
Wentworth ter., Ward 17: accept, lay out, 7
WrEST Canton st., Ward 4: exclusion of heavy trucks, passed, 307-
message with communication filed, 338
West Fourth St., Ward 6: removal subway entrance at Dorchester
ave. and Dover st. , 385
West Ninth St., Ward 7: paving. 290
West Roxbury Parkway, Ward 20: sand boxes for steep grade at
Washington st., 384
West Third st.. Ward 6: lighting, near E st. and St. Vincent de
Paul's church, 289-message and communication, filed, 297; side-
walk full length both sides, 289-message with veto, filed, 297
Westbourne st., Ward 20: sidewalk assessments, 331
Westover St., Ward 20: see Weld st., Ward 20, at Westover st.
Westvtlle st., Wabd 15: resurfacing under P. W. A. allotment, 388
Whitney st., Ward 10: arc light, at Nos. 5 and 7J, 41
Woodman St., Ward 11: sidewalk assessments, 331
Woodrow ave., Ward 14: health unit, near Blue Hill ave., 51-
message with communication, filed, 104; paving, 91
Woolson ST., Ward 14: paving, 157
naming, renaming notices received:
Audubon rd., Ward 5: changed to Park Drive, from Mountfort st. to
Park Drive, W7ard 21, notice filed, 62-see also Park Drive, Ward 5
Calvin rd., Ward 19: changed from Roy (Royen) rd., from Louder'sj
lane to Winchester rd., notice filed, 62-see also Roy (Royen) rd.,
Ward 19
Donovan (Timothy F.): order to name East Boston state highway
passed, 343
STREETS
(53)
TAXES
Streets and Squares, Continued
naming, renaming notices received :
Glentvood ave., Ward 18: with New Allen st. changed to Reserva-
tion rd., filed, 78
New Allen St., Ward 18: with Glenwood ave. changed to Reserva-
tion rd., filed, 78
Park drive, Ward 5: name changed from Audubon rd., from
Mountfort st. to Park Drive, Ward 21, notice filed, 62-see also
Audubon rd., Ward 5
Park lane, Ward 20: changed from Park Lane st., notice filed, 62-
see also Park Lane st., Ward 20
Park Lane st., Ward 20: changed to Park lane, notice filed, 62-
see also Park lane, Ward 5
Reservation rd., Ward 18: formerly New Allen st. and Glenwood
ave., 78
Roy (Roten) rd., Ward 19: changed to Calvin rd., from Louder's
lane to Winchester rd., notice filed, 62-see also, Calvin rd., Ward
19
Thaddeus Kosciuszko circle: order for at intersection Columbia
rd., Old Colony ave. and Strandway, statement in connection
included in records, passed, 284-letter of thanks received from
president of United Polish Societies, South Boston, filed, 312
sale orders passed: 178 Hillside st.: see Sales
South Boston streets: order to flush during hot weather, passed, 284
Student Nurses at Long Island Hospital
i transfer to Boston city hospital training school: sec Institutions
Department, Long Island hospital, student nurses transfer
Subway
Beacon st. car stop: see Transit Department, Boylston st. subway
extension stop
Suffolk County
1 assignment of judges, superior judicial court: received from
Chief Justice Rugg (5), filed, 341
district courts, appellate division: notice of assignment of Elmer
L. Briggs vice Nathan Washburn deceased, filed, 29
presiding judges named: notice received, assignment to district
courts (3) and Philip S. Parker, chairman, filed, 341
probation officer, Chelsea district court: notice of appointment,
Lillian A. Evans vice Mrs. Annie E. Guild, deceased, at salary, S1.800
annually, referred to county accounts committee, 382-report accepted,
order passed, 401
probation officer, South Boston municipal court: appointed by
judge, referred to county accounts committee, 342-report accepted,
order for appointment at S3, 000 per annum, passed, 356-message
with veto, 361
appropriations, 1934:
message with recommendations, $3,316,333.34, referred to appro-
priations committee, 184, 185, 186
order for, for superior civil and criminal courts, probate court, registry
of deeds, $60,650-motion (Councilor Goldman) to take from
- table carried; objection and remarks (Councilor Fish); order
failed to pass; motion (Councilor Goldman) to reconsider vote
prevailed, assigned to next meeting, 264— (Councilor Wilson)
motion to take up on No. 5 on calendar reduced amounts on certain
items, amended (Councilor Goldman) to vote on all items full
amounts, $60,650, order passed, 301, 302
courthouse: order to consider plans for new building or adequate
addition, as part of Federal Emergency Administration of Public
Works program, 7-passed, 8
departmental transfers:
MEDICAL EXAMINER SERVICE, SOUTHERN DIVISION: message with
order, $14, referred to executive committee, 346-passed, 357
MUNICIPAL COURT, SOUTH BOSTON:
message with order, $24, from A to C, referred to executive com-
mittee, 311-report accepted, order passed, 313
message with order, $345, referred to executive committee, 346-
passed, 357
registry of deeds: message with order, $823.84, referred to exe-
cutive committee, 346-passed, 357
lump sum from budget, 1934: order for ($15,521,216.75 for city)
$1,116,600 for county appropriation, referred to appropriations
committee, 21, 22
printing, binding expenditure: order to investigate, passed, 245
printing paid for by city: order for all such printing to be done at
city plant, passed, 214
resinstatements: see Reinstatements, names
social law library: order for $1,000 to be paid to proprietors and
charged to county accounts, passed, 388
Suffolk Law School
tax exempt: see Taxes, exemption, or page 400
Sullivan, John H.
ferryboat sale: see Public Works Department
Summer and L Streets Widening and Construction
unexpended balance, $1,714.04: see Sinking Funds Department,
transfer of unexpended balances on seven projects
Sumner (General) Tunnel
formerly East Boston tunnel: see General Sumner Tunnel
Supervisors of Election
appointment list: see Election Department, list of supervisors ap-
pointed, or pages 402 to 407, inclusive
Supply Department
Philip A.,
superintendent appointed: Warren W. Loomis
Chapman resigned, placed on file, 15
public welfare department purchases: sec Public Welfare Depart-
ment; purchasing by supply department
Surgical Building
proposal: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital
loans: see Hospital (Surgical) Building, loans under F. E. A. of P. W.
program
Surveys
all licenses and permits: see Licenses and Permits Special Committee,
appointment of committee and survey under seven heads
city property unused: see Public Lands, city property, survey for
sale
Columbia rd. traffic conditions: see Traffic Commission
enlargement, completion, indexing system: see Public Welfare
Department, survey by statistics department
hospital facilities: see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital
survey of facilities
lighting system, East Boston: see Public Works Department
public welfare: order to furnish city council copy of reports by Kather-
ine Hardwick of surveys of department, passed, 214
Swan, James T.
statistics: see Boston Elevated Railway, financial condition
Swimming Pool
Franklin pk.: sec Federal Emergency Relief Administration, swimming
pool, Franklin pk.
Symphony Hall Taxes
see Taxes
Synchronization of Accounts
welfare and auditing departments: see Auditing Department
Taxes
abatements, investigation: see Real Estate, investigation by finance
commission
aid to real estate owners: see Relief Finance Corporation, aid in tax
payments
assessment information: see Assessing Department
contractors owing taxes: see Contracts
comparative study, various cities: order for, motion (Councilor
Shattuck) previous question, order passed, 178, 179, 180
committee on delinquent tax collection: order for information
in re progress of work under William Minot, Esq., passed, 151
TAXF.S
M)
TRANSFERS
I axes, ( lontinued
exemptions order to consider putting bad I roll certain propi
now exempt, tuoh at Harvard Stadium I etei :i' tre, Suffolk
law lohool, Bryan) & Btratton, Burdotl oollegc . pa ed, 100
Intersil < > ■ • delinquent taxes: tee Legislation, potition in n interesl
on delinQuonl Laxei
necessity for taxation relief for rcnl estate: ordei to call tq the
Mayor attenl lottei from Councilor Bbattuck to the Pre idenl
.,( united States and Governor Ely, 112 (Councilor Selvitella) ■
to refer matter to executive committee, order referrod by chairman ol
oounoil i" rule i commil teoi 1 13
pnrt payment, back taxes: •• < i > ouncil, re olves
red net ion of vnlunt ion : aee Assessing Department
Miilc, dwellings lor taxes: •■ < 'ollcct my Department
Symphony Mali and Repertory Theatre:
order for information in re basis for lux exemption for 1034, passed,
17-1
ordor to keep the council informed of progress made to prevent tax
exemption, pat tod, 280
titles on property in tax arrears: order for corporation counsel to
investigate in re use as homes by unemployed, paused, 164, 165-
message with communication filed, 192
Ward 15 valuation reductions: sec Assessing Department
Telephone Meters
compulsory, free installation: sec Legislation, telephone meters
Tobin, Martin H., Councilor, Ward 15
committee appointments: Appropriations, County Accounts, Legis-
lative, Ordinances, Playgrounds and Parks, 15-Welfare Department
investigation, 87, ill
amendments:
committee reports; executive (public welfare, Ward 9 order), 205;
public lands, lease to veterans, 388, 389
construction of streets, 384
improvement orders, Ward IS:
fob details: see Streets and Squares, names
Bowdoin st., 98, 342, 379, 380
Boyd st., 299 (2)
Columbia rd., 257, 281, 308, 372, 379
Duncan st., 177, 186, 187, 373
Mt. Everett st., 98
UNDER P. W. A. program:
branch library, municipal building and health unit, resurfacing
Hamilton and Westville sts., 388
Quincy st., 13, 27, (2) 373, 394
Topliff st., (2) 98
Walter R. White sq., 215
motions:
committee reports finance (six loan orders) moved to separate items, 68
proposed reinstatement, assessors-motion to refer to executive com-
mittee, 86
public welfare orders (reference, one order to executive committee),
199, 200
sewer equipment transfer, S25.000, take from table, lost, 301
orders, resolves:
assessments, Ward 15, 373
branch library, Ward 15, 342
budget, public welfare department, 124
bus stops, Dorchester, 216
ceremonies for "Old Ironsides," 182
completion, E. R. A. projects, 215
employees, Joseph P. McCabe Company (with Councilor Fish), 373
fiftieth anniversary. Cardinal O'Connell's ordination, 182
handball courts, Mt. Ida playground, 164
improvements, Mt. Ida playground, 224
indorsement, House Bill 950, 94
land for John Marshall school, 215
observance, Dorchester Dav (with Councilors Fish, Wilson, McGrath,
Goldman), 182
payment, mother of David McDonald, 13
pension, Fred W. Connolly. 13
removal, slot machines, Fields Corner station, 290
retirement, Louis V. Jennings, 98
sections 55, 56, 57 of chapter 54, 342
state election, 341, 342
survey, East Boston street lighting, 98
Ward 15 assessments, 354
welfare branch, Ward 15, 205
point, information:
committee report-finance (authorization to execute loan agreements),
74: (six loan orders), 68
point of order:
committee report-finance (authorization to execute loan agreements),
74
I obin , Marl in M., Councilor, Ward 15, Continued
remarks:
committee reports: ipfbopbiatiomb (91,000.000 welfare aid), 230, 231
' ■iivt. (public welfare amendment Ward 9 order), 205; n9
i oval, 100, ioi
ewei equipment transfer, $25,000, 301
statement:
decentralization, welfare department, 92, D3
unanimous consent:
sewer equipment transfer $25,000, 301
Toll Schedule, Sumner Tunnel
resolution: «ee City Council, resolves, General Sumner tunnel toll*
Traffic Commission
commissioner appointed: William P. Hickey vice Joseph A. Conrjj
resigned, placed on file, 15
automatic signal orders passed:
for details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
for names of BTREET8: nee Councilor's improvement orders, Wards
Commonwealth ave: order to make study of lighting along avenu
to speed up traffic, passed, 216-message with report, filed, 247, 24
Ward 1, 50, 281: Ward 3, 87 (2) 262, 332
Ward 4, 225: Ward 5 (8 intersections of Beacon st.), 78
Ward 6, 79, (3) 354: Ward 7 (2) 69, 70, 114, 262, 315, 324, 373
Ward 10, 50, 285, 324, 385 (2): Ward 11, 230, 307, 323
Ward 12, (2) 30, 299, 356, 386
Ward 13, 30: Ward 14, 231
Ward 15, (1) 13-message with communication, filed, 27; 281; 372
Ward 16, 232: Ward 17, 175, 332
Ward 19, 68: 307, 323, 349 (2) 373, 374, 385 (2)
Ward 21, (2) 31, 376: Ward 22, 357
Columbia rd. conditions: order for survey from H to N St., passe
231-message with communication and list of regulatory rules, filec
270, 271
complaints in re new parking law: order to keep record of name
and addresses of complainants passed, message with communicatioi
filed, 338
exclusion of trucks order passed: West Canton st., Ward 4 307
"Look Out for Children" signs: order for, in front of all school
Ward 7, passed, 331
naming Castle Island circle, Andrew J. Qleason circle: see Stret
Laying-Out Department, naming, renaming streets and squares
one way street sign order passed:
for details: see Streets and Squares, improvement orders passed
for names of streets: see Councilors' improvement orders, Wards
Ward 17, 41
parking law, immunity for doctors: order for, referred to rules con
mittee, 336
parking limit: order to change from one to three hours, referred t
executive committee, 331
parking tagging law: order to consider giving new law fair try-ou
referred to executive committee, 334
pedestrian lanes painting order passed: Ward 21, 263, 272
stop sign orders passed:
Ward 11, 334: Ward 21, 332
Washington and Tremont sts., traffic conditions check-up, 214, 215
message with reports, filed, 325, 326, 327-message with further repor
filed, 363, 364
Traffic Signs and Signals
automatic; "Look Out for Children"; "One Way" street sign:
"Slow"; spotlights: sec Streets and Squares, improvement orde;|
passed
Traffic Tunnel Bonds, Series B
interest appropriation: see General Sumner Tunnel
Transfers
between and within departments: see Departmental Transfers
police officers, municipal and district courts: see Police Depar
ment, prosecuting officers
student nurses, Long Island: see Hospital Department, Lor
Island hospital, student nurses
RANSIT
(55)
WARD
'ransit Department
commissioner appointed:
John F. McDonald vice Nathan A. Heller resigned, 29, 30
Arthur V. Sullivan vice Arthur B. Corbett resigned, placed on file, 15
Boylston st. subway extension:
order for construction of exit authorized by chap. 268, Acts of 1934,
passed, 284-message with veto, filed, 293
order for legislative action in re, with inclined entrances at Common-
wealth and Brighton aves., passed, 391
bridge repair: order for cooperation of employees of department in
repairing Boston Bridges, passed, 290
East Boston tunnel, citizen employment: see General Sumner
Tunnel
Northern Avenue bridge repair work: see Northern Avenue Bridge,
repair work by transit department
subway entrance, Ward 6: order for removal at Dorchester ave.,
West Fourth, Dover sts., passed, 385
Treasury Department
treasurer: John H. Dorsey appointed, placed on file, 12
North Grove st. land, buildings: order for information in re date
and amount of sale to Massachusetts General Hospital also disposition
of money received, passed, 40
tax anticipation loan: see Loans
Tubercular Reacting Cattle
sale by penal institutions: message with communication and order
for sale referred to executive committee, 395, 396
Tydings Resolution, Senate Resolution 154
approval: see City Council, resolves
ifyler, C. M., Company
citizen employment, tiling work: see General Sumner Tunnel
Jnclaimed Baggage
committee appointed: Councilors Fitzgerald, Wilson, McGrath, 15
petitions to sell: 78,323,334
reports and orders for sale:
Boston & Maine Railroad: petition to sell, 78-report accepted,
order for public auction, passed, 101
New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad: order for auction
November 15, report accepted on petition, page 323, order passed,
334
Unemployment
census taking of voters: see Police Department, census taking, includ-
ing unemployment information
Emergency Conservation Work: see Harbor Island Forestation
housing for women:
message with preambles and orders (2) for lease ($50) to Massachu-
setts Section of the Women's Department of the National Civic
Federation, referred to public lands committee, 369-report accepted,
motion to lay on table prevailed, 388, 389-motion (Councilor Gold-
man) to take from table lost, 400
order for opinion in re Churchill bequest, passed, 408-message with
communication filed, 409— message withdrawing rental offer, filed,
413-opinion, law department in re Churchill bequest received, filed,
427-motion to postpone indefinitely lease order, 428, 429
navy yard improvements under P. W. A.: see Boston Navy Yard,
improvements under P. W. A.
tax titles on property in tax arrears: see Taxes, titles on property in
tax arrears
ten per cent contributions by officials: see Contributions to Unem-
ployment, names of officials
United States shoe factories under E. R. A.: see City Council, re-
solves, establishment, United States factories under E. R. A.
work through Mr. Yawkey, Red Sox Baseball Club: see City
Council, resolves, thanks to Mr. Yawkey
Jnion Freight Railroad Company
repairs: see Northern Avenue Bridge
United Polish Societies of South Boston
Kosciuszko (Thaddeus) Circle: order to name intersection, Columbia
rd., Strandwav and Old Colony ave., passed, 284-thanks sent the
Council, filed, 312
United States of America
against adherence: see Permanent Court of International Justice
Congressional bill in re citizenship. Dr. Albert Einstein: see City
Council, orders, Einstein, citizenship, Dr. Albert
forestation, harbor islands: see Harbor Island Forestation, under
Emergency Conservation Work
loans under Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works
program: see Federal Loan and Grant Agreements, under chap. 366,
Acts of 1933
veterans' hospital No. 44, West Roxbury, for convalescent hospital:
see Hospital Department, Boston city hospital
Vacancies in Police Department
filling: see Police Department
Vacation Payments
prepayment: see City Employees, vacation prepayment
Veterans
A. E. F. Association, SSth Artillery: see Leases, Washington st. school
American Legion:
casimir pulaski Post 269: order for lease of engine 6 fire station
for five years referred to public lands committee, 385-report
accepted, order passed, 388
leave of absence for delegates: see City Council, orders, Ameri-
can Legion delegates' leave of absence
G. A. R., Robert A. Bell Post 134: order for completion of repairs,
passed, 315-message with communication filed, 316
hospital utilization: see City Council, orders, veterans' hospital, or
page 373
United States Veterans' hospital 44: see Hospital Department.
Boston city hospital
United Spanish War veterans: order to grant leave without loss of
pay for attendance at convention, passed, 245
West Roxbury District Associat ion: see Leases, Washington st
school
Visitors
see Public Welfare Department
Voting Booths
location: order to consider having study made in re, passed, 204-
repeat order, 289
Voting, Registration and Listing
redivision into wards: see Election Department, registration, listing
voters
WBZ Broadcasting
by the Mayor: see Broadcasting Cost, over WBZ and WNAC or
pages 202, 203
WNAC Broadcasting
by the Mayor: see Broadcasting Cost, over WBZ and WNAC or
pages 202, 203
Ward Divisions
chap. 54, General Laws: see City Council, orders, ward redivision
opinion of counsel in re: see Police Department, listing voters, date of
\v\ri I.' WAIN
(66)
WILSO,
Watermain Construction, Elm Hill (No. 722.5)
loam undei P. I \ »i P, W. program:
message with "t bj authority ol chap, 386, Vol ol 1933, to appro-
i • ■ i l i . ■ i.>. loan 1700,000, roforred to •■ ooutivo committee, 34 report
iccoptod, ordor p od md red to Bn inci commil • 30, 40
me ago with loan and granl agreement form . referred to i ecutivc
committoo, 42 48
message with order approving and authorising execution "f grant and
loan agreements by the Mayor, referred '<» executive committee,
16 report accepted, 03 Bnai reading, pa cd, 08 comrounic m
from Washington, 60
approval "i State Emergency Finance Board received, filed, Hi8
mossuge witli copy of grants and ordoi for approvul and authority for
exooution by the Mayor of grant agreement* for 30 per cent of cost
- ,000), 1200.000, referred to executive committee, 109, 170
n porl accepted, order pa ed, 181
message with roporl on cosl under original loan and gran) and amount
of grunt in o i< i new ■■' ml iigrcemcnl *, filed. 20!), 206
notice of approval of project (700,000 by Emergency Finance Board,
filed, 213
rescission, 1933 loan order: message with order for (loan under
chup.380, A.is of 1933, pages 376, 383, 398,399 in Proceed
1933 $700,000 outside debt limit), referred to executive committee,
170. 171 report accepted, rend once, passed, 181-sccond, final
reading, order rescinding, passed, 198
Wayfarers' Lodge
i under chap. 366, Acts of 1933
disapproval of 1933 loan order (Proceedings of 1933, pages 376, 383,
3'J!I) l,v St:ile Kniergency Finance Board for $450,000. received, :!.".
message with order for rescission of 1933 loan order for S4.J0.0U0, re-
ferred to executive committee, 33-reporl accepted, order passed,
39-second, final reading, passed, 63
Wayside Army, Inc.
solicitation of Christmas funds: order to issue permit for dinners
for poor, referred to executive committee, 398-report accepted, order
in new draft, passed, 401
Weights and Measures
deputy sealer: John J. Campbell, Ward 19, filed, 323
Welfare Affairs
see Public Welfare Department
White (George Robert) Fund
health units:
Dorchester district: order to consider establishing, passed, 41
Heath sq., Ward 10: order to consider establishment and main-
tenance, passed, 25-communication from manager received, filed,
121
Woodrow and Blue Hill aves., Ward 14: order to consider estab-
lishment and maintenance, passed, 51
Wilson, Robert Gardiner, Jr., Councilor, Ward 17
committee appointments:
Executive (chairman), Finance, Municipal Lighting, Rules, Unclaimed
Baggage, 15
Ward Redivision, 285
Welfare Department Investigation, 87-91
improvement orders. Ward 17:
for details: see Streets and Squares, names
Adams St., 135, 182, 323, 332, 333
Druid St., 7
Dunlapst., 41, 77
Emerson ave., 7
Gallivanblvd.,31, (2) 98
Medway St., 98
Nixon St., 157, 207
Old Morton St., 94, 105
Pierce sq., 332, 364, 365
Richard ter., 7
Torrey St., 175, 207
Tremont st. traffic conditions check-up (also Washington St.), 214, 215
Washington st. traffic check-up (also Tremont st.), 214, 215, 325
Welles ave., 214
Wentworth ter., 7
motions:
committee reports: constables, to lay on table, for reference to execu-
tive committee, 152; executive (final budget recommendations),
282
constables' confirmations, not to take business from calendar, 173
East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel land-takings, 354
number of council members, suspend rule, refused, 391
objections:
next meeting (against two weeks' adjournment), 386
Wilson, Robert Gardiner, Jr., Councilor, Ward 17, CoM
orders, resolves:
.■■Mil lonal police, irofcil 332
American International terminal Corporation loan, 224
appropriation, Doi D ly, 41
uranci ■ ■ , Dorchester, 51
al tondam • rai depai I ment, 224
i'.'. ■■•, n Public Latin school anniversary, 41
■ .ii non-Federal proji . 6 I
ear stop, Boylston St. subway, 284
communism among school children, 158
congratulation to ' 'ouncilor Goldman, 429 (with Councilor Finley)
ci! rules, appointment special committee , 10
1 'ouncil' ordei concerning welfare department, 314
designation of physicians, 31
discontinuance, Elevated i Brent St., 300
.md from "Boston Traveler," 175, 170
ion, pre enl list of police appointments, ')'■', 144
fence, Henry 1„ Pierce school, 175
filling police department vacancies, 41
health unit, Dorchester, 41.
information: E. Ii. A. workers, 398: in re fuel concerns, 398: rnunici
pal employment bureau, 175: from public welfare department
157: in re public welfare (3 orders), 224: in re statistics depart
ment, 114: in re welfare department, 99
licenses for outdoor parking space , 376
Lucy Stone school, 158
municipal building, Dorchester, 398
new Suffolk County courthouse, 7
number C. W. A. Boston workers (2), 51
number of council members, 389
observance, Dorchester Day (with Councilors Tobin, Fish, McGrathl
Goldman), 182
open parking space licenses, 398, 399
opposition to unapproved department consolidation, 14
permit for Wayside Army, Inc., 398
pledge of allegiance to flag, 199
preference for employees, resident in Boston, 113
proposed new snow removal equipment, 69
public welfare orders (11), 199, 200
removal, unused poles, wires, 7
repairs, Northern Avenue bridge, 175
re-registration, welfare recipients, 21.5
rescission, sidewalk orders, 332, 333
restoration, building department employees, 333
restricted parking, 51
sale, convalescent hospital property, 157
Senate Bill 224, 31
stamps used by public welfare department, 176
surveys: public welfare department, 214: licenses and permits (2
orders), 259: unused city land, 157: welfare department, 13
use, Boston Common and Parkman bandstand by Massachusetts
Real Estate Owners Association, 313
validity, revocations of licenses, 333
voting, registration and listing, 333
welfare cases, Ward 1, 157
work on Northern Avenue bridge by transit department, 175
point, information:
tax anticipation loan orders, 54
unapproved departmental consolidation, 93
question of privilege:
finance committee report, Northern Avenue bridge loan, 144
remarks:
additional police, voting precincts, 332
age limit, guards and gatemen, East Boston (General Sumner) tunnel,
263
American International Terminal Corporation loan, 224
assurance, gas street lights, Dorchester, 51
committee, investigate welfare department, 88, 89
committee reports; appropriations (1934 budget), 238, 239, 240.
241; (welfare aid SI, 000,000), 231: executive (amendment Ward 9
orders; welfare department), 205: (anticipation of taxes loan), 52,
53: (Boylston st. subway extension stop), 283: (F. E. A. of P. W.
loan orders), 39: (housing development), 49: West Roxbury schools
under F. E. A. of P. W., 267: finance (police communication loan
order), 71, 73, 74: (six loan orders), 65: public lands, 388, 389:
rules (police court officers), 49
communism among school children, 158
congratulations to Councilor Goldman, 429
Council's order concerning welfare department, 314, 315
Council rules, 10, 11
editorial from "Boston Traveler," 176
establishment, United States shoe factories, 354.. 355
extension, present list of police appointments, 93
Federal projects affecting Boston, 31
filling police department vacancies, 41
former city employees, 383
information: in re fuel concerns, 398: E. R. A. workers, 398: in re[
public welfare (3 orders), 224
investigation, telephone, gas, electric rates, 299
licenses for outdoor parking spaces, 376
Lucy Stone school, 158
new Suffolk County courthouse, 8
number C. W. A. Boston workers, 51
number of council members, 389, 390, 391
open parking space licenses, 398, 399
VILSON
(57)
ZOO
Vilson, Robert Gardiner, Jr., Councilor, Ward 17, Con.
remarks:
opposition to unapproved department consolidation, 14
permit for Wayside Army, Inc., 398
proposed new snow removal equipment, 69
public welfare orders, 200, 201
removal, unused poles, wires, 7
repairs, Northern Avenue bridge, 175
re-registration, welfare recipients, 215
rescission, sidewalk orders, 332, 333
restoration, building department employees, 333
restricted parking, 51
" share-the-work " stagger system, 113
snow-removal contracts, 399
"stagger" system, 123
survey: of all licenses and permits, 259: welfare department, 13
traffic conditions, Washington and Tremont sts. , 214, 215
use, Boston Common and Parkman bandstand by Massachusetts
Real Estate Owners' Association, 313, 314
validity, revocation of licenses, 333
voting, registration and listing, 333
constable confirmations, 172, 173
welfare cases, Ward 1, 157
work, Northern Avenue bridge by transit department, 175
unanimous consent:
committee reports — finance (police communication loan order), 71
employees of employment bureau, 429
/omen Employed under Federal Loans
see Emergency Relief Administration, women employed
W. A., C. W. A. and E. R. A.
number:
under P,
Vood
measurers appointed, confirmed:
Crosby, Arnold B., 80
Dienst, Harry W., 184-(Dieust), 214
Workers, F. E. R. A.
fair distribution of work: see Federal Emergency Relief Administra-
tion, work distribution
Workers from Public Welfare Department
order for information from the Mayor in re workers assigned to various
city departments, passed, 176, 177
Workingmen's Loan Association
director appointed: Leo J. Dunn vice Hyman Manevitch, filed, 197
Yawkey, Mr.
resolution thanking for aid in providing work to hundreds of unemployed
through work for Red Sox Base Ball Club on grounds, passed, 101, 102
Zoning Adjustment Board
member appointed: Alfred Ellis vice Patrick H. Jennings, filed, 197
appropriation: message with communication and order, under sect. 20,
chap. 488, Acts, 1924, for $3,500 for expenses to be charged to reserve
fund, referred to executive committee. 345-passed, 357
Zoo, Franklin Park
signs on cages: see Park Department, Franklin pk.
CITY COUNCIL.
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, January 1, 1934.
INAUGURAL EXERCISES.
The ceremonies attending the inauguration of
Mayor-elect Frederick W. Mansfield and the City
Councilors-elect of the City of Boston were held
in Symphony Hall at ten o'clock a. m., the Mayor
elect and the members-elect of the Council for
1934 all being present.
(The proceedings were interspersed with musical
numbers. John O'Shea presiding at the organ,
Fabien Sevitzky conducting the People's Symphony
Orchestra, and Maria Koussevitzky, soprano,
singing.)
City Clerk WILFRED J. DOYLE— Ladies and
gentlemen, I have the honor of presenting the
Reverend John E. O'Connell, pastor of St. John's
and St. Hugh's Churches, Roxbury, who will open
these exercises with the invocation. Father
O'Connell. (Applause.)
Father O'CONNELL— Almighty and Eternal
God, Protector of all, and Inspirer of all the hopes
of men, without Whom nothing is holy, nothing is
strong, by Whose counsel and by Whose wishes we
are sanctified and governed, in sincerity of mind
and in humility of heart we acknowledge our
dependence upon Thee. In times past Thou hast
been to our fathers a beacon of light, calling and
leading them always to the things that are highest
and best, enlightening their counsels, inspiring
their hearts with courage to do battle for the right,
at times prospering, at other times chastening, yet
ever protecting and preserving. For these Thy
many favors, O God, it is but meet, just, right and
salutary, that we both praise and glorify Thy
blessedness, and if there have been transgressions
we turn to Thee now, 0 Loving Father, with a
pledge of better things, that we may with better
right and a more chastened spirit approach Thy
throne and invoke Thy continued grace upon our
city and her people. Do Thou, therefore, O God
of infinite wisdom and of everlasting mercy, impart
to us, the rank and file of the citizenry, a more
intense and more awakened regard for civic virtue,
with respect for law, obedience to authority and
love of our fellows, that we may the more faithfully
fulfill our duties. Impart to those who are to
share with our chief magistrate the government
of our city Thy spirit of sympathetic understand-
ing, of wholehearted cooperation, of fraternal
charity, that, looking above all littleness of mind
and all urge of personal interest, they may ever
work together as one, for the common good of all.
And, O Loving Father, may Thy spirit descend
upon him who is to shortly assume the exalted, the
high office of Mayor, so that he may at all times
manifest a spirit of justice, a spirit of prudence, a
spirit of fortitude ; and in all trying situations he may
be guided by justice, giving to each his due, that
with prudence he may ever decide what is proper
and right, and that with fortitude he may ever
stand for what is right in the government cf our
city. Give to him, 0 Lord, we beseech Thee,
health of body and strength of soul; and grant,
0 Loving Father, that his years of administration
may mark a golden era of both spiritual and
material profit. These things we ask of Thee, 0
God, in the sweet name of Jesus our Saviour.
Amen.
City Clerk DOYLE read a communication from
the Board of Election Commissioners certifying
the election of Frederick W. Mansfield as Mayor.
The oath of office was administered to Mayor-
elect Frederick W. Mansfield by Chief Justice
Honorable Arthur Prentice Rugg of the Supreme
Judicial Court of Massachusetts.
City Clerk DOYLE read a communication from
the Board of Election Commissioners certifying
the election of members of the City Council, as
follows:
Ward 1, Henry Selvitella; Ward 2, Thomas H.
Green; Ward 3, John I. Fitzgerald; Ward 4, George
W. Roberts; Ward 5, Henry L. Shattuck; Ward 6,
George P. Donovan; Ward 7, John E. Kerrigan,
Ward 8, John F. Dowd; Ward 9, Richard D. Glea-
son; Ward 10, John J. Doherty; Ward 11, Edward
L. Englert; Ward 12, David M. Brackman; Ward
13, Joseph McGrath; Ward 14, Maurice M. Gold-
man; Ward 15, Martin H. Tobin; Ward 16, Albert
L. Fish; Ward 17, Robert Gardiner Wilson, Jr;
Ward 18, Clement A. Norton; Ward 19, Peter A.
Murray; Ward 20, James F. Finley; Ward 21,
James E. Agnew; Ward 22, Edward M. Gallagher.
A roll of the members-elect of the City Council
was called by City Clerk DOYLE and as the
names were read, the members arose, all being
present. The oath of office was administered
to them by Mayor Mansfield.
Inaugural Address of Hon. Frederick W.
Mansfield.
It is with a very grave realization of the responsi-
bilities resting upon the chief magistrate of our
beloved city that I approach the duties which the
people of Boston have placed upon me in electing
me to be their Mayor. Even in times of apparently
assured prosperity and of lavish expenditure those
responsibilities are always great. But in such
times as we are passing through at the moment,
the burdens resting upon the mayor of any large
city are many times multiplied.
It is unnecessary for me to call attention to the
troubled state of affairs not only in Boston and in
our nation, but throughout the entire world. All
civilized nations are wrestling with problems of
government. Never in the long history of Boston
has the prospect seemed more gloomy nor the out-
come more doubtful.
Aside from those conditions which are general
throughout the country, the citizens of Boston
know well that there are local conditions which are
peculiar to Boston but not of their own making.
The new administration must take over these
conditions, — a heritage from my predecessors —
resulting from long years of extravagance and
lavish expenditure and from an apparent assump-
tion that the ordinary rules of prudence in con-
ducting business affairs of importance did not
apply to the City of Boston.
The Financial Condition of the City.
Almost every mayor who has been inaugurated
within recent years has referred to the financial
condition of Boston. A perusal of their inaugural
speeches shows that the apparently always alarm-
ing condition of Boston's finances has been a fav-
orite theme of incoming mayors. But when the
financial condition of the city in those other years
is compared to that which exists today as I assume
the burdens of this great office, it is evident that
most of those former references were more rhetor-
ical than real, and that the incoming administration
will be faced with more trying and difficult problems
than any other in Boston's history.
The Cash Deficit.
The new administration assumes office under
extremely critical conditions. As of the end of
1933, Boston's cash deficit or the shortage in the
cash operations of the city, will probably be found
to be in the vicinity of $15,000,000, an all-time
peak in the history of the city. Uncollected taxes
may amount to about $25,000,000, which is also
far in excess of any previous year.
While these uncollected taxes exceed the cash
deficit, there is small consolation in this fact. In
recent years the cash deficit and uncollected taxes
have been increasing, and they have created pro-
gressively greater difficulty in financing the city's
requirements.
The immediate problem facing the new adminis-
trati n is to maintain the solvency of the city and
to guard against defaults on any of its obligations,
both to city employees and to private creditors. In
order to finance the city's requirements until 1934
taxes are paid next fall, it will be necessary to nego-
tiate tax anticipation loans of many millions of
dollars, under money market conditions which are
far from auspicious. Whether we like this situa-
tion or not, it is a condition which we must face.
We must act quickly and decisively to make certain
that these loans can be negotiated and paid at
maturity. We must put our financial house in
order, keep our current expenditures within reason-
ably expected income, and reduce tax delinquency
by every proper method.
The Tax Rate.
In 1932 the tax rate was $35.50. A reduction
to $32.80 was effected in 1933, but this figure did
not represent the true state of affairs. The reduc-
tion of $2.70 was far more than accounted for by
two loans and a grant, — a municipal relief loan of
CITY CO UN Oil.,.
13,500.000, o welfare depart ment l": I I 00,1
und d fodoral welfare pant oi f] ,904 000. oi i I
ol I) 10 •nun By i, ..■.iiin i,i i be o peoial financing
methods, a temporary tax rate reduction was
obtained. Without them the 1933 tax rate ■■■ Id
have been higher than ii" rate foi 1932.
A number of factors, beyond the control of the
i" i' administration, darken the tai rate
picture in 1934. There in no assurance "i promise
of federal grants in 1934, and no one can now proph-
ch.v what the ful tire policy of the Legislature will be
will, reference to furl her Loans. Without further
grants or loans, the tax rate will lie increased sub-
stantially. In addition, the city must now com-
mence the five-year task of meeting the intere i '" I
principal of l'.l.'i.'i loans. There is ;i!no a proba-
bility of an increase in the state tax assessed on
municipalities and of an increase in the require-
ments for pureliaHca and contracts, due to advanced
prices.
Of course, it is impossible to forecast at the pres-
ent moment, with any accuracy what the tax rale
for 1934 will be, but weighing the favorable and un-
favorable factors as they are now apparent, the
result points to an increase of not less than three to
four dollars over the 1933 rate of $32.80. The
increase may be even greater, because of factors
which the incoming administration will be helpless
to prevent, and powerless to avoid.
It is not my intention to accept a tax rate in-
crease without great effort to prevent it. I shall
undertake every proper method at the city's dis-
posal to keep the tax rate at the lowest possible
figure. Non-welfare expenditures can be cut down ;
this will be done. Welfare expenditures are, of
course, too definitely bound up with economic
trends all over the nation to permit any definite
promise.
I want to practice broad and reasonable economy
I do not want to cause distress among any groups
of our people or, in the absence of controlling
necessity, to withdraw from them services to
which they have become accustomed and which
are helpful to them. The strictest and narrowest
economy is not a part of my program, for there is a
danger that it will create new liabilities as acute as
those now facing us. We must provide at all costs
both adequately and reasonably, for such essential
services as education, the preservation of the public
health, and police and fire protection. We must
accept the liabilities imposed upon us by forces out-
side our immediate control. On the other hand,
these obligations compel us to recognize the impera-
tive need of foregoing all luxury expenditures, of
practising sound economies in every detail of munic-
ipal government, of inaugurating such changes as
will improve services and reduce costs, and above
all else, of observing the most scrupulous honesty
in every part of the city's spending. (Applause.)
An additional phase of the tax rate problem is
the stern necessity facing this administration of
halting the pyramiding of our deficit. In recent
years our expenditures have been exceeding our
cash income in increasing amounts. This increas-
ing cash deficit has been met by borrowing against
delinquent taxes. Such a pyramiding is the chief
defect in the city's credit structure.
The Fever to Spend.
Under conditions as they exist today in Boston
and throughout the civilized world, most thought-
ful and prudent men will agree that there is only one
formula to pursue if municipal credit, is to remain
unimpaired and if our city is to prosper and to
thrive. That formula is one of broad, practical
economy. The times call for the safeguarding of
all municipal funds, for the elimination of waste,
for the reduction of taxes — if that can possibly be
accomplished — and for a policy which will eliminate
all municipal expenditures which are not necessary.
The chief magistrates of this and of all other
cities are between two fires. The necessity for
eliminating expense and saving money is fully
recognized. But an important part of the policy of
the National Government is to spend money lib-
erally and to encourage state and local govern-
ments to do likewise. It is argued in support of
this policy that government spending must prime
the economic pump; that we are confronted with a
national emergency akin to war; that the depres-
sion has assumed the proportions of a public peril
and that extraordinary means must be adopted to
meet it, — means that in ordinary times would be
considered perilous by men of prudence and of
expert knowledge in economics.
Our President has embarked upon a great and
breath-taking venture to restore prosperity. It is a
attempt to maintain the American standard
of 1 i v i 1 1 f . lie himself admits the experimental
nature of his program. While misgivings ■■"- to
parts of thai program have been expressed by
some, all must applaud the courage and deb
tion of the President and musl realize thai no eon-
itructivi alternative bos been offered, (Applause.)
So far an municipal governments are concerned,
ii m their patriotic duty to cooperat< in furthering
I lie national program in every reasonable way, but
it inuMi be remembered thai national recovery will
be hindered rather than helped if a municipality
upends so freely that, it* credit is endangered In
the nature of things, the federal treasury can with-
stand abnormal emergency expenditures with-
out impairing n^ solvency to a much greater extent
than can municipal treasuries which musl ri '■■■
upon prostrated real estate for the major part of
their income. In bo far as cooperation with the
national program involves the expenditure of the
money to be raised from local taxpayers, rules of
prudent, finance must not be abandoned. The
income base of our municipal governments can-
not stand an excessive load.
Specifically, I am thoroughly in favor of a
rational program of really necessary public works
projects, chosen after careful planning, and antici-
pating future needs. We must be careful to avoid,
as far as possible, projects which will impose large
increases in maintenance costs.
A number of public works projects has already
been authorized. In addition, Boston has been
given substantial grants for Civil Works Admin-
istration projects which will employ a large
number of persons temporarily. Before committing
the city to further public works projects, I propose
to institute immediately a careful study of the
city's needs and resources.
The Taxpayers.
In municipalities the effect of this patriotic
duty of upholding the national program of public
works projects, as well as the regular expenses of
government, will fall most heavily upon the tax-
payer who owns tangible property. There is
something radically and scientifically wrong in
our method of raising money to defray the expenses
of government. Not only does too much of the
burden fall upon the owner of tangible property,
but he must make up for the depression slump in
other sources of revenue. More than three fourths
of the total income available for meeting the regular
expenditures of the city is now obtained from
taxes upon real and personal property. It is clear
that tangible property cannot continue indefi-
nitely to bear this increasing burden.
Even if all possible economies are effected, it is
imperative that additional sources of revenue be
found. High property taxes have a definite tend-
ency to discourage home ownership. This tend-
ency is socially objectionable. It is not insig-
nificant that of all of the large cities of the country
Boston has the smallest percentage of home
owners. Only a quarter of all of the families
living in Boston own their own homes. The
high property tax rate in Boston is, of course,
not the only cause for this condition, but it is an
important factor.
But, even apart from the question of whether
or not tangible property can continue to bear the
increasing burdens placed upon it, and even apart
from the tendency of the present system of tax-
ation to discourage home ownership, a more equit-
able distribution of the burdens of municipal
government should be made. Every person should
bear his fair share of the burden. A wealthy man
with little or no real estate ought to bear his fair
share of the expenses of government. The real
estate owner and the modest home owner who
cannot conceal his home are compelled under the
present conditions to pay far too large a share of
the expenses of government. A more determined
effort should be made to collect a larger share of
the public tax from those persons able to pay so
that the burden upon the owner of tangible prop-
erty may be lessened.
I propose to consider promptly and with great
care and to recommend legislation with respect to
possible additional sources of revenue which will
relieve to some extent the burdens on tangible
property and more equitably distribute the cost
of government. (Applause.)
Salary Reductions.
The restoration of salary levels is within the
power of the Mayor. If he does nothing about
them, the reductions will automatically be restored
JANUARY 1, 1934.
on this first day of January. (Applause.) To
continue in effect the reductions instituted in
April of 1933, the Mayor must act by executive
order. A restoration of salaries to their old levels
would mean the additional expenditure of approx-
imately $3,400,000 for the year. This sum would
represent about $2 additional in the tax rate which
has been forecast for 1934.
In order to lessen, as far as possible, an increase
in the tax rate for 1934, it will be necessary to keep
the salary reductions in effect during the entire
period of 1934.^ But it is better to suffer pay
reductions for another year, than, by restoring
them, to hazard the chance of so impairing the
financial position of the city that city and county
employees might have to forego receiving any
salary whatever. In other words, there would be
danger of payless pay days. It is better to suffer
the hardship and inconvenience of the reductions
that have already been made and yet to receive
reduced salaries, than to restore the original
salaries, which would sound well to the ear of the
employee, but which might result in terminating
all salaries. (Applause.) Therefore, in the best
interests of the city and of all of its people, pru-
dence compels me to continue the pay cuts already
made for the year 1934. (Applause.)
I am confident that substantial economies may
be realized in many departments of the city
government during the next four years and even
in the year 1934. If it shall appear advisable
and the financial position of the city warrants, it
is always possible, while the Legislature is in
session, to obtain needed legislation to restore pay
cuts during 1934. (Applause.)
Resumption of Step-Rate Increases.
There are certain classes of employees, such as
school teachers, policemen and firemen, who have,
in effect, suffered more than a simple reduction in
salary. I refer to those who entered the employ of
the city at a minimum rate under circumstances
leading them to believe that they would receive
annual increases in their salaries until the maximum
was reached. When the salary reductions became
effective in April of 1933, these classes of em-
ployees were doubly affected because they lost not
only the reduction in their regular salaries but the
yearly increase as well, which seemed to me to be
so unjust that I made the specific promise to
resume these yearly increases.
I am aware that resuming the yearly increases
to begin with the present year will add to our tax
burden an amount which, it is estimated, should
not exceed $400,000. This represents about
twenty cents in the tax rate. As I am persuaded
that it is only simple justice to resume these in-
creases, I shall endeavor to keep my promise.
To the extent that I may have the power under
existing law f shall order the resumption of these
yearly increases; but if I have not the power then
I shall seek requisite legislation to enable me to do
this. (Applause.)
City Employees.
It is not my desire to remove city employees in
large numbers from the city pay roll. But the
continuous reports of padded pay rolls cannot be
ignored entirely. (Applause.) As to the advisa-
bility of removing superfluous employees, two ele-
ments are to be considered, — first, the hardship
upon the person removed, and second, the hardship
on the taxpayers if the person is not removed.
The taxpayer must not be overlooked in this situa-
tion and his burden must be relieved if that can be
accomplished.
Except in flagrant cases of outright padding, I
shall try to avoid wholesale discharges. The man
or woman giving an honest day's work will be pro-
tected. (Applause.) There are ways of econo-
mizing without affecting personnel. Consolida-
tion of certain departments would eliminate high
salaried officials and effect other economies in
operation but would not necessarily mean the
separation of the rank and file of valuable and
experienced employees from the pay rolls. The
policy of not filling vacancies caused by death or
retirement will also effect gradual savings, and,
so far as practicable, I shall continue that policy.
(Applause.) There are numerous opportunities
for economy in the everyday conduct of the city's
work. In discovering and putting such economies
into effect, employees themselves can be of invalu-
able assistance. May I call to their attention that
their cooperation with me in this respect is the
most certain guarantee of the security of their own
positions. (Applause.)
Accounting and Budgeting.
For many years, Boston's accounting and
budgeting systems have been criticized. This
criticism has in large part been justified. The
accounts of this huge and important corporation
are kept on an antiquated cash book basis com-
parable to that employed. by a crossroads country
store of one hundred years ago. Any city admin-
istration which is unable to give an accurate,
prompt, and easily understood statement of its
financial condition at regular intervals, or which
is careless or inefficient in planning and controlling
the appropriation and expenditure of the public
money, fails to fulfill the trust imposed upon it by
the people.
Immediate steps will be taken to inaugurate a
modern accounting system which will give a true
picture of the city's finances at all times. This
will require encumbering appropriations with all
charges against them as soon as the charges are
incurred, and setting up the books of the city so
that assets and liabilities may be known, and a
correct and comprehensive balance sheet may be
available.
During the past five years the State Division of
Accounts has been at work on the installation of a
new system in certain of the city departments. It
is time that this work in all departments should be
pressed to a conclusion. While continuing friendly
cooperation with this state department, I shall take
steps to have completed the modernization of the
city's accounting system within a reasonable time.
In addition, I propose to request an immediate
audit by this state department of the city's ac-
counts. It is only fair to the outgoing administra-
tion, to the incoming administration, and to the
people of Boston that such an audit be made, and I
shall help formulate and urge the passage of legis-
lation requiring a compulsory audit of the city's
accounts and records at the end of each adminis-
tration. (Applause.)
Better budget contents, control and procedure
are necessary in Boston, particularly in these
troubled times. In so far as possible, future bud-
gets will include a complete annual program of the
city's receipts from all sources and its expenditures
for all purposes. They will also provide a better
picture of the purposes for which the expenditures
are to be made. They will be supported by com-
parisons with prior years and the reasons for
changes in budget items so as to give a clear under-
standing to all who are interested. The city's
budget calendar will also be improved so that the
city will be operated under full budget control as
soon as the fiscal year begins. In order that there
may be proper control of expenditures to insure
adherence to the original budget, thereby eliminat-
ing supplementary budgets during the year, I plan
to establish a system of quarterly allotments which
are based on departmental work programs ex-
pressed in units of work. The Auditing and
Budget Departments will be instructed to see
that such allotments are not exceeded.
As a result of these changes, I hope that public
confidence in the city's finances will be improved,
public knowledge thereof will be increased, the
chances of wasteful expenditure will be mini-
mized, and new opportunities for desirable econo-
mies will be uncovered.
It is true that there are certain statutory and
other impediments to the complete realization of
this program. Informal methods of control are,
however, available to the Mayor to achieve sub-
stantially the benefits desired until such time as
permanent changes can be effected.
Contracts and Purchases.
Contract awards and the purchase of equip-
ment and supplies occupy a prominent place in
city administration. In recent years they have in-
volved between $15,000,000 and $20,000,000
annually. This enormous expenditure requires
honest, esperienced officials in charge of such pur-
chases and the best methods in order to secure the
lowest prices.
Whatever the past has been, Boston must
receive full value for each dollar expended. (Ap-
plause.)
I propose to adhere strictly to a system of
contracts and purchases based upon absolutely
honest awards to the lowest bids of reliable mer-
chants and contractors. (Applause.) I pledge
my administration to the elimination of all favor-
itism and the splitting of contracts. (Applause.)
In line with my recommendations for improved
budget procedure it will be my policy to make
OITY COUNCIL.
volume purchases of supplies needed foj relatively
long periods. Proper inspoctio ithodi ivill be
Bot up in ordor that Boston may receive wha\
ii pays for. (Applause.) Beyond all ol this I
hope to make cooperative am ments with I he-
ciiv r • i at 1 county officials who purchase supplies
independently of the Supply Department, to the
end that combination of total purchasing require-
i i(h may result in lower prices than would
otherwise bo tlio case.
Finance Commission.
The Finance Commission, if properly consti
tuted, may lie of great benefit, to (he city. I ex-
press no opinion as to whether the present policy
of a paid chairman and unpaid associate member*
should be changed to that of a board ol paid
members. But f have a very decided opinion
that in whatever form it may exist, if it is prop-
erly constituted, it is a most valuable asset, to the
Mayor and an important department of the .city.
Since the purpose of the Finance Commission is to
prevent waste and to serve the city purely in tin-
interest of its citizens and taxpayers, I see no
reason whatever for a continuous war between
the chief magistrate of Boston and that commis-
sion. (Applause.) Such will not be my policy.
So long as it is properly constituted and functions
fairly and in accordance with its intended pur-
pose, I shall welcome its suggestions and criti-
cisms and shall cooperate in every way to the end
that the best results may be obtained for Boston.
(Applause.)
Public Welfare.
During recent years the Department of Public
Welfare has become the largest, in point of ex-
penditures, of all departments under the control
of the Mayor. In 1933, about $13,000,000 has
been expended, as compared with less than
$3,000,000 before the depression. Early in De-
cember of 1933, the number of public welfare eases
was about 32,700, almost twenty per cent of the
total number of families in Boston. Civil works
employment has temporarily reduced the load to
some extent.
Under my administration the city will give as
liberal aid as possible to all worthy welfare re-
cipients. (Applause.) I recognize the obliga-
tions of the city and I realize its social import-
ance. Not only must we alleviate privation and
sickness and maintain public morale at the present
time, but we must look forward to the future,
and make certain that our youth, and genera-
tions yet unborn, shall not suffer mentally and
physically from the insufficiency of aid in these
troubled times.
The obligation of the city government to those
who meet the tremendous cost of this work can-
not be overlooked. Relentless vigilance must be
exercised to eliminate unworthy cases, and to
effect an administration of the department that
is as efficient as it is humanly possible to achieve.
I am apprehensive that, unless the growth of the
welfare list is not only checked but welfare costs
lowered, the city, by reason of a gradually re-
duced income resulting in part from lower tax
values and failure to collect taxes, will be utterly
unable to meet these costs without drastic curtail-
ment of municipal functions whether under the
control of the Mayor or other officials. I am not
willing to believe that in meeting the city's obli-
gation to welfare recipients the public money
must be wasted, inefficiency must be tolerated, or a
system which invites fraud must be permitted.
(Applause.)
Over a period of more than two years, many
studies and investigations of the Public Welfare
Department have been made. The Boston
Finance Commission, the State Emergency Finance
Board, the Police Department, the Budget Com-
missioner, the Boston Council of Social Agencies,
and a number of private organizations have
revealed serious defects in the work and have made
definite recommendations for improvement.
Whether or OOl all ..( lh. criticism ban been
remains that the department has
been deplorably slow ii iously neces-
sary improvements so that its work can be ad-
jui ted to the enlarged duties imposed on i' by the
de| a, Conditions arc still far from satis-
factory. / shall take immediate steps to place the
department on 'in- most efficient basis possible.
There mu I be competent exa i ■ irection,
proper in ■. ei I igai ion of all new cases, adi
follow-up of cases as long :m thay are on the welfare
roll ind a modern system of administrati
financial control within the department. I shall
not tolerate furl her delay in these matters. (Ap-
plause.)
I recognize that the character of welfare work
will change when economic conditions improve. A
new type of problem will then appear, that of
returning welfare recipients to gainful employ-
ment as speedily as possible and preventing any
wholesale tendency toward seeking relief in
preference to employment. We must prepare for
this change.
The problems are many and complicated. They
must be worked out cooperatively, and always
with proper regard to the city's obligations to
welfare recipients and to the taxpayer.
Mayor's Advisory Committee.
Many of the present and future problems of the
city will be difficult. I shall need, and I shall
welcome the aid of all citizens, individually and
collectively. As a practical method of obtaining
that aid, I shall form a committee to be known as
the "Mayor's Advisory Committee," and to
consist of not more than ten citizens properly
representative of labor, business, and general
community interest. I shall feel free to submit
to this committee problems for investigation,
information, advice and guidance, always, of
course, with the clear understandig that the re-
ports of the committee shall be advisory only and
that the responsibility for final action on any
particular problem will rest entirely upon me.
Cooperation.
Many public agencies having responsibility for
the administrative and financial functions of the
city, are wholly or partly outside the control of the
Mayor. The Governor, the Legislature, various
state departments, the School Committee, the
Police Department and county officers can con-
tribute in large measure to the solution of Boston's
problems. I believe that the closest cooperation
and a mutual understanding between the Mayor
and these officials are indispensable to Boston's
welfare. It will be my policy to work in harmony
with them! I bespeak their cordial cooperation
and I am confident that it will be forthcoming.
Gentlemen of the Council:
The present plight of the city, while grave, is by
no means hopeless. The difficulties to which I
have referred are not insurmountable. These
problems can be solved. I am sure that with the
hearty cooperation of your members I can steadily
and surely improve the position and the credit of
out city. It is my purpose frequently to address
the Council personally or by message and the
citizens of Boston through the Press and by radio
broadcasts, to the end that you and the citizens
may be informed of the condition of the city and
may understand the exact nature and magnitude
of the problems which must be solved. I shall do
my best for Boston. (Applause.) I know that
is your intention too. But in addition to the
hearty cooperation of the Mayor and the City
Council, we shall need always in these trying times
that Divine Aid which has been so eloquently
invoked here today. Fervently let us pray that
it may always be with us. (Great applause.)
The Mayor began at 10.42 a. m., and ended at
11.35 a.m.
After the singing of the " Star-Spangled Banner "
by Maria Koussevitsky, the audience joining in
the chorus, the meeting adjourned at 11.42 a. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Tuesday, January 2, 1934.
First meeting of the City Council of 1934
in the Council Chamber, City Hall, called to
order by Coun. GALLAGHER, Senior Member,
at 2 p. m.
Present, all the members.
CALL FOR MEETING.
The Clerk read the call for the meeting, as
follows :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 1, 1934.
To the Members of the City Council.
Gentlemen, — You are hereby requested to
assemble in the City Council Chamber, City
Hall, on Tuesday, January 2, 1934, at two
o'clock p. m. for the purpose of organizing
and to take action on such matters of city
business as may be submitted to your honor-
able body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
ELECTION OF PRESIDENT.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Council now proceed to
the election of a president for the municipal
year 1934.
The order was passed.
Chairman GALLAGHER— The Clerk will
call the roll, and each member as his name is
called will announce his preference.
The Clerk, called the roll, and the members
announced their preference, as follows :
' For John F. Dowd — Coun. Agnew, Brackman,
Doherty, Donovan, Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish,
Fitzgerald, Gallagher, Gleason, Goldman, Green,
Kerrigan, McGrath, Murray, Norton, Roberts,
Selvitella, Tobin, Wilson— 21.
For John I. Fitzgerald — Coun. Shattuck — 1.
And Coun. John F. Dowd was declared
elected President for the municipal year 1934,
amidst applause.
Chairman GALLAGHER appointed Coun.
McGrath and Wilson to escort President Dowd
to the chair, and they performed the duty
assigned.
ADOPTION OF RULES OF 1933.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following :
Ordered, That the rules of the City Council
of 1933, except Rules 13, 24 and -34, be adopted
as the rules of this body until permanent rules
are adopted.
The order was passed.
APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEE TO
REPORT RULES.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That a committee of five members
of the City Council be appointed to prepare
and report rules for the proceedings of the
City Council.
The order was passed, and President DOWD
appointed as said committee Coun. Wilson,
Green, McGrath, Gallagher and Roberts.
LOANS IN ANTICIPATION OF TAXES.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — In accordance with the attached
request of the City Auditor, I submit herewith
an order which it is customary to introduce
at the first meeting of the City Council au-
thorizing the City Treasurer to issue, from
time to time, temporary loans in anticipa-
tion of taxes in an amount not exceeding
$30,000,000. This is the same amount as
authorized by the City Council at the beginning
of its session last year. In view of existing
conditions I deem it expedient to request your
approval of the same amount for 1934.
I respectfully recommend adoption of this
order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Auditing Department, January 2, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I submit herewith customary
order for temporary loan in anticipation of
taxes, and respectfully request same to be for-
warded to City Council with recommendation
for its adoption.
Respectfully yours,
Rupert S. Carven, City Auditor.
Ordered, That to provide temporarily money
to meet the appropriations for the financial
year 1934, the City Treasurer issue and sell,
at such time and in such amounts as he may
deem best, notes or certificates of indebtedness
of the City of Boston not exceeding thirty
million dollars ($30,000,000) in the total, in
anticipation of the taxes of the current munici-
pal year ; that all such notes or certificates
of indebtedness be dated the day the money
for the same is received, be made payable with
the interest thereon within one year of their
date from the taxes of the year 1934, and bear
interest from their date until the same are
made payable at such rate as the City Auditor,
the City Treasurer, and the Mayor may deter-
mine.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I would
say for the benefit of the new members that
this is the customary order which comes in
at the first of every year, the purpose being
to maintain the City of Boston during the
time while we are anticipating the payment of
taxes.
The order was given its first reading and
passage, yeas 22, nays 0.
SALARY REDUCTIONS FOR 1934.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 1, 1934.
Wilfred J. Doyle,
City Clerk.
Dear Sir, — I hand you herewith executive
order dated January 1, 1934, continuing in
effect for the calendar year 1934 the salary
reductions made pursuant to the provisions of
section 3 of chapter 121 of the Acts of the
year 1933.
Yours very truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor.
Executive Order.
By virtue of the authority granted to me by
the provisions of chapter 121 of the Acts of
the year 1933, I, as Mayor of the City of
Boston, do hereby order and direct that the
reductions in the salary of every office and
position, the salary of which is paid from the
treasury of the City of Boston in whole or in
6
CITY COUN(JJL.
part, made pursuant to the provisions of sec-
tion :i of chapter 121 of the AcIh of the year
L988, !"•, and hereby are, continued in effect
[or the calendar year 1984.
By order of
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Dated January 1, 1934.
I 'laced on tile.
APPOINTMENT OF HENRY E. FOLEY
AS CORPORATION COUNSEL.
Notice was received of the appointment by
the Mayor of Henry E. Foley, 7 Summit street,
Hyde Park, Boston, to he Corporation Counsel,
said appointment to take effect at close of
business January 2, 1934.
Placed on file.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn under the law, Coun.
SHATTUCK and FISH presiding at the box
in the absence of the Mayor, as follows :
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear February 5,
1934 :
Daniel J. Mullaley, Ward 1 ; Paul J. Murphy,
Ward 1 ; James W. Ahearn, Ward 3 ; Frank
P. Randall, Ward 4 ; Joseph Agustini, Ward
5 ; Charles J. Geier, Jr., Ward 6 ; Joseph A.
Green, Ward 7 : James F. O'Neil, Ward 6 ;
Henry L. Carpenter, Jr., Ward 10 ; Stanley
F. Miller, Ward 10 ; Ernest Wessly, Ward 11 ;
Malcolm J. Campbell, Ward 13 ; Howard F.
Fillebrown, Ward 13 ; Anthony A. Gallant,
Ward 13; Frank L. Curtis, Ward 16; Otto
C. Kretchman, Ward 18 ; Wendall C. Parker,
Ward 18; Richard H. Schultz. Ward 18;
Ernest A. Knight, Ward 21 ; William E.
Smith, Ward 21.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Third Session, to appear Febru-
ary 7, 1934:
Henry F. McDonald, Ward 1 ; Charles H.
Maginn, Ward 1 ; William J. Barry, Ward 2 ;
Robert Buckley, Ward 2 ; Nicolo Malvone,
Ward 3 ; Thomas F. McDavitt, Ward 3 ; Fred-
erick Hitchens, Ward 7 ; Timothy Cronan,
Ward 9 ; Eben A. Kinsman, Ward 10 ; Alex-
ander Kisiel, Ward 10 ; William J. Baird,
Ward 11 ; Donald, McKenzie, Jr., Ward 12 ;
Joseph A. Crottendeck, Ward 13 ; John F.
Cotter, Ward 14 ; Joseph Raine, Ward 14 ;
Charles A. Collins, Ward 15 ; James L. Brown,
Ward 16; Peter O'Hare, Ward 16; N. Henry
Larson, Ward 18 ; Arthur F. Norton, Ward
18 ; William B. Smith, Ward 18 ; Joseph A.
Klueber, Ward 19 ; Joseph W. Wood, Jr.,
Ward 19 ; Andrew Nelson, Ward 20 ; Robert
C. Lipson, Ward 21 ; William N. Middleton,
Ward 24.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fourth Session, to appear February
5, 1934:
Sylvester J. Murray, Ward 2 ; John J.
Haughton, Ward 2 ; John T. Quinn, Ward 2 ;
Willard Moore, Ward 4 ; Joseph W. S. Weaver,
Ward 4 ; Thomas H. Kilgallen, Ward 6 ; Frank
L. Norton, Ward 7; John J. O'Connell, Ward
8 ; Fritz C. Swenson, Ward 8 ; William F.
Higgins, Ward 9 ; George A. Powell, Ward 9 ;
Edward J. Cullinane, Ward 10 ; Philip B. Fox,
Ward 10; William Rooney, Ward 10; Alfred
G. Erickson, Ward 11 ; Henry George Gaetre,
Ward 11 ; Chester C. Chadwick, Ward 12 ;
Albert O. Duncan, Ward 13 ; Charles E.
Dwyer, Ward 13 ; Frederick P. Morrison, Ward
13 ; Horace S. Thompson, Ward 13 ; Neil
Thompson, Ward 13 ; Neil Curtin, Ward 14 ;
Frank T. Smith, Ward 14; Frederick L. Sul-
livan, Ward 16; Nestor F. Paradis, Ward 17;
William E. Canon, Ward 18; William J.
O'Brien, Jr., Ward 20 ; Carl A. Carlson, Jr.,
Ward 22 ; Thomas B. White, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fifth Session, to appear February
5, 1934:
James J. Curran, Ward 1; Eugene M. Mc-
Mullen, Ward 2; Edward Clark Day, Ward
:; ; James E. Graham, Ward 3 ; Edmund J.
Wlial.-n. Ward 3; Rubert Jacobs, Ward 4;
Gee 1. Hunt, Ward 5; James P. Donnelly,
Ward 7; Daniel N. Wagner, Ward 8; Peter
McNiff, Ward 10; John 'J'. Barrett, War. I 11;
John P. Welch, Ward 11; William J. Le-
Blanc, Ward 13 ; William P. Sweeney, Ward
18 j Thomas J. Lester, Ward 14; Raymond F.
Wray, Ward 17; Stewart T. Allen, Ward 16;
i E. Gormall, Ward 16; Thomas J. Mr-
Adams, Ward 18; Joseph Colls, Ward 19; Sam-
Mi I.. Ginsberg, Ward 19; Henry Zimmerman.
Ward 19; Robert E. Ma. 'in. Ward 20; Alex-
ander E. Pagol, Ward 20 ; Russell A. Sims,
Ward 20 ; Mark S. lirown, Ward 21 ; John F.
Havey, Ward 21 ; Harold E. Noal, Ward 21 ;
Henry G. Ramsey, Ward 22.
Ninteen traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
First Session, January Sitting, to appear Feb-
ruary 5, 1934:
Joseph P. Morrissy, Ward 1 ; Herbert
C. Pratt, Ward 4 ; Daniel L. Dailey, Ward
8 ; George Edward Saul, Ward 8 ; Patrick
J. Grace, Ward 9; John Doonan, Ward 11;
James J. Gilmartin, Ward 11 ; Francis W.
Huckham, Ward 11 ; Jacob Sashe, Ward 11 ;
William J. Cossart, Ward 13 ; Harold E.
Clarke, Ward 15 ; George A. Graham, Ward
15 ; Jeremiah Walsh, Ward 15 ; Alfred A.
Reardon, Ward 17 ; Jerome B. Norton, Ward
19 ; Richard P. Murray, Ward 20 ; John G.
Taylor, Ward 21 ; Seaward G. Brightman,
Ward 22 ; George H. Maxon, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, January Sitting, to ap-
pear February 5, 1934 :
Lawrence Holderried, Jr., Ward 4 ; Charles
H. Pyne, Ward 4 ; Harry L. Burrage, Ward 5 ;
Joseph E. Delay, Ward 5 ; Frank L. Donovan,
Ward 6 ; William J. Brothers, Ward 7 ; Anthony
R. Standante, Ward 7 ; George H. Whitley,
Ward 7 ; Reuben A. Bibbey, Ward 8 ; Robert
E. Mulcahy, Ward 10 ; Cornelius E. Murphy,
Ward 11 ; Patrick Murray, Ward 11 ; Joseph
H. O'Brien, Ward 11 ; James A. Sproul, Ward
11 ; William F. Benjes, Ward 12 ; Carl E.
Bond, Ward 12 ; Washington Cook, Ward 12 ;
Patrick Kenny, Ward 15 ; Abraham M. Chein-
stein, Ward 17 ; Francis E. Ballou, Ward 19 ;
Robert P. Crellon, Ward 19 ; Bernard Fitz-
patrick, Ward 19 ; Henry Krause, Ward 19 ;
Carl J. E. Schoenherr, Ward 19.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fourth Session, January Sitting, to ap-
pear February 5, 1934:
John N. Lawrence, Ward 1 ; Terrance F.
McGowan, Ward 2 ; Joseph L. Ryan, Ward 2 ;
Henry Stone, Ward 3 ; Frank L. McAllaster,
Ward 4 ; William J. Welch, Ward 6 ; Jeremiah
F. Mulcahy, Ward 7 ; Charles A. Julius, Ward
8 ; Joseph A. MacKay, Ward 9 ; Joseph Mc-
Conville, Ward 10 ; John T. Davin, Ward 11 ;
Julius Gudjons, Ward 11 ; Randolph J. Len-
non, Ward 11 ; William M. Gair, Ward 12 ;
William Reed, Ward 13; Owen F. J. Tucker,
Ward 13 ; Abraham Gray, Ward 14 ; Louis
Livingston, Ward 14 ; Oscar D. Rollins, Ward
14; Walibert E. LaPlante, Ward 15; Ernest A.
Yates, Ward 16 ; Gordon J. Lee, Ward 18 ; Carl
F. Anderson, Ward 19 ; Chester W. Dyer,
Ward 20 ; Frederick G. Hartwell, Ward 20 ;
James S. Driscoll, Ward 21.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fifth Session, January Sitting, to ap-
pear February 5, 1934 :
Louis Cuozzi, Ward 1 ; Harold E. Fitzgerald,
Ward 1 ; William P. Kelley, Ward 1 ; Michael
Repucci, Ward 1 ; Lawrence Howard, Ward 2 ;
Thomas J. McElaney, Ward 8 ; Edward J.
Butler, Ward 10 ; John J. Crowley, Ward 10 ;
Harold J. Kearns, Ward 11 ; Joseph H. Owen,
Ward 11 ; Max Epstein, Ward 12 ; Edwin F.
Manning, Ward 12 ; Robert W. Neely, Ward
12 ; Lawrence F. Doucette, Ward 13 ; Joseph
P. Flanagan, Ward 13 ; Vernon P. Mullaly,
Ward 13; Joseph White, Ward 14; Parker R.
JANUARY 2, 1934.
Wylie, Ward 14 ; Herbert P. Bourne, Ward 15 ;
Thomas B. Bradley, Ward 15 ; William R. Love,
Ward 18 ; Peter J. Lehane, Ward 19 ; Edward
P. O'Neil, Ward 21.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Sixth Session, January Sitting, to ap-
pear February 5, 1934 :
Dennis J. Hayes, Ward 2 ; Patrick F. Collins,
Ward 6 ; Joseph A. Slattery, Ward 6 ; Frank A.
Leonard, Ward 7; William S. Rose, Ward 7;
William J. Sullivan, Ward 7 ; Edward T. Mc-
Grath, Ward 10 ; James P. Robinson, Ward 10 ;
Philip F. Danforth, Ward 13; William A.
Coleman, Ward 14 ; Isadore Lesofsky, Ward
14 ; Lenwood H. Bailey, Ward 15 ; Herbert H.
Jones, Ward 15 ; Warren E. Williams, Ward
16; Harry A. Golden, Ward 17; Perry T.
Goodwin, Ward 17 ; Alfred H. Gedies, Ward 18 ;
John J. Lauppe, Jr., Ward 18 ; Wesley P.
Goudie, Ward 19 ; William E. Wilson, Ward 19 ;
Albert G. Grow, Ward 20; Ernest W. Perkins,
Ward 20 ; Melvin A. Mode, Ward 21 ; Samuel S.
Smith, Ward 21.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Seventh Session, January Sitting, to ap-
pear February 5, 1934 :
Charles F. Keenan, Ward 2 ; Frederick R.
Kelley, Ward 2 ; Paul Calabro, Ward 3 ; Peter
Cartsunis, Ward 4 ; Harry H. Forestall, Ward
4 ; David Michaels, Ward 4 ; Timothy J. Crow-
ley, Ward 7 ; Thomas Toohey, Ward 8 ; Joseph
H. L. Brehm, Ward 9; Daniel J. O'Brien,
Ward 9 ; Thomas F. Loughry, Ward 10 ; James
G. Bent, Ward 13 ; Israel Pearlmutter, Ward
13 ; Albert A. Cook, Ward 15 ; Charles W.
Dunham, Ward 16 ; Thomas P. Kelly, Ward 16 ;
Francis C. Griffin, Ward 17; Thomas J. Mc-
Carthy, Ward 18; Chester L. Doyle, Ward 19;
Frank C. Nowell, Ward 20; Henry W. Lord,
Ward 21 ; William E. Taft, Ward 21.
MATTERS REFERRED FROM 1933.
Coun. GALLAGHER offered the following:
Ordered, That all matters referred to this
City Council by the City Council of 1933 be
referred to the appropriate committees of this
body when appointed.
Passed.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
Apollo Cake Specialties, Inc., for compensa-
tion for damage to car by city team.
Chester A. Baker, Inc., for refund on fee
for druggist's license.
Hyman Baron, for refund on license for sale
of beer.
Irving Brown, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Columbus
avenue.
Anne J. Cullinane, for compensation for
damage to property at 2 Parker Hill avenue,
caused by bursting water pipes.
Josephine Curreri, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city truck.
Marie Durant, for compensation for injuries
on steamer "O'Meara."
Samuel and Abraham Gold, for compensation
for damage to property at 810 and 812 Tre-
mont street, caused by break in water main.
William A. Gormley, to be reimbursed for
execution issued against him on account of
his acts as an employee of the Public Works
Department.
Mrs. Marie Gould, for compensation for dam-
age to car by fire truck.
Walter Greenough, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect at
391 Hyde Park avenue.
Abraham S. Guterman, for compensation for
damage sustained, caused by an alleged defect
at 214 Bay State road.
John E. Kanz, for compensation for col-
lapse of water boiler at 8 Rambler road,
caused by increase in water pressure.
Morris and Sarah Mappen, for compensa-
tion for injuries and damage to property
caused by city ear.
Mattapan Citizen's Association, Inc., for
refund on license to sell malt beverages.
Helen E. Miller, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at Atlantic
avenue and State street.
Theodore A. Muvrogiannis, for refund on
license for sale of beer.
Rossville Commercial Alcohol Corporation,
for refund on liquor license.
Lester B. Young, for compensation for dam-
are to car by car of Fire Department.
WARD 17 IMPROVEMENTS.
• Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Wentworth ter-
race in Ward 17.
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Richard terrace
in Ward 17.
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Druid street, in
Ward 17.
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Emerson avenue,
in Ward 17.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
REMOVAL OF UNUSED POLES AND
WIRES.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, respectfully requested, incident to
the present emergency public works program,
to take up with the Boston Elevated Street
Railway Company, the early removal of all
poles and overhead wires where surface street
car service has been permanently discontinued.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I have in
mind in the introduction of this order the
fact that the Federal Government and other
public authorities are looking around for op-
portunities to have men do some work, and
it strikes me that here is an opportunity to
make a rather wide distribution of money for
work in such districts as the Norfolk street
section in my own ward and in other streets
and highways of the City of Boston, where
street car service has been discontinued and
jitney service substituted therefor, the over-
head wires and poles however, still remaining.
In a number of cases the street car service has
been permanently given up, and it seems to
me there must come a day — and this is prob-
ably as good a time as any, — to have action
taken looking to the removal of such poles
and wires along lines where the street car
service has been discontinued, throughout the
city, especially, as I say, having in mind that
the Federal Government and other public au-
thorities are looking for opportunities to fur-
nish jobs for men who have been discharged
or laid off.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
NEW SUFFOLK COUNTY COURTHOUSE.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he is, respectfully requested, incident to the
present Federal Works program, to consider
plans for a new Suffolk County Courthouse or
an adequate addition to the same.
8
CITY COUNOIL.
Conn. WILSON — Mr. President, my remarl
will be very brief, especially on thin first <l;iy,
l.u I luive in mind an order introduce! on
April 26, 1026, by Conn. Fitzgerald of the
West, End, looking to an investigation of the
overcrowded conditions of the Suffolk County
Courthou.se by the Committee on County Ac-
counts, the committee being requested to report
their conclusions as to the relief which should
he afforded. There was also an order which I
introduced on May 9, 1927, requesting further
investigation of the overcrowded conditions of
the Suffolk County Courthouse and of the pos-
sibility of purchasing certain adjoining prop-
erty in Pemberton square which had become
vacant for the purpose of constructing a suit-
able modern annex and giving relief in the
matter. There was also the order which I
introduced on August 5, 1929, to accept chapter
368 of the Acts of 1929, entitled ''An Act to
provide additional courthouse accommodations
and facilities for the courts and other officials
in the county of Suffolk." That came under
the head of emergency legislation looking to
the erection of a new Suffolk County Court-
house, and the only real difference that arose
here in regard to it was with reference to the
split, the Legislature proposing that the city
stand 80 per cent of the cost of construction
and the Commonwealth the 20 per cent balance,
while it was felt by some of our members that
the state should bear a larger proportion of
the cost. There was also the order that I
offered on August 3, 1931, that the Boston City
Council accept chapter 384 of the Acts of
1931, which, having in mind the objection
that had previously been made to the division
between the state and the city, provided that
70 per cent should be borne by the city and
30 per cent by the state. That was defeated,
although it had gone through with an emer-
gency preamble. Again, last summer, during
the absence of 'Mayor Curley in Europe, al-
though I was not a member of the Council,
I took the opportunity to write Acting-Mayor
MeGrath suggesting that advantage be taken
of the Federal grant of 30 per cent outright
for public works, the balance to be divided
between the state and the city. I felt that it
was a good opportunity to take advantage of
that grant and to carry through an important
public project, for which we would have some-
thing to show ; that we could thereby get a
new county courthouse, which it had been
agreed throughout all these years that the city
should have, the only disagreement being as
to the proportion that should be borne by the
city and the state, a/nd that the grant of
Federal funds afforded us a good opportunity
to avoid that issue. And so I now again
urge the Mayor, incident to this Federal works
program, to con ider plans for a new county
courthouse or an adequate addition to the same.
At a time when the authorities are trying to
double the 18,000 odd city employees, and when
every effort is being made to put men at work
and to accomplish something in the line of
public projects, it seems to me, as long as the
taxpayers will have to ultimately pay a good
jii-i, portion of the amount granted, whether the
amount is sent to Washington or to the City
of Boston, we might try to see if we cannot
obtain some tangible results for the money
spent, something that will be really worth
while. Therefore, I urge the attention of the
present Mayor to this matter. Our present
Mayor has been honored by election to presi-
dency of the Bar Association, and he is natur-
ally interested in having all possible decent
facilities afforded for the transaction of the
legal business of the county. I trust, there-
fore, that he will interest himself in acting on
behalf of a new or an improved Suffolk County
Courthouse, something which will naturally
appeal to him, and something of which he as
much as any man sees the need. I trust
that the initiative in this matter will be taken
by the city, having in mind the delays that
we see in the construction of such Federal
buildings as the post office, with its inadequate
elevators and inadequate heating system. I
certainly feel, at a time like this, when we are
all looking to work on public improvements
to help us out of our present depression and
to also furnish additional facilities for the
public, this matter may be seriously considered,
even although it means double or treble shifts,
so that when we have spent millions of dollars
in carrying through such a project we shall
at least have something to which we can point
with pride, one great public improvement that
will stand there as a visible testimonial to the
amounts that have been spent.
The order was passed.
HEATERS IN POLICE CARS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following :
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner of
Boston be requested to consider the advis-
ability of making an appropriation this year
for the installation of heaters in police cars,
used during the winter period.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned at 3.07 p. m., on motion of Coun.
NORTON, to meet on Monday, January 8,
1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
9
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, January 8, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., Presi-
dent DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun.
Brackman and Fitzgerald.
APPOINTMENT OF WEIGHER OF COAL.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Maybr submitted the following appointment,
for the term ending April 1, 1934, viz.:
Weigher of Coal : John H. O'Brien, Jr.,
60 Carleton road, Newton.
Laid over a week under the rules.
APPROPRIATION FOR MUNICIPAL
EMPLOYMENT BUREAU.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 8, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised that the appropria-
tion for the Municipal Employment Bureau
is practically exhausted and that additional
funds are necessary if the Bureau is to func-
tion beyond the present week.
Pending a decision as to the future of this
Bureau I deem it expedient to continue its
activities for one more month. Since the
weekly expenditures of the Bureau are ap-
proximately $500, I submit herewith, an ap-
propriation order for $2,000.
I respectfully recommend adoption of this
order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the sum of $2,000 be, and
hereby is, appropriated to be expended by the
Municipal Employment Bureau, under the
direction of the Mayor, in the prosecution of
its duties, said sum to be charged to the Re-
serve Fund, when made.
On motion of Coun. McGRATH, the rule
was suspended, and the order was passed, yeas
18, nays 0.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
William Albano, for compensation for damage
to car by city truck.
Lorenzo Bianco, for refund on beer license.
Cities Electric Supply Company, for com-
pensation for damage to property at 206
Congress street, caused by break in water
main.
James T. Doherty, to be reimbursed for
judgment issued against him on account of
his acts as an employee of the Park Depart-
ment.
Matilda Duffy, for compensation for injuries
to son caused by an alleged defect in Annabel
street.
Marie Durant, for compensation for injuries
received on steamer "CMeara."
James G. Earle, for compensation for dam-
age to clothing in City Hall.
Annie Fay, for compensation for injuries
received at City Hospital.
First National Stores, Inc., for compensa-
tion for damage to property at 814 Tremont
street, caused by bursting of water pipes.
Maurice J. Gogg'in, for refund on beer
license.
Domenico Grannino, for refund on beer
license.
Genevieve G. Hannon, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 115
Woodrow avenue.
Shirley Herson, for refund on beer license.
John Jeffers, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 11 Meridian
street.
George Leon, for compensation for damage
to property at 35 Alleyne street, caused by
dynamite explosion.
Andrew J. Lloyd Company, for compensation
for damage to property at 300 Washington
street, caused by seepage of water supply.
Daniel J. McDonald, for compensation for
damage to car by city truck.
Personal Book Shop, for refund on refuse
tickets.
Edward J. Phaneuf, to be reimbursed for
judgment issued against him on account of
his acts as an employee of the Schoolhouse
Department.
Domenico Porreca, for compensation for
damage to car by sanitary car.
Portland Elevator Company, Inc., to replace
rubbish tickets destroyed by fire.
Frederick Rankins, for compensation for
damage to car by city car.
Samuel Shultz, for refund on beer license.
David Gilsomini, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 6 Wall street, caused by
city employees demolishing premises.
James Feeney. for compensation for damage
to property at 102 Brown avenue, Roslindale,
caused by shot fired by police officer.
Louise L. Lavery, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in sidewalk
on Dartmouth street, between Montgomery
street and Warren avenue.
STANDEES IN ELEVATED BUSES.
A petition was received from the Boston
Elevated Railway Company for an amendment
to the ordinances so as to permit passengers
to stand in motor buses.
Referred to the Committee on Jitney Li-
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The constables' bonds of Sydney Cohen and
William Schneider, having been duly approved
by the City Treasurer, were received and
approved.
INTEREST IN CONTRACT OF JOSEPH A.
TOMASELLO.
Notice was received from Joseph A. Toma-
sello, member of Board of Appeal, of interest
in contract of firm of A. G. Tomasello & Son,
Inc., with City of Boston for removing snow
and ice.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notices were received of the following ap-
pointments by the Mayor:
Eliot Wadsworth, 180 Marlborough street,
Sinking Funds Commissioner, for term ending
April 30, 1934, in place of Frederic J. Crosby,
whose resignation was accepted January 2
1934.
Charles H. Carey, 1957 Commonwealth ave-
nue, Soldiers Relief Commissioner, in place of
John J. Lydon, appointment to take effect
at close of business January 2, 1934.
Edward F. McLaughlin, 221 Pond street,
Fire Commissioner in place of Edward M.
10
CITY COUNCIL.
McSwecncy, appointment to take ellect at
beginning of business January 5, 1934.
Hilda H. Quirk, HH ML I'l.-.i .;. ni avenue, City
Iteci itrar, in place Of James J. Mulvey, ap-
pointment to take effect at cloHe of business
January <>. 1934.
Severally place<l on file.
TEMPORARY LOAN TO MEET
APPROPRIATIONS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 1 on the calendar, viz. :
1. Ordered, That to provide temporarily
money to meet the appropriations for the
financial year 1934, the City Treasurer issue
and sell, at such time and in such amounts
as he may deem best, notes or certificates of
indebtedness of the City of Boston not ex-
ceeding thirty million dollars in the total, in
anticipation of the taxes of the current munici-
pal year ; that all such notes or certificates of
indebtedness be dated the day the money for
the same is received, be made payable with
the interest thereon within one year of their
date from the taxes of the year 1934, and bear
interest from their date until the same are
made payable at such rate as the City Auditor,
the City Treasurer and the Mayor may deter-
mine.
On January 2, 1934, the foregoing order
was read once and passed, yeas 22.
The order was given its second and final
reading and passage, yeas 19, nays 0.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
115 of the General Laws and acts in amend-
ment thereof or in addition thereto, the
amounts set forth in, the list of allowances
hereto annexed, (for the month of January,
1934, of aid to soldiers and sailors and their
families residing in the City of Boston or
having a settlement therein, be hereby ap-
proved and paid until otherwise ordered, un-
less the person named shall previously become
ineligible to receive said aid.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
COUNCIL RULES.
Coun. WILSON, for the Committee on Rules,
submitted the following :
The Committee on Rules submit herewith
and recommend for adoption the accompanying
draft of the rules for 1934-35.
The rules reported are unchanged from those
of the last City Council so far as they relate
to parliamentary procedure, but the committee
has recommended some changes in the rules
relating to spectators and to the use of the
council rooms. It has always been understood
that the rules prohibited the presence on the
floor of the Council Chamber of persons other
than the officials connected with the Council
and the City Hall reporters, but for some years
the observance of this rule has gradually re-
laxed and at times the business of the Council
has been interfered with and the attention of
the members unwarrantly diverted by friends
or constituents who are innocently in the
Council Chamber, by invitation or otherwise.
The rule reported by the committee definitely
prohibits anyone except the members, the of-
ficials connected with the Council, and the
City Hall reporters of the eight daily news-
papers from trespassing on the floor of the
chamber while the Council is in session. If
the rule is adopted the committee proposes
to see that it .is enforced, and in this con-
nection would observe that in the case of the
visit of some distinguished guest the rule can
|„. impended, if desired, for that particular
occasion. In the same rule the committee has
inserted a provision prohibiting demonstrations
in the gallery. The necessity for thU pro-
vision has been shown on many occasions and
the committee doe nol believe it conducive to
good government to subject any members
arguments or vote to the pressure of approval
or disapproval from spectators.
The rule relating to the use of committee
rooms, etc., has been rewritten. It is the
intention of the President and the committee
to retake possession of Rooms 49, 50 and 52,
which have been temporarily loaned to other
departments, and establish these rooms with
Room 48A as waiting rooms and consultation
rooms. When these arrangements are com-
pleted it is proposed that no visitors be per-
mitted in the east or west anteroom, the rooms
formerly used by the President and the Ex-
ecutive Committee room. The committee rec-
ognizes the fact that the situation has been
unprecedented but believes that on the comple-
tion of these changes there will be no excuse
for the intolerable conditions which have here-
tofore existed. It is true that the unfortunate
and the unemployed are entitled to every
sympathy and consideration but it is also true
that the members of the City Council are
elected to transact the city's business and are
entitled to unimpeded access to the City Coun-
cil meeting for at least one day a week for the
two or three hours required for a City Council
meeting.
For the Committee,
Robert Gardiner Wilson, Jr.,
Chairman.
The two rules referred to in the report, as
amended by the committee, are as follows :
Rule. 27. No person, excepting officials con-
nected with the city council, and duly assigned
reporters of the eight daily (newspapers shall
be allowed in the anterooms or upon the floor
of the council chamber while the council is
in session. Spectators will be allowed in the
gallery of the council chamber when the council
is in session, and no one will be admitted to
said gallery after the seats are occupied. No
demonstrations of approval or disapproval from
the spectators shall be permitted and if such
demonstrations are made the gallery will be
cleared. The city messenger shall enforce this
rule.
Use of Committee Rooms.
Rule 33. No person except members and
officers of the city council and regularly as-
signed city hall reporters shall be admitted
at any time to the west anteroom, the locker
room, or the president's room, except when
invited on official business.
The draft of rules, as reported by the com-
mittee, is printed as city document No. 39.
In connection with the report Coun. WILSON
also offered the following order :
Ordered, That special committees to consider
the subjects named in the title of the com-
mittee be appointed by the President, viz. :
Parks and Playgrounds — five members.
Public Safety — five members.
Unclaimed Baggage — three members.
Hospitals — five members.
Constables — three members.
Municipal Lighting — five members.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, the Com-
mittee on Rules last week went into the
present unbearable situation at some length
and we felt that, in fairness to the twenty-two
members of the Council themselves, as well
as to the thousands of people, unemployed and
others, who come here daily, we should try,
in view of the unusual situation, to arrange
some system that will be reasonably satisfactory
to all, subject, of course, to the unanimous ap-
proval of the members of the Council. It
was thought advisable, Mr. President and
gentlemen of the Council, to suggest to you
that this room and the adjacent rooms where
we hold committee meetings and conferences
should be reserved for the Council, so that
JANUARY 8, 1934.
11
there may be an unimpeded and unobstructed
place for committee meetings, the transaction
of city business, a place where we can use the
telephone, dictate letters and attend to general
city business. While we realize the rights of
people coming here and looking for employment
through the state and our own employment
bureaus, we do feel, in the interest of the
proper transaction of the business of the city,
that the large hall across the floor and the
green room should be set aside for a waiting
room and for consultation purposes ; arrange-
ments being made through attaches of the
City Messenger's Department — Messrs. Mc-
Mahon, Green and Walsh — so that it will be
possible to call up and get in touch with
people outside and make appointments for
meetings with the councilors, with a view in
the whole arrangement to systematize the thing
so that we will not have thousands hanging
around City Hall aimlessly, as they are to be
found at Nashua street and other places, but
that they may come at certain times, according
to appointments, meeting members of the body,
transacting their business without delay and
being able to then go on their way. We also
felt that the councilors should have certain
rooms where they can either go themselves or
meet people, without unnecessary delay or in-
terruption. This whole thing is suggested in
fairness to the members of the Council, upon
whose shoulders a large portion of such busi-
ness falls, as well as in fairness to the general
public. I urge, therefore, that this proposed
provision, as well as the rules as a whole,
be adopted by roll call, because if this proposed
rule is to work out properly it must not only
be fair to the President but to the other
twenty-one members of the body ; and I trust,
therefore, that there will be no objection and
no exception to the rules. I ask, therefore,
for adoption by roll call.
The roll was called, and the proposed rules
were adopted, yeas 20, nays 0.
VISIT FROM MAYOR MANSFIELD.
Notice was received by the Council to the
effect that Mayor Mansfield desired to appear
before the body, and City Messenger Leary
retired and presently escorted the Mayor into
the chamber, where he was greeted with ap-
plause. ,
President DOWD— The Chair now has the
honor of turning the gavel over to his Honor
the Mayor. (Applause.)
Mayor MANSFIELD— Mr. President and
members of the Council, this is an unexpected
honor that has been extended to me. I had
not thought that the President would hand the
gavel over to me. I merely came to pay my
respects to the Council, and for no other
purpose whatever. I am very sorry that last
week, when our worthy and veteran City
Messenger came to the Mayor's office and said
there were jurors to be drawn, I was not in
my office and did not have a chance to meet
you on your first day. I was, besides, of
course, very busy in organizing my own office.
I thought, therefore, it would be better to
defer this formal little visit of courtesy until
you had elected your President and completed
your permanent organization. So that is the
reason why I have come here today to make
this little formal visit of courtesy, in the hope
that our beloved city may profit by our friendly
cooperation this year. I shall do all I can
to cooperate with the members of the City
Council. I want to know the members of
the Council, and have the strong and earnest
hope that we may all work together through-
out the year. I enter the office of Mayor with
an entirely open mind, free from all pre-
judice, my only purpose being to do the best
I can for the City of Boston, as I stated in
my inaugural address. I want you to feel
that the doors to my office are open to you at
all times ; that you are sympathetic with me
in my efforts, willing to give me a little time,
realizing that we cannot undo in twenty min-
utes what it has taken twenty years to
do. And so I trust that you will be sympa-
thetic with me and n'ot too harsh in your
criticism, bearing in mind all the time that
my intentions are good. I believe, as I said
at our little luncheon on inauguration day,
that we should look upon the City of Boston
as a whole, that we should regard its prob-
lems as a whole, that we should deal with
those problems as problems embodying and
embracing the whole city, and not consider
simply the separate sections into which our
city is divided or the little local issues. If
we can take a bird's-eye view of the city, seeing
its needs as a whole, and seeing where those
needs can be dealt with in a broad way, not
merely feeling that we are representing par-
ticular communities, — although, of course, we
must all take good care of the communities we
do represent, — I think we will do a better job
for the City of Boston. And so, gentlemen,
my little visit today is one of friendship and
one intended to bespeak the cooperation of this
Council with the efforts of the Mayor, that
we may give to the City of Boston the kind of
administration that it deserves, that it has long
wanted, and that we now have a chance to
see that it shall get. I thank you very much.
(Applause.)
Coun. MURRAY-^Mr. President, I would
like to ask leave of the Mayor to say just a
word about the C. W. A. I believe the Mayor
has a program, in which the Council is
greatly interested, for obtaining work for the
citizens of Boston. The C. W. A. program
has been under way for some time, there has
been certain money allotted to the City of
Boston in connection with that program, and
I know, so' far as this C. W. A. money is con-
cerned, that there are many men who are
not citizens of Boston who are working today
under the C. W. A. program in Boston. I
want to know, with the help of his Honor
the Mayor, what we are going to do with the
C. W. A. Is it true that all the men hired
by the departments will come through your
office?
President DOWD— I might say to the mem-
ber and to the body that there will be a con-
ference on this matter between the Mayor and
the President of the Council within ten min-
utes, and that that matter is going to be
discussed. Does that answer the question ">
Coun. MURRAY— Well, Mr. President, we
have a lot of people bothering us all the time,
anxious to know what can be done for them,
and I thought I would like to see if we could
get some assurance before the Mayor left here,
so that we could give some encouragement to
our people.
President DOWD — I have already made ar-
rangements for a conference with the Mayor,
and I shall be back here in half an hour. If
there is now no further business before the
'Council the Council stands adjourned.
The Council stood adjourned at 2.52 p. m.,
to meet on Monday, January 15, 1934, at
2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
12
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, January 15, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 ,p. m., Coun.
GALLAGHER, senior member, presiding. Ab-
sent, President Dowd.
EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments :
Weighers of Coal: Robert McGregor, 120
Border street. East Boston ; Fred Clements,
120 Border street, East Boston ; David J.
Connor, 21 Park street, Charlestown ; Margaret
A. Steeves, 35 Spring street, Medford.
Weigher of Goods : Warren Flynn, 370
Princeton street, East Boston.
Weigher of Coal and Coke : Joseph Dou-
cette, 19 Sylvester road, Dorchester.
Weigher of Goods and Measurer of Grain :
John J. McCarthy, 60 Lithgow street, Dor-
chester.
Constable: Cornelius L. Dundon, 181 Prince-
ton street, without authority to serve civil
process and to serve without bond, to be con-
nected with an official position.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
Frank R. Barone, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 280 and 282 Hanover street,
caused by backing up of sewage.
William Carlin, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Favre
street.
Rosa Cohen, for compensation for damage
to property at 209 Walnut avenue, caused by
ash truck.
Edmund E. Federici, for rebate on beer
license.
Placida C. Femino, for compensation for
damage to clothing while helping Fire De-
partment.
Furbush Motor Sales, for compensation for
damage to car -by city truck.
James D. Gorman, to be reimbursed for
judgment issued against him.
Richard J. McNeill, for compensation for
damage to car by police car.
Lilly Nayfe, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 818 Washington
street.
Frank A. O'Brien, for refund on beer license.
Gennaro Riccio, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 294 Hanover street, caused
by defective sewer.
Bliss W. Robinson, to be reimbursed for
execution issued against him.
Samuel Scotch, for refund on beer license.
Leo Sinopoli, for compensation for injuries
and damage to car caused by an alleged de-
fect in West Boston Bridge.
Patrick J. iSpillane, for compensation for
damage to car by city truck.
S. A. Valenti, for refund on ash tickets.
M. W. Vye, for compensation for damage
to car by city cart.
Walker & Co., for compensation for damage
to truck by ash truck.
APPEARANCE OF CHILDREN.
Petitions were received for children under
fifteen years of age to appear at places of
public amusement, viz. :
Anne Marie Casey, South Boston Municipal
Building, February 2.
Roxbury Post 44 A. L. Auxiliary, Practical
Arts High School, February 8.
Leave was granted, under suspension of the
rule, on motion of Coun. GLEASON.
REMOVAL OF HARRIS HIRSHBERG.
Notice was received from the Mayor of re-
moval of Harris Hirshberg as constable of
City of Boston to take effect January 13, 1934.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notices of the following appointments were
received from the Mayor, viz. :
John H. Dorsey, 25 Melville avenue, City
Treasurer, effective January 11, 1934.
Roswell Gleason Hall, 44 Tremlett street,
Dorchester, Superintendent of Public Build-
ings, effective January 12, 1934.
Walter A. Murray, 242 Foster street, mem-
ber of Board of Street Commissioners, in place
of Charles F. Bogan, effective January 9, 1934.
Owen A. Gallagher, 17 Ocean street, Dor-
chester, member of Board of Street Commis-
sioners, in place of Theodore A. Glynn, ef-
fective January 15, 1934.
Christopher J. Carven, Commissioner of
Public Works, to be acting head of Municipal
Employment Bureau at 25 Church street, to
take place of John J. Shields, effective January
9, 1934.
Severally placed on file.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLE'S BOND.
The constable's bond of Gustav Spanier,
having been duly approved by the City Treas-
urer, was received and approved.
REINSTATEMENT OF MRS. MARY E.
GARFIELD.
The following was received :
School Committee of the City of Boston,
Office of the Secretary,
January 12, 1934.
Mr. Wilfred Doyle, City Clerk,
My dear Mr. Doyle, — Under the provisions of
chapter 320 of the Acts of 1933, the School
Committee of the City of Boston respectfully
asks that the City Council approve the re-
instatement of Mrs. Mary Evelyn Garfield
as a clerk in the office of the Business Manager.
The authority of the Commissioner of Civil
Service for such reinstatement has been given,
subject to the approval of the City Council.
Mrs. Garfield resigned from service in the
office of the Business Manager October 25,
1927 to marry, and now has one child. Her
husband has been out of -work for more than
two years, and Mrs. Garfield therefore is en-
tirely dependent upon herself for support.
She has placed her resignation in the hands
of the Business Manager, undated, to become
immediately effective when her husband shall
succeed in obtaining a permanent position
which will enable him to support his family.
Under the circumstances the School Com-
mittee is willing to reinstate Mrs. Garfield,
and trusts that the City Council may take
early and favorable action on the School Com-
mittee's petition.,
Very truly yours,
Ellen M. Cronin,
Secretary.
13
CITY COUNCIL.
In connection with the foregoing Chairman
GALLAGHER offered the following:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chap-
ter 320 of the Acta of 1933 the reinstatement
of Mary E. Garfield in the employment of the
city as a clerk in the Schoolhouse Department
be, and hereby is, approved.
Pased under suspension of the rule.
MUNICIPAL BUILDING, WARD 1.
Coun. SELVITBLLA offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the enactment of legislation
authorizing the construction of a municipal
building in Ward 1.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PAYMENT TO MOTHER OF DAVID
MoDONALD.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
Hereby approves the enactment of legislation
to extend the time within which the city may
accept chapter 226 of the Acts of 1932 con-
cerning a payment to the mother of David Mc-
Donald.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PENSION FOR FRED W. CONNELLY.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approves the enactment of legislation
to authorize the payment of a pension to Fred
W. Connelly, former teacher in the Franklin
Union.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS AT QUINCY STREET
AND COLUMBIA ROAD.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install traffic lights at the corner of Quincy
street and Columbia road.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SURVEY OF WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following :
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, respectfully requested to obtain
authorization under the C. W. A. program for
a systematic and detailed survey of the Wel-
fare Department by the Statistics Department
of the City of Boston, and for the enlargement
" and completion of the Consolidated Index
Cross Reference System now being compiled by
the Statistics Department.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, a week ago
your committee -was advised by Mr. MeCartin,
in the Mayor's office, that although over
50,000 Boston men already registered with the
State Employment Bureau have not been placed
and although additional registrations are being
accepted daily, there is no immediate prospect
of further work. It is likewise unfortunate
that with some 16,000 men already placed at
work, there will be very little permanent value
to show for the work done and the money paid
out. The present financial condition of the
'City of Boston, in common with every other
great city in the country, demands certain
rigid economies. His Honor the Mayor is
making valiant efforts toward that end. He
recently urged from every department a budget
20 per cent below tentative estimates. But
even less drastic department cuts will be use-
less without real correction 'where the chief
cause of higher taxes and reduced salaries
exists. In 1928 the public welfare and
soldiers' relief rolls roughly amounted to
$2,650,000 ; it rose to $3,840,000 in 1929. In
1930 it was $4,310,000; in 1931 it almost
doubled to $7,550,000. For 1932 it ran almost
twelve million and last year almost thirteen
million. At the present time there are about
32,000 current active cases in public welfare
alone. With one out of every eight persons
in the city on the public relief rolls, we are
spending more than a million dollars a month,
ostensibly to provide for the poor and the un-
employed. During that period from April to
September last year, when almost every other
city in Massachusetts showed a drop in welfare
lists anywhere from 40 to 60 per cent, Boston
only showed a 4 per cent decrease. We were
down to $200,000 per week in October, but up
another $10,000 per week by Thanksgiving.
For years we have been told that the workings
and details of the Public Welfare Department
are a sort of sanctified secret. Something to
be referred to only in a hushed whisper, and
with the light turned low. The motto has
been, primarily, to jealously guard the secrecy
of the confidential public welfare lists.
Fraudulent cases have quickly sensed their
security under a system which has hesitated
to permit any close inquiry or check-up, lest
some worthy case be caused embarrassment.
But now the city government is embarrassed I
Embarrassed financially, which is an embar-
rassment that can't blush unseen ! I agree
with the principle that of course the lists
should not be available to the public ; but
some degree of protection is due to the tax-
payers of the city, and due to the many
worthy cases where large families have been
forced to exist on inadequate allowances, be-
cause of the greedy demands of hundreds of
families who have no proper place on the rolls.
Even the disclosures of the successive partial
investigations made last year, which only
pecked at the situation, convinced everybody
but the Department of Public Welfare that
the present unwieldly and outgrown system,
or lack of system, not only is wide open to
fraud, but fraud actually exists. With any
real regard for the financial health of the
city at this time it is very apparent that the
Public Welfare Department can stand an opera-
tion. I don't ask his Honor the Mayor to
cut the heart out of the Public Welfare De-
partment budget, but I do believe we can
spare a few of the light fingers ! I have
no quarrel with Walter McCarthy. Especially
with the additional burden of C. W. A. now
placed on his shoulders, and with the present
set-up in the Public Welfare Department and at
least until there has been one thorough stock-
taking of the business of this money-disbursing
city agency, increased five times in volume since
1928, no human being can- handle it. It
mounted too rapidly, and they've never been
able to catch up with it. Apparently even
the recent placing of over nine thousand men
on C. W. A. work from the welfare and
soldiers' relief lists has so far failed to
reflect much in any reduction of total cases !
Hundreds of fraudulent cases have squeezed in
with the rush. In short, before we start
tinkering with a leak or two in the pipes of
other departments, let us look to the break in
the dike that exists in the Public Welfare
Department. An immediate systematic check-
up of these 32,000 current active cases in the
Welfare Department and those still to come,
in an effort to stop the deluge, isn't a question
of economy, it's a matter of self-preservation
and the solvency of the City of Boston ! I am
not asking for an investigation. I ask for a
systematic stocktaking. Under the C. W. A.
this can be done at the government expense.
It can be done by an enlarged force of com-
petent men under the direction of the
Statistics Department. Mr. Balfe probably
won't thank this body for suggesting that
JANUARY 15, 1934.
14
this serious and important responsibility and
burden be placed on his department, but most
members of this body I assume are more or
less familiar with the splendid system of cross
references and data already compiled and
available in that office. Separate personal cards
for every person police listed in the entire City
of Boston are on file by wards, precincts and
streets. Different colored celluloid tags at-
tached to the top of the various cards dis-
close instantly the existence of any public
welfare or soldiers' relief case, automobile
ownership, city or county employment, hos-
pitalization, communicable disease, real estate
ownership, and other information of value.
With that start, I therefore urge the ap-
propriateness of a real 100 per cent survey
and stocktaking of the Public Welfare and
Soldiers' Relief Departments by the Statistics
Department under C. W. A. auspices. Let
these lists for once be systematically and com-
pletely purged of all improper and fraudulent
names, and the 4 per cent decrease in Boston
cases will more nearly equal the 40 to 60
per cent drop found in other industrial cities.
Even a 20 per cent correction in this one
department will, in total amount, more than
equal a 5 per cent economy slash in all the
other city departments combined ! It can
absolutely be effected, without touching a
single worthy case. And such use of an
enlarged Statistics Department staff of workers
would be a profitable investment for the city
to undertake immediately -with or without
C. W. A. aid. I ask the adoption of the order,
and I might say, incidentally, that the message
that the members of the Council sent to the
committee, to the President of the United
States and Mr. Ickes, with reference to the
situation here in Boston is still unanswered.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENT.
Chairman GALLAGHER called up, under
unfinished business, No. 1 on the calendar, viz. :
1. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor January 8, 1934, of John H. O'Brien,
Jr., to be a Weigher of Coal.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Fish and Selvitella. Whole num-
ber of ballots 15, yeas 15, and the appointment
was confirmed.
REPAVING OF PIKE'S ALLEY.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor instruct
the Commissioner of Public Works to repave
Pike's alley, Ward 3.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
OPPOSITION TO UNAPPROVED DEPART-
MENT CONSOLIDATION.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Legislative Committee of
the City Council be instructed to oppose the
passage of any bill by the Legislature for the
consolidation of city departments not provid-
ing for approval by the City Council.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I might say
that the reason for offering that order is a
report, which I have not verified, to the effect
that a bill has been introduced into the Massa-
chusetts Legislature to revamp the business
structure of the city and consolidate various
city departments. I presume that if there is
any lack of reference to the City Council being
given an opportunity to pass on the matter
of consolidation of departments, it is through
an oversight ; but, even though the powers of
the City Council have been reduced in recent
years, we are still asked to go over the annual
budget in some detail, and I submit that the
City Council is still an integral part of the
government of the City of Boston, and that
the Committee on Ordinances of the City
Council might naturally expect an opportunity
to look over such a proposition. I would
assume that such a bill, if passed by the
Legislature, should, of course, carry a pro-
viso, therefore, that it receive the approval
of the City Council.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
Adjourned, at 2.42 p. m., on motion of Coun.
SELVITELLA, to meet on Monday, January
22, 1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
15
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, January 22, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair and all the members present.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD announced the following
commttee appointments:
Committee on Appropriations, Norton, Shattuck,
Agnew, Roberts, Gallagher, Tobin, Selvitella.
Committee on Claims: Brackman, Selvitella,
Agnew, Roberts, Goldman.
Committee on County Accounts: Fitzgerald,
Green, Fish, Norton, Tobin.
Executive Committee: Wilson and all members.
Committee on Finance: Green, Shattuck, Fitz-
gerald, Wilson, Brackman, McGrath, Kerrigan.
Committee on Prisons: Gleason, Donovan,
Doherty, Murray, Finey.
Committee on Public Lands: Donovan, Englert,
Agnew, Brackman, McGrath.
Committee on Rules: Wilson, Gallagher, Roberts,
Green, McGrath.
Committee on Soldiers' Relief: Kerrigan, Norton,
Donovan, Gleason, Doherty.
Committee on Parks and Playgrounds: Finley,
Tobin, Goldman, Kerrigan, Englert.
Commttee on Public Safety: Agnew, Selvitella,
Green, Fitzgerald, Donovan, Englert, Brackman.
Committee on Jitney Licenses: Roberts, Selvi-
tella, Murray, Fish, Kerrigan.
Committee on Legislative Matters: Shattuck,
Fitzgerald, Green, Gleason, Tobin.
Committee on Ordinances: Fish, Gleason,
Donovan, Englert, Finley, Tobin, Selvitella.
Committee on Parkman Fund: Gallagher,
Murray, Doherty, Goldman, Shattuck.
Committee on Printing: Englert, Finley, Murray,
Kerrigan, Selvitella.
Committee on Unclaimed Baggage: Fitzgerald,
Wilson, McGrath.
Committee on Hospitals: Doherty, Murray,
Fish, Kerrigan, Finley.
Committee on Constables: Goldman, Agnew,
Roberts.
Committee on Municipal Lighting: McGrath,
Norton, Brackman, Gallagher, Wilson.
APPOINTMENT BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointment for
the term ending April 30, 1934, viz.:
Weigher of Coal: JohnW. Long, 770 Broadway,
South Boston.
Laid over a week under the law.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Acme Appliance Company, for compensation
for damage to property at 120 High street, caused
by bursting of water supply system.
Gardner Bates, for compensation for damage to
property at 18 School street, Charlestown, caused
by sanitary truck.
Berman & Co., Inc., to be reimbursed for
expenses incurred in repairing plumbing at 11
North Market street.
Laura B. Bigelow, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 159 Washington
street.
Alfred Brenci, for refund on beer license.
Charlestown Taxi Service, for compensation for
damage to car by city cart.
Katherine M. Hartnett, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 73 Birch-
wood street.
William J. Johnson, for compensation for dam-
age to car by sanitary wagon.
Nathan Kantrovitz, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 73 Ruggles street, caused by
city truck breakng hydrant.
Ruth Kozol, for compensation for injuries caused
by an alleged defect at 238-246 South Huntington
avenue.
Betty Starrett and Newell Mader, for compen-
sation for injuries caused by city car.
T. C. Marshalsea, for compensation for damage
to property at 23 Partridge street, West Roxbury,
caused by blasting.
Grace L. MeDermott, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect at
Charles street and Embankment road.
Samuel Miller, for compensation for damage to
property at 77 Ruggles street, caused by broken
hydrant.
Mary L. Nolan, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Foster street,
Brighton.
Alexander O'Kane, for wife, for compensation
for injuries caused by an alleged defect in front of
courthouse. West Roxbury.
James H. Queeney, for refund on liquor license.
Jacob Shapiro, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
Joseph V. Sheerin, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Cummins
Highway.
Arthur L. Smith, for compensation for injuries
caused by city truck.
Donald F. Whedon, for compensation for dam-
age to car by ambulance of Public Buildings De-
partment.
Andrew Sansone, for compensation for loss of
fishing net, etc., while aiding in recovery of boy
who was drowned at World War Memorial Park.
CHILDREN APPEARING IN PUBLIC.
A petition was received for children under
fifteen years of age to appear at places of public
amusement, viz.:
Ruth M. McShane, Gate of Heaven Hall,
February 9. The rule was suspended, and leave
was granted under the usual conditions.
MINORS' LICENSES.
Petitions were presented of eighty-four newsboys
and four bootblacks for licenses.
Approved by the Council under the usual
conditions.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notices were received of the following appoint-
ments by the Mayor:
Colonel Frederic A. Washburn, M. D., of 190
Bay State road, Institutions Commissioner,
effective March 1, 1934.
William P. Hickey of 485 East First street,
South Boston, Traffic Commissioner, to take the
place of Joseph A. Conry, resigned, effective
January 18.
David B. Shaw of 101 Nottinghill road, Brighton,
to be principal assessor, to take the place of
Henry L. Daily, resigned, effective January 18.
Warren W. Loomis of 815 Webster street,
Needham, to be Superintendent of Supplies, to
take the place of Philip A. Chapman, resigned,
effective January 23.
Arthur V. Sullivan of 59 Elm street, Charles-
town, to be Transit Commissioner, to take the
place of Arthur B. Corbett, resigned, effective
January 17.
Severally placed on file.
ORGANIZATION OF SINKING FUNDS
COMMISSION.
Notice was received of the organization of the
Board of Commissioners of Sinking Funds by the
election of Eliot Wadsworth to be chairman and
Rupert S. Carven to be secretary.
Placed on file.
16
CITY COUNCIL.
PRINTING OF MUNICIPAL
REGISTER, ETC.
Coun. ENGLERT offered the following:
Ordered, That the Statistics Department be
authorized under the direction of the Committee
on Rules to prepare and have printed the Municipal
Register for the current year; and that the Clerk
of Committees be authorized to prepare and have
printed a pocket edition of the organization of the
city government; the expense of said register and
organization to be charged to the appropriation
for City Documents.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REINSTATEMENT OF MICHAEL
McCORMACK.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approves the enactment of legislation to
authorize the reinstatement of Michael McCor-
mack in the Police Department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION REQUESTED OF WELFARE
OVERSEERS.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Overseers of Public
Welfare be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to furnish the City Council with the
following information:
1. Monthly expenditures of the department for
(a) care of dependents, (b) mothers' aid and
(e) old age assistance, during the years 1932 and
1933.
2. Monthly case load in 1932 and 1933 for
(a), (b) and (c) above.
3. Number of recipients taken from dependent
aid rolls to be employed in the Civilian Conserva-
tion Corps.
4. Number of recipients taken from dependent
aid rolls to be employed on Civil Works projects.
5. The schedule of rent allowances to recipients,
and the manner in which the payment of such
allowances for rent is checked.
6. The methods by which the department
attempts to determine private employment of
recipients or refusal of recipients to accept such
employment.
7. The methods by which the department
attempts to secure private employment for
recipients.
8. The basis of allowances made to recipients,
and the means employed by the department to
assure the expenditure of allowances to recipients
in accordance with the specific allocation to food,
fuel, clothing and other purposes.
9. The types of supplies purchased by the
department for recipients and the manner in which
such purchases are made, inspected and distributedi
10. The improvements made and contem-
plated by the department in its case and financial
record systems.
Ordered, That the Board of Overseers of Public
Welfare be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to furnish the City Council monthly,
as soon as may be after the end of each month,
beginning with the month of January, the follow-
ing statistical information:
1. The case load at the end of the month.
2. The number of recipients of aid dropped
from the rolls during the month.
3. The number of recipients of aid added to
the rolls during the month.
4. The expenditure for the month for (a) care
of dependents, (b) mothers' aid and (c) old age
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, these are
companion orders on the same subject matter.
One asks for information concerning the past and
the other for monthly information in the future.
I should like for a moment to run over the items
in the first order, asking for past information. The
first two items call for the monthy expenditures of
the department for care of dependents, mothers'
aid and old age assistance, during the years 1932
and 1933; and for the monthly case load in 1932
and 1933 in these lines. On those matters we have
only piecemeal information, when the annual re-
ports come in, and they arrive so long after the
event that they are of no great value. The third
item asks for the number of recipients taken from
dependent aid rolls to be employed in the Civilian
Conservation Corps, and the fourth item for the
number of recipients taken from dependent aid
rolls to be employed on Civil Works projects.
Last winter, during the peak of unemployment,
neither of these enterprises was under way, except
that I think the Conservation Corps had begun
to function in a very small degree. But there
have been many things done at the expense of the
Federal Government and in other ways, through
the N. R. A., which have brought of about a
large increase of employment and of aid from
various sources, and yet that has been very
slightly reflected, so far as one can see, in the
monthly expense or the number of persons on the
rolls of our public welfare. I think we should
have those facts in order that we may see how
things are going. Item 5 relates to the schedule of
rent allowances to recipients, and the manner in
which the payment of such allowances for rent is
checked. I hear a great many complaints from
landlords that they cannot pay their taxes, and
that they cannot pay their taxes because they
cannot collect their rents. If people are paid
money for rent, does it go through for that pur-
pose? And under Item 6, "The methods by which
the department attempts to determine private
employment of recipients or refusal of recipients
to accept such employment" — that matter is
exceedingly important at the present time, when
there is increasing private employment, increasing
use of public money in C. W. A. and other ways.
Are these many people getting off the welfare rolls
when they should get off? That is a question that
requires much greater study and more care than
when unemployment was increasing and it could
be almost assumed that a person did not have a job.
Then there is the seventh item, information as to
the methods by which the department attempts
to secure private employment for recipients.
Also, under the eighth item, the extent to which
the department knows whether the money is spent
for the food, clothing, shelter, and so forth, for
which it is given. Item 9 asks about the types
of supplies purchased by the department for
recipients and the manner in which such pur-
chases are made, inspected and distributed.
Probably one of the greatest lacks in the past has
been a check-up in the matter of the purchasing of
supplies — for instance, where there have been
purchases from "phony" dealers, who have then gone
to real dealers and obtained a reduced price of
perhaps 50 per cent, or have given list prices when
they could buy at wholesale rates, thus deceiving
in all sorts of ways. How does the Department
of Public Welfare handle those matters? And
finally, what improvement has the department
made, and what does it contemplate, in its case
and financial record system? The second order,
as I have said, simply covers the furnishing of
monthly statistics as to the amount of money
being spent, the number of people on the rolls, the
number of people taken from the rolls and the
number added during the month. This informa-
tion, Mr. President, is very similar to that asked
for in a letter which I wrote to the Department
of Public Welfare on the fifth day of December
last, and of which letter, Mr. President, I have
not even had an acknowledgment. That in itself
indicates the high degree of efficiency in that
department. I am not critical of the good in-
tentions of the members of the Board. So far as
I know, they are conscientious men and women.
I am not critical of Mr. McCarthy, the executive
secretary. He is doubtless doing his best under a
heavy load. I do criticize the system; and I
criticize the Board for not seeing the need of a
change in system, and for obstructive tactics
whenever changes have been suggested. The
system may have worked well enough when the
Board was spending one or two millions a year.
Now that the expenditures run to over a million
a month, the system has completely broken down.
This breakdown is particularly serious at the
present time, a time of recovery, when every case
should receive special scrutiny, and when the
rolls should be rapidly reduced and promptly
purged of those who no longer require aid, or who
could help themselves if they had the will to do it.
Control should be placed in the hands of a single
and highly competent executive. A bill has been
filed by the Mayor to permit such a reorganization.
It should have the support of the Legislature, and
that without delay. Prompt action is imperative.
The malady which afflicts Boston and so many of
JANUARY 22, 1934.
17
our other cities and towns is curable. But it
cannot be cured with a leaky system of expendi-
tures. We must stop the leaks. _ Fortunately, we
do not need to wait for legislation to obtain the
information requested in the pending order. We
should have it forthwith, and hereafter we should
have monthly reports. My second order is to
provide for these monthly reports.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I think the
gentleman from Ward 5 (Coun. Shattuck) is to
be congratulated upon starting out on this very
precarious course of daring to request of the
Public Welfare Department information which
is of vital importance to the citizens of Boston.
I had no idea that he was going to introduce such
an order, but I did know that when he intro-
duced an order it would be in proper shape, as is
the order which he has introduced today. Might
I congratulate him, too, for his courage, because
some seven years ago I stood on the floor of this
Council, when the appropriation for public wel-
fare had passed the one million dollar mark, and
suggested that the time had arrived when we
should pay some attention to the situation in the
Public Welfare Department in Boston. Through
the years we have seen those expenditures increase,
and week after week I became almost a crank in
asking information from the Welfare Department
of the City of Boston, failing to get it, and then
being told that I was baiting the poor and that
the recipients of welfare were entitled to protec-
tion rather than to criticism. And so it continued
on, and the amount expended each month in-
creased until a year ago, in this Council Chamber,
at a meeting of the Committee on Appropriations,
there sat before us Mr. Hecht, the chairman of
the Board, and Mr. McCarthy, the secretary,
and sitting at this table were Mr. Lydon, the Sol-
diers' Relief Commissioner, and Mr. Kent, and
upon our invitation there was sitting at another
table the Corporation Counsel of Boston, Mr.
Silverman. Upon questioning these gentlemen,
for the first time Mr. Silverman learned to his
astonishment that even the recipients of soldiers'
relief in the City of Boston were never compared
with the recipients of 'welfare from the same
City of Boston. I questioned him on two specific
cases where a man was receiving the full amount
for his wife and children from the Soliders' Relief
Department and the wife of that family was receiv-
ing the full amount from the Public Welfare De-
partment. I had been prompted to make a fight
of this character because hundreds of men in
the Dorchester section, who had spent their life-
times attempting to buy a home and to place a
roof over the heads of their little families, had
had their roof trees swept away through taxation
because of the number of fakirs who were on the
public welfare rolls and on the rolls of the soldiers'
relief. And when the time had arrived that
practically every department of Boston had
decreased its expenditures and that 18,000 city
employees had to have their salaries cut, when
the time had come that hundreds of faithful citi-
zens were being threatened with loss of their
homes because of the increase in the Public Wel-
fare and Soldiers' Relief Departments, I felt that
it was within the province of the Council to ask
questions. There was a period of seven months
when I could not get an answer of any kind from
the Public Welfare Department, because there was
no answer to be given. One day I appeared in
this Council with a book from the Family Wel-
fare Association, i a private association at 43
Tremont street, which thanked the Public Welfare
Department of Boston for giving them this volumi-
nous information, and said that in the past two
months thay had had seven conferences with the
Public Welfare officials, as a result of which they
had obtained every bit of information that we had
so long asked for. And then I started after a
precinct arrangement, so that we could get away
from these generalities arising from the fact
that the Welfare Department gave out relief
from the Winthrop line to the Dedham line and
it was impossible to tell where the cancer spot of
Boston really was. So I felt that it would be better
to divide the thing into precincts. I followed the
Board into the room across the hall, where Mayor
Curley presided, and I asked Mr. Hecht what his
appropriations were up to that time for the year.
It seemed that his figures were a million out of
the way. Later on, when his Honor the Mayor
was away, I carried on an investigation, the re-
sults of which appeared in the Boston papers from
time to time, and although they said they had
every single case in their files, it appeared that
some of the cases had not been turned over and
that they were 7,000 cases short. They laughed
it away, but finally there passed through this
Council an order which established upstairs, under
Mr. Balfe of the Statistics Department, a listing
of the City of Boston habitations, and the out-
come was astounding. It was found that quite
a number of people who were on Boston welfare
were driving cars for pleasure; that in some in-
stances there were fathers of families receiving aid
who had a daughter and a son at home, each one
of whom was driving an automobile for pleasure.
It was found that people owning homes free and
clear were yet receiving public welfare. When I
gathered together these cases from Mr. Balfe, I
turned them over to Corporation Counsel Silver-
man and he turned them over to his investigators,
and as a result of what they found in some thirty
cases Corporation Counsel Silverman called a
meeting in the Mayor's office, over which I pre-
sided, and then something happened. Cases that
had been found to be wrong suddenly became
white as snow. For instance, there was a case in
Dorchester — indeed in my own ward — where the
landlady owning a home said that in the fourteen
years she owned that home there never was a
person of the name given as one receiving aid from
that home, who had lived there. Every few
months some lady called and inquired about
this family, and each time this landlady became
very indignant and said there was never such a
family living there. I was interested then in the
visitor's report, — what had the visitor said about
this particular case? Well, unfortunately the
entire records had been lost, and Mr. Silver-
man said, "Why investigate that case further?"
We had another case at the South End where
they said the thing could not go wrong because
they were sending checks. "Well, who cashed
the checks?" There was a little corner grocer
who cashed them every week. They went into a
place on Tremont street and inquired in regard to
this particular recipient of aid, and the landlady
said, "I never heard of her. As a matter of fact,
over on Appleton street I own another house."
But in that house there was no recipient of that
name. Well, nothing was cleared up in an inves-
tigation of that case for months. But peculiarly
enough on the morning of the day when we held
the last meeting downstairs, and when prac-
tically every case under consideration had been
investigated, although it was supposed to be a
secret report, what did they find out from that
landlady? It seemed, although she had not pre-
viously furnished the information, that she owned
an additional house on Gray street, and the per-
.' on receiving aid lived there. I also found that
there were over one hundred men, voters in the
City of Boston and receiving aid, who were sign-
ing with a cross. There was a number of cases
where people owned their own real estate, owned
it free and clear, and yet they were receiving aid.
I merely say this, not wishing to prolong this
debate unnecessarily, that, although there may not
seem to be one plausible or reasonable answer to any
particular question that the gentleman from
Ward 5 (Coun. Shattuck) has asked, Walter Mc-
Carthy can find 150 answers for every one.
Coun. NORTON^Mr. President, it is very
encouraging to have the councilor from Ward 5
(Coun. Shattuck) enlist his efforts in support of
something that the members of the Council have
attempted to remedy for the last four years. It is
rather astounding that Cleveland, with over
100,000 more population than Boston's 700,000,
and that Baltimore, with 20,000 more people than
Boston, are spending a much smaller amount than
we are for welfare, an amount so small as to be
entirely out of all proportion to our relative
populations. No one, of course, wants anybody
in Boston to go hungry or to go without aid, but
the trouble seems to be that many are getting aid
who should not get it and that many have not
obtained aid who should get it. The trouble
fundamentally has been this. We have 130,000-
odd people at the present time living off the City
of Boston, and yet we have less than sixty in-
vestigators. In my ward alone there are hundreds
of families who have needed aid and who have
found great difficulty in obtaining it. The trouble
has been largely one of administration. We have
tried to have something done, and have the whole
thing handled in a proper way, and nothing has
been done. The moment objections have been
raised, as the colleague from Dorchester has
brought out, there were 150 answers. There has
been opposition encountered all along the line.
The colleague has just spoken of the difficulty he
IB
CITY COUNCIL.
had when lie win Ac-I i ri« Mayor of Boston in
attempting to accomplish something, and being
unable to do ho. The group in power were able to
Hi and o!T any remedial legislation or to prevent, any
order that nii(?lit go.through this body being put
into effect. So it iH encouraging to have the
Colleague from the Hack Hay enlist in this eailHC.
I hope, Mr. Shattuck, you will' look carefully into
this matter and if you do, I think you will realize
the necessity of decentralizing the Welfare Depart-
ment. There is no other welfare department in
the country, I understand, that is not decentral-
ized. The Boston Council of Social Agencies in
their report recommend decentralization, and I
believe every other welfare agency will recom-
mend decentralization of welfare work in the City
of Boston. Take the case of a man in Hyde Park,
who received $5 a week and who was compelled,
in going back and forth between his home and the
woody ard three times a week, to pay 60 cents
carfare, thus receiving a mere pittance for food or
for other things he might require. Why shouldn't
that situation be handled all over the city from the
municipal buildings? For three years I carried on
this fight in connection with the public welfare
system and was told that it could not be done,
that I was a layman and did not understand the
intricacies of the department, and that, therefore,
I should not even make a suggestion. Chairman
Hecht became quite irate in the matter on several
occasions, when any councilor was presumptuous
enought to offer suggestions. But the suggestion
I offered in respect to decentralization was one that
had been put into effect by the leading welfare
authorities of the United States, and one that was
also recommended by welfare authorities in
Boston. I asked the former Mayor why he did
not insist on decentralization, having the distri-
bution carried on from municipal buildings or
convenient points — in Charlestown, for in-
stance. East Boston, Roxbury, South Boston, West
Roxbury, Roslindale, Brighton; why he did not
have the cumbersome, inefficient and unscientific
system that was in vogue abolished, and have the
work taken over in the different localities in some
suitably located building. His answer was, ''I
have asked them down there time and time again
to consider it, but they tell me it is impossible."
We will never have a proper Welfare Department,
in my humble estimation, until we have decentrali-
zation, having the work handled from points in
different sections of the City of Boston. There
seems to be no earthly or proper reason why people
from Dorchester, Hyde Park, Roslindale, West
Roxbury, and other outlying sections, should be
compelled to either walk or travel down to this
building now serving as headquarters for the
department. They should be able locally and
conventiently to put in their applications and have
a report within forty-eight hours on their case.
I have spoken of what the situation was in Hyde
Park. A short time ago an arrangement was
made so that the people of Hyde Park do not have
to go to Hawkins Street, but the situation is
handled locally there in the Hyde Park Municipal
Building. That, however, is at the present time
the only ward in Boston at some distance from the
downtown section where unfortunates are not
compelled when they are looking for welfare to go
to Hawkins Street. If that arrangement can be
made in Ward 18, why cannot it be made in every
other ward of Boston with the exception of the
ward where Hawkins Street is located? So, Mr.
President, it is encouraging in this long battle
which has been going on for so many years, to
have the colleague from the Back Bay section
taking an interest in the Welfare Department,
with a veiw to cutting down the expenses of the
City of Boston and administering aid in a more
up-to-date and satisfactory way. I am sure that
we will all wlecome a better system for handling
the feeding, clothing and housing of the worthy
unfortunates in our city.
The orders were passed under suspension of the
rule.
EMPLOYMENT OF CITIZENS IN EAST
BOSTON TUNNEL.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Boston Transit Commission
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
confer with the C. M. Tyler Company with refer-
ence to giving citizens of Boston preference in
employment on tiling work to be done in the East
Boston Traffic Tunnel.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, the C.
M. Tyler Company have been awarded the con-
tract, in the sum of $ I fill .000, for the tiling of the
traffic tunnel to East Boston. The contract covers
work for a period of nix solid months. The con-
tractor has already made arrangements and
preparations arc now going on whereby men from
Somerville, Cambridge, Chelsea and other munici-
palities outside of Boston arc being given pref-
erence in work that properly belongs to residents
of Boston. Under the terms of this contract,
Article ti, there is a clause which reads that no
person other than a citizen of the I'nited States
shall be employed on any public works being done
under contract. I raise a serious question, Mr.
President, as to the merits of that particular clause,
because under its terms men from Kalamazoo,
from California, from other parts of the United
States, may come into Boston and be given work
that properly belongs to the residents of Boston.
We had a very unpleasant experience at the begin-
ning of the building of this tunnel, when but 30
per cent of residents of Boston were given work
and 70 per cent was given to southerners who
were flocking into Boston and taking work away
from our citizens. At the present time, while I
am speaking, there are over eight tile setters on
the public welfare rolls who could very easily be
taken off those rolls and given work, men who are
deserving and in very needy circumstances, to
say nothing of a large number of other men in the
City of Boston who could do that work and should
be placed upon it. I believe the Mayor of Boston
and the Transit Commission will, if the matter is
called to their attention, be glad to see that local
work is given to local men. rather than to men
from these other municipalities that I have men-
tioned. I think it is fair and proper that something
should be given to relieve the very acute conditions
here in Boston, giving work to our needy citizens
and residents.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I am afraid
that nothing will be done. You are opposing a
very powerful organization. I went before the
Boston Finance Commission in regard to the con-
cern you have mentioned. Every reputable tile
concern in Boston bid on that work, and every
concern went before the Finance Commission and
said they felt that they had been fooled because of
a very misleading term in the specifications as
drawn up. It is a very interesting case. The
leading tile men of Boston were asked to bid on
the tiling of the tunnel, which should have a certain
amount of evaporation and of tensile strength.
When the specifications were drawn up, they were
so drawn up that terra cotta could meet the re-
quirements of tiling. In other words, if they had
known that terra cotta would be acceptable, they
claim that they would have been able to give the
city a much lower figure. The only concern that
understood that terra cotta would be accepted
instead of tile was this concern that got the con-
tract, and I understand that tile costs 30 to 40
per cent more than terra cotta. So this concern
that has been mentioned was favored in that
respect. They were powerful enough to obtain
that contract and were fortunate enough to have
that information. So, if they were powerful
enough to do that, I wonder how far you are going
to get now in holding them to what is fair in the
matter of employment of Boston men.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
EAST BOSTON HOUSING DEVELOPMENT.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be hereby
requested to take immediate action in opposition
to any expenditure by the United States Govern-
ment or the State in aid of the proposed housing
development in East Boston, especially in con-
sideration of the fact that the district is now
amply provided with dwellings and that any
further large development would substantially
depreciate real estate values.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I hold in
my hand here a newspaper containing a picture of a
S3, 500, 000 East Boston housing development
which has apparently met with the approval of the
United States Public Works Administrator. Mr.
President, at the present time there is no housing
problem in East Boston. As a matter of fact, East
Boston is no different from any other community
in the city. There are at least 40 per cent of the
JANUARY 22, 1934.
19
tenements in East Boston and at least 25 per
cent more of the homes in East Boston that are
now in danger of being foreclosed on account of
nonpayment of taxes and nonpayment of interest
on mortgages. That particular problem is the
problem of the Boston Port Development Com-
pany, which has organized a subsidiary known
as the Neptune Gardens, and they are attempting
to unload upon the government this huge, gigantic
proposition, which, if permitted to pass, will
further embarrass the home owners of East
Boston. It is a very serious state of affairs, Mr.
President, and this Port Development Company-
has yet to pay one single penny of taxes to the
City of Boston for the past three years. I hold
in my hands the City Record, supposed to contain
all the delinquent tax sales against property
owners of the City of Boston. I have investi-
gated this matter and have found that the Boston
Port Development Company, who are behind
this huge steal, have not paid their taxes upon
this proposed land in East Boston to the City
of Boston. The question now comes to my
mind, why this company was not advertised in
the Boston City Record for failure to pay taxes,
when they have listed here a tax of S7.10 against
some poor unfortunate property owner, another
one for a tax of $16.60, and a dozen others for
similar small amounts. Yet this company that
is trying to promote a $3,500,000 project upon
the flats of East Boston did not in 1932 pay a
tax for $4,572.40. Under the law they should
have been in this City Record, and the reason why
they are not must be apparent — that William
McDonald was closely associated with the last
administration, and they made sure that that
particular advertisement did not appear in the
City Record. I hope that the authorities in
Washington, through his Honor the Mayor, will
stop this gigantic steal of public money, which
will make the housing problem in East Boston
100 per cent greater than it is at the present time.
Coun. SHATTTJCK— Mr. President, I wish
to congratulate the gentleman from East Boston
upon his attack on the Boston Port Develop-
ment Company and its predecessor, the East
Boston Land Company. They perpetrated one
of the most scandalous jobs in the City of Boston.
I congratulate the gentleman, and I wish he
would go further, by introducing an order to
have the question of taxes and assessments in-
vestigated by the Corporation Counsel of the
City of Boston. Fortunately, we have a man
upon whose investigation we can rely.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, I also
want to add my word against the East Boston
housing proposition. It has been before the
Council previously, and I think the Mayor would
be doing a very good thing for the citizens of
Boston in removing from the Planning Board
Mr. Fay, one of the engineers who has been
tied up with this proposition. The Mayor would
certainly be doing a service to the city if he forth-
with removed those who have participated in
this scheme. I think the councilor ought to go a
little farther and introduce an order calling on
the Mayor to send the Corporation Counsel to
Washington to represent the city and show to the
administration the true condition of affairs here.
The property owners of the city are now laboring
under a heavy load. That is true all over the
entire city. These people have got away with too
much. Those of us who have been members of
the Council for any length of time know what
has been going on, know something about the
scheming that has been in progress. A few of
us have opposed it here, but we have been in the
minority. The thing should be investigated.
Time for action has not expired under the statute
of limitations, and it is high time that the matter
was taken up with the authorities in Washington.
We have seen enough of these schemes, some of
which have been very speciously advanced,
apparently with noble purposes and with in-
fluential men behind them. We have had some
gentlemen, landscape architects, who are doing
some of the work down at the West End now.
The time has come to show this sort of work up,
and I certainly hope that there will be a follow-
up of the suggestion made by the gentleman from
Ward 5 (Coun. Shattuck). Let us follow it up
by asking the Mayor to have the Corporation
Counsel represent the city at Washington, and
let us oppose this thing with all the strength we
can put behind it.
The order was referred to the Committee on
Rules.
TRANSFER OF POLICE OFFICERS.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
remove from the Municipal Court of the City
of Boston and all district courts in the City of
Boston police officers who are especially assigned
to present and prosecute criminal cases in said
courts, and transfer such officers to more active
duty for the benefit of the City of Boston.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. President and gentle-
men of the Council, at the present time in the
municipal courts of the City of Boston and in
the district courts the Police Commissioner has
assigned special officers to prosecute criminal
cases that are brought into the respective courts.
Believing that the efficiency of the Police De-
partment should be maintained and that the
man power of the department should not be
weakened, as I believe it is needed in more and
in better ways than in these courts, I offer this
order. I have also in mind the fact that the
average police officer making an arrest, after
his term in the police school, is fully capable of
presenting a case to the court, and it is unneces-
sary, in my opinion, to have these other officers
taken from active duty and sent into the courts,
assigned there for no other reason or purpose
than to present the cases brought in. I ask the
Police Commissioner, through his Honor the
Mayor, to remove these police officers, and to
allow the arresting police officers to present their
own cases, returning the officers now assigned to
these respective courts to their outside duties. I
think that will be more beneficial to the citizens
of Boston than the present practice.
The order was referred to the Committee on
Rules.
REINSTATEMENT OF PETER
CLOTJGHERTY.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Resolved, That the City of Boston hereby ap-
proves the enactment of legislation to provide for
the reinstatement of Peter Clougherty in the
Police Department, provided that said legislation
includes a referendum to the Mayor and City
Council.
Passed under suspension of the rules.
SAFETY ISLAND ON NASHUA STREET.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor direct
the Commissioner of Public Works to place a
safety island on Nashua street, between Cotting
and Minot streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REINSTATEMENT OF WILLIAM S. FOSTER.
Coun. FITZGERALD, for Coun. Green, offered
the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston here-
by favors the enactment of legislation authorizing
the reinstatement of William S. Foster as a member
of the Boston Police Department.
Passed under suspension of the rulw.
ANNUITY TO THOMAS E. GOGGIN.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approves the enactment of legislation for
the payment of an annuity to Thomas E. Goggin,
formerly an employee of the City of Boston and
County of Suffolk, who was injured in the course
of his employment.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SALE OF DWELLING HOUSES.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Collector be instructed,
through his Honor the Mayor, not to proceed to
sell any dwelling house wherein the total amount fo
taxes due is less than $25.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
20
CITY COUNCIL.
CREDIT TO CITY EMPLOYEES AT
HOSPITAL.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to extend reasonable credit to all regular
employees of the city who become patients at the
said hospital.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FEDERAL AID FOR SLUM CLEARANCE.
Coun. NORTON offered, the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of requesting
the Corporation Counsel to make a study of all
Federal laws regarding slum clearance, with a
view to having the city request enabling legisla-
tion from the Massachusetts Legislature, if such
is found to be necessary, in order to have the city
take full advantage of United States Government
grants for slum clearance.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I believe that
the matter of slum clearance here in Boston is
worthy of the attention of city officials. Under
certain conditions the Federal Government is
granting money outright or loaning the same to
cities and towns to build small homes. The
Subsistence Homesteads Division of the Depart-
ment of the Interior is now establishing demon-
stration homestead projects in selected areas with
the $25,000,000 revolving loan fund made available
for this purpose by the National Recovery Act.
At Decatur, Indiana, $125,000 will be spent,
building forty to forty-six homesteads, each with
one to two acres of land. The occupants, to be
selected from among the common people, will be
given a contract for sale. They will make small
monthly payments to acquire title to the home-
steads, with the cost of each to range from $2,000
to $2,600, including land, a Bmall, low-cost home
equipped with modern conveniences and soil suit-
able for gardening. They will have an opportunity
to produce garden foodstuffs for their own use.
Governor Lehman of New York recently requested
the New York State Legislature to pass enabling
legislation so that New York State communities
might take full advantage of the Federal grants
for slum clearance. Boston is in need of low-cost
homes for poor people. The splendid report issued
by the Boston Council of Social Agencies, in March,
1933, entitled "Social Statistics," points out that
in 1930 we had over seven hundred ninety-nine
persons to the inhabited acre in the North End
section, while in the Hyde Park area we had less
than forty-six persons to the inhabited acre. West
Roxbury, 46.6; Brighton, 79.1. Charlestown had
255.8 persons to the inhabitable acre in 1930.
Some results of this crowding may be gained from
the fact that out of 454 babies born in Charlestown
in 1931, fifty-two died during the first year of life.
In Hyde Park, during 1930, with the same number
of babies born, 454, we lost but seventeen during
the first year. The Charlestown infant mortality
rate was over three times that of Hyde Park. Out
where there is more room and less crowding such
as in West Roxbury, Brighton, Mattapan, Jamaica
Plain and other suburban areas, the infant mortal-
ity rate is much lower than what it is in the con-
gested areas of Boston. The delinquency rate
in the suburbs in some cases is half what it is in
the crowded wards. In the South End section
of Boston, in 1930, 20 per cent of the inhabitants
lived in hotels or lodging houses, — mostly lodging
houses. I often wonder if it would be possible to
mitigate this situation somewhat by the erection
of low-cost homes with modern conveniences in
the suburban wards of Boston. On March 1,
1933, 46.3 per cent of the families in the South
End were forced to ask for welfare. The Boston
Council of Social Agencies admits that this figure
may be high but it was what they arrived at after
an investigation. Less than 12 per cent of the
families in the Dorchester North section, less than
5 per cent in the West Roxbury area, less than 6
per cent in the Brighton area, were forced to seek
aid from the city during the same period. These
figures tend to show that those in the suburban,
less crowded areas of the city have a better chance
of escaping poverty than those in the crowded
areas. Facts such as these tend to show that
there is need for low-cost housing for our poor
people out in the nonconjested areas. Therefore,
it may be, that some steps might be taken at this
session of the Legislature which would allow the
city to take full advantage of all Federal appro-
priations for slum-clearance and I he- erection of
low-cost homes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FREE PASSES ON EAST BOSTON FERRIES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to advise the Council regarding the
number of free passes issued, and the total num-
ber of free rides given on the East Boston ferrieB
during the past fiscal year.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
weekly meetings with secretary
McCarthy.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That Secretary Walter V. McCarthy
of the Public Welfare Department be requested,
through his Honor the Mayor, to set aside a
definite period weekly to meet city councilors.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION AS TO TAXES OF BOSTON
PORT DEVELOPMENT COMPANY.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Collector, through his
Honor the Mayor, furnish the City Council with
the following information:
1. Amount of taxes paid and unpaid by
Boston Port Development Company on land in
their name in East Boston during years 1930-33.
2. Whether or not tax sales were held during
those years on any property held by said concern
in East Boston, and, if such sales were advertised
in the City Record.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENTS.
Coun. GALLAGHER called up, under un-
finished business, Nos. 1 and 2 on the calendar,
viz.:
1. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor January 15, 1934, of Margaret A. Steeves,
Robert MacGregor, Fred Clements, David J.
O'Connor and Joseph Doucette, to be Weighers of
Coal; Warren Flynn, to be a Weigher of Goods;
and John J. McCarthy, to be a Weigher of Goods
and a Measurer of Grain.
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor January 15, 1934, of Cornelius N. Dundon,
to be a Constable, without authority to serve civil
process.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots, 18, yeas 18, and the appoint-
ments were confirmed.
MANAGERS OF OLD SOUTH ASSOCIATION.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Council now proceed to the
election of the two managers of the Old South
Association.
The order was passed.
President DOWD— The clerk will now call the
roll, and each member as his name is called will
announce his choice.
The clerk called the roll, and Councilors Agnew,
Brackman, Doherty, Donovan, Dowd, Englert,
Finley, Fish, Gallagher, Goldman, Kerrigan,
McGrath, Murray, Norton, Roberts, Selvitella
and Tobin. each voted for Coun. Donovan and
Shattuck as Managers of the Old South Associa-
tion, and the two members named were thereupon
declared elected.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers and
sailors and their families in the City of Boston for
the month of January, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
Adjourned at 3.17 p. m., on motion of Coun.
GOLDMAN, to meet on Monday, January 29,
1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
21
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, January 29, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President DOWD
in the chair. Absent, Coun. Brackman and
Roberts.
SUBMISSION OF BUDGET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 29, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under the provisions of section 3
of the City Charter, the Mayor is required to
submit a budget within thirty days after the
beginning of the fiscal year.
Under the provisions of chapter 267 of the
Special Acts of 1916, the city may raise by tax-
ation for general municipal purposes, exclusive
of schools, an amount not in excess of $6.52 on
each $1,000 of the average valuation for the past
three years. For 1934 this statutory authorization
produces an amount slightly in excess of
$12,000,000. Since the city budget for 1933
totaled $36,750,000, it is evident that the existing
tax limit is inadequate to provide for the needs
of the city. I have accordingly directed the
Corporation Counsel to petition the Legislature
for a tax limit, or appropriation limit, which will
permit the appropriation of the amount deemed
necessary for the proper and adequate main-
tenance of city services and activities.
Pending the enactment of this legislation
I am unable to submit the budget in full segre-
gated form. In order, however, to avoid any
question being raised as to the submission of a
budget within the time stated in the City Charter,
I submit herewith a budget in lump sum form.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, for performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City Council
during the year, upon the City of Boston or
County of Suffolk, or the departments or officers
thereof, and to meet their respective obligations
for interest on debt, sinking fund requirements
and maturing debt not provided for by sinking
fund, the respective sums of money specified
in the tables and schedules hereinafter set out
be, and the same are, hereby appropriated for the
several departments and for the objects and
purposes hereinafter stated.
Ordered, That the appropriation for Water
Service, current expenses and the payment to the
state under the provisions of chapter 488 of the
Acts of 1895 and acts in addition or amendment
thereto, and for the interest and debt require-
ments or for loans issued for water purposes
be met by the income of said works and any
excess over income from taxes; that the appro-
priation for Printing Department be met by the
department income and any excess over income
from taxes; and the appropriation for City Record
be met by the income of said publication and
any excess over income from taxes; that the
other appropriations hereinafter specified be met
out of the money remaining in the tresury at
the close of business on December 31, 1933,
exclusive of the money raised by loan or needed
to carry out the requirements of any statute,
gift, trust or special appropriation, and by the
income of the financial year beginning January 1,
1934, and taxes to the amount of $16,637,816.75
and that said amount be raised by taxation on the
polls and estates in the City of Boston.
Ordered, That all sums of money which form no
part of the income of the city, but shall be paid
for services rendered or work done by any depart-
ment or division for any other department or
division, or for any person or corporation other
than the City of Boston be paid into the general
treasury, and that all contributions made to
any appropriation be expended for the objects
and purposes directed by the several contributors
thereof.
Ordered, That all taxes raised to meet the
appropriations of the city and all taxes assessed
for meeting the city's proportion of the state
tax for the year 1934, or for any other taxes or
assessments payable to the Commonwealth, be
due and payable on the fifteenth day of September,
1934; that interest shall be charged on all taxes
remaining unpaid after the third day of October,
1934, in accordance with the provisions of chapter
59, section 57, of the General Laws, until paid,
except the taxes assessed upon shares of national
banks, which shall bear interest at the rate of
12 per cent per annum from the fifteenth day of
September, 1934, until paid, and that all interest
which shall have become due on taxes shall be
added to and be part of such taxes.
Ordered, That except as the appropriation for
any purpose or item shall be increased by additional
appropriations or transfers lawfully made, no
money shall be expended by any department for
any of the purposes or items designated in the
tables and schedules hereinafter set out in excess
of the amount set down as appropriated for such
specific purpose or item.
Lump Sum Departmental Allowances for 1934,
Art Department $100 00
Assessing Department 130,000 00
Auditing Department 25,000 00
Boston Port Authority 13,000 00
Boston Retirement Board 9,000 00
Boston Traffic Commission 47,000 00
Budget Department 3,000 00
Building Department 70,000 00
Board of Appeal 4,000 00
Board of Examiners 1.500 00
City Clerk Department 14,000 00
City Council 25,000 00
City Council Proceedings 3,800 00
City Documents 10,000 00
City Planning Board 5,000 00
Collecting Department 59,000 00
Election Department 70,000 00
Finance Commission 15,000 00
Fire Department 1,300,000 00
Wire Division 28,000 00
Health Department 314,000 00
Hospital Department 940,000 00
Sanatorium Division 187,000 00
Institutions Department:
Central Office 14,000 00
Child Welfare Division 102,000 00
Long Island Hospital. . 230,000 00
Steamers "George A. Hibbard"
and "Stephen O'Meara" 13,000 00
Law Department 39,000 00
Library Department 335,000 00
Licensing Board 13,000 00
Market Department 5,000 00
Mayor, Office Expenses 29,000 00
Public Celebrations 10,000 00
Park Department 393,000 00
Cemetery Division 43,000 00
Police Department 1,775,000 00
Public Buildings Department 160,000 00
Public Welfare Department:
Central Office 3,000,000 00
Temporary Home 4,300 00
Wayfarers' Lodge 7,300 00
Public Works Department:
Central Office 25,000 00
Bridge Service 133,000 00
Ferry Service 139,000 00
Lighting Service 330,000 00
Paving Service 410,000 00
Snow Removal . . . : 35,000 00
Sanitary Service 835,000 00
Sewer Service 190,000 00
Registry Department >... 19,000 00
Reserve Fund 50,316 75
Sinking Funds Department 900 00
Soldiers' Relief Department 300,000 00
Statistics Department 4.000 00
Street Laying-Out Department . . . 50,000 00
Supply Department '. . 16,000 00
Treasury Department 24,000 00
Weights and Measures Depart-
ment 14,000 00
$12,021,216 75
City Debt Requirements $3,500,000 00
22
CITY COUNCIL.
Suffolk County Courthouse, Cus-
todian
< lounty Buildings
Jail
Supreme .Judicial c lourl
Superior < lourt, Civil Session, Gen-
oral Expenses
Superior Court, Civil Session,
Clerk's Office
Superior Court, Criminal Ses-
sion
Probate Court
Municipal Court
Municipal Court, Cliarlestown
District
East Boston District Court
Municipal Court, South Boston
District
Municipal Court, Dorchester Dis-
trict
Municipal Court, Roxbury Dis-
trict
Municipal Court, West Roxbury
District
Municipal Court, Brighton Dis-
trict
Boston Juvenile Court
District Court of Chelsea
Registry of Deeds
Index Commissioners
Insanity Cases
Land Court
Medical Examiner, Northern Dis-
trict
Medical Examiner, Southern Dis-
trict
$(10,000 00
35,000 00
75,01)0 00
20,000 00
140,000 00
45,000 00
160,000 00
6,000 00
131,000 00
9,000 00
9,000 00
8,000 00
12,000 00
29,000 00
10,000 00
6,000 00
8,000 00
12,000 00
50.000 00
7,000 00
11.000 00
2,000 00
7,000 00
5,000 00
Associate Medical Examiner,
Northern District $700 00
Associate Medical Examiner,
Southern District fJ00 00
Miscellaneous Expenses:
Auditing Department 300 00
Budget Department 400 00
Collecting Department loo oo
Sheriff 1 ,000 00
Treasury Department 1 ,700 00
Granite Avenue Bridge 1,200 00
Social Law Library :;oo oo
Penal Institutions Department:
Central Office 11 ,000 00
House of Correction 140,000 00
Steamer "Michael J. Perkins".. 19,000 00
Counly Debt Requirements . . .
Printing Department
City Record, Publication of ... .
Public Works Department:
Water Service $400,000 00
Water Income 100,000 00
Collecting Department, Water
Division 24,000 00
Water Service, Debt Require-
ments 22,000 00
-I or,:: ,ooo
00
853,000
00
SI 50 .000
oo
SI 2.000
00
$546,000 00
Recapitulation of Lump Sum Departmental Allowances fob 1934.
From Taxes:
For City Purposes within the Tax Limit $12,021,216 75
City Debt Requirements 3,500.000 00
$15,521,216 75
For County of Suffolk Purposes $1 ,063,600 00
County Debt Requirements 53,000 00
— 1,116,600 00
City and County Total $16,637,816 75
From Revenue:
Printing Department $150,000 00
City Record, Publication of 12,000 00
Public Works Department:
Water Service 400,000 00
Water Income 100,000 00
Collecting Department, Water Division 24,000 00
Water Service, Debt Requirements 22,000 00
708,000 00
Grand Total $17,345,816 75
Bases of Estimates, 1934.
Average valuation, $1,843,744,900 00
$6.52 on the thousand brings , $12,021,216 75
Amount available for appropriation inside tax limit $12,021,216 75
Referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
SALE OF FERRYBOAT "JOHN H.
SULLIVAN."
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 29, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith a letter from
C. J. Carven, Commissioner of Public Works,
relating to the sale of the ferryboat "John H.
Sullivan," and recommend the passage of the
accompanying order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
• City of Boston,
Public Works Department, January 26, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor.
The ferryboat "John H. Sullivan" used in our
Ferry Service was built in 1912 at a cost of $118,000
and is the oldest boat in the service.
The abandonment of the North Ferry releases
this boat from duty and, as a matter of fact, in the
past few years it has not been suitable for the
heavy service to which it was subjected. Allow-
ing depreciation of 5 per cent per annum, the boat
has practically paid for itself. It is now tied up at
a wharf and will never be placed in service again.
Naturally, in the meantime, the boat is deteriorat-
ing.
This office received a communication recently
from the Delaware River Ferry Company of
Chester, Penn., inquiring if the city had any boats
for sale.
As the "John H. Sullivan" is of no further use
to the city, I respectfully suggest that steps be
taken to sell this boat at public auction at a price
of not less than $5,000.
Yours respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Ordered, that the Commissioner of Public
Works be authorized to sell at public auction, after
duly advertising the time and place of the sale, the
unused ferryboat "John H. Sullivan," at an
upset price of five thousand dollars.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
JANUARY 29, 1934.
23
VETO OF THREE RESOLUTIONS.
The-following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my
signature the following three resolutions adopted
by your honorable body :
Resolution in favor of legislation for the rein-
statement of Michael McCormack in the Police
Department.
Resolution in favor of legislation for the rein-
statement of William S. Foster in the Police
Department.
Resolution in favor of legislation for the rein-
statement of Peter Clougherty in the Police
Department.
_ After several years of consideration of applica-
tions for special legislation for the benefit of in-
dividuals who desired reinstatement in the em-
ployment of cities and towns the Legislature in
1933 enacted chapter 320, which provides a simple
method of procedure applicable to all cases, and I
see no reason for approving or seeking further
special legislation. Accordingly I am disapprov-
ing the resolutions.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
LOANS FOR SEWERAGE WORKS AND
STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 29, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attached
communications from the Commissioner of Public-
Works in which he requests that loans of $1,000,000
each be made available respectively for Sewerage
Works and for the Reconstruction of Streets.
It is essential that these loans be given early
consideration in order that the Public Works De-
partment may establish the year's program and
start actual construction as early as possible. I
submit, herewith, orders providing for these loans
and respectively recommend adoption of the same
by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, January 20, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor.
It is customary each year for the Public Works
Department to request a loan of $1,000,000 for
sewerage works, the appropriation of this amount
to be made under the provisions of chapter 426
of the Acts of 1897, as amended by chapter 204
of the Acts of 1908 and by chapter 178 of the Acts
of 1930.
The money obtained is used for the purpose of
complying with petitions received during the year;
for enlarging and rebuilding antiquated sewers
which, because of their age or size, are inefficient
or dangerous, and for sewer work necessary to be
done in streets included in the street construction
program of the year and in the streets laid out by
the Board of Street Commissioners and ordered
constructed. #
I respectfully recommend that the customary
loan be provided this year.
Yours respectfully,
C. J. Carven.
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, January 20, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor.
I respectfully recommend that a loan of
$1,000,000 be provided for the Reconstruction of
Streets.
The appropriation of this sum will enable the
department to reconstruct and recondition main
highways and other important arteries of travel
which, after a careful survey, will be included in
the street construction program of the year.
Yours respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
426 of the Acts of 1897, as amended by chapter 204
of the Acts of 1908 and chapter 178 of the Acts of
1930, the sum of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is,
appropriated to be expended under the direction
of the Commissioner of Public Works for sewerage
works, and that to meet said appropriation the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or certifi-
cates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
Ordered, That the sum of $1,000,000 be, and
the same hereby is, appropriated, to be expended
by the Commissioner of Public Works, for Recon-
struction of Streets, and that to meet said appro-
priation the City Treasurer be authorized to issue,
from time to time, on request of the Mayor, bonds
or certificates of indebtedness of the City of Boston
to said amount.
Referred to the Committee on Finance.
MUNICIPAL BUILDING IN WARD 1.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, January 29, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I have indorsed my approval
upon the resolution adopted by your honorable
body on January 15 which favors the enactment
of legislation authorizing the construction of a
municipal building in Ward 1 and have forwarded
it to the Committee on Joint Rules of the Massa-
chusetts Legislature. I am informed by the
Speaker of the House of Representatives that this
form of approval is merely intended to expedite
consideration of the legislation and does not bind
the city in any way, nor is it indicative of the posi-
tion the city will take upon the legislation when it is
considered in committee.
For your information I am inclosing a copy of a
letter which I sent to the Committee on Joint
Rules and a copy of the reply from Speaker Salton-
stall.
I am writing this letter and inclosing this cor-
respondence in order that it may be understood that
the indorsement of the approval of the Mayor
does not indicate, necessarily, that I favor the pro-
posed legislation.
The right is reserved to the city to oppose any
order thus adopted if it should seem advisable to
do so.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor,
Copy of letter from Mayor Frederick W. Mans-
field to the Committee on Joint Rules of the Massa-
chusetts Legislature:
January 22, 1934.
Gentlemen, — I have received from the City
Council of Boston three resolutions as follows:
Resolution approving of legislation to extend the
time within which the city may accept payment
to the mother of David MacDonald, as provided
by Statute 1932, chapter 226.
Resolution approving legislation authorizing a
pension to Fred W. Connelly.
Resolution approving legislation to construct a
municipal building in Ward 1.
The form of approval which I am required to
sign upon each of these resolutions would seem to
indicate approval of the legislation referred to, but
I am informed by Mr. Wilfred J. Doyle, City Clerk,
that this is merely a matter of form and is not taken
as an indication that the City of Boston has
bound itself to approve of the proposed legislation.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Copy of letter from Leverett Saltonstall, Speaker
of the House of Representatives, to Mayor
Frederick W. Mansfield:
January 23, 1934.
My dear Mr. Mayor, — The plan effected by Joint
Rule 7B was initiated in 1921 by Speaker B. Loring
Young in an endeavor to curtail time and money
spent for printing of matters which come under that
rule, to prevent such matters from being enacted
into law and signed by the Governor only to be en-
tirely refused by the Mayor and City Council of a
city or the selectmen of a town, or county com-
missioners of a county whose approval was de-
manded under the provisions of the act.
The Committees on Rules of the two branches,
acting concurrently, cannot, of course, bind the
Mayor and City Council who approve the form of
these measures to later actually accept them, but
t24
CITY COUNCIL.
approval or disapproval of them at this stage,
before they are admitted or printed, does give the
Legislature some idea as to the necessity and
importance of acting upon them.
In the last year or two the City Council and the
Mayor have approved them purely as a matter
of form, reserving the right to act upon any legisla-
tion that is passed. Of course this in substance
nullifies the whole purport of the rule. However, I
realize that it may be difficult for the Council
and the Mayor to do anything else.
Of the three matters to which you refer in your
letter of January 22, one of them I believe has been
vetoed already twice by your predecessor in office.
This may give you some indication as to whether
or not you care to give it even your formal approval.
1 have talked this matter over several times with
Mr. Wilfred Doyle, and I believe he thoroughly
understands what the rule attempts to do.
With kind personal regards, I am,
Very sincerely yours,
Leverett Saltonstall.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Grace H. Austin, for compensation for damage
to ear caused by an alleged defect at Huntington
and Longwood avenues.
Mary H. Douglas, for compensation for loss of
ash container taken by ashmen from 678 Massa-
chusetts avenue.
Margaret E. Duffley, for compensation for
damage to property at 17 Parnell street, caused by
water from street.
Henry D. and Pearle E. Fallona, for compen-
sation for damage to property at 174 Church
street. West Roxbury, caused by blasting.
Lillian Freedman, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 124 Homestead
street.
P. C. Goodwin, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 4 Birch street,
Roslindale.
Preston E. Gray, for compensation for injuries
and damage to clothing while assisting officer in
making an arrest.
Marianne and William Hanigan. for compensa"
tion for damage to property at 182 Church street'
West Roxbury, caused by blasting.
Jose C. Harris, for compensation for damage to
car caused by an alleged defect in Huntington
avenue.
Margaret M. Harty, for compensation for
damage to clothing caused by an alleged defect in
Elm street.
Hayes Pump and Machinery Company, for
compensation for damage to property at 101 Pearl
street, caused by break in water pipes.
Stephen J. Hoar, for compensation for damage
to property at 25 Whitman street, Dorchester,
caused by water being turned on.
E. F. Hoffman, for compensation for damage to
car by city cart.
William H. Howard, for compensation for
damage to ear caused by an alleged defect at
Chardon and Hawkins streets.
Josephine Hughes, for compensation for loss of
coat at 15 Beacon street.
Ernest Linwood, for refund on refuse tickets.
Edward Long, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Staniford street.
John E. Martell, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Hyde Park
avenue.
John J. Moynihan, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect at 2020 Colum-
bus avenue.
Mrs. Joseph O'Connor, for compensation for
damage to property at 172 Church street, West
Roxbury, by blasting.
Nick K. Pano, for compensation for damage to
car by police car.
Gennaro Riecio, for compensation for damage to
property at 290 Hanover street, caused by over-
flow of sewer.
Ernest H. Wheaton, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Boylston
street.
James Henry Broadard, for compensation for
damage to property at 41 Village street, caused by
bursting water pipe.
William F. Hubbard, for compensation for
injuries caused by ice on sidewalk on Byron street.
The Jay Food Products Company, for compen-
sation for damage to truck by police truck.
Executive.
Petition of Mary S. McNamara, to be paid an
annuity on account of death of her husband,
Bernard F. McNamara, late member of Fire
Department.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notices were received from the Mayor of the
following appointments:
Election Commissioner Peter F. Tague to be a
member of the Listing Board for the year 1934.
Health Commissioner Francis X. Mahoney to be
Acting Institutions Commissioner, to take the
place of James E. Maguire, resigned, said appoint-
ment to take effect at the beginning of business on
Tuesday, January 30, 1934.
Severally placed on file.
NOTICE OF HEARING.
Notice was received from the Department of
Public Works of the Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts of hearing to be held on application of
New England Telephone and Telegraph Com-
pany for license to lay and maintain seven sub-
marine cables in, under and across Fort Point
Channel in City of Boston on January 31 at 2 p m.
Placed on file.
RAILROAD POLICE.
Notice was received from the Boston, Revere
Beach & Lynn Railroad that it has ceased to re-
quire services of Benjamin P. Smith, William W.
Prescott and Irwin L. Van Vorst as railroad police
officers.
Placed on 'file.
VOTE ON LIQUOR.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Board of Election Commissioners,
January 26, 1934.
Wilfred J. Doyle, Esq.,
City Clerk.
Dear Sir, — We hereby certify that at the
Special City Election held January 23, 1934, the
vote upon the license questions in this city, was
as follows:
Shall licenses be granted in this city for the sale
therein of all alcoholic beverages (whiskey, rum,
gin, malt beverages, wines, and all other alcoholic
beverages)?
Yes, 27,677. No, 4,661.
Shall licenses be granted in this city for the
^sale therein of wines and malt beverages (wines
and beer, ale and all other malt beverages)?
Yes, 26,651. No, 4,483.
Shall licenses be granted in this city for the sale
therein of alcoholic beverages in taverns?
Yes, 24,393. No, 7,795.
Peter F. Tague,
Helen A. Macdonald,
Charles T. Harding,
Daniel H. Rose,
Board of Election Commisioners of Boston.
Placed on file.
REDUCTION ON ASSESSED VALUES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor of Boston
be requested to consider the advisability of directing
the Board of Assessors to immediately make plans
for the reduction of the assessed values of Boston's
real estate at least two hundred million dollars,
for the year 1934.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
JANUARY 29, 1934.
25
DECENTRALIZATION OF WELFARE
ACTIVITIES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to consider the advisability of directing the Welfare
Department to decentralize its activities into the
various sections of Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RIGHT OF WAY, FIRE APPARATUS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to consider the advisability of requesting legislation
so that certain members of the Boston Fire De-
partment might be given the right to issue reckless
driving summonses to motorists not giving the
right of way to fire apparatus en route to a fire,
since the majority of accidents involving fire
apparatus is caused by the motorist not giving the
right of way.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ARC LIGHTS IN SAVIN HILL.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Because of the recent holdups in the Savin Hill
section, be it ordered, that his Honor the Mayor
request the Public Works Commissioner to install
an arc light at Auckland and Elton streets and at
Saxton and Belfort streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HEALTH UNIT, WARD 10.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the trustees of the George Robert
White Fund be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to consider the establishment and main-
tenance of a health unit in the vicinity of Heath
square, Ward 10.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENT.
The Council took up, under unfinished business,
No. 1 on the calendar, viz.:
1. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor January 22, 1934, of John W. Long, to be
a Weigher of Coal.
The question came on confirmation. Commit-
tee, Coun. Donovan and Gallagher. Whole
number of ballots 16, yeas 16, nays 0, and the
appointment was confirmed.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers
and sailors and their families in the City of Boston
for the month of January, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
Adjourned, at 2.31 p. m., on motion of Coun.
TOBIN, to meet on Monday, February 5, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CORRECTION.
At the meeting on January 22, 1934, in Coun.
Shattuck's remarks under heading of "Informa-
tion Requested of Welfare Trustees," page 16,
column 2, referring to the fact that on December
5, 1933, he wrote a letter to the Department of
Public Welfare, of which he had not even an
acknowledgment, hel is reported as saying,
"That in itself indicates the high degree of effici-
ency in that department." The word "efficiency"
should be "inefficiency."
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DBfARTMBNT
CITY COUNCIL.
26
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Boston, February 5, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., Presi-
dent DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Mur-
ray and Roberts.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn under the law, the Mayor
absent, Coun. KERRIGAN and TOBIN draw-
ing the jurors, as follows :
Thirty traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear February 7,
1934:
Antonio Bettano, Ward 1 ; Frederick B.
Studley, Ward 2 ; James W. Craig, Ward 5 ;
Walter H. Woodward, Ward 5 ; George W.
Daynes, Ward 6 ; Alexander Moore, Jr., Ward
6 ; Peter P. Finnegan, Ward 7 ; John K.
Heafey, Ward 7 ; Louis D. Kelley, Ward 7 ;
Charles P. Fitzpatrick, Ward 9 ; John F.
Hines, Ward 10; James W. Gibbons, Ward
13 ; Frank A. Sweeney, Ward 13 ; George
La Bollita. Ward 15 : Ralph H. Frost, Ward
16 ; Dennis Sullivan, Ward 16 ; Arthur J.
Arcand, Ward 16 ; Daniel M. Gill, Ward 16 ;
James T. Burke, Ward 17 ; John F. Monahan,
Ward 17 ; James P. O'Donnell, Ward 17 ; Law-
rence S. Peck, Ward 17 ; Francis J. Cameron,
Ward 18 ; Frank Crowder, Ward 18 ; Carroll
B. Wingfield, Ward 18 ; John O. Lindgren,
Ward 19; Newman A. Horton, Ward 20;
George II. Mullis, Ward 20 ; Edward C. Field-
ing, Ward 21 ; John McCormick, Ward 22.
Eighteen traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear March 5,
1934:
William F. Geggio. Ward 1 ; Carlyle J.
Dempsey, Ward 3 ; James F. MaeGregor, Ward
4 ; James H. Cox, Ward 5 ; Francis A. How-
ard, Ward 6 : Winthrop L. Dyer, Ward 7 ;
William A. Sloane. Ward 7 : John J. Cloney,
Ward 8 ; Chesterfield H. Greene. Ward 9 ;
Joseph M. Kickham, Ward 10 ; William T.
Carey, Ward 11 ; Benjamin Epstein, Ward
13 ; Arthur E. Wilson, Ward 13 ; Alfred Dorr,
Ward 15 ; Norman Gillis Watson, Ward 15 ;
Fred A. Senter, Ward 16 ; John F. Westwater,
Ward 16; Charles E. Berry, Ward 21.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Third Session, to appear March
5, 1934:
Michael J. Doherty, Ward 2 ; Harry L.
Fopiano, Ward 3 ; Henry DeFrancesco, Ward
4 ; Clinton A. Root, Ward 4 ; Philip Fisher.
Ward 5 ; Duncan Mclnnes, Ward 5 ; Harrison
C. Reynolds, Ward 5 ; Maurice Davin, Ward
6 ; Edward J. Graney, Ward 7 ; John F.
Baynes, Ward 7 ; Andrew J. Langenfeld,
Ward 7 ; Harry W. Bly, Ward 12 ; John H.
Devine, Ward 13 ; Thomas J. Crowne, Ward
15 ; John Gavin, Ward 15 ; John C. Wood-
head, Ward 15 ; George A. Hegerich. Ward
17 ; Joseph A. Young, Ward 17 ; Will L.
Sargent, Ward 18 ; John Gustavsen, Ward 19 ;
George F. Hart, Ward 19 ; Frederick C. Rice,
Ward 19 ; Charles T. Williamson, Ward 20 ;
John O. Stanwood, Ward 21 ; William L. Dur-
land, Ward 22 ; Sidney Guttentag, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fourth Session, to appear March
5, 1934:
Michael Costello, Ward 1 ; John M. Shaw,
Ward 1 : Jeremiah J. Brennan. Ward 2 ;
George D. Tatten, Ward 2 ; Peter Arcaro,
Ward 3 ; Andrew A. Flanagan, Ward 3 ; John
P. Walsh, Ward 3 ; Frank Chamberlain, Ward
4: Arthur B. Davis, Ward 4; Edward P.
Flavin, Ward 4 ; Clarence E. Bradbury, Ward
5 : William F. Hale. Ward 6 : John J. Moore,
Ward 6 ; Frank F. Letson, Ward 11 ; Thomas
J. Connolly. Ward 12 ; Benjamin Summerfield,
Ward 12 ; Frank J. Donovan, Ward 13 ; George
J. O'Brien, Ward 13 ; Joseph A. Brady, Ward
14 ; John E. Jardine. Ward 14 ; Frederick V.
Simonds, Ward 15 ; William J. Murphy, Ward
16; Herman E. Collins, Ward 18; Ralph A.
Butler, Ward 19 ; Guy L. Harvey, Ward 20 ;
William E. Judge, Ward 20 ; Raymond F. Mc-
Fee, Ward 20; William Harvey, Ward 24;
Abraham Olansky, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fifth Session, to appear March
5, 1934:
John C. Kelley, Ward 1 ; William F. Mur-
phy, Ward 3 ; James A. Bird, Ward 4 ; Harold
W. Sproules. Ward 4 ; John L. Healv, Ward
8: Samuel L. Stone, Ward 9; John 'J. Gillis,
Ward 11 ; John H. Barry, Ward 12 ; John D
Dowse, Ward 12 ; Daniel M. Chille, Ward 13
Francis J. Curran, Ward 13 ; Walter S. Le
Corn, Ward 13 ; Benjamin Crocer, Ward 14
Herbert H. Sacks, Ward 14; William J. Jor
dan, Ward 15; John E. Curran, Ward 16
Joseph F. Danner. Ward 16 : Arthur H.
Donahy, Jr., Ward 16 : William P. Magee, Ward
16 ; Edward W. McCausland, Ward 16 ; John
B. Farrell. Ward 17 ; Geonre H. Mills, Jr.,
Ward 17 : Dennis W. O'Brien, Ward 17 ; John
J. Vortisch, Ward 17 ; Emil A. Gartner, Ward
20 ; Malcolm W. Cox, Ward 2d ; Albert S.
Pearlman, Ward 21 ; Daniel J. Driscoll, Ward
22 ; M. Raymond Hatch, Ward 22.
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
First Session, January Sitting, to appear
March 5, 1934:
Salvatore Gangi, Ward 1 ; James E. McKay,
Ward 5 ; Francis J. Lydon, Ward 6 ; Thomas
F. Morgan, Ward 6 ; Richard H. Dutcher,
Ward 7 ; Victor Kroll, Ward 11 ; Thomas F.
Lee, Ward 11; Edward A. McNamara, Ward
11; Frank Boc. Ward 13; Frederick E. Brod-
erick, Ward 14 ; Alfred J. Brown, Ward 16 ;
Sidney H. Pollard, Ward 17 ; Arthur E.
Saunders, Ward 17 ; George N. Trafton, Ward
18: Walter M. Kingman, Ward 20; Otto H.
Miller, Ward 20 ; Pryor C. Goodwin, Ward 20 ;
Edwin T. Rae, Ward 20 ; Harry C. Bonner,
Ward 21 ; George W. Boner, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, January Sitting, to ap-
pear March 5, 1934 :
Leo J. Ferretti, Ward 2 ; William T. Jen-
nings, Ward 4 ; David C. McGloughlin, Ward 4 ;
Edward M. Bryant, Ward 6 ; John J. Holland,
Ward 6 ; Patrick Francis McGrath, Ward 6 ;
Edward C. Welch, Ward 6 ; Patrick H. Dono-
hue, Ward 7 ; William J. Murphy, Ward 8 ;
Mathew Graney, Ward 12 ; William H. Sewart,
Ward 12; Thomas J. Buckley, Ward 16;
W. Howard Fuller, Ward 16; Hugo Housman,
Ward 16 ; John B. McLeish, Ward 16 ; John
W. Carter, Ward 17 ; Owen F. Finn, Ward 18 ;
Hyman Weiner, Ward 18 ; Alexander J.
Matheson, Ward 19 ; Frank Reynolds, Ward 19 ;
Harold K. Ricker, Ward 20 ; William J. Glavey,
Ward 22 ; John S. Needham, Ward 22 ; Paul
G. Riska, Ward 22.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fourth Session, January Sitting, to
appear March 5, 1934 :
John J. Collins, Ward 1 ; Frederick J. Guin-
zali. Ward 3 ; George A. Heyl, Ward 3 ; John
McDonald, Ward 3 ; James J. Pender, Ward 6 ;
John E. Raper, Ward 8 ; George A. Kendall,
Ward 9 ; George Dauberschmidt, Ward 11 ;
John Uminski, Ward 11 ; Emery S. Pinkham,
Ward 12 : William A. Carey, Ward 13 ; Wil-
liam C. Mead, Ward 13 ; Hector Papanti, Ward
13 ; Robert C. Lehane, Ward 14 ; Curtis J.
Ormsby, Ward 14 ; William A. Batts, Ward 15 :
George W. Frizzell, Ward 16 ; Arthur E.
McPhee, Ward 16 ; Leon A. Westcott, Ward 16 ;
Robert Ellis, Ward 19 ; William L. Nolan,
Ward 20 ; Witmore A. Stuart, Ward 20.
27
CITY COUNCIL.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fifth Session, January Sitting, to
appear March 5, 1934:
Frank Lacorcia, Ward 3 ; George L. Sullivan,
Ward 8 ; Wesley Hoffman, Ward 4 ; John M.
Prestes, Ward 5 ; John J. Guinessy, Ward !) ;
Joseph M. Huban, Ward 11; Thomas E. Ryder,
Ward 13 ; John J. Smith, Jr., Ward 18 ; Harry
Albert, Ward 14; Isaac Norman, Ward 14;
Gerald E. Norcott, Ward 15; John E. Arse-
nault, Ward 17 ; Augustus W. Perry, Ward
17; Thomas W. Smith, Ward 18; William J.
Garrity, Ward 19 ; Joseph H. Kelley, Ward 19 ;
George Hall, Ward 20 ; Oscar Raymond Weden,
Ward 20 ; Harry E. Cassidy, Ward 21 ; Joseph
M. Gould, Ward 21 ; Richard A. Lenihan,
Ward 22 ; David O'Keefe, Jr., Ward 22 ; John
F. West, Ward 22.
Twenty^three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Sixth Session, January Sitting, to ap-
pear Maa-ch 5, 1934 :
Charles F. O'Brien, Ward 1; John F.
Queenan, Ward 1 ; Patrick X. Webb, Ward 1 ;
Daniel W. Donahue, Ward 2 ; James F. O'Brien,
Ward 2 : William G. Roe, Ward 2 ; Walter S.
Abbott, Ward 3 : John J. Regan, Ward 3 ;
Harold F. Mahan, Ward 5; Georee W. Wat-
son, Ward 5 ; Patrick J. Dwyer, Ward 7 ;
Charles A. Stamm, Ward 7 ; Henry L. Clark,
Ward 8 ; Charles J. Reilly, Ward 9 ; Thomas
E. Seymour, Ward 9 ; Edward Nagle, Ward
11; William C. Dally, Ward 12; John S.
O'Brien. Ward 12: Eugene C. Roundtree,
Ward 12 ; Paul F. McCarthy, Ward 14 ; Wil-
liam Harris, Ward 19 ; Karl Jaeger, Ward 19 ;
Charles L. Lawrence, Ward 21.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Seventh Session, January Sitting, to
appear March 5, 1934 :
Thomas F. Barry, Ward 1 ; Otto Schultes,
Ward 1 ; John Horan, Ward 3 ; Henry C.
French, Ward 8 ; George M. Fallon, Ward 10 ;
Henry Keller, Ward 10 ; Chester E. McLaugh-
lin Ward 10 ; James M. Fitzpatrick, Ward 12 ;
William H. Libby, Ward 12 ; George L. Smith,
Ward 12 ; Phillip Lydon, Ward 13 ; Gerald
McQuaide, Ward 13; Michael W. Meleedy,
Ward 16; William M. Clifford, Ward 17; Wil-
liam F. Devine, Ward 17 ; Samuel B. Smyth,
Ward 17; Edwin C. Glover, Ward 18; Wils
A. Larson, Ward 18; William F. O'Donnell,
Ward 18 ; Merton L. Holbrook, Ward 20 ; John
J Manning, Ward 20 ; James D. Connelly,
Ward 21 ; Neil F. Doherty, Ward 21 ; George
R. Foster, Ward 21.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments
for the term ending April 30, 1934, viz. :
Weighers of Goods : Richard J. Moore, 32
O street, South Boston ; Roe Augusta, 41 Nor-
folk road, Randolph ; Thomas Flaherty, 421
Quincy street, Dorchester.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS, QUINCY STREET AND
COLUMBIA ROAD.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 5, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Traffic Commissioner relative to your
order of January 15, 1934, concerning the in-
stallation of traffic lights at Quincy street
and Columbia road.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Boston Traffic Commission,
January 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
Council order dated January 15, 1934, which
reads as follows :
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
reque ted, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install traffic lights at the corner of Quincy
street and Columbia road.
There are at present no funds available for
this commission for the installation of auto-
matic traffic signals at suburban intersections.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickev,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
DILLAWAY HOUSE, ROXBURY.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Dy chapter 291 of the Acts of
1930, the City of Boston -was authorized to
relocate and restore the Dillaway House, so
called, located on Eliot square, Roxbury, which
house was used by Gen. John Thomas as his
headquarters during the siege of Boston in
the War of the Revolution, and to expend for
those purposes not more than $25,000.
Appropriations were provided in 1932 and
1933, and a contract was made, under the di-
rection of the Department of School Buildings,
for the relocation and restoration of the house.
I am informed that the contract is com-
pleted, and it now becomes necessary to provide
for the care, custody and maintenance of the
building. I accordingly recommend the passage
of the accompanying ordinance, placing this
house in the custody of the Public Buildings
Department, which now has charge of other
historic buildings such as the Old State House
and Faneuil Hall.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
An Ordinance Concerning the
Dillaway House.
Be it ordained by the City Council of Boston,
as follows :
The Superintendent of Public Buildings shall
have the care, custody and management of the
Dillaway House, so called, in Roxbury ; may
establish rules and regulations for the use and
preservation of the said house as an historical
relic of the Revolutionary War ; and may, if
authorized by an order of the City Council,
approved by the Mayor, let or lease the whole
or any part of said house to an historical
society or other association organized for his-
torical purposes.
Referred to the Committee on Ordinances.
SALE OF JUNK.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 2, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith a letter from
Edward F. McLaughlin, Fire Commissioner,
relating to the sale of junk and recommend
the passage of the accompanying order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Fire Department, January 29, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — This department has at the Fire
Alarm Shop an accumulation of junk consist-
ing chiefly of old lead-covered cable and old
iron which we desire to dispose of for lack
of space and because the material is of no use
to the Fire Department. After authority to
sell this material is granted, proposals will be
requested by publicly advertising for them.
For your Honor's information I inclose here-
with a form of order which could be submitted
to the City Council.
Yours very truly,
Edward F. McLaughlin,
Fire Commissioner. <
FEBRUARY 5, 1934-
28
Ordered, That the Fire Commissioner be,
and hereby is, authorized to sell, after pub-
licly advertising for proposals, old material in
the Fire Alarm Shop consisting of old lead-
covered cable, old iron, etc., at a value es-
timated at approximately five hundred dollars.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
LOANS FOR STREETS AND SEWERS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — As a result of conference with
the Commissioner of Public Works and others
I believe that it is desirable to appropriate at
this time within the debt-incurring power of
the city only $250,000 for Reconstruction of
streets, and $250,000 for Sewerage Works. I
accordingly request that the two loans of
$1,000,000 each now pending be reduced to
$250,000 each before final action is taken upon
them by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
' Referred to Committee on Finance.
NORTHERN AVENUE BRIDGE AND PO-
LICE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Within the past week two proj-
ects have been brought to my attention which
I believe are proper items for the city to carry
out under the provisions of chapter 366 of
the Acts of 1933, the Act enabling cities and
towns to secure the benefits provided by the
National Industrial Recovery Act. These proj-
ects are : The reconstruction of the Northern
Avenue Bridge, and the establishment of a
modern and efficient communication system
for the Police Department.
The Northern Avenue Bridge, affording di-
rect connection with the freight terminals and
railroad yards in South Boston, is one of the
most important arteries of traffic in the city.
Over a week ago a serious defect in the draw-
span of the bridge became apparent, which
made it necessary, in order that marine traffic
should not be impeded, to leave the draw-
span in an open position and closing the bridge
entirely to land traffic. Estimates received
from reliable sources indicate that the cost
of repairing the present defect would be ap-
proximately $75,000. Since the bridge is ap-
proximately thirty years old, it is questionable
whether the outlay of this large sum for re-
pairs is justified. In consideration of the age
of the structure, I believe the proper step to
take at this time is to provide for the replace-
ment of the existing structure with a new
bridge. In the opinion of the Commissioner
of Public Works, this project will involve
an expenditure of $1,000,000.
The electrical communication system of the
Boston Police Department comprises a total
of approximately 930,000 feet of cables con-
necting eighteen divisions or stations with
patrol boxes, there being approximately forty
boxes in each division. The system was in-
stalled between 1886 and 1889, and except for
minor modifications and replacements, there
has been practically no change or improvement
in the system for over forty years. As
might be expected, the signal system be-
cause of its age, is in rather poor con-
dition and is very much out of date, in
view of the notable improvements that have
been made in the signal systems of the Police
Departments in other large cities of the
country. Recent happenings, not only in Bos-
ton, but in neighboring communities, have em-
phasized the urgent necessity of having in
operation at all times a modern and up-to-date
police communication system. I have dis-
cussed the matter thoroughly with the Police
Commissioner, who informs me that an ap-
propriation of $350,000 will be required to give
Boston a modern and efficient police radio
and telephone system.
In connection with these two projects I
submit herewith three orders, the first pro-
viding general authority for the city to engage
in these projects, and the second and third
orders, providing for the necessary loan ap-
propriations. I respectfully recommend prompt
consideration and passage by your honorable
body of the accompanying orders.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of section 2, Part 1, of chapter 366
of the Acts of 1933, the City of Boston shall
engage in the following public works projects :
1. Reconstruction and replacement of North-
ern Avenue Bridge at an estimated cost
of $1,000,000
2. Establishment of a modern and
efficient police communications
system at an estimated cost of $350,000
Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, the
sum of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended under the direction of the
Commissioner of Public Works for Northern
Avenue Bridge, and that to meet said appropri-
ation the city treasurer be authorized to issue,
from time to time, upon request of the Mayor,
bonds or certificates of indebtedness of the
city to said amount, the same to be issued out-
side the limit of indebtedness.
Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933,
the sum of $350,000 be, and hereby is, ap-
propriated, to be expended under the direction
of the Police Commissioner for police com-
munications system, and that to meet said
appropriation the city treasurer be authorized
to issue, from time to time, upon request of
the Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebted-
ness of the city to said amount, the same
to be issued outside the limit of indebtedness.
Referred to the Committee on Finance.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
W. B. Castle, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Cummins
Highway.
Matthew J. Dareey, for refund on liquor
license.
F. R. Furbush, for compensation for damage
to car by city truck.
Hanover Buildings and Hub Bowling Alleys,
for compensation for damage to property at
216-228 Hanover street, caused by flow of
water into property.
Hovey & Co., to be paid bill refused by
Supply Department.
Wanita Ingram, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 15 Greenville
street.
J. A. Jones, for refund on beer license.
Samuel Koldubsky, for compensation for
damage to car by fire truck.
C. A. MacGraham, for refund on refuse
tickets.
James A. Martin, for refund on license fee.
Walter A. Neuber, for compensation for
damage to ear by city truck.
Ida Newman, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Blue Hill avenue.
Rachel Noller, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Morton street,
Dorchester.
29
CITY COUNCIL
Violet 0. Nute, Tor compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 241 and
248 Faneuil street.
Cornelius O'Leary, for refund on liquor
license.
Packard Motor Car Comipany, for compensa-
tion for damage to ear by snow plow.
Joseph Padovani, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 40 Staniford street, caused
by fire truck.
Jacob Paris, for refund on beer license.
Annie Revman, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 52 Crawford
street.
Vincent Searlata, for refund on liquor li-
cense.
Chester Solomont, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Suther-
land road.
Oscar Spector, for compensation for dam-
age to car caused by city truck.
Henry K. Waldman, for compensation for
damage to property at 5 Wall street, caused
by demolishing building.
Samuel I. Wantman, for compensation for
damage to taxicab by city truck.
Leonard A. Weber, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect
in Meridian Street Bridge.
Morris Young, for compensation for damage
to property at 132 Cambridge street, caused
by defective water main.
Paul H. Battery, for refund on liquor li-
cense.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petitions of Boston Elevated Railway to
operate motor vehicles, viz. :
Between junction of Massachusetts avenue
and Boylston street and Dudley Street Ter-
minal : over Massachusetts avenue, Columbus
avenue, Northampton street, Washington street,
and Warren street ; return over Washington
street, Northampton street, Columbus avenue,
Massachusetts avenue, Newbury street, Here-
ford street and Boylston street. To be op-
erated only between hours of 12.01 a. m. and
6 a. m.
Between Sullivan Square Terminal and Bos-
ton-Everett line at Alford street ; over Main
street and Alford street. To be operated only
between ihours of 12.01 a. m. and 6 a. m.
(Boston section of a night route between Sul-
livan Square Terminal, Charlestown, and the
junction of Lynn and Beach streets, Maiden.)
Between Somerville-Boston line at Main street
and Sullivan Square Terminal, over Main
street. To be operated only between hours of
12.01 a. m. and 6 a. m. (Boston section of
a night route between Maiden square, Maiden,
and Sullivan Square Terminal, Charlestown.)
Between Neponset Station and Dudley Street
Terminal ; over Neponset avenue, Adams street.
Gibson street, Dorchester avenue, Savin Hill
avenue, Pleasant street, IStotaghton street,
Uphams Corner, Dudley street, Warren street,
to Dudley Street Terminal. To be operated
only between hours of 12.01 a. m. and 6 a. m.
Between Dudley Street Terminal, Roxbury,
and Codman square, Dorchester, over Warren
street, Dudley street, Blue Hill avenue, Wash-
ington street, Codman square, Norfolk street,
Gallivan Boulevard, Washington street to Cod-
man square ; return over reverse route. To be
operated only between hours of 12.01 a. m.
and 6 a. m.
Between Somerville-Boston line at Cambridge
street (Charlestown district) and Scollay
square, over Cambridge street, Main street,
City square, Charlestown Bridge, Washington
Street North, Haymarket square, Sudbury
street and Scollay square ; return over Corn-
hill, Adams square, Washington street, Hay-
market square, Washington Street North,
Charlestown Bridge, City square, Park street,
Warren street, Thompson square, Main street
and Cambridge street. To be operated only
between hours of 12.01 a. m. and 6 a. m.
(Boston section of a night route between
Clarendon Hill, SomeTville, and Scollay square,
Boston.)
lietween junction of Centre and South streets
and junction of Green awl Washington streets,
Jamaica Plain ; over Centre street, Seavcrns
avenue, Gordon street, Woolsey square, Green
street; return over Washington street, Wil-
liams street, Call street, Woolsey square. Green
street and Centre street.
lietween Pierce square, Dorchester, and Dud-
ley Street Terminal, over Dorchester avenue,
Park street, Geneva avenue, Blue Hill avenue,
Warren street to Dudley Street Terminal ; re-
turn over reverse route. To be operated only
between hours of 12.01 a. m. and 6 a. m.
Between Rowes Wharf and junction of Sum-
mer street and the Viaduct leading to Com-
monwealth Pier ; over Atlantic avenue and
Summer street.
Between Kenmore square and the junction of
Brookline avenue and Boylston street ; over
Brookline avenue ; returning over Boylston
street, Kilmarnock street, Queensberry street,
Jersey street, Brookline avenue and Kenmore
square.
Between junction of Webster street and Sum-
ner street and Boston Airport, East Boston,
over Sumner street, Jeffries street and Mav-
erick street.
Between junction of Spring street and Cale-
donian avenue and junction of Hyde Park
avenue and Cummins Highway, West Rox-
bury, over Spring street, Centre street, Bel-
grade avenue, Corinth street, Washington
street and Cummins Highway ; return over
Hyde Park avenue, Canterbury street, Cummins
Highway, Washington street, South street, Bel-
grade avenue, Centre street and Spring street.
To be operated only between hours of 12.01
a. m. and G a. m.
From junction of Everett and Mill streets ;
over Mill, Ashland and Beach streets to Free-
port street.
APPOINTMENT OF DR. JOHN A. FOLEY.
Notice was received from the State Com-
missioner of Public Health of designation of
Dr. John A. Foley as physician to act under
provisions of chapter 340 of Acts of 1933 on
all cases concerning employees of City of
Boston.
Placed on file.
NOTICE OF ASSIGNMENT OF JUDGE.
Notice was received from Chief Justice
Arthur P. Rugg, of Supreme Judicial Court,
of assignment of Elmer L. Briggs, Plymouth,
to act as Judge of Appellate Division of Dis-
trict Courts, to fill vacancy existing on January
30, 1934, Southern District, for period expiring
October 1, 1935. In place of Nathan Wash-
burn, deceased.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notice of the following appointments "were
received from the Mayor :
Thomas A. Fitzgerald, 39 Welles avenue, Dor-
chester, Street Commissioner, to take place of
John J. O'Callaghan, retired, said appointment
to begin February 1.
Timothy W. Murphy, 11 Zamora court, Jam-
aica Plain, Principal Assessor, to take the
place of Neal J. Holland, retired, said appoint-
ment to take effect February 1.
John F. McDonald, Orchard Hill road, Bos-
ton, to be Transit Commissioner in Place of
Nathan A. Heller, resigned, said appointment
to take effect January 30.
Peter L. Lambert, 10 Churchill road, West
Roxbury, as Deputy Penal Institutions Com-
missioner, to take place of George T. Reid,
resigned, said appointment to take effect Feb-
ruary 5.
Wilfred J. Doyle, City Clerk, to be Acting
City Auditor, begining with close of business
FEBRUARY 5, 1934.
30
on January 31, such appointment to continue
until such time as a City Auditor is appointed
and qualified.
Severally placed on file.
LAND FOR PLAYGROUND PURPOSES.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to con-
sider the advisability of purchasing land at
Guild street, Bartlett street and Lambert ave-
nue. Ward 9, from the Boston Elevated Rail-
way Company, for playground purposes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LIGHTING ON HARRISON AVENUE.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be
requested to direct the Commissioner of Pub-
lic Works to install a better lighting system
on Harrison avenue, between Essex street and
Broadway Extension.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION WANTED FROM AUDITING
AND ASSESSING DEPARTMENTS.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Auditor be requested,
through his Honor the Mayor, to prepare and
submit to the City Council the following in-
formation :
1. What was the assessed value of real
estate in the city as of January 1, 1934,
after giving effect to all tax reductions granted
previous to this date?
2. What is the total amount of outstanding
bonds of the city as of January 1, 1934?
3. What is the total amount of the Sink-
ing Fund as of January 1, 1934 ?
4. What is the actual market value of the
bonds and investments held in the Sinking
Funds?
5. How much money has been borrowed
from the banks on short term notes in antic i-
patic-n of taxes ?
6. Submit a balance sheet of the city as of
January 1, 1934.
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors be
requested through his Honor the Mayor to
prepare and submit to the City Council the
following information :
1. The amount of reductions in assessed
values of properties granted for the year 1932.
2. Of this amount, how much was granted
by decisions of the Board of Appeals ?
3. How much was granted by the assessors ?
4. The amount of reductions in assessed
values of properites granted for the year 1933.
5. Of this amount, how much was granted
by decisions of the Board of Tax Appeals ?
6. How much was granted by the assessors ?
7. How many reductions were granted for
the year 1933 on all classes of property, both
by the Board of Tax Appeals and by the
assessors ?
8. Of this number, how many properties
were assessed for less than $10,000 ?
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
ARC LIGHT, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install an arc light at the corner
of Hardy street and Marine road. Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommend-
ing passage of order for payment of aid to
soldiers and sailors and their families in City
of Boston for month of February, 1934.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
WARD 12 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the junction
of Harrison avenue and Warren street. Ward
12.
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the junction
of Seaver street and Humboldt avenue. Ward
12.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement the
following streets in Ward 12 :
Howland street, from Warren to Harold
street.
Waumjbeck street, from Warren street to
Humboldt avenue.
Perrin street, entire length.
Wakullah street, entire length.
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
LAND NEAR TENEAN REACH.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commissioners,
through his Honor the Mayor of Boston, be
allowed to purchase at the present assessed
value the real estate described in that part of
Dorchester, Tenean Beach section, which lies
between the Old Colony Boulevard, Freeport
and Tenean streets on the west and the Nepon-
set river on the east, in that part of Boston
called Dorchester. Said property comprises
some 900,000 square feet of upland, marsh and
flats, and and is owned by Edward and George
P. Hamlin. To be further developed for the
beach and park systems in the City of Bos-
ton, as it is now being used by the public for
recreation purposes.
Referred to Committee on Public Lands.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 13.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the inter-
section of Blue Hill avenue and Quincy
street, Ward 13.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DISPLAY OF NAZI SWASTIKA.
Coun. GOLDMAN and BRACKMAN offered
the following :
Resolved, That since the Nazi Swastika has
become the symbol of race persecution with
all its resultant suffering to hundreds of
thousands of persons composing the oppressed
minorities in Germany and including Jews,
Catholics, Masons and others,
That since this emblem of bigotry has been
publicly flaunted from the windows of the
German Consul in Boston,
That since such public display is an affront
to those citizens of Boston who because of
racial, religious or intellectural reasons are
in sympathy with the oppressed minorities
of Germany,
81
(JJTY COUNCIL.
Therefore, Be it resolved tha/t the Boston
(lily Council go on record as being opposed to
the public display of the Nazi Swastika in
the streets of Boston, a city which has made
such glorious contributions to the cause of
liberty and enlightenment in America.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
SIDEWALK ON GALLIVAN BOULEVARD.
Conn. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along 249 Gallivan
Boulevard, Ward 17, in front of the estates
bordering thereon ; said sidewalk to be from
3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining, to
be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built
of artificial stone, with granite edgestones,
under the provisions of chapter 19G of the
Special Acts of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DESIGNATION OF PHYSICIANS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Whereas, The Commissioner of Public Health
has designated as the physician to act under
the provisions of chapter 340 of the Acts of
1933, the medical 'practitioner of the medical
board established by chapter 521 of the Acts
of 1922 ;
Ordered, That until otherwise ordered the
Mayor and City Council hereby designate as
the two physicians to act under the provisions
of chapter 340 of the Acts of 1933, the surgeon
and the neurologist of the said medical board.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
SENATE BILL 224.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the enactment of Senate Bill
No. 224, which permits the acceptance, on
account of less than 50 per cent on the pay-
ment of back taxes.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, let me say
very briefly that, if I am correctly informed,
this bill introduced into the Legislature is for
the obvious helpful purpose of allowing tax-
payers of the City of Boston who are so dis-
posed, instead of waiting to pay their entire
tax bill, (to pay on account and to save the
running of interest. Although I understand
that many authorities are opposing the pas-
sage of that particular legislation, it seems to
me in the present days of unpaid taxes, where
people are behind through no fault of their
own, we should encourage some payment of
taxes, stop the running of interest, and help
the taxpayers in every way possible.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
MUNICIPAL LIGHTING PLANT.
President DOWD offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approves the enactment of legislation
to authorize the said city to borrow money
outside the debt limit for the purpose of
establishing a municipal lighting plant.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS, WARD 21.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the City of Boston Traffic
Commission be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to install automatic traffic signal
lights on Commonwealth avenue at Allston
street. Ward 21.
Ordered, Thai the City of Boston Traffic
Commission be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to install automatic traffic signal
lights on Commonwealth avenue at Warren
|- i. Ward 21.
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
SUNSICT AVENUE, WARD 19.
Coun. NORTON for Coun. Murray offered
the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Sunset avenue,
Ward 19, as a public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECONSTRUCTION OF HYDE PARK
AVENUE.
Coun. MURRAY and NORTON offered the
following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to reconstruct Hyde, Park avenue, from
Forest Hills to Readville.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DECENTRALIZING OF WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Welfare Department
of the City of Boston be decentralized.
(In connection with the above, Coun. Norton
submitted as a matter of record, quotation
from Globe editorial of January 31, 1934, as
follows : "The physical overcrowding of the
welfare building has itself amounted to a
scandal for a long time. The congestion there
makes efficient dealing with 30,000 human
cases impossible. The situation cries out for
districting into units that can be comprehended.
When the district welfare office is right around
the corner, like the school and the church and
the health clinic, it will be possible for the
department to know its clients and for them
to know it. There will be less call to ask the
local politician to use his influence at the
remote central office.")
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MATTER IN "CITY RECORD."
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor, the Mayor of
Boston, be requested to consider the advisability
of directing the editor of the City Record to
confine said publication to the purposes for
which it was created, as stated in the City
Charter, and to bar from it all extraneous
information not required by law.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, in the past
the City Record has been used for flagrant
and cheap political propaganda in Boston.
Under the law it was supposed to be used
specifically for the advertising of bids, for
notice of the awarding of contracts, for print-
ing the minutes of the City Council and School
Committee meetings. There is now an op-
portunity for the Mayor to save a little money
in confining the City Record to the purposes
defined by the law.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
FEDERAL PROJECTS AFFECTING
BOSTON.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, reporting
for the committee of the City Council ap-
pointed to consider the matter of the working
out of the C. W. A. program in Boston,
FEBRUARY 5, 1934.
32
and also having in mind the two communica-
tions from the Mayor which have come to us
today, suggesting a new public "works pro-
gram, involving the expenditure of $1,000,000
for the Northern Avenue Bridge, and $350,000
for Police Department radio, I will now submit
for purposes of the record letters sent by
your committee both to the President of the
United States, and Harold Ickes, Federal
Works Administrator, and replies thereto.
Our letter, dated Boston, January 8, 1934,
read as follows :
"The following resolution is forwarded to
you by committee appointed on action of
the Boston City Council today, due to storm-
ing of the City Hall by the unemployed of
Boston :
"A conference held by the committee, the
Mayor of Boston, and Mr. M. J. McCartin, Di-
rector of the Massachusetts State Employment
Service, discloses the fact that although there
are now over fifty thousand male residents
of Boston registered for possible work under
the Civil Works program, and despite the
fact that additional applications are beng ac-
cepted daily, less than one hundred jobs re-
main available for approved projects now
existing.
"May we respectfully request advices as to
possible plans for the immediate speeding up
of all projects now before your departments
affecting the City of Boston?"
After a delay of two weeks, dealing with a
matter that we thought was urgent, we re-
ceived the following letter from the Federal
Emergency Administration of Public Works.
This letter was dated from Washington Janu-
ary 20, 1934:
Mr. Robert Gardiner Wilson, Jr.,
Chairman, Boston City Council Committee.
Dear Mr. Wilson, — This will acknowledge
your letter of January 8, addressed to Hon.
Harold L. Ickes, concerning pending projects
for the City of Boston.
Non-Federal projects in the amount of
$10,565,000 have already been approved for
the City of Boston, and there are now under
examination projects located in Boston amount-
ing to approximately $30,000,000.
It is only fair to tell you that nearly all
the funds of the Public Works Administration
have been exhausted, and it is not likely that
many more projects will be approved by the
administrator until additional funds are made
available.
You may be assured that with additional
funds available the examination of the pending
projects will be done with all the speed com-
mensurate with a proper regard for the ex-
penditure of the taxpayers' money, so that
those which are found worthy may be put on
the agenda for approval.
For information concerning the Civil Works
Administration program, you should communi-
cate with the chairman, Mr. Joseph W. Bart-
lett, Ford Hall, Boston.
Sincerely yours,
E. W. Clark,
Executive Assistant,
for the Administrator.
Then, three weeks after the date of our
first letter — on this matter that we felt was so
urgent — we received this letter:
Federal Civil Works Administration,
Washington, January 29, 1934.
Mr. Robert Gardiner Wilson,. Jr.,
Chairman, Boston City Council Committee.
Dear Mr. Wilson, — The President has re-
quested that we reply to your letter of Janu-
ary 8, in which you express deep concern for
the serious results that may be brought about
in Boston unless the employment quota be
enlarged.
Our original estimates of weekly expendi-
tures necessary to operate the Civil Works
program were made on the basis of 4,000,000
persons receiving an average wage of between
twelve and thirteen dollars. Actually, we have
more than 4,000,000 persons on our pay rolls
and the average wage is .in excess of $14 per
week ; consequently, our appropriation of
$400,000,000 -which was originally believed
would carry us until February 15 has rapidly
been depleted, and it has been necessary for
us to reduce the working hours on local, state
and Federal projects to keep our expenditures
within the funds available to us.
The President's program for the rapid em-
ployment of persons in diversified projects
throughout the United States presented an
opportunity for cooperation with the Federal
Government by local Civil Works Administra-
tions in every community in our nation.
States, counties and cities have contributed
substantially by the purchases of materials and
supplies. Their fine spirit in the development
of this program gives hope that we may con-
tinue to utilize their assistance in the solution
of this most evident problem.
We will continue the President's program of
Civil Works, under funds available or to be
made available, adjusting activities in the
several communities to changing conditions,
in order that we may render the greatest
social good to every person. The provision of
funds for the further continuance of the Civil
Works program is a matter entirely dependent
upon the legislative branch of the Government.
Your approval of existing Civil Works proj-
ects and your sincere desire to perfect the
operation of the Civil Works program, so
that it may bring to all unemployed persons
a real hope for the normal reconstruction of
their lives in this difficult economic period,
are very much appreciated.
Very truly yours,
Bruce MoClure,
Secretary,
Federal Civil Works Administration.
I have read these letters for the benefit of
the members of the Council and leave it for
them to determine whether there is here in-
ferentially any approval of our letter of Janu-
ary 8, and whether these letters we have re-
ceived even at this late stage indicate that
there is any possibility of assistance from
Washington.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 3.14 p. m., on motion
of Coun. DOHERTY, to take a recess subject
to the call of the Chair. The members re-
assembled in the Council Chamber and were
called to order by President DOWD at
4.28 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Commit-
tee, submitted the following :
1. Report on message from Mayor and
order (referred today) that Fire Commissioner
be authorized to sell, after publicly advertising
for proposals, old material in Fire Alarm Shop
— that same ought to pass.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
2. Report on order (referred today) that
Mayor and City Council designate as two
physicians to act under provisions of chapter
340 of Acts of 1933 the surgeon and neurolo-
gist of the retirement medical board — that same
ought to pass.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
Adjourned at 4.30 p. m., on motion of Coun.
SELVITELLA, to meet on Monday, February
12, 1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
33
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, February 12, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Murray and
Selvitella.
INFORMATION ON FINANCIAL MATTERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a communica-
tion from the Acting City Auditor in reply to your
order requesting information on certain financial
matters.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Auditing Department, February 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following information is sub-
mitted in reply to order of the City Council passed
February 5, 1934, asking certain questions con-
cerning the finances of the city.
1. The assessed value of real estate in the city
as of January 1. 1934, after giving effect to all tax
reductions granted previous to that date was
§1,617,652,900.
2. The total amount of outstanding bonds
of the city as of January 1, 1934, was
$172,450,999.95.
3. The total amount of the Sinking Funds, as
of January 1, 1934, was $36,635,726.81.
4. This question asks for the actual market
value of the bonds and investments held in the
Sinking Funds. I am unable to answer this ques-
tion. For the city's purposes the value of the
bonds is their par value, as they are usually held
until maturity and are paid at their face value
unless they are in default.
5. The amount of money borrowed during the
year 1933 on short term notes in anticipation of
taxes was $50,500,000.
6. The Auditing Department of the City of
Boston does not prepare a balance sheet of assets
and liabilities. All known liabilities for the year
1933 have been paid, and the only outstanding
obligation is $13,500,000 borrowed during 1933
in anticipation of taxes of 1933 and payable
during 1934. To offset this obligation of $13,-
500,000 there are uncollected taxes for the years
1932 and 1933 amounting to about $22,000,000.
Respectfully,
W. J. Doyle, Acting City Auditor.
Placed on file.
RESCISSION OF LOANS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under date of February 5, 1934,
the Emergency Finance Board of the State dis-
approved certain applications made by the city
for loans and grants under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933. In connection with these
applications, orders were passed during 1933 by
the City Council, and approved by the Mayor,
authorizing the issuance of loans for the several
projects. In order that the incumbrance placed
upon the borrowing power of the city by these
orders may be removed I submit herewith orders
providing for the rescinding of the same.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the accom-
panying orders by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the right to borrow $450,000 for
new wayfarers' lodge, under loan order passed
December 11, 1933, and approved by the Mayor
December 12, 1933, be, and the same hereby is,
rescinded.
Ordered, That the right to borrow $1,075,000
for new fire houses and departmental buildings,
under loan order passed December 18, 1933,
and approved by the Mayor December 20, 1933,
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered. That the right to borrow $800,000
for new prison buildings, under loan order passed
December 18, 1933, and approved by the Mayor
December 20, 1933, be, and the same hereby is,
rescinded.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
MUNICIPAL EMPLOYMENT BUREAU.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under date of January 8, 1934,
in requesting an appropriation of $2,000 to con-
tinue the activities of the Municipal Employment
Bureau for one month, I stated that I had not
then decided as to the future of this Bureau.
Since that time I .have made a personal study
and investigation of the activities of this Bureau,
and have come to the conclusion that after re-
organization the work of the Bureau can be
continued at a much reduced cost to the tax-
payers. I propose under my plan of reorganiza-
tion to appoint as head of the Bureau an individual
who is qualified by training and experience to
handle placement and employment problems.
I also contemplate retaining a limited office staff
for the Bureau. Under this plan of reorganization
the cost of administering the activities of the
Bureau will not exceed $10,000 per year, as com-
pared with a maintenance cost in excess of $30,000
in prior years. I submit herewith an order provid-
ing for the appropriation of $10,000 to cover
the activities of the Municipal Employment
Bureau for the balance of the current year. I
respectfully recommend adoption of this order by
your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the sum of $10,000 be, and
hereby is, appropriated, to be expended by the
Municipal Employment Bureau, under the direc-
tion of the Mayor, in the prosecution of its duties,
said sum to be charged to the Reserve Fund, when
made.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
NEW CITY HALL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — During the past week there was
submitted, at my direction, to the Emergency
Finance Board of the State a project providing
for the construction of a new city hall at an esti-
mated cost of $1,800,000. It is my intention,
provided this project is approved, to have plans
prepared for the construction of a modern build-
ing on the site of the present City Hall which will
be large enough not only to provide for the hous-
ing of departments now occupying space in the
old building but also for those departments which
are at present located outside of the Hall and
Annex and for whose quarters the city is obliged
to appropriate annually $63,430 for rentals.
In my opinion this is one of the most worth-
while projects in which the city could engage
under the terms of the National Industrial Re-
covery Act, since it will afford employment for a
large group in our community which has felt
severely the pinch of the long existent economic
depression, namely, the members of the building
trades.
In conformity with the provisions of chapter
366, of the Acts of 1933, I submit herewith two
:m
CITY COUNCIL.
orders; one providing for approval by the Council
of this project; and the oilier providing for the
appropriation of the estimated cost pf construction
of the new structure.
In view of the limited amount of time which is
available for the various steps which must be
taken before this project can finally be placed be-
fore the Federal authorities in Washington, I
respectfully recommend immediate consideration
and adoption of the accompanying orders by your
honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of section 2, Part 1, of chapter 366 of
the Acts of 1933, the City of Boston shall engage
in the following Public Works project:
Construction of new city hall on site of present
structure together with the demolition of the
present city hall building at an estimated cost of
$1,800,000.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933 and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of SI, 800, 000
be, and the same hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the Superintendent
of Public Buildings for a new city hall and demoli-
tion of the present structure, and that to meet
said appropriation the City Treasurer be author-
ized to issue, from time to time, upon request of
the Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebtedness of
the city to said amount.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
NEW LOAN ORDERS FOR PUBLIC WORKS
PROJECTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under date of February 2 the
Federal Emergency Administrator of Public
Works forwarded to me five forms of loan con-
tracts to be executed on behalf of the City of
Boston. These contracts related to loans and
grants for certain public works projects which
have been approved by the City Council. I
have been advised by Washington and by the
Corporation Counsel that the loan orders per-
taining to these projects heretofore passed by your
honorable body and approved by my predecessor,
former Mayor Curley, are of doubtful validity in
view of the inclusion therein of the words "out-
side the limit of indebtedness." Washington will
allow us until March 5 to execute and return the
loan contracts above referred to. In order that
these loan contracts be properly executed and
delivered on behalf of the city it will be necessary
to have new loan orders with regard to the projects
in question passed and approved before March 5.
I submit, herewith, new loan orders for the
several projects and in view of the limited time
which remains for their submission to the Federal
authorities in Washington, I respectfully recom-
mend that these orders be given a first reading
today by your honorable body.
Included in these orders is one for SI, 500 .000 to
cover the estimated cost of the construction of a
new surgical building at the City Hospital. I
have not been able to finally satisfy myself that
it is in the interest of the City of Boston to under-
take the construction at this time of this building,
in view of the large maintenance costs that are
likely to occur after the building is completed. I
propose to continue with my examination into this
question and will promptly advise you in regard
to my ultimate conclusions. In the meantime,
however, in view of the possibility that the erection
of a new surgical building will be deemed advisable
I am, because of the limitation of time previously
explained, submitting to your honorable body a
loan order for this project.
I, therefore, respectfully recommend immediate
consideration and adoption of the accompanying
orders by your honorable body.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of $1,000,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works for I In- Reconstruction of Streets, and that
to meet said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates of
indebtedness of the city to said amount.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of $2,000,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated to be expended
under the direction of the School Committee for
one new high school and one new intermediate
school, and that to meet said appropriation the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or certifi-
cates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of $350,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works, for Replacement of the Brookline Avenue
Water Main, from the Brookline line to Beacon
street, and that to meet said appropriation the City
Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or certifi-
cates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of 81,500,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated to be expended
under the direction of the Hospital Trustees, for
New Buildings and Alterations and Equipment,
and that to meet said appropriation the City
Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or certifi-
cates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of
$1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated to be
expended under the direction of the Commissioner
of Public Works, for the Construction, Reconstruc-
tion and Replacement of Sewers and the Covering
of Open Water Courses, and that to meet said
appropriation the City Treasurer be authorized
to issue, from time to time, upon request of the
Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebtedness of
the city to said amount.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of $700,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works for Water Main Construction, and that
to meet said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon re-
quest of the Mayor, bonds or certificates of in- ,
debtedness of the city to said amount.
Referred to Executive Committee.
INFORMATION FROM TRAFFIC COM-
MISSIONER.
The following were received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commissioner relative to your order of
February 5. 1934. concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Harrison
avenue and Warren street. Ward 12.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 12, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir. — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated February 5, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Harrison
avenue and Warren street, Ward 12.
FEBRUARY 12, 1934.
35
I regret to say that no funds are available at
the present time for the installation of these
signals.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commissioner relative to your order of
February 5, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at the intersection of
Blue Hill avenue and Quincy street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 12, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council Order dated February 5, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the intersection of
Blue Hill avenue and Quincy street.
It is to be regretted that no funds are available
at the present time for the installation of these
signals.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commissioner relative to your order
of February 5, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Seaver
street and Humboldt avenue, Ward 12.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 12, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I. have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council Order dated February 5, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the j unction of Seaver
street and Humboldt avenue, Ward 12.
I regret to say that no funds are available at the
present time for the installation of these signals.
Respectfully yours,'
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commissioner relative to your order of
February 5, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals on Commonwealth
avenue at Warren street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 12, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council Order dated February 5, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the City of Boston Traffic Com-
mission be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install automatic traffic signal lights on Common-
wealth avenue at Warren street, Ward 21.
It is to be regretted that no funds are available
at the present time for the installation of these
signals.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commissioner relative to your order of
February 5, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals on Commonwealth
avenue at Allston street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 12, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated February 5, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the City of Boston Traffic Com-
mission be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install automatic traffic signal lights
on Commonwealth avenue at Allston street,
Ward 21.
It is to be regretted that no funds are available
at the present time for the installation of these
signals.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Severally placed on file.
CONSTABLE'S BOND.
The constable's bond of Americo Alviti, having
been duly approved by the City Treasurer, was
received and approved.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notice was received of the following appoint-
ments by the Mayor, viz.:
Frank J. Kiernan, 24 Archdale road, Roslin-
dale, to be Superintendent of Markets, in place of
Ambrose Woods, said appointment to take effect
at beginning of business March 1.
John F. Doherty, 43 Lexington avenue, Hyde
Park, to be City Collector in place of William M.
McMorrow, said appointment to take effect at
beginning of business February 16.
John F. Fitzgerald, 39 Welles avenue, Dor-
chester, to be a member of Boston Port Authority,
for term of five years in place of Thomas J. A.
Johnson, deceased.
Severally placed on file.
FINANCE COMMISSION REPORT ON
SETTLEMENTS FOR LAND-TAKINGS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Finance Commission, February 12, 1934.
To the Honorable the Mayor and City Council.
Gentlemen, — The Finance Commission submits
the following report in reply to an order adopted
by the City Council on December 18, 1933, re-
questing investigation of the settlements made
by the Law Department for land-takings for the
approach from Haymarket square to the East
Boston Traffic Tunnel.
During the period that Malcolm E. Nichols was
Mayor the Legislature authorized the construc-
tion of this tunnel and bv chapter 297 of the
Acts of 1929 authorized a bond issue of $16,000,000
to pay for it.
This tunnel project had appeared in the plans
for an intermediate highway, so called, for which
legislative authority had been sought in 1924 and
subsequently denied in 1926, after a special com-
mission had reported upon it.
While action upon the intermediate highway
legislation was pending and at a time when its
sponsors believed authority would be given for it,
real estate speculators took options on scores of
parcels on the line of the contemplated improve-
ment. Many thousands of dollars were sacrificed
by the speculators when they decided, on the
expiration of their options, that there was little
possibility of the improvement being authorized.
Many more thousands of dollars, however, were
invested in some of the parcels by the speculators
when, upon the expiration of their options, they
decided to take over title to them and necessarily
paid in more money.
8(5
CITY COUNUJL.
Accordingly, when the East Boston Traffic
Tunnel was finally authorized in 1929, real estate
Speculators were already in possession of many
parcels in the vicinity of the Boston approach and
terminus.
Coincident with public announcement of the
adoption of a tunnel plan by the Nichols adminis-
tration in 192!) came the discovery by the Finance
(' iHH I hal many more parcels had been
taken under option by the speculators. Most of
these were within the lines of this Nichols tunnel
entrance plan. The Finance Commission opposed
the consummation of this plan on three grounds:
(I) that it provided for a tunnel with a bend (2)
that apparently the stage was all set for heavy
damage costs to speculators for land takings, and
(3) that the plan brought the Boston exit of the
tunnel out north of Hanover street at about the
junction of Cross and Salem streets which, in the
opinion of the Finance Commission, and its
technical advisers, would not best serve the intended
purposes.
On the technicality that the consummation ot
this plan could not be accomplished within the
authorized amount of money, a ten taxpayers'
suit was brought in the courts. This held up final
action until the Nichols administration expired.
Under the Curley administration in 1930 a
radical change in the proposed line of the tunnel
was made. This change brought the Boston exit
out on Cross street south of Hanover street, and
between Hanover and North streets, and neces-
sitated a new street widening on North street as an
approach from the south of the entrance.
According to the best opinion obtainable at the
time, the construction of the tunnel in accordance
with this plan would take up the entire amount of
the authorization of $16,000,000. Some of the
parcels already held by the speculators lay within
the lines of this plan, but the bulk of the parcels
gathered previously by the speculators was outside
the line of the improvement. A number of new
parcels were thereupon added to their holdings
these being within the lines of the widening of
North street and Cross street toward Commercial
street.
Within a short time thereafter there appeared
in the Legislature a new drive for the construction
of the circle in Haymarket square and the widening
of Cross and Merrimac streets as an approach to
the tunnel from the northerly side. Most of the
land involved had been included in the original
Nichols tunnel plan. This drive had the support
of those who had been prominent in the activity
for the intermediate highway legislation.
The sponsors sought legislative authority to
spend $4,500,000 for this addition, but the Legis-
lature cut the amount to $3,000,000 by chapter
287 of the Acts of 1932.
A highway from the North Station through
Beverly street, across Washington street and along
Cross street to the market district had been the
dream of promoters of civic improvements for
half a century previous to 1925, but at no time had
there been sufficient agitation for it to affect
property along the line of the improvement. On
the other hand, agitation first in 1925-26 for the
intermediate highway, then in 1928-29 the Nichols
East Boston Traffic Tunnel plan, and approach
thereto; then, in 1930 the Curley plan, and finally
in 1931-32 the Merrimac street-Haymarket square
approach to the tunnel was vigorously carried on
in City Hall, at the State House and in the news-
papers for five or six years.
All this agitation had a very damaging effect
upon the owners of property in this particular
section. Prospective buyers were plentiful, but
with offers that could not be considered unless for
some reason the owner had to sacrifice his invest-
ment. Leases expired and the owners could not
obtain renewals. Tenants moved out and no
new tenants could be found, but very often tenants
who remained, as well as those who moved out,
stopped paying rent. Much of the property
became vacant and suffered from petty pilfering.
Great loss was caused to owners who had an in-
vestment that they wanted to keep and very often
derived a living from. The interest on their
mortgages, the premiums'on their insurance policies,
the taxes imposed by the city, and the custodial
charges had to be paid just as though the income
had not been affected. During this period the
assessors made little or no change in the valuations
and continued to assess taxes against the parcels,
whether occupied or not, on the same basis as
when most of them were paying parcels.
There were other parcels, however, which had
deteriorated in value from causes not connected
with these agitations. Parcels on North street,
then in the hands of trustees for large estates
had been permitted to fall into disrepair and
because of this condition were unattractive either
to possible tenants or purchasers. Those in
charge of them were ready to sell at any price, and
when conditions looked right speculators appeared
on the scene and obtained title for an absurdly
small sum.
Obviously settlement for taking of the general
group of these parcels on a flat 10 per cent in excess
of the assessed value was a great benefit to some
and a hardship to others. If the speculators'
parcels were taken and paid for within a reasonably
short time, the speculators benefited, but if the
parcels were taken and not paid for for a long time
after taking, the advantage of purchase at a low
price was chipped away as time went on, and the
owner who saw a paying investment become a
white elephant on his hands lost more and more.
Some speculators made handsome profits on the
early takings; some saw the profits melt by pro-
crastination in settlement of the later takings.
Other owners were relieved to have the city take
and pay assessed value plus 10 per cent because it
provided them with a means of "getting out from
under" unwise or unfortunate mortgages; but the
Finance Commission has found some, and the
commission believes there are some others whose
cases have not yet been disposed of, who were
compelled to give up paying investments that they
were content to hold, tunnel or no tunnel.
The Finance Commission has prepared a list
of the parcels included in the latest taking, viz.,
Merrimac street widening, Haymarket square
circle, and Cross street widening. Though the
actual taking was as of June 1, 1933, when the
Curley administration went out of office on Jan-
uary 1, only twelve of twenty-nine parcels had
been paid for.
An examination of the cases settled disclosed
that the majority of them were the "speculators'"
cases; in fact, only one owned by a recognized
speculator has not been paid for; and also that
the percentage of excess of valuation paid ranged
from approximately 33 per cent down to 10 per
cent.
The Finance Commission has examined either
the owner of the equity or the attorney who se-
cured the settlement in all twelve cases. None
went to trial in court, but all twelve were settled
within the last fifteen days of the Curley adminis-
tration. The commission believes the facts to
some extent speak for themselves and submits
them accordingly as an appendix.
The Finance Commission understands that no
land-takings, except one or two for school pur-
poses, are in prospect for the near future. It
realizes that many already taken have yet to be
paid for.
To stop further losses by the individuals who
own the parcels already taken, consideration of
which losses will, and unquestionably should, be
reflected in the agreements of damages to be paid ,
the commission recommends that the docket be
speedily cleared. Before any further takings for
any purpose are made, the Finance Commission
believes that the city should work out a method
which will safeguard the general body of tax-
payers against having to pay excessive prices for
land, and at the same time protect individual
owners from the ravages caused by long continued
agitations for improvements and long-deferred
setlement of just claims arising from consummation
of improvements.
There is now on the statutes a permissive act,
chapter 380 of the Acts of 1929, called the "Alter-
native Method of Land Takings," which in brief
authorizes the city to abandon takings if a fair
price can not be agreed upon between city and
owner. The Finance Commission believes the
principle of this act should be made mandatory,
instead of permissive and recommends that your
Honor institute the steps necessary to make it so.
Respectfully submitted,
Frank A. Goodwin, Chairman,
Joseph A. Sheehan,
Joseph Joyce Donahue,
Charles M. Storey,
The Finance Commission.
Robert E. Cunniff, Secretary.
FEBRUARY 12, L934.
37
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38
CITY COUNCIL.
BORROWING CAPACITY OF THE CITY.
The following was received:
Boston, February 9, 1934.
To the Members of the City Council.
Gentlemen, — In accordance with the provisions of chapter 93, Acts of 1891, chapter 267, Special Acts
of 1910, and chapter 225, Acts of 1931, it IB estimated that the amount which I he city will be able to borrow
during the present municipal year within the debt limit established by law, is $3,261,655.31 as per schedule
annexed.
Respectfully,
Eliot Waijkworth, Samuel Kalehky,
Michael H. Corcoran, William Spottibwoodk,
Guy W. Cox,
Board of Commissioners of Sinking Funds.
W. J. Doyle, Acting City Auditor.
John H. Dobsey, City Treasurer.
Debt Incurring Power in 1934.
Total debt incurring power within the debt limit (2J- per cent of $1,843,744,900, the
average assessed valuation for three years, less abatements) $4(1,093, (122 50
Debts incurred :
Total funded debt, city and county $172,450,999 95
Funded debt outside the debt limit. (Debt exempted from the
operation of the law limiting municipal indebtedness):
City debt.
Traffic Tunnel. .
Traffic Tunnel "Series B'
Water debt
County debt
Rapid Transit debt
$43,569,800 00
15,200,000 00
2,000,000 00
388,000 00
999,999 95
58,990,700 00
Funded debt within the debt limit .
Offsets to funded debt:
Sinking Funds
Less Sinking Funds for debt outside the debt iimit:
City $13,610,777 35
County 775,022 94
Rapid Transit 13,478,715 84
$34,178,338 97
27,864,510 13
121,154,499 95
$51,290,500 00
Premiums on loans inside limit.
i.313,822 84
1,099 00
Offsets to funded debt within the debt limit f 0,314,921 84
Net indebtedness within the debt limit, December 31, 1933 .
Loans authorized but not issued (within the debt limit) ....
Used debt incurring power within the debt limit
Excess
Estimated increase during the year by:
Interest on Sinking Fund investments
Appropriation for Sinking Funds for debt within the debt limit .
Serial bonds redeemable from taxes
$44,981,578 16
1,623,000 00
$240,057 00
93,871 00
3,432,682 97
Estimated amount of indebtedness that may legally be incurred within the debt limit
during the municipal year
Placed on file.
46,004,578 16
$510,955 60
3,772,010 97
$3,201,055 31
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Gertrude S. Barker, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 25 Lyndhurst street, caused by
leak in water pipe.
Perley L. Barton, for compensation for damage
to car by police car.
Hyman Blotcher, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 21 Gaylord street.
Philip Bruno, for refund on liquor license.
Charles J. Cianculli, for compensation for
damage to car by city car.
Creole Coffee House, for refund on refuse tickets.
M. B. Delaney, for refund on refuse tickets.
Eagle Advertising Company, for compensation
for damage to sign by city truck.
Lester R. Fogg, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect at 414 Beacon
street.
John A. Jones, for refund on license for sale of
beer. . , .
Minnie Kasler, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 43 Norfolk street.
Louis Katz, for compensation for injuries re-
ceived at Memorial High School.
Michael J. Maher, to be reimbursed for execu-
tion issued against him on account of his acts as an
employee of the Fire Department.
Jeremiah Maloney, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city plow.
Andrew F. Newcomb, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect at
Harrison avenue and East Dedham street.
Mrs. William Nicol, for compensation for dam-
age to coat caused by an alleged defect in Baker's
court, Jamaica Plain.
Giuseppe Noe, for compensation for damage to
vegetable cart by city wagon.
Mary E. Norton, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Union street and
Hanover street. -
Charles A. Pearee, for compensation for damage
to car by fire truck.
Ida Willis, for compensation for injuries caused
by police car.
Mrs. G. M. Woodward, for compensation for
damage to clothing caused by paint on traffic
signs at Codman square.
Executive.
Petition of Boston American League Baseball
Company to conduct Sunday sports at Fenway
Park.
Petition of Michael J. Potts for children to
appear at E. P. Tileston School February 9.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Eastern Massachusetts Street Rail-
way Company to operate motor vehicles on three
state highway layouts between Boston-Revere
boundary line and Bennington street, namely,
between the city boundary line and Boardman
street: Boardman street and Addison street;
FEBRUARY 12, 1934.
39
Addison street and Bennington street, dated
respectively April 6, 1932; February 7, 1933, and
August 22, 1933; also on Bennington street,
between the aforesaid state highway layout
dated August 22, 1933, at Swift street and Chelsea
street; also on Saratoga street between the afore-
said state highway layout dated August 22, 1933,
and Chelsea street; on Chelsea street between Sara-
toga street and Porter street; on Porter street be-
tween Chelsea and London streets; in and through
traffic tunnel constructed under chapter 297 of the
Acts of 1929; also on and over plazas and street
approaches extending not more than 1,000 feet
from the tunnel entrances or exits as the Transit
Department, under the provisions of said chapter
297 of the Acts of 1929, have laid out as necessary
and desirable to facilitate the movement of traffic
entering and leaving the tunnel.
PAYMENT OF AID TO SOLDIERS AND
SAILORS.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers and
sailors and their families in the City of Boston for
the month of February, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
RECESS.
The Council voted, on motion of Coun. TOBIN,
to take a recess subject to the call of the Chair, at
2.28 p. m. The members reassembled in the
Council Chamber and were called to order bv
President DOWD at 4.32 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petition (referred today) of
Michael J. Potts for children under fifteen years
of age to appear at E. P. Tileston School February
9 — that leave be granted.
Report accepted; leave granted under usual
conditions.
2. Report on message of Mayor and orders
under provisions of chapter 366 of Acts of 1933
(referred today), recommending passage, as
follows:
Order for a loan of $1,000,000, to be expended
under the direction of the Superintendent of Pub-
lic Works, for the reconstruction of streets.
Order for a loan of $2,000,000, to be expended
under the direction of the School Committee, for
one new high school and one new intermediate
school.
Order for a loan of $350,000, to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works, for replacement of the Brookline avenue
water mains, from the Brookline line to Beacon
street
Order for a loan of $1,500,000, to be expended
under the direction of the Hospital Trustees, for
new buildings and alteration and equipment.
Order for a loan of $1,000,000, to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Pub-
lic Works, for the construction, reconstruction and
replacement of sewers and the covering of open
water courses.
Order for a loan of $700,000, to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works, for water main construction.
Report on message of Mayor and orders (re-
ferred today) recommending that said orders ought
to pass, as follows:
Ordered, that in accordance with the provisions
of section 2, Part 1, of chapter 366 of the Acts of
1933, the City of Boston shall engage in the follow-
ing Public Works projects: Construction of new
City Hall on site of present structure, together
with the demolition of the present City Hall
building, at an estimated cost of $1,800,000.
Order for a loan of $1,800,000, to be expended
by the Superintendent of Public Buildings for
new City Hall.
Report in favor of passage of the following
orders (referred today) :
That the right to borrow $450,000 for new Way-
farers' Lodge, under loan order passed December
11, 1933, and approved by the Mayor December
12, 1933, be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
That the right to borrow $1,075,000 for new
firehouses and departmental buildings, under loan
order passed December 18, 1933, and approved by
the Mayor December 20, 1933, be, and the same
hereby is, rescinded.
That the right to borrow $800,000 for new
prison buildings under loan order passed December
18, 1933, and approved by the Mayor December
20, 1933, be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
The reports were accepted, and the question came
on the passage of the orders.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, perhaps a
word of explanation is advisable in reference to
these various orders and, while perhaps it is not
a part of the report of the committee, certainly
many members of the Council feel that the public
should be advised as to the position of members
in this matter, with the present public works
situation in the City of Boston. As long ago as
August 7. 1933, Mayor Curley asked the Council
to approve requests totalling $23,500,000, under
the President's public works program. The
Council approved some $21,000,000 of projects
but the State Emergency Finance Board cut
down and restricted the amount to $10,000,000.
The city then suggested the expenditure of $10,-
300,000. The Board has approved $5,850,000.
Our advices from Washington say that $10,500,000
and some odd have been O.K.'d for the City of
Boston. So we come to this position today. The
Mayor sends in a proposed change in the program
of public works projects, as far as the City of
Boston is concerned. He repeats six projects
which were passed and approved by the previous
Council and by Mayor Curley, totalling $6,550,000,
and he proposes three brand new projects aggre-
gating $3,150,000, and the Council today is in
this position. We are advised that these projects
must be approved by the Council and approved
by the Mayor and approved here in Massachu-
setts and sent on to Washington not later than
the 5th of March. With the two readings that
are necessary we must, as a matter of fact, vote
today affirmatively for all these projects, aggre-
gating $9,700,000. Two weeks from today we
will be called upon to vote again, giving the
second reading1 to these various projects. There-
fore, in the meeting of the Executive Committee
today all the members of the Council, without
exception, reserved their right to vote either for
or against on the second reading. The only
purpose of voting affirmatively on these projects
today, aggregating $9,700,000, is in order that
two weeks from today the Council may be in a
position to approve or disapprove of the items.
Therefore, the committee has reported back
"Ought to pass" on that distinct understanding.
I might also make a statement concerning the
rescinding of previous orders. Those cover the
$450,000 for the Wayfarers' Lodge, the item of
$1,075,000 for new fire houses and $800,000 for
the Deer Island project. Those projects last
year, after much discussion, were approved by
the City Council and approved by Mayor Curley.
The votes were passed by the City Council at
two successive meetings. In order to be effective,
the three projects have to be approved by the
State Emergency Finance Board. The State
Emergency Finance Board refused to approve the
expenditure of the money for the Wayfarers'
Lodge, the new fire houses and the Deer Island
project. We have no alternative, therefore,
other than to rescind our vote on those three loan
orders. Otherwise, these loans, previously voted
for, will appear among the obligations of the
city as loans authorized but not issued, and
would have no effect other than to restrict the
borrowing power of the City of Boston. For
that reason alone, therefore, the Executive Com-
mittee of the City Council reports back as it has
today in order not to hamstring and restrict
the borrowing power of the city. With that
object in view, we have voted in favor of rescis-
sion of those three items. On the others we
have voted "Ought to pass," each member re-
serving his right two weeks from today to vote
for or against each one of the items listed.
President DOWD — The question is on the
passage of all the loan orders, and the clerk will
call the roll.
All the orders as reported by the committee
were passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
President DOWD — The orders have received
their first reading and will come up for their
second and final reading two weeks from today.
The Chair will now state that the following loan
orders will be referred back to the Finance Com-
mittee: The $1,000,000 for reconstruction of
streets, $2,000,000 for new school buildings,
$350,000 for Brookline avenue water mains,
$1,500,000 for new surgical building, $1,000,000
K)
CITY COUNCIL.
for reconstruction of sewers, $700,000 for recon-
struction of water inaiiiB, and $1,800,000 for now
City Hall.
3. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) for appropriation of $10,000 for
Municipal Employment Bureau — recommending
the passage of the accompanying new draft, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of $2,000 be. and hereby
is, appropriated to be expended by the Municipal
Employment Bureau, under the direction of the
Mayor, in the prosecution of its duties, said sum
to be charged to the Reserve Fund, when made.
The report was accepted, and the question came
on the passage of the order in the new draft.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I would like
to make my position clear on this matter. The
order which was before us in executive session
was for $10,000, and I made my motion in com-
mittee to reduce it to $2,000 in order that we
might have an opportunity to see what the new
bureau as at present constituted is able to do for
the city. During the past two years several
members of the Council have made a fight to
abolish this bureau, for the reason that we felt
that it did not do enough to justify its expense.
I understand that at the present time practically
all the old bureau has gone, including some people
who did pretty consistently good work. We do
not know about the present personnel, and, while
I do not oppose the order on the theory that his
Honor the Mayor is going to appoint somebody
at the head of the bureau who is not a resident
of Boston, because I don't know whom he intends
to appoint, and I understand he has not yet
appointed anybody, I do feel that if we appro-
priate the $2,000 it will give them two months
to function, during which time they should be
able to show what they can do, and they can then
come in for more money if they are entitled to it.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I have voted
against all orders to furnish money to the Employ-
ment Bureau, feeling that that bureau has never
justified its existence. The matter of employ-
ment is handled here by the Federal Government
and by the state government. I respectfully
submit that this so-called employment bureau,
which it is now proposed to operate at an expendi-
ture of $12,000 a year, will probably not be an
employment bureau at all, but simply, what it
has been in the past, a receptacle for favored
politicians.
The order in the new draft was passed, yeas 19,
nays — Coun. Norton — 1.
FINANCE REPORTS.
Coun. GREEN, for the Committee on Finance,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and orders
(referred January 29), of $1,000,000 each for
sewerage works and reconstruction of streets,
recommending the passage of the accompanying
new drafts, viz.:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
426 of the Acts of 1897, as amended by chapter 204
of the Acts of 1908 and chapter 178 of the Acts
of 1930, the sum of $250,000 be, and hereby is,
appropriated to be expended under the direction
of the Commissioner of Public Works for sewerage
works, and that to meet said appropriation the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time
to time, upon the request of the Mayor, bonds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount.
Ordered, That the sum of $250,000 be, and
hereby is, appropriated to be expended under
the direction of the Commissioner of Public Works
for Reconstruction of Streets, and that to meet
said appropriation the City Treasurer be authorized
to issue, from time to time, upon the request of
the Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebtedness
of the city to said amount.
2. Report on message of Mayor and orders
(referred February 5) that in accordance with the
provisions of section 2, part 1, of chapter 366 of
the Acts of 1933, the City of Boston shall engage
in the following public works projects:
a. Reconstruction and replacement of
Northern Avenue Bridge at an
estimated cost of $1 ,000,000
b. Establishment of a modern and
efficient police communication
system at an estimated cost of . . . $350,000
Order for a loan of $1,000,000 for Northern
Avenue Bridge; order for a loan of $350,000 for
Police communication system — that the orders
ought to pass.
Coun. GREEN— Mr. President, for the Com-
mittee on Finance, I am here reporting a redraft
of the sewer loan and the street construction loan
orders originally introduced for $1,000,000 each,
and referred to our committee, this redraft being
made at the request of the Mayor. I wish also to
state that 90 per cent of the sewer pay roll comes
out of this $250,000. I am also reporting back
two public works projects, under the provisions
of the Industrial Emergency Act, one of $1,000,000
for the Northern Avenue Bridge, and the other
$350,000 for police communication and radio. I
might say that the committee of the whole Council
in executive session today voted on these two orders
to reserve their rights as to their final vote on the
second reading, and that it was the wish of the
chairman of the Committee on Finance and other
members of that committee that these orders
should be referred back to our committee.
The reports were accepted.
The orders submitted by the Mayor on January
29 for $1,000,000 each for sewerage work and
reconstruction of streets were rejected and the
orders submitted in new draft for $250,000 each
were read once and passed, yeas 20, nayB 0.
The orders for Northern Avenue Bridge and
Police communication system were given their
first reading and passage, yeas 20, nay 0.
The orders will come up for their second reading
and passage in not less than fourteen days.
President DOWD— The Chair will state that
Coun. Wilson's remarks with regard to the orders
reported today from the Executive Committee, to
the effect that all the members reserve their right
to change their minds before the second reading
two weeks from today apply to these two orders as
well and they will be recommitted to the Com-
mittee on Finance.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENT.
President DOWD called up under unfinished
business No. 1 on the calendar, viz.:
1. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor February 5, 1934, of Richard J. Moore.
Roe Augusta and Thomas Flaherty, to be Weighers
of Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Green. Whole number
of ballots, 20, yeas 20, and the appointments were
confirmed.
MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
PROPERTY, NORTH GROVE STREET.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor direct the
City Auditor to report to the City Council the
following information:
First. On what date did the Massachusetts
General Hospital take title to the land and buildings
on North Grove street?
Second. — The amount of money received?
Third. — What disposition has been made of the
money turned over to the City Treasurer?
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ADDITIONAL AMOUNTS FOR WARD
MUNICIPAL BUILDING.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor direct the
Superintendent of Public Buildings to include in
his budget for 1934 a sum sufficient to complete
the additional story which was included in the
original plans for the Blossom Street Wardroom
and Municipal Building in Ward 3 on Blossom
street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PRESCRIPTIONS IN SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to instruct the Soldiers' Relief Commis-
sioner to re-establish the system formerly prac-
tised in that department, namely, of issuing pre-
scriptions for medicines to recipients of soldiers'
relief who are sick or under medical care.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FEBRUARY 12, 1934.
41
PAYMENT TO LOUIS KATZ.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the enactment of legislation author-
izing the payment of a sum of money to Louis
Katz.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NORFOLK STREET, WARD 9.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Norfolk street
entire length, both sides. Ward 9, in front of the
estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk to be
from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining,
to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built of
artificial stone, with granite edgestones, under the
provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of
1917.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Norfolk streat,
Ward 9.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
WREATH FOR LINCOLN MEMORIAL.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the members of the City Council
subscribe for a suitable wreath in honor of Abraham
Lincoln, the great liberator of the slaves, and that
the President of the City Council appoint a com-
mittee of five to march up and place this wreath
on the base of the Lincoln Memorial at Park
square.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
The President appointed as said committee
Coun. Gleason, Brackman, Kerrigan, Green and
Norton.
P. W. A. FIREHOUSE FOR ENGINE 44.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to consider the advisability of including in his
P. W. A. program a sum sufficient to provide for
the erection of a new firehouse for the crew of
Engine 44 (fireboat).
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ARC LIGHT ON WHITNEY STREET,
WARD 10.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install an arc light in front of Nos. 5 and 7j
Whitney street, Ward 10.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BETTER LIGHTING FOR PORTLAND
STREET.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor direct the
Commissioner of Public Works to install a better
lighting system on Portland street, Ward 3.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FILLING OF POLICE DEPARTMENT
VACANCIES.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be, and he hereby is, respect-
fully requested to fill a substantial number of the
admitted vacancies now existing in the Police De-
partment, but, in any event, if such appointments
are delayed until July 1, to provide for an extension
of the present civil service list until such time.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, at the hearing
at which the Police Commissioner appeared before
the Finance Committee last week, it was admitted
by the commissioner that the Boston Police De-
partment is some 200 patrolmen short at the
present time. This order is offered in no spirit of
criticism, but merely with a feeling that the men
on the existing list, having passed a very rigid
mental and physical examination almost two
years ago, and manyjof them World War veterans,
who next summer will perhaps be thirty-five years
of age, should in fairness be considered in at least
partially filling the vacancies existing in the de-
partment. I feel that in fairness at least half ot
the present shortage of 200 men should be filled
before any new examination is held. I understand
that the Civil Service Commission will, on the
request or with the approval of the Police Com-
missioner, extend the existing list until next July,
for example, and I strongly urge — making the
suggestion, as I say, with no resentment but
merely as a constructive suggestion — that the
Police Commissioner in his proposed appoint-
ments to fill or partially fill existing vacancies, and
perhaps waiting until July 1 before doing so, will
cooperate with the Civil Service Commission and
give those men who passed the rigid examination
some time ago and who have held their places on
the present list an opportunity to fill those va-
cancies for which they took the examination.
It seems to me this is only a fair proposition under
all the circumstances.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
DUNLAP STREET— ONE-WAY.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, that the Traffic Commission, through
his Honor the Mayor, be, and said Board hereby
is, requested to designate Dunlap street, Dor-
chester, as a one-way street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HEALTH UNIT FOR DORCHESTER.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, respectfully requested to consider
the advisability of a health unit in the Dorchester
district, such health unit to be conveniently and
centrally located.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APPROPRIATION FOR DORCHESTER
DAY.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, respectfully requested to include in his
annual budget for public celebrations a reasonable
allowance for the annual celebration of Dorchester
Day in June, 1934.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BOSTON PUBLIC LATIN SCHOOL
ANNIVERSARY.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, respectfully requested to arrange for a
proper participation by the City of Boston in the
three hundredth anniversary to commemorate
the founding of the Boston Public Latin School in
1635, and the first public school in America.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
OPPOSITION TO ST. LAWRENCE
WATERWAY.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Boston City Council go on
record as opposed to the so-called St. Lawrence
waterway plan.
Referred to Committee on Rules.
CARE OF DISCHARGED LONG ISLAND
INMATE.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to consider the advisability of making
proper provision for the care of the inmate re-
cently discharged from Long Island until a proper
settlement has been established.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned at 5.02 p. m., on motion of Coun-
GOLDMAN, to meet on Monday, February 19,
1934, at 2 p. m,
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DETARTMBNT
CITY COUNCIL.
42
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings o! City Council-
Monday, February 19, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Murray.
BORROWING IN ANTICIPATION OF
TAXES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Last week the Legislature, in
order to protect and secure the rights of individuals
purchasing tax anticipation notes, enacted chapter
11 of the Acts of 1934. This Act, a copy of which
is hereto attached, in effect, makes such notes a
lien upon all revenues of cities and towns, instead
of as before, limiting their payment from taxes of
the year wherein issued.
Under date of January 8, 1934, the City Council
authorized the borrowing of §30,000,000 for the
temporary needs of the city during the current
year. Up to date 82,000,000 of this authorization
has been utilized. In view of the enactment of
the legislation previously mentioned, I deem it
expedient to recommend the rescission of that
portion of the $30,000,000 originally authorized
which still remains unissued, namely, 828,000.000,
and at the same time recommend that an order
for this same amount, prepared in accordance
with the provisions of chapter 11 of the Acts of
1934 be adopted by the City Council. I, accord-
ingly, submit a rescission order and an appropria-
tion order covering the amount involved, and
recommend immediate consideration and passage
of these orders by your honorable body, as such
action is absolutely necessary in order that there
may be no delay in effectuating temporary loans
by the city in anticipation of the taxes of the
current financial year.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the right to borrow money in
anticipation of the taxes of the current municipal
year under loan order passed January 8, 1934, and
approved by the Mayor January 9, 1934, be
limited to $2,000,000, and that the authorization
to borrow in excess of said amount for said purpose
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That to provide temporarily money to
meet the appropriations for the financial year
1934, the City Treasurer issue and sell, at such
times and in such amounts as he may deem best,
notes or certificates of indebtedness of the City of
Boston not exceeding $.28,000,000 in the total, in
anticipation of the taxes of the current municipal
year; that all such notes or certificates of indebted-
ness be dated the day the money for the same is
received, be made payable with the interest thereon
within one year of their date and bear interest from
their date until the same are made payable at such
rate as the City Auditor, the City Treasurer, and
the Mayor may determine.
Referred to Executive Committee.
LOAN AND GRANT AGREEMENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The Federal Emergency Admin-
istrator of Public Works at Washington has
forwarded to me forms of five loan and grant
agreements between the United States of America
and the City of Boston. These agreements relate
to the five projects heretofore approved by the
administrator.
I have been advised by the administrator that
these agreements must be properly executed and
delivered to the Federal Emergency Administra-
tion of Public Works at Washington not later
than March 5, 1934. I have also been advised
that before these agreements are executed, the
City Council must adopt orders approving the
same, each of which orders must set out and con-
tain a complete and accurate copy of the agree-
ment approved.
It is not my intention to officially submit these
agreements to the City Council until the loan
orders authorizing borrowing for the five projects
are given a second and final reading by your
honorable body. I am informed that such action
is contemplated by the City Council at its next
meeting, namely, February 26. In view of
the complex nature and character of the agree-
ments, I deem it advisable, however, at this
time to submit for examination and consideration
by the members of the City Council a specimen
copy of one of the agreements in question. Since
the agreements are practically identical in form
and phraseology, except for the description of the
projects and enumeration of the amounts involved,
I feel that after examination of the specimen copy
herewith submitted, the members of the Council
may obtain a clear idea of the form of agreement
which they will be called upon to subsequently
approve.
I have asked the Corporation Counsel to ex-
amine into and consider the form of the loan
agreements, and I am certain he will be pleased to
confer with your honorable body, or with any
committee to which this matter may be referred.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
LOAN AGREEMENT DATED AS OF
1934, BETWEEN THE CITY
OF BOSTON, SUFFOLK COUNTY,
MASSACHUSETTS (HEREIN CALLED
THE "BORROWER"), AND THE
UNITED ■ STATES OF AMERICA
(HEREIN CALLED THE "GOVERN-
MENT").
Part One. — General Provisions.
1. Amount of Loan and Grant. — Purchase Price
and Purpose. — Subject to the terms and conditions
of this Agreement, the Borrower will sell and the
Government will purchase $1,608,000 aggregate
principal amount of the bonds (herein called the
"Bonds"), of the Borrower, at 100 per centum of
the principal amount thereof, plus accrued interest,
and, in addition to the amount of Bonds to be
purchased, the Government will make a grant
(herein called the "Grant") to the Borrower of
not to exceed 30 per centum of the cost of the
labor and materials employed upon the Project as
herein described, but such Grant together with
the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds pur-
chased, and any other funds (herein called "Other
Funds"), received directly or indirectly from the
Government or any agency or instrumentality
thereof to be used to aid in financing the con-
struction of the Project, shall not exceed in aggre-
gate amount the total cost of the Project and in
no event shall such aggregate amount exceed
$2,000,000 (except for such payment, if any, as
may be made under the provisions of Paragraph 11,
Part Two, hereof), the proceeds derived from
the sale of the Bonds and the amount paid on
account of the Grant (except for such payment, if
any, as may be made under the provisions of Para-
graph 11, Part Two, hereof), to be used for the
construction by the Borrower of two fireproof
school buildings (herein called the "Project"),
and for other and incidental purposes; all pur-
suant to the Borrower's application (herein called
the "Application"), P. W. A. Docket No. 4217,
the proceedings authorizing the issuance of the
Bonds, Title 11 of the National Industrial Re-
covery Act (herein called the "Act"), approved
June 16, 1933, the Constitution and Statutes of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts including
particularly:
General Laws, Chapter 44, Section 16;
Act of July 22, 1933, Chapter 366.
2. Description of Bonds.
(a) Designation. — School Bonds 1934.
(6) Principal Amount. — $1,608,000.
(c) Type. — Negotiable, general obliga-
tion, coupon Bond.
i:;
urrr council.
('')
(a)
Registration. — Registerable at tlio
option oi i he bolder as to principal
and interest.
Date.— February 1, 1934.
I iiliriat. \ per <•<-! 1 1 per- annum, pay-
able on August 1, 1934, and semi-
annually thereafter on the firsl day
of February and August of each
year.
Maturities. — The first day of Febru-
ary of each year as follows:
Year.
Amount.
1935
$81,000
1936
SI (11)0
1937
81,000
1938
81,000
1939
81,000
1940
81,000
1941
81 000
1942
81,000
1943
80,000
1944
80,000
1945
80 000
1946
80 000
1947
80,000
1948
80,000
1949
80,000
1950
80,000
1951
80,000
1952
80,000
1953
80,000
1954
80,000
(h) Security. — General obligations of the
Borrower payable as to both
principal and interest from ad
valorem taxes which may be levied
without limit as to rate or amount
on all the taxable property within
the territorial limits of the
Borrower.
(t) Place and Medium of Payment. — At
the office of the City Treasurer of
the Borrower in such funds as are,
on the respective dates of payment
of the principal of and interest on
the Bonds, legal tender for debts
due the United States of America.
0') Denomination. — $1 ,000.
3. Form, Text and Sample of Bond. — The Bonds
shall be in form and text satisfactory to the Legal
Division of the Federal Emergency Administra-
tion of Public Works (herein called "Counsel for
the Government"). Before the Bonds are pre-
pared, the Borrower shall submit a sample or speci-
men Bond with coupons for approval by Counsel
for the Government.
4. Method of Taking Up Bonds.— The Bonds
shall be taken up and paid for in blocks from time
to time as funds are needed for the Project, or the
entire issue may be taken up and paid for by the
Government at one time, in the discretion of the
Finance Division of the Federal Emergency
Administration of Public Works (herein called the
"Finance Division").
5. Amount of Bonds to be Taken Up. — The
Government shall be under no obligation to take
up and pay for Bonds beyond the amount which,
together with Other Funds, and the amount to
be paid to the Borrower on account of the Grant
as provided in this Agreement, shall be necessary,
in the judgment of the Engineering Division of
the Federal Emergency Administration of Public
Works (herein called the "Engineering Division"),
to complete the Project. In case any of the Bonds
are sold to purchasers other than the Government,
the principal amount of bonds which the Govern-
ment is obliged to take up and pay for shall be
correspondingly reduced.
6. Deposit of Bond Proceeds and Grant; Retire'
ment Fund. — The Borrower will pay all accrued
interest which it receives from the sale of the Bonds
at the time of the payment therefor (and any
payment which may be made on account of the
Grant under the provisions of Paragraph 11,
Part Two, hereof), into an interest and bond
retirement fund account. It will deposit the
remaining proceeds from the sale of the Bonds and
any payments made on account of the Grant in a
bank or banks which are members of the Federal
Reserve System, in a special account or accounts,
each of such special accounts to !"■ continuously
secured by a pledge to the Borrower of dir( bh-
gations of the United States of America ha* ing >
aggregate market value, exclusive of accrued
interest, at all times at least equal to the balance
on deposit in each such account. Such securities
will either be deposited with the Borrower <,r be
held by a trustee or agent satisfactory to tin-
Finance Division, provided that the trust or
agency agreement is satisfactory to Counsel for
the Government. Provided, however, that at
the option of the Finance Division such special
account or accounts may be secured by a surety
bond, or bonds which shall be in form, sufficiency
and substance satisfactory to Counsel for the
Government. Any balance or balances remain-
ing unexpended in such special account or accounts
after the completion of the Project and which are
not required to meet unpaid obligations incurred in
connection with the construction of the Project
shall be paid into said interest and bond retirement
fund account, and, together with the accrued
interest aforesaid, shall be used solely for the
payment of the interest on and the principal of
the Bonds, or said unexpended balance or balances
may be used for the purchase of such of the Bonds
as are then outstanding at a price (exclusive of
accrued interest), not exceeding the principal
amount thereof. Any Bonds so purchased shall
be cancelled and no additional bonds shall be
issued in lieu thereof. Such Bonds, when can-
celled, shall be submitted to the Government for
recording.
7. Disbursement of Bond Proceeds and Grant. —
The Borrower will expend the funds in such
special account or accounts only for such pur-
poses as shall have been previously specified in
certificates accompanying the requisitions for
such funds, filed with the Government and ap-
proved by Counsel for the Government, or such
funds shall be used for purchasing Bonds as pro-
vided in this Agreement.
Part Two.
1. Approval of Agreement. — Within a reason-
able time after the receipt of the Agreement,
the Borrower shall adopt an order setting forth
the Agreement in full, approving the same, and
authorizing and directing the execution thereof
by the official or officials designated to sign the
same on the Borrower's behalf. Promptly
thereupon, the Borrower shall cause such official
or officials to sign the Agreement.
2. Preliminary Proceedings by Borrower. —
When the Agreement has been signed on behalf
of the Borrower, the Borrower shall promptly:
(a) Send to the Government three signed
counterparts of the Agreement
and a certified copy of the order
adopted by the Borrower pursuant
to Paragraph 1, Part Two, hereof,
together with certified extracts of
the minutes pertaining to its
adoption and any papers, certifi-
cates and other documents which
may be requested by Counsel for
the Government;
(6) Retain municipal bond counsel satis-
factory to the Finance Division to
assist the Borrower in the pro-
ceedings relative to the authoriza-
tion, issuance and sale of the
Bonds, and to give such legal
opinions relative thereto as may be
requested by Counsel for the
Government;
(c) Submit to the Government plans,
drawings, and specifications of the
work and materials to be employed
upon the Project; the latest data
as to the expected cost of the
Project; a statement as to when
and how it is proposed to advertise
for bids and to let contracts for
the work; a statement as to when
and how it is proposed to acquire
the necessary lands, easements,
franchises, and rights-of-way; an
estimate as to the amount of money
that will be needed at the time of
the sale of the Bonds; and any
other details or data that may be
requested by the Engineering
Division;
(d) Submit to the Government all such
authorizations, permits, licenses
and approvals from Federal, State,
FEBRUARY 19, 1934.
44
counts', municipal and other
authorities as Counsel for the
Government may deem advisable
then to be obtained in connection
with the Project or the Bonds;
(e) Take all the proceedings necessary
for the authorization and issuance
of the Bonds.
3. First Bond Requisition. — As soon as the pro-
visions of Paragraph 2, Part Two, hereof, shall
have been complied with to the satisfaction
of Counsel for the Government, the Borrower will
file with the Government a requisition requesting
the Government to take up and pay for such
amount of the Bonds as, together with Other
Funds, will provide sufficient funds for the con-
struction of the Project for a reasonable period
(or, in the discretion of the Finance Division, a
requisition to take up and pay for the entire
amount thereof at one time), specifying the prin-
cipal amount, serial numbers and maturities
(which maturities shall be satisfactory to the
Finance Division) of the Bonds of such block and
the date when it is desired to complete the delivery
thereof (which date shall not be earlier than
ten days after the Government's receipt of such
first Bond requisition, unless otherwise satisfac-
tory to Counsel for the Government), the first
Bond requisition to be accompanied by a complete
transcript of all bond proceedings to date, together
with such certificates, forms, opinions, letters,
statements and other documents as may be re-
quested by Counsel for the Government.
4. First Bond Payment. — If the first Bond
requisition and the documents accompanying the
same are satisfactory in form, sufficiency and
substance to Counsel for the Government, then,
subject to the terms and conditions of this Agree-
ment, upon reasonable notice to the Borrower,
and within a reasonable time after the receipt
by the Government of the first Bond requisition,
the Government will arrange to take up and pay
for such amount of the Bond as, together with
Other Funds, will provide, in the judgment of
the Engineering Division, sufficient funds for the
construction of the Project for a reasonable period,
or, in the judgment of the Finance Division,
the entire amount of the Bonds, the first Bond
payment to be made at the Federal Reserve Bank
of Boston, Boston, Massachusetts (herein called
the "Reserve Bank"), or at such other place or
places as Counsel for the Government may desig-
nate, against delivery by the Borrower of such
Bonds, having all unmatured coupons attached,
logether with such documents as may be requested
by and which shall be in form, sufficiency and
substance as theretofore approved by Counsel for
the Government.
5. Subsequent Bond Requisitions. — Unless all
of the Bonds shall have been previously delivered
and paid for, from time to time after the first
Bond payment, but not oftener than once a month
(unless otherwise satisfactory to the Engineering
Division) , the Borrower will file a requisition
with the Government requesting_ the Government
to take up and pay for an additional block of the
Bonds of such amount, as, together with Other
Funds, and such portion, if any, of the Grant, re-
quested simultaneously with such Bond requisition,
will provide sufficient funds for the construction of
the Project for a reasonable period, specifying
the principal amount, serial numbers and matu-
rities (which maturities shall be satisfactory to the
Finance Division) , of the Bonds included in such
block and the date when it is desired to complete
the delivery thereof (which date shall be not earlier
than ten days after the Government's receipt of
such Bond requisition, unless otherwise satisfac-
tory to Counsel for the Government), each Bond
requisition to be accompanied by such documents
as may be requested by Counsel for the Govern-
ment.
6. Subsequent Bond Payments. — If a Bond requi-
sition and the documents accompanying the same
are satisfactory in form , sufficiency and substance
to Counsel for the Government, then, subject to the
terms and conditions of this Agreement, upon
reasonable notice to the Borrower, and within
a reasonable time after the receipt by the Govern-
ment of such Bond requisition, the Government
will arrange to take up and pay for such additional
amount of the Bonds as, together with Other
Funds, and such portion, if any, of the Grant,
paid simultaneously with the payment for such
amount of the Bonds, will provide, in the judgment
of the Engineering Division, sufficient funds for
the construction of the Project for a reasonable
period, each Bond payment to be made at the
Reserve Bank or at such other place or places as
Counsel for the Government may designate,
against delivery of such block of Bonds, having
all unmatured coupons attached, together with
such documents as may be requested by and which
shall be in form, sufficiency and substance as
theretofore approved by Counsel for the Govern-
ment.
7. Grant Requisitions. — The Borrower may,
with any Bond requisition filed in accordance with
the Provisions of Paragraph 5, Part Two, hereof
(or at any time after the final block of Bonds shall
have been delivered and paid for, but not oftener
than once each week thereafter), file a requisition
requesting the Government to make a payment
to the Borrower on account of the Grant, each
Grant requisition to be accompanied by such
documents as may be requested by Counsel for the
Government.
8. Grant Payments. — If a Grant requisition and
the documents accompanying the same are satis-
factory in form, sufficiency and substance to
Counsel for the Government, then, subject to the
terms and conditions of this Agreement, upon
reasonable notice to the Borrower, and within a
reasonable time after the receipt by the Govern-
ment of such Grant requisition (but not earlier
than ten days after the receipt thereof, unless
otherwise satisfactory to Counsel for the Govern-
ment) , the Government will pay to the Borrower
a sum of money, which, together with all previous
Grant payments, and Other Funds, shall be equal
in aggregate amount to 25 per centum of the cost
of the labor and materials shown to have been
employed upon the Project to a date not later
than the date of such Grant requisition; provided,
however, that such Grant payment, together with
all previous Grant payments, Other Funds, and
the amount paid for the Bonds shall not exceed in
aggregate amount the total cost of the Project,
and in no event shall such Grant payment, to-
gether with all previous Grant payments and
Other Funds, exceed in aggregate amount the
sum of 8392,000; each Grant payment to be made
at the Reserve Bank or at such other place or
places as Counsel for the Government may desig-
nate, against delivery by the Borrower of its
receipt therefor.
9. Final Grant Requisition. — Within a reason-
able time after the Project has been completed
and all costs incurred in connection therewith have
been determined, the Borrower may file a requisi-
tion with the Government requesting the Govern-
ment for the final portion of the Grant, the final
Grant requisition to be accompanied by such
documents as may be requested by Counsel for
the Government.
10. Final Grant Payment. — If the final Grant
requisition and the documents accompanying the
same are satisfactory in form, sufficiency and
substance to Counsel for the Government, then,
subject to the terms and conditions of this Agree-
ment, upon reasonable notice to the Borrower,
and within a reasonable time after the receipt by
the Government of the final Grant requisition
(but not earlier than ten days after the receipt
thereof, unless otherwise satisfactory to Counsel
for the Government) , the Government will pay to
the Borrower a sum of money, which, together
with all previous Grant payments, and Other
Funds, shall be equal in aggregate amount to 30
per centum of the cost of the labor and materials
employed upon the Project; provided, however,
that the final Grant payment, together with all
previous Grant payments, Other Funds, and the
amount paid for the Bonds shall not exceed in
aggregate amount the total cost of the Project,
and in no event shall the final Grant payment,
together with all previous Grant payments and
Other Funds, exceeding aggregate amount the
sum of $392,000; the final Grant payment to be
made at the Reserve Bank or at such other place
or places as Counsel for the Government may
designate, against delivery by the Borrower of its
receipt therefor.
11. Cancellation of Bonds. — In the event that
$392,000 shall be less than 30 per centum of the
cost of the labor and materials employed upon the
Project, and if, within a reasonable time after the
completion of the Project, the Borrower shall have
filed with the Government the final Grant requisi-
tion, and if the documents accompanying the same
are satisfactory in form, sufficiency and substance
to Counsel for the Government, the Government
will cancel, in so far as possible, and in such order
as may be satisfactory to the Finance Division,
45
CITY COUNOII,.
Bonds and /or ooupons in an aggregate amount
equal to the difference between the aggregate
amount of all Grant payments together with
Other Funds, and 30 per centum of the coBt of the
labor and materials employed upon the Project;
and for such reasonable time ancf to this end, the
Government will hold Bonds in such amount as
may be necessary to effectuate the purpose and
intent of this Paragraph, unless payment of such
difference shall have been otherwise provided for
by the Government.
Part Three. — Construction Contracts.
In Consideration of the Grant, the Borrower Cove-
nants That:
1. Construction Contracts. — All construction
contracts made by the Borrower and all subcon-
tracts for work on the Project shall be subject to
the rules and regulations adopted by the Govern-
ment to carry out the purposes and control the
administration of the Act, and shall contain pro-
visions appropriate to insure that:
(a) Convict Labor. — No convict labor
shall be employed on the Project,
and no materials manufactured or
produced by convict labor shall be
used on the Project.
(6) 30-Hour Week. — Except in executive,
administrative and supervisory
positions, so far as practicable and
feasible in the judgment of the
Government, no individual directly
employed on the Project shall be
permitted to work more than
thirty hourB in any one week, or,
except in cases of emergency, on
any Sundays or legal holidays; but
in accordance with rules and regula-
tions from time to time made by
the Government, this provision
shall be construed to permit work-
ing time lost because of inclement
weather or unavoidable delays in
any one week to be made up in the
succeeding twenty days.
(c) Wages.
(1) All employees shall be paid just
and reasonable wages which shall
be compensation sufficient to pro-
vide, for the hours of labor as
limited, a standard of living in
decency and comfort;
(2) All contracts and subcontracts
shall further prescribe such mini-
mum wage rates for skilled and
unskilled labor as may be deter-
mined by the Government and shall
be subject to all rules and regula-
tions which the Government may
promulgate in connection there-
with. Such minimum rates, if
any, shall also be stated in all
proposals of bids submitted in-
cluding those of subcontractors;
and a clearly legible statement of
all wage rates to be paid the
several classes of labor employed
on the work shall be posted in a
prominent and easily accessible
place at the site of the work. All
contractors shall keep a true and
accurate record of the hours worked
by and the wages paid to each
employee and shall furnish the
Government with sworn state-
ments thereof on demand.
(3) All employees shall be paid in
full not less often than once each
week and in lawful money of the
United States of America in the
full amount accrued to each indi-
vidual at the time of closing of
the payroll, which shall be at the
latest date practicable prior to the
date of payment, and there shall
be no deductions on account of
goods purchased, rent, or other
obligations, but such obligations
shall be subject to collection only
by legal process.
(d) Labor Preferences. — Preference shall
be given, where they are qualified,
to ex-service men with dependents,
and then in the following order:
(1) To citizens of the United States
and aliens who have declared their
intention of becoming citizens, who
are bona fide residents of the City
of Boston and/or County of Buffo II
in the Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts and,
(2) To citizens of the United States
and aliens who have declared their
intention of becoming citizens, who
are bona fide residents of the Com-
monwealth of Massachusetts pro-
vided, that these preferences shall
apply only where such labor is
available and qualified to perform
the work to which the employment
relates.
(e) Employment Services. — -To the fullest
extent possible, labor required 'for
the Project and appropriate to be
secured through employment serv-
ices, shall be chosen from lists of
qualified workers submitted by
local employment agencies desig-
nated by the United States Employ-
ment Service, provided, however,
that organized labor, skilled and
unskilled, shall not be required to
register at such local employment
agencies but shall be secured in
the customary ways through recog-
nized union locals. In the event,
however, that qualified workers
are not furnished by the union
locals within 48 hours (Sundays
and holidays excluded) after request
is filed by the employer, such labor
may be chosen from lists of quali-
fied workers submitted by local
employment agencies designated by
the United States Employment
Service. In the selection of workers
from lists prepared by such em-
ployment agencies and union locals,
the labor preferences provided in
Sub-Paragraph (d) supra, shall be
observed in accordance with such
rules and regulations as the Govern-
ment may prescribe.
(7) Human Labor. — In accordance with
such rules and regulations as the
Government may prescribe, the
maximum of human labor shall be
used in lieu of machinery wherever
practicable and consistent with
sound economy and public advan-
tage; and to the extent that the
work may be accomplished at no
greater expense by human labor
than by the use of machinery, and
labor of requisite qualifications is
available, such human labor shall
be employed.
(g) Accident Prevention. — Every con-
struction contract for work on the
Project shall contain an under-
taking to comply with all appli-
cable provisions of the laws and
building and construction codes of
the State, Territory, District
and /or municipality in which the
work is done and with any regu-
lations for the protection of
workers which may be promul-
gated by the Government.
(h) Compensation Insurance. — Every
construction contract for work on
the Project shall contain a pro-
vision requiring the employer to
furnish compensation insurance for
injured workers and to give proof
of such adequate insurance satis-
factory to the Government.
(i) Persons Entitled to Benefits of Labor
Provisions. — Every person who per-
forms the work of a laborer or of a
mechanic on the Project, or any
part thereof, shall be entitled to the
benefits of the labor and wage
provisions hereof, regardless of
any contractual relationship be-
tween the contractor or sub-
contractor and such laborer or
mechanic. There shall be no dis-
crimination in the selection of
labor on the ground of race, creed
or color.
(i) Bonding of Contracts. — Construction
contracts shall be supported by
adequate surety or other bonds or
FEBRUARY 19, 1934.
46
security satisfactory to the Gov-
ernment for the protection of
labor and material men employed
on the Project or any part thereof.
(k) Materials. — So far as articles, mate-
rials, and supplies produced in the
United States are concerned, only
articles, materials and supplies
produced under codes of fair
competition adopted pursuant to
the provisions of Title I of the
Act, or under the President's Re-
employment Agreement, shall be
used in work on the Project,
except when the Government de-
termines that this requirement is
not in public interest or that the
consequent cost is unreasonable.
So far as feasible and practicable,
and subject to the above, prefer-
ence shall be given to the use of
locally produced materials if such
use does not involve higher cost,
inferior quality or insufficient
quantity, subject to the determi-
nation of the Government; but
there shall be no requirement pro-
viding price differentiations for or
restricting the use of materials to
those produced within the Nation
or State.
(I) Inspection and Records. — The Govern-
ment, through its authorized
agents, shall have the right to in-
spect all work as it progresses and
shall have access to all pay rolls,
records of personnel, invoices of
materials, and other data relevant
to the performance of the contract.
(m) Reports. — Subject to such rules and
regulations as the Government may
prescribe, contractors and subcon-
tractors shall make reports in trip-
licate to the Government monthly
within five days after the close of
each calendar month on forms to
be furnished by the United States
Department of Labor, which re-
ports shall include the number of
persons on their pay rolls, the ag-
gregate amount of the pay rolls,
the man hours worked , wage scales
paid to various classes of labor and
the total expenditures for materials.
The contractors shall also furnish
to the Government the names and
addresses of all subcontractors at
the earliest date practicable.
(n) Compliance with Title I of the Act. —
All contractors and subcontractors
must comply with the conditions
prescribed in Sections 7 (a) (1)
and 7 (a) (2) of Title I of the Act.
2. Restriction as to Contractors. — No contract
shall be let to any contractor or subcontractor
who has not signed and complied with the appli-
cable approved code of fair competition adopted
under Title I of the Act for the trade or industry
or subdivision thereof concerned, or, if there be
no such approved code, who has not signed and
complied with the provisions of the President's
Reemployment Agreement.
3. Termination for Breach. — The Borrower will
enforce compliance with all the provisions of this
part of this Agreement, and, as to any work done
by it in connection with the construction of the
Project, will itself comply therewith. All con-
struction contracts shall provide that if any such
provisions are violated by any contractor or sub-
contractor, the Borrower may, with the approval
of the Government , and shall at the request of the
Government, terminate by written notice to the
contractor or subcontractor the contract of such
contractor or subcontractor, and have the right
to take over the work and prosecute the same to
completion by contract or otherwise and such
contractor or subcontractor and his sureties shall
be liable for any excess cost occasioned thereby
and/or, if so requested by the Government, the
Borrower shall withhold from such contractor or
subcontractor so much of the compensation due
to him as may be necessary to pay to laborers or
mechanics the difference between the rate of
wages required by the contract and the rate of
wages actually paid to the laborers and mechanics.
4. Force Labor. — Provided, however, that if
prices in the bids are excessive, the Borrower re-
serves the right, anything in this Agreement to
the contrary notwithstanding, to apply to the
Government for permission to do all or any part
of the Project by day labor, upon such conditions
as the Government may impose, with the under-
standing that all provisions in this Agreement, in-
cluding those relating to labor, wages, hours and
recruitment, shall be observed.
Part Four.
1. Construction of Project. — Upon receiving
payment for the first block of Bonds, the Bor-
rower will promptly commence or cause to be
commenced the construction of the Project and
the Borrower will thereafter continue such con-
struction or cause it to be continued to completion
with all practicable dispatch, in an efficient and
economical manner, at a reasonable cost, and in
accordance with the provisions of this Agreement
as to the labor and materials to be employed upon
the Project, and plans, drawings, specifications
and construction contracts which, except for sub-
contracts, shall be in form satisfactory to the
Engineering Division, and in accordance with such
engineering supervision and inspection as the
Government or its representatives may require.
Except with the prior written consent of Counsel
for the Government, no materials or equipment
for the Project shall be purchased by the Borrower
subject to any chattel mortgage or any conditional
sale or title retention agreement.
2. Completion of Project. — Upon the completion
of the Project the Borrower will furnish to the
Government a certificate of the Borrower's engi-
neers certifying to such completion, to the total
cost of the Project and to such other matters as
the Engineering Division may request, such cer-
tificate to be accompanied by such data as the
Engineering Division may request.
3. Information. — During the construction of
the Project the Borrower will furnish to the
Government all such information and data as the
Engineering Division may request as to the con-
struction, cost and progress of the work. The
Borrower will furnish to the Government and to
any purchaser from the Government of 25 per
centum of the Bonds, such financial statements
and other information and data relating to the
Borrower and the Project as the Finance Divi-
sion or any such purchaser from time to time may
reasonably require.
4. Conditions Precedent to the Government's
Obligations. — The Government shall be under no
obligation to pay for any of the Bonds or to make
any Grant:
(a) Cost of Project. — If the engineering
Division shall not be satisfied that
the Borrower will be able to con-
struct the Project within the cost
estimated at the time when the
Application was approved by the
Government, such estimated cost
being the amount of $2,000,000,
unless, in the event that additional
funds appear to the Engineering
Division to be necessary in order
to pay in full the cost of the con-
struction of the Project, the
Finance Division shall be satisfied
that the Borrower will be able to
obtain such funds, as needed,
through additional borrowing or
otherwise, in a manner satisfactory
to Counsel for the Government;
(6) Compliance. — If the Borrower shall
not have complied, to the satisfac-
tion of Counsel for the Govern-
ment, with all the provisions con-
tained or referred to in this Agree-
ment and in the proceedings
authorizing the issuance of the
Bonds, theretofore to be complied
with by the Borrower;
(c) Legal Matters. — If Counsel for the
Government shall not be satisfied
as to all legal matters and pro-
ceedings affecting the Bonds, the
security therefor or the Project;
(d) Representations. — If any representa-
tion made by the Borrower in this
Agreement or in the Application or
in any supplement thereto or
amendment thereof, or in any docu-
ment submitted to the Government
by the Borrower shall be found by
17
CITY COUNCIL.
Counsel for the Government to be
incorrect or incomplete in any
material respect;
(e) Financial Condition.— If, in the
judgment of (.lie Finance Division,
the financial condition of the
Borrower shall have changed un-
favorably in a 7iiatcria] degree from
its condition uh theretofore reprc-
sented to the Government.
5. Representation and Warranties. — The Bor-
rower represents and warrants as follows:
(a) Authorizations. — All necessary au-
thorizations, permits, licenses and
approvals from Federal, SI ale,
county, municipal and other au-
thorities in connection with the
Project or the Bonds have been or
will be obtained;
(b) Litigation. — No litigation or other
proceedings are now pending or
threatened which might adversely
affect the Bonds, the construction
and operation of the Project, or the
financial condition of the Borrower;
(c) Financial Condition. — The character
of the assets and the financial
condition of the Borrower are as
favorable as at the date of the
Borrower's most recent financial
statement, furnished to the Govern-
ment as a part of the Application,
and there have been no changes in
the character of its assets or in its
financial condition except such
changes as are necessary and
incidental to the ordinary and
usual conduct of the Borrower's
affairs:
(d) Fees and Commissions. — No fee or
commission has been or will be
paid by the Borrower or any of its
officers, employees, agents or
representatives, and no agreement
to pay a fee or commission has
been or will be entered into by or
on behalf of the Borrower, or any
of its officers, employees, agents or
representatives, in order to secure
the loan and/or Grant hereunder ;
(e) Affirmation. — Every statement con-
tained in this Agreement, in the
Borrower's Application, and in any
supplement thereto or amendment
thereof, and in any other document
submitted or to be submitted to
the Government by or on behalf of
the Borrower is, or when so sub-
mitted will be, correct and com-
plete, and no relevant fact mate-
rially affecting the Bonds, the
Grant, the Project or the obliga-
tions of the Borrower under this
Agreement has been or will be
omitted therefrom.
6. Indemnification. — The Borrower will in-
demnify the Government and all purchasers of the
Bonds from the Government against any loss or
liability incurred by reason of any inaccuracy or
incompleteness in any representation contained
herein. In the event that there shall be any such
inaccuracy or incompleteness the Govern-
ment shall be entitled (in addition to the above
right of indemnification and any other right or
remedy) to return any or all of the Bonds to the
Borrower and recover the price paid therefor by
the Government.
7. Use of Government's Name. — Without the
prior written consent of the Government, the
Borrower will not refer to this Agreement or to any
purchase by the Government of the Bonds as an
inducement for the purchase of any securities
(including Bonds repurchased from the Govern-
ment) of the Borrower, and will not permit any
purchaser from it of any such securities to do so.
8. Sale of Bonds by the Government. — The Bor-
rower will take all such steps as the Government
may reasonably request to aid in the sale by the
Government of any or all of the Bonds. Upon
request, the Borrower will furnish to the Govern-
ment or to any purchaser from the Government of
25 per centum of the Bonds, information for the
preparation of a bond circular in customary form,
signed by the proper official of the Borrower, con-
taining such data as the Government or such
purchaser may reasonably request concerning the
Borrower and the Project.
9. Expert e 'I in- Borrower will pay all costs,
charges and expenses incident to compliance with
all the duties and obligations of the Borrowei
under this Agreement including, without limiting
the generality of the foregoing, the cost of pre-
paring, executing and delivering the Bonds and
obtaining all legal opinions requested by Counsel
i., I- the Go\ ernment.
10. Supplemental Documents. — The Borrower
will furnish to the Government such supplemental
documents as Counsel for the Government may
request in connection v. uh the Bonds, the Grant,
the Project or the obligations of the Borrower
under this Agreement.
11. Waiver. — Any provision of this Agreement
may be waived or amended with the consent of the
Borrower and the written approval of the En-
gineering Division, Finance Division, and Gounsel
for the Government, without the execution of a
new or supplemental agreement, if, in the opinion
of Counsel for the Government, which shall be
conclusive, such waiver or amendment does not
substantially vary the terms of this agreement.
No waiver by the Government of any such pro-
vision shall constitute a waiver thereof as applied
to any subsequent obligation of the Borrower or
the Government under this Agreement.
12. Agreement Not for the Benefit of Third
Parties. — This Agreement is not for the benefit of
any person or corporation other than the parties
hereto, their respective assigns or the successors
of the Borrower, and neither the holders of the
Bonds nor any other person or corporation, except
the parties hereto, their respective assigns or the
successors of the Borrower, shall have any rights
or interest in or under this Agreement, except as
expressly provided for herein.
13. Interest of Member of Congress. — No mem-
ber of or Delegate to the Congress of the United
States of America shall be admitted to any share
or part of this Agreement, or to any benefit to
arise thereupon.
14. Validation. — The Borrower hereby cove-
nants that it will institute, prosecute and carry to
completion insofar as it may be within the power
of the Borrower, any and all acts and things to be
performed or done to secure the enactment of
legislation or to accomplish such other proceed-
ings, judicial or otherwise, as may be necessary,
appropriate or advisable to empower the Borrower
to issue the Bonds and to remedy any defects,
illegalities and irregularities in the proceedings of
the Borrower relative to the issuance of the Bonds
and to validate the same after the issuance thereof
to the Government, if in the judgment of Counsel
for the Government such action may be deemed
necessary, appropriate or advisable. The Bor-
rower further covenants that it will procure and
furnish to the Government, as a condition prec-
edent to the Government's obligations hereunder,
a letter from the Governor of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts in form satisfactory to Counsel
for the Government and expressing the covenant
and agreement of said Governor to effectuate
insofar as it is within his power the covenant of
the Borrower as hereinabove in this Paragraph
expressed.
1 15. Miscellaneous. — This Agreement shall be
binding upon the parties hereto when a copy
thereof, duly executed by the Borrower and the
Government, shall have been received by the
Borrower. This Agreement shall be governed
by and be construed in accordance with the laws
of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This
Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to
the benefit of the parties hereto, their respective
assigns and the successors of the Borrower, and
shall inure to the benefit of the holders from time
to time of any of the Bonds; provided, however,
that no rights of the Borrower hereunder shall be
assignable except with the prior written consent
of the Government. All obligations of the Bor-
rower hereunder shall cease upon payment in full
of all the Bonds.
16. Promotion of National Recovery. — The
Borrower covenants to discharge faithfully and
with all possible dispatch the duties and obliga-
tions imposed upon it by this Agreement, it being
the purpose of this Agreement to enable the
Borrower to secure the benefits of the Act, foster
employment, promote the public welfare and
thereby assist in the recovery program of the
President of the United States.
17. Undue Delay by the Borrower. — The Gov-
ernment shall have the right to rescind the allot-
FEBRUARY 19, 1934.
48
ment for the Project and annul any obligation to
make a loan or a grant to the Borrower unless the
Borrower shall within a reasonable time:
(a) Sign and return to the Government
three counterparts of this agree-
ment as provided in Paragraphs
1 and 2, Part Two, hereof. (For
the purposes of this subparagraph
17 (a) a reasonable time shall be
deemed to be ten days in the
ordinary course of events or such
longer period as shall be allowed
in the absolute discretion of The
Federal Emergency Administrator
of Public Works) ;
(b) Comply with all the provisions of
Paragraph 2, Part Two, hereof,
including particularly subpara-
graph (e) relating to the author-
ization and issuance of the Bonds;
(c) File requisitions with the Govern-
ment in accordance with the
provisions of Paragraphs 3 and 5,
Part Two, hereof; and
(d) Commence or cause to be commenced
the construction of the Project.
The Federal Emergency Administrator of Public
Works shall determine in his absolute discretion
what constitutes a reasonable time within the
meaning of this Paragraph 17.
18. Construction of Agreement. — If any pro-
vision of this Agreement shall be invalid in whole
or in part, to the extent that it is not invalid it
shall be valid and effective and no such invalidity
shall affect, in whole or in part, the validity and
effectiveness of any other provision of this Agree-
ment or the rights or obligations of the parties
hereto, provided, in the opinion of Counsel for the
Government, the Agreement does not then violate
the terms of the Act.
IN "WITNESS WHEREOF, THE ClTY OF BOSTON,
Suffolk County, Massachusetts, and the
United States of America have respectfully
caused this Agreement to' be duly executed as of
the day and year first above written.
City of Boston
By
United States of America
By
Federal Emergency Administrator
of Public Works.
[seal]
attest:
Referred to Executive Committee.
SALE OF LAND ON NORTH GROVE STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The accompanying communication
from the Acting City Auditor is submitted in
reply to your order of February 12, 1934, re-
questing information concerning the sale of land
on North Grove street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Auditing Department, February 17, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — In answer to the questions asked in
the order of the City Council passed February 12,
1934, concerning the sale of land on North Grove
street, the following is submitted:
1. The date the Massachusetts General Hos-
pital took title to the land and buildings on North
Grove street was December 26, 1933, assuming
that title passed at the time the purchaser paid the
city.
2. The amount of money received was $94,-
768.45.
i 3. The money received has been credited to the
item "Sales of City Property, Special Fund."
Respectfully,
W. J. Doyle,
Acting City Auditor.
Placed on file.
SURVEY OF WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the chairman of the Statistics Department relative
to your order of January 15, 1934, concerning a
systematic and detailed survey of the Welfare
Department by the Statistics Department and the
enlargement and completion of the Consolidated
Index Cross Reference System now being compiled
by the Statistics Department.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Statistics Department, January 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The order of the City Council of
January 15, 1934, referred by your Honor to this
department for a report, contains two distinct
suggestions. One is that the Mayor be requested
to obtain a C. W. A. appropriation for a survey
of the Public Welfare Department by the Statistics
Department and the other for the enlargement
and completion of the Index of Habitations and
Residents now being compiled.
The Statistics Department is now using a num-
ber of C. W. A. workers on the index work and it
is hoped that with an extension to April 27, 1934,
as requested, that what we feel is a highly impor-
tant and valuable index will be sufficiently com-
pleted so that it can be carried on and kept up to
date with the normal supply of assistance.
With reference to the proposed survey of the
Public Welfare Department, it should be noted
first, that if any such proposed survey or in-
vestigation is deemed advisable, it should be made
by the Finance Commission or other body having
authority to obtain detailed information; second,
that such a survey should, of course, be made, at
least in part, by trained and experienced men and
that it is rather questionable to assume that such
men would be furnished under the present C. W. A.
program.
Of course, it should be borne in mind that
Public Welfare statistics obtained by this depart-
ment for the Habitation and Resident Index is
only one item in the much broader field of infor-
mation which we are collecting.
Unquestionably the one existing index could be
used to great advantage by such officials or de-
partment as may be authorized by your Honor
to complete the proposed complete survey.
Respectfully,
James P. Balfe, Chairman.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Adams Sales Company, for compensation for
damage to car by city cart.
Ernest A. Allen, for compensation for damage
to truck by city truck.
Roger O. and Ethel M. Burton, to repair break
in sprinkler supply line at 698 Beacon street.
Mrs. L. Chester, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Atlantic avenue.
Louis Cohen, for compensation for damage to
car by police car.
Dorchester Buick Company, for compensation
for damage to ear by city truck.
Catherine J. Fleming, for compensation for
damage to property at lOFenwick street, Roxbury,
caused by Fire Department.
Charles H. Harrington, for refund on beer
license.
Haymarket Clothing Company, for refund on
refuse tickets.
Alvin G. Kenney, for refund on liquor license.
John G. McLeod, for compensation for damage
to car by city men.
Annie E. McCormick, for compensation for
damage to property at 5 Emrose terrace, Dor-
chester, caused by backing up of sewage.
Frederick T. Metcalf, to be reimbursed for
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as an employee of Police Department.
49
CITY COUNCIL.
Morgan Brothers Company, for refund on beer
license.
Lillian Pepe, for compensation for injuries
caused by an aliened defect in East Third street,
South Boston.
Anthony E. Russo, to be reimbursed for labor
and materials furnished in removing roots in
sewer at 132 Train street, Dorchester.
Jennie Thompson, for refund on beer license.
Joseph V. Ware, for refund on beer license.
Max Wiseman, for compensation for damage to
ear by city men shoveling ice.
George M. Zarokanlos, for refund on beer license.
Executive.
Petition of Boston National League Baseball
Company for license for Sunday sports.
REINSTATEMENT OF ANNIE PETTEE.
The following was received:
Boston City Hospital,
Boston, February 9, 1934.
Mr. W. J. Doyle,
City Clerk.
Dear Mr. Doyle, — The trustees of the hospital
respectfully petition that the City Council vote on
the reinstatement of Annie Pettee, diet cook at
the South Department, who was discharged from
the service of the hospital on January 26, 1934,
for disciplinary reasons, and whose reinstatement
was authorized by civil service, subject to the
approval of the City Council, on February 7, 1934.
Miss Pettee's discharge was recommended by
Mr. Ralph Craft, head cook in the South Depart-
ment, and her reinstatement was likewise re-
quested by Mr. Craft. I am inclosing copies of
both of his communications to the trustees.
Yours sincerely,
John J. Dowling,
Superintendent.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON
ORDINANCES.
Coun. FISH, for the Committee on Ordinances,
submitted the following:
Report on message of Mayor and ordinance
(referred February 5) providing that the Superin-
tendent of Public Buildings shall have care, custody
and management of Dillaway House, in Roxbury
— that same ought to pass.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, just a word.
I might say that in 1930 the Legislature passed
an act authorizing the City of Boston to expend
$25,000 in fixing up and altering the Dillaway
House. In 1933 we passed a loan order for
$25,000 in connection with that work, which has
now been completed. Having been completed,
we are now prepared to pass an ordinance that
will provide proper care through the Public Build-
ings Department.
The report was accepted and the ordinance
passed.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON RULES.
Coun. WILSON, for the Committee on Rules,
submitted the following:
1. Report on order (referred January 22) that
Police Commissioner be requested, through his
Honor the Mayor, to remove from Municipal
Court and all District Courts in Boston, police
officers who are especially assigned to present and
prosecute criminal cases in said courts, and transfer
such officers to more active duty for benefit of city
— that same ought to pass.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I might say
that the committee makes this report, recognizing
the importance of action of this kind certainly
until such time as the Police Department ceases
to be undermanned to the tune of at least two
hundred patrolmen.
Report accepted; order passed.
2. Report on order (referred January 22) that
the Mayor be requested to take immediate action
in opposition to any expenditure by the United
States Government or the State in aid of proposed
housing development in East Boston — that same
ought to pass.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, a majority of
the committee strongly agreed with the councilor
from East Boston (Coun. Selvitella) that the
expenditure of any Buch money by the govern-
ment for any such purpose is very poorly adviBed
at this time, not from the point of view of East
Boston alone, but of the entire City of Boston,
only making worse real estate conditions in the
city and working to the detriment of the rent-
payers and taxpayers of Boston.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I think we
should keep in mind the fact that the United
States is under a certain agreement to undertake
slum clearances, but that it is first necessary to
get through the Legislature an enabling act such
as Governor Lehman was able to get through the
New York Legislature. When it comes to the
matter of doing away with slums in Boston, I have
an order prepared which I shall hope to offer at
that time.
Report accepted; said order passed.
NAMING OF "STORROW BASIN."
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Boston City Council requests
that the Metropolitan District Commission and the
Boston Park Commission change the name of
the Charles River Basin and Charlesbank Park
to the Storrow Basin in honor of James J. Storrow
who was the father of the basin. His widow,
Mrs. Storrow, has recently given a million dollars
for the reclaiming and completion of the basin.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, a part
of that basin belongs to the City of Boston and
part to the state and, as the work is now nearing
completion, I hope to get a small appropriation
and have the city join with the state in celebration
of the completion of the work. I trust, of course,
that there will be a sum sufficient to provide a
celebration that will be an honor to our city,
having in mind that Mr. Storrow was the father
of that proposition and was born in the West End
of Boston. I trust that the order will paSB.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
SURVEY OF HOSPITAL FACILITIES.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor be requested to have a
survey made of the present facilities of the Boston
City Hospital by the new Institutions Commis-
sioner, Dr. Frederick H. Washburn, covering the
following points:
First. What, of the recommendations made to
the Mayor of the City of Boston on June 15, 1929,
by Doctor Washburn of the Massachusetts General
Hospital, Doctor Howland of the Peter Bent
Brigham Hospital, and Doctor Emerson of the
New York Health Department, have (a) been
adopted; (6) have not been adopted?
Second. What of these recommendations should
now be adopted to relieve the Boston City Hospital?
Third. What has been done to provide care
for the 19 per cent of tubercular patients who
could be better treated elsewhere?
Fourth. What has been done to relieve the
wards of the Boston City Hospital of the 183
cases of chronic disease?
Fifth. What proportion of the 25 per cent of
nonresident patients are private patients and pay
fees to the staff physicians?
Sixth. If the members of the staff are allowed
to take in private patients (a) from Boston,
(b) from outside Boston, is there any regulation
of their fees?
Seventh. What part of the hospital cost do
these patients pay, and how is the cost determined?
Referred to Committee on Hospitals.
INFORMATION ON PROPOSED SURGICAL
BUILDING.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to furnish the City Council with the fol-
lowing information for its assistance in passing
upon the pending loan order for a new surgical
building:
(1) The daily average number of bed patients
accommodated during the year 1933.
FEBRUARY 19, 1934.
50
(2) The number of additional beds which wil
be made available if the proposed building
is constructed.
(3) The number of nonresidents of Boston
furnished with beds during the year 1933,
and the approximate daily average.
(4) The number of bed patients who paid, in
whole or part, during the year 1933, and
the total amount in dollars collected
from bed patients; and the percentage
of pay patients.
(5) What steps are taken to determine whether
persons admitted have a residence in
Boston?
(6) What steps are taken to determine whether
persons admitted can afford to pay, in
whole or in part?
(7) How many beds in the City Hospital are
occupied by continued-treatment patients
who might more properly be accom-
modated at Long Island or at some other
institution?
(8) What is the approximate per diem expense,
exclusive of interest on investment in
plant, of maintaining a bed patient in the
City Hospital?
(9) What has been the capital outlay on the
City Hospital plant in the last ten years,
and how many beds have been added to
its accommodations during that period?
(10) Having in view the interest and amortiza-
tion charge on a new surgical building
and the operating expenses of such
building, could not the city at less expense
arrange with existing hospitals for the ac-
commodation of persons eligible for admit-
tance to the Boston City Hospital who
cannot be accommodated there by reason
of lack of space?
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, there is
pending before this body a loan order of SI, 500,000
for a new surgical building for the Boston City
Hospital. I assume that the main reason for
that order is to provide additional accommodations
at the City Hospital on the ground that the accom-
modations now there are insufficient. At the
same time, one constantly hears, when the City
Hospital is mentioned, of the large number of
nonresidents who are allowed to go there and
become patients, and also hears that a great many
persons are admitted and treated free who can
well afford to pay at least something. It would
seem to me that there is no reason why those
nonresidents should not go to their own city or
town hospital or, if there happens to be no city
or town hospital in the place they come from, why
they should not go to one of the private charitable
hospitals, of which there are a great number. If
a person can afford to pay a substantial amount,
or something, there is no reason why he or she
should not go to one of the present private hos-
pitals, of which I believe many have ample ac-
commodation at the present time. Therefore,
I believe, before considering the expenditure of
this very large sum of money on enlargement of
the City Hospital, we should have the facts con-
cerning nonresidents, concerning the extent to
which the hospital is used by nonresidents and
by persons who could pay and who could be prop-
erly accommodated elsewhere. It may be that
there is a sufficient number of such persons so that,
when they are eliminated, there will be plenty of
accommodation for those persons who are in need
of hospital treatment, who are unable to pay and
who are bona fide residents of the City of Boston.
That, sir, is the purpose of the order which I have
filed.
The order was passed under suspension of the-
rule.
IMPROVEMENTS, WARD 1.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re -
quested to direct the Commissioner of Public
Works to install a better lighting system on
Bennington street, between Central square and
Day square, Ward 1.
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the intersection of
Meridian and Condor streets, Ward 1.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 10.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the junction of
Parker and Heath streets. Ward 10.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PROPOSED ACCEPTANCE OF WENDOVER
STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Orderd, That the Board of Street Commissioners
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
accept and lay out Wendover street, Ward 7, as a
public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FLAT RATE ON AUTO INSURANCE.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the enactment of legislation pro-
viding for a flat rate on compulsory automobile
insurance throughout the state.
Coun. BRACKMAN — Mr. Chairman, during
the past several years the people of the City of
Boston have endeavored to get a bill through the
Legislature to stabilize the rates of insurance
throughout the state rather than continue with
the present zoning system. It seems that the
zoning system has worked a great hardship on
the people of Boston; within a very short distance
we have Boston people paying $65 a year, while
people just over the line pay as little as $33. There
is again at present a bill pending before the Leg-
islature to do away with the zoning system, and
I believe every member of the City Council should
go on record as favoring the enactment of such
legislation.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
REPAVING OF HANSBOROUGH STREET.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Hansborough
street. Ward 14.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SUPPORT OF TYDINGS RESOLUTION.
Coun. GOLDMAN and BRACKMAN offered
the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council hereby
goes on record in favor of the Tydings Resolution,
introduced into the United States Senate and
entitled "Senate Resolution 154," condemning
the discrimination and impression imposed upon
the Jewish people in Germany.
That copies of this resolution be sent to Senator
Millard Tydings, sponser of the Senate Resolu-
tion, Senator Key Pittman, chairman of the
Foreign Relations Committee, and Senators David
I. Walsh and Marcus Coolidge of Massachusetts.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
USE OF ELEVATED SPARE POWER.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to consider the advisability of utilizing
the unused or spare capacity of the South Boston
and Lincoln power stations of the Boston Elevated
Railway Company as a source of power for part
or all of the municipal requirements of the City
of Boston and take such steps as may be necessary
for the enactment of legislation providing for the
use of said plants.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
51
CITY COUNCIL.
HEALTH UNIT.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the trustees of the George Robert
White Fund be rei|uenled, Ihrough liin Honor (lie
Mayor, to consider tlie establishment and main-
tenance of a health unit in the vicinity of Woodrow
avenue and Blue Hill avenue, Ward 14.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ASSURANCE OF GAS STREET LIGHTS IN
DORCHESTER.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, respectfully requested to instruct the
Public Works Commissioner to require the Boston
Consolidated Gas Company to assure adequate
and consistent lighting of street lamps in the
central Dorchester district.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I shall be very
brief in this matter. I don't know what the
present set-up is with the Boston Consolidated Gas
Company, whether the charge is so much whether
the lights are on or not; but the situation, at least
in the central Dorchester district, has been such
that for the past two weeks there lias been in some
cases almost a cessation of lighting of a great many
streets. I would, therefore, call for some sort of
showdown with that particular company.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
RESTRICTED PARKING.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be. and he
hereby is, requested not to approve any drastic
code of regulations relative to restricted parking
in public streets as proposed by certain private
garage owners in Boston.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I read not
long ago about the presentation made to the Mayor
by interested garage owners in the City of Boston
calling for more restrictive parking regulations in
the city and was interested to read that the sug-
gestion had been made that certain hungry garage
owners wished to change the regulation of vehicles
in the streets, so that the owners would be required
to put them in privately-owned garages, and also
looking to certain code regulations in the matter.
As I see it, the regulations desired on behalf of
these private garages must be, if there are such
regulations, ones that do not interfere with the
free How of traffic. To my mind, the only regula-
tion that should be made would be one in the
interest of the free flow of traffic. As a matter of
fact, the garages assume no responsibility in this
matter. The average checking stub from a
privately-owned garage or from outside parking
space has printed on the reverse side a condition
that specifically lets the garage or the parking
space out in case of fire, theft, or damage while the
car is parked or left there. If a car is left in such
a garage or parking space, and you pay 50 cents or
a dollar for the privilege, all you get is immunity
from a parking tag. That is carried to the logical
conclusion on Custom House street, where the
Custom House Garage has to be closed for further
parking each morning when it is filled, and after
the garage is filled the sidewalks and streets are
absolutely clogged with traffic, as has been the
ease for two or three years. If you have paid the
Custom House Garage the ordinary money for
police protection, your car is not tagged, but if in
that section you have not paid for your ticket
you are not immune from police tags. So, while
it may be a courteous gesture to allow the private
garage owners to present a code of regulations, I
feel strongly that the business men of Boston, many
of whose customers come in automobiles to the
city, and a great many of the automobile owners
of Boston who come in for only a short time at
certain parts of the day, should be allowed to
retain some of their rights; that they should not
be forced into privately-owned garages under all
circumstances, simply for the benefit of the
particular owners of the garages. Of course,
people engaged in any business like to have certain
action taken for their particular benefit. The
Boston Elevated Company objects to the collecting
of 10 cent fares by taxi drivers, to the injury of
their business; and the taxi drivers themselves
like to keep private vehicles outside of Boston, if
possible, Hn that they may reap a benefit. Ami it
is so with the private garages. But I truet that
the time ban not yet come when codes and regula-
tions of all Borta will simply be put, into effeel for
the benefit of private interests, and when those
who can bring the strongest pressure to bear will
be the most successful.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
NUMBER OF C. W. A. BOSTON WORKERS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That Walter V. McCarthy, through
his Honor the Mayor, be, and he hereby is, respect-
fully requested to advise the City Council forth-
with as to the number of C. W. A. workers resident
in Boston actually working and receiving C. W. A.
pay (a) during December, 1933, and (b) during
January, 1934.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, requested to contact the Federal
C. W. Administration to prevent the dropping
of workers on Boston projects at the present time.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, even as one
who is not 100 per cent sold on this idea of Public
Works and the C. W. A. I yet have an interest,
which has not yet been satisfied, in trying to get
some degree of information. It took us three
weeks to obtain a response to a letter addressed
to the President of the United States and to Mr.
Ickes, in Washington, last month, in regard to
public works. A week ago, on behalf of the
Council, I wired Washington for information
asking the names of the various works projects
and the amount allocated to each, so that the
City Council might have some information in that
regard, as the figure, according to information
furnished us, has varied from $5,000, 000-odd up
to 310,000,000. A response to that has been
received by neither mail nor telegram, and we
now read about the laying off of C. W. A. workers
in the City of Boston. I was glad to read in the
morning paper an appeal from Mayor Mansfield
that the 14,000 C. W. A. workers in Boston should
not be dropped. We had previously been told by
Mr. McCarten through the Mayor's office that
the C. W. A. workers in Boston numbered 16,000.
Of course, even that figure was a low one, because
we had previously received word in this city that
the number employed here would run from 19,000
to over 20,000. But it seems as though the C.
W. A. situation as far as Boston is concerned, has
been badly bungled. So I have been trying to
obtain information as to how many workers in the
City of Boston are actually on these rolls, whether
14,000, as we are now advised, or in excess of
16,000, as we were earlier advised, or somewhere
nearer the 19,000 that we were told some time
ago Boston was to receive. I have asked for that
information from Mr. McCarthy, and I am glad
to see that the Mayor is sending out this appeal.
In view of the fact that the C. W. A. situation
here has been so badly bungled to date, it seems
to me that we are entitled to information, cer-
tainly we in this part of New England that has
so far got the worst break.
President DOWD— The Chair would state
that in a conference with Mr. McCarthy, Mr.
McCarthy advised him that the greatest number
placed at work under C. W. A. has been 13,500;
that at the present time, according to the popula-
tion of the City of Boston, the number of men
placed at work here on projects would be 20,000,
but that at no time have there been more than
13,500 placed at work.
Coun. WILSON — I know that we are al 1
pleased to receive that information, and I, for one,
am disillusioned. At a conference held last
Monday, at which you were present, at which
Mr McCarten was present, we were told that
there were 16,000 C. W. A. workers in the City of
Boston. It is certainly disillusioning and dis-
appointing to find out in connection with this
great project — if it turns out to be a great project,
so far as placing men at work is concerned — the
man in charge in the City of Boston does not
know how many men, within 2,000 or 2,500, are
actually working under the program in this city.
The orders were passed under suspension of the
rule.
FEBRUARY 19, 1934.
52
PATIENTS AT BOSTON CITY HOSPITAL.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Hospital Trustees be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, that no
patient be accepted at the Boston City Hospital
who is able to pay for hospital treatment excepting
of course emergency cases.
Referred to Committee on Rules.
ARC LIGHT, WARD 21.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install an arc light at the corner of Cambridge
street and Cambridge terrace, Ward 21.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers ana
sailors and their wives in the City of Boston for
the month of February, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.55 p. m., on motion of
Coun. TOBIN, to take a recess subject to the call
of the Chair. The members reassembled in the
Council Chamber and were called to order at
3.54 p. m. by President DOWD.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petition of Boston American
League Baseball Company (referred February 12)
for license for Sunday sports — recommending that
permit be granted.
Report accepted; permit granted on the usual
conditions.
2. Report on bond of Boston American Base-
ball Company for SIOO.OOO — that same be ap-
proved .
Report accepted: bond approved.
3. Report on petition (referred today) of City
Hospital Trustees for reinstatement of Annie
Pettee, recommending passage of following order,
viz.:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
320 of the Acts of 1933 the reinstatement of Annie
Pettee. in the employment of the city as a diet
cook at the City Hospital, be, and hereby is,
approved.
The report was accepted and the order passed.
4. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred January 29) for sale of ferryboat "John
H. Sullivan" at upset price of $5,000 — that same
ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
5. Report on message of Mayor and orders
(referred today) rescinding loan of $28,000,000 and
authorizing new loan of $28,000,000 — that the
orders ought to pass.
The report was accepted, and the question came
on the passage of the two orders.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, in speaking
on this particular order now my position is per-
haps a little embarrassing, because I made no
objection in Executive, and there was no objection
there to the passage of this order. But I wonder
if it would mean any real harm to allow it to lie
on the table for one week, giving the members
of the body a chance to look into it? Very frankly,
I have not read chapter 11 of the Acts of this
year and, while I am informed that this will bring
us in line with the other cities and towns of Massa-
chusetts, I am reminded of the arrangements
whereby the banks find it possible to lend the
City of Boston substantial sums of money in antici-
pation of taxes until October, while by this act
not only taxes but other funds of the city are
earmarked against the loan, and the banks that
have done business with Boston will be in a
position of having the money in the bank without
interest until October. Unless there is objection,
as we have already disposed of $2,000,000 of the
$30,000,000, I trust that this order may be laid
over for a week.
President DOWD — The Chair would simply
state that the Mayor's letter to us says he believes
this action is absolutely necessary because of the
fact that the Legislature has already passed this
act and that it is imperative that we should act
as is proposed here in order that there may be
no delay in obtaining temporary loans by the city
in anticipation of the taxes of the current financial
year.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I don't want
to be too technical, but do I understand that we
cannot borrow under the old set-up under which
we have been acting for years a sufficient amount
to carry us along?
President DOWD — I am advised that we can-
not borrow under the special act under which we
have been borrowing in the past.
Coun. WILSON — In other words, this chapter 11
of 1934 makes it obligatory to proceed under this
act if we are to issue bonds?
President DOWD — I understand so. It is a
temporary loan, and requires two readings — a
reading today and a reading next Monday.
Coun. WILSON— Well, I hate to be put on the
spot, and I would simply remark, how unfortunate
it is, if it has been known for some weeks past
that this chapter was to be passed, that it was
not brought to our attention a little earlier.
President DOWD — I am advised that it was
only passed on Thursday or Friday of last week
and that the City of Boston cannot borrow,
even temporarily, except under this act.
Coun. WILSON — So the method of borrowing
has been changed in this way, the method under
which the city has been borrowing for years,
and we have not even received any information
that such legislation was going through?
President DOWD — We have advised our City
Messenger Department to keep us informed of
all bills pending, but the Chair knows of no official
information by which the body would be so
advised.
Coun. WILSON— Well, Mr. President, I want
to be fair about this matter, and not stubborn.
But I am going to take this position, starting
today, when so-called emergency measures are
presented to us, changing the whole policy of the
City of Boston or the whole method of procedure
of the city government of Boston, involving
rescission of loan orders or any other action, that
I shall insist on more than thirty minutes for con-
sideration before I vote.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I would
like to ask whether, if we do act as proposed, the
auditing department of the state can come into
our city and take control of our finances?
President DOWD — Absolutely not. My under-
standing is that in the past we have been borrow-
ing under our special act, and that now we have
got to get in line with the other cities and towns.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I would like
to ask the City Clerk what earmarking means in
this particular connection?
President DOWD— The City Clerk's explana-
tion is that under the old act the loans were paid
from taxes raised during that particular year.
Under the new act the loans will be paid from
taxes and revenue, — in other words, from all
available resources.
Coun. NORTON — What power does this give
to bankers in the matter more than was given
under the previous act?
President DOWD — Absolutely none whatsoever,
except more security.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, these questions
are perhaps unfair to ask of you, and they should
perhaps have been asked in Executive. I wish
I had asked the Mayor to come before us in the
executive meeting. But I understand than under
this set-up all money that comes into the hands
of the City of Boston is available, not only taxes
but all revenue, including, I assume, revenue from
the Water Division, Market Department, or other
departments, money from the Registrar's Depart-
ment, received from certificates of deaths and
marriages, — all money, in addition to the taxes,
deposited by us in the bank, and lying there
CITY COUNCIL.
presumably without interest or with very in-
adequate interest, all earmarked against the bonds
we sell, and that it cannot as a matter of fact be
touched until the latter part of the year.
President DOWD — That seems to be so.
Coun. WILSON — How unfortunate that is!
I don't know what powers were behind chapter 11
of this year but I again repeat, how unfortunate
it is that such a change should have been made
by this act recently without the city government
of Boston even being advised of it and being
given an opportunity to appear upon the bill.
Coun. McGRATfi — Mr. President, I now make
a motion to lay on the table. I have heard so .
much in times gone by about very important and
drastic legislation that must be passed without
having previously even been brought to the
attention of the Council, and that if it is not
immediately passed, welfare cannot be paid,
hospitals cannot function, one thing or another,
that I am getting pretty sick and tired of it. I
move that this matter lie on the table to give us
an opportunity to study it.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President.
President DOWD — No debate is in order on the
motion to lay on the table.
The Council voted to lay the matter on the
table, by rising vote, 12 to 4.
PROPOSED USE OF ARMY BASE.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to confer with the Boston Port Authority
and consider the advisability of leasing or pur-
chasing the Army Base in South Boston with a
view of developing and expanding the Port of
Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
USE OF UNITED STATES VETERANS'
HOSPITAL NO. 44.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to confer with the City Hospital Trustees
to consider the advisability of utilizing the build-
ings formerly occupied by the Federal Govern-
ment as United States Veterans' Hospital No. 44,
West Roxbury, as a convalescent hospital or for
other hospital purposes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned, at 4.06 p. m., on motion of Coun.
FISH, to meet on Monday, February 26, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
54
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings oi City Council.
SPECIAL MEETING.
Wednesday, February 21, 1934.
Special meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 1.30 p. m.,
pursuant to the following call :
City of Boston,
City Clerk's Office, February 19, 1934.
A special meeting of the City Council will
be held in its chamber, City Hall, on Wednes-
day, February 21, 1934, at 1.30 o'clock p. m.
Subject : To act on temporary loan orders.
By order of the President.
W. J. Doyle,
City Clerk.
Placed on file.
President DOWD presided, and all the mem-
bers were present except Coun. Murray and
Shattuck.
BORROWING IN ANTICIPATION OF
TAXES.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am attaching hereto a copy
of an opinion from Corporation Counsel Henry
E. Foley relative to the effect of the proposed
order to authorize borrowing in anticipation
of taxes for the year 1934, which I submitted
to your honorable body on February 19 last and
which, I think, will clarify the situation.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Washington, D. C,
February 20, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — I have been advised by
certain members of the City Council that they
entertained doubts as to the effect of the
proposed order to authorize borrowings in
anticipation of taxes for the year 1934, which
you submitted to the City Council on February
19, 1934. I submit herewith the reasons
leading me to believe that the proposed order
should be passed, and my opinion as to the
effect of this order.
There was introduced in the Legislature this
year a bill relative to temporary loans by cities,
towns, and certain districts in anticipation
of revenue, which bill became law on February
13, 1934 (chapter 11 of the Acts of 1934).
in substance, chapter 11 of the Acts of 1934
amended section 4 of chapter 44 of the General
Laws (dealing with temporary borrowings in
anticipation of revenue) by striking out from
said section the words "and expressly made
payable therefrom by such vote" and further
expressly provided that section 4 should apply
to Boston.
From the legislative history of chapter 11,
and from its preamble, I am of the opinion
that chapter 11 provided for the striking out
of the above-quoted words because certain
purchasers of municipal notes had suggested
that the presence of these words indicated a
legislative intent that notes issued under sec-
tion 4 of chapter 44 of the General Laws
should not be general obligations of the cities
or towns issuing them, but were to be pay-
able only from the revenue of the year, and
from no other sources. This opinion was not,
I believe, shared by local bond counsel, nor
by the Law Department of Boston. The view
that these obligations were not general obliga-
tions, however, threatened to impair the
marketability of the notes.
Similarly, I am of the opinion that the pro-
vision in chapter 11 that section 4 of chapter 44
of the General Laws should apply to Boston,
was inserted because a doubt had been raised
by purchasers of notes of the City of Boston
as to the power of Boston to borrow in an-
ticipatin of taxes. This doubt was not shared
by local bond counsel, and I believe rightly.
Furthermore, the Law Department, under my
predecessors, has been of the opinion that
section 4 did apply to Boston, but in view
of the doubt expressed, it seemed advisable to
the Legislature to be explicit in this matter.
It is my further opinion that chapter 11 was
intended merely to clarify the law, and that
it does not in substance change the law. Notes
duly issued by cities and towns under section 4,
as now amended, are clearly general obligations
of the cities and towns issuing the same,
but they are not secured by any specific munici-
pal funds ; in other words, obligations arising
therefrom are on the same footing with ordi-
nary contractural obligations of the munici-
pality.
The order providing for temporary loans in
anticipation of taxes of the year 1934, which
was given its second and final reading by the
City Council on January 8, 1934, and approved
by you on January 9, 1934, contained in it
the words "payable . . . from the taxes of
the year 1934."
In view of the change in section 4 of chapter
44, it seems to me desirable to limit said
order to the notes already issued thereunder,
and pass a new loan order authorizing borrow-
ings in anticipation of taxes for the year 1934,
this new loan order to be in the same form as
the one last adopted, with two exceptions :
(1) that the amount be $28,000,000, and
(2) that the words "from the taxes of the
year 1934" be omitted.
Inasmuch as revenue includes taxes, loans
in anticipation of taxes are, in my opinion,
authorized under section 4 of chapter 44 as
amended.
Respectfully submitted,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
President DOWD — The matter of the pro-
posed rescission of the $28,000,000 loan order
and passage of a new loan order in anticipa-
tion of taxes now lies on the table. What is
the pleasure of the body ? Before we act
they must be taken from the table.
The Council voted to take the matters re-
ferred to from the table.
President DOWD — The question now comes
on rescission of the temporary loan order al-
ready passed and the passage of the new tem-
porary loan order for $28,000,000 to a first
reading.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, as I under-
stand it, at the present time chapter 11 of the
Acts of 1934 — which received the signature of
the Governor only last week and which was
introduced into the Legislature and passed
without notice to the Council — is the only law
under which the Ciity of Boston can now make
temporary loans in anticipation of taxes, that
we have no alternative. I assume that the
City of Boston has to obtain money through
borrowings in this way this year, in order to
do business, and that it must be done under
chapter 11 of the Acts of 11934?
President DOWD— The Chair understands
that that is absolutely correct.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, in view of
the fact that the Corporation Counsel of the
oity has stated to us that the letter sent by
his Honor the Mayor is erroneous and is not
the letter that he expected to be sent, and
that he now assumes responsibility in the mat-
ter, I have no further objection to the passage
of these orders.
55
CITY COUNCIL.
The orders before the Council for passage
are as follows :
Ordered, That the right to borrow money in
anticipation of the taxes of the current munici-
pal year under loan order passed January 8,
1934, and approved Iby the Mayor January 9,
1934, he limited to $2,000,000, and that the
authorization to borrow in excess of said
amount for said purpose be, and the same here-
by is, rescinded.
Ordered, That to provide temporarily money
to meet the appropriations for the financial
year 1934, the City Treasurer issue and sell,
at such times and in such amounts as he may
deem best, notes or certificates of indebtedness
of the City of Boston not exceeding $28,000,000
in the total, in anticipation of the taxes of
the current municipal year ; that all such notes
or certificates of indebtedness be dated the
day the money for the same is received, be
made payable with the interest thereon within
one year of their date and bear interest from
their date until the same are made payable at
such rate as the City Auditor, the City
Treasurer, and the Mayor may determine.
The orders were given their first reading
and passage, yeas 17, nays 0 :
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Iirackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish, Fitz-
gerald, Gallagher, Goldman, Green, Kerrigan,
McGrath, Selvitella, Tobin, Wilson— 17.
Nays — 0.
The orders will come up later for final read-
ing and passage.
On motion of Coun. ENGLERT, the busi-
ness for which the Council was convened hav-
ing been transacted, the Council voted, at
2.04 p. m., to adjourn to Monday, February
26, 1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
56
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, February 26, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in the Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President DOWD
in the chair and all the members present.
APPOINTMENT OF WEIGHER OF GOODS.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointment:
Weigher of Goods: Campbell S. Higgins, 6
Bournedale road, Jamaica Plain.
Laid over a week under the law.
VACANCIES IN POLICE DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor. February 26, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
Martin H. King, Acting Police Commissioner, with
reference to the order of the City Council Febru-
ary 12, 1934, concerning the filling of vacancies
now existing in the Police Department.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
February 21, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of your communi-
cation of February 19 inclosing an order of the
City Council dated February 12, requesting that
the Police Commissioner fill vacancies now exist-
ing from present list, or else have present list given
extension until appointments in July are made.
In reference to the present civil service list
being given an' extension until appointments in
July are made, I beg to inform you that this is a
matter that comes solely within the jurisdiction
of the Civil Service Commission, and is not within
the province of the Police Commissioner.
Very truly yours,
Martin H. King,
Acting Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
NEW FIRE STATION FOR FIREBOATS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 26, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Fire Commissioner, with reference to the order
of the City Council February 12, 1934, concerning
the erection of a new fire station for Engine 44
(Fireboat).
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Fire Department, February 21, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of the City of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I return herewith the order from
City Councilor Donovan, recommending a new fire
station for Engine 44 be included in the P. W. A.
program.
This station is located at the Northern Avenue
Bridge and if any fire stations were to be included
in the P. W. A. program, I think that there are
other locations in Boston that deserve first con-
sideration.
Yours very truly,
Edward F. McLaughlin,
Fire Commissioner.
Placed on file.
LOAN AND GRANT AGREEMENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — As I advised your honorable body
on February 19, 1934, when I submitted for your
examination and consideration a specimen copy
of one of the proposed loan and grant agreements
between the United States of America and the
City of Boston, I have been informed by the
Federal Emergency Administrator of Public
Works that the five agreements relating to the five
projects heretofore approved must be properly
executed and delivered to the Administrator at
Washington not later than March 5, 1934, if the
city is to proceed with these projects. ' These loan
and grant agreements relate to the following five
Public Works projects:
1. Reconstruction of streets at an estimated
cost of $1,000,000.
2. Construction of one new high school and
one new intermediate school at an estimated cost
of $2,000,000.
3. Replacement of Brookline avenue water
main at an estimated cost of $350,000.
4. Construction of new surgical building at
City Hospital at an estimated cost of $1,500,000.
5. Construction and reconstruction of sewers
at an estimated cost of $1,000,000.
Your honorable body gave a first reading to the
five loan orders authorizing borrowing by the city
for these five projects on February 12, 1934; and
I am informed that you contemplate taking
further action on these five loan orders at today's
meeting. It is necessary that these five loan
orders be given their second and final readings by
your honorable body and approved by me, before
any action can be taken with respect to the loan
and grant agreements.
I am submitting five orders approving and
authorizing, in accordance with the instructions of
the Administrator, the execution and delivery to
the United States of America of these five loan
and grant agreements, each of which orders sets
out and contains a complete and accurate copy
of the particular agreement. I recomm.end
prompt consideration and passage by your honor-
able body of these orders, after the five loan orders
relating to the five projects have been given their
second and final readings and passage and after
they have been approved by me. Prompt action
is necessary because of the limited time available
for the execution and delivery of these agreements.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to execute and deliver to the United
States of America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston three counterparts of the agreement here-
inafter set forth; and that said agreement be, and
the same hereby is, approved:
(Annexed were orders approving loan agreements
for the five projects set forth in the message, said
agreements being substantially in the form of
the agreement printed in the City Council Minutes,
pages 42-48.)
Referred to Executive Committee.
APPROVAL OF NEW SURGICAL BUILDING.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — By direction of the Executive
Committee of your honorable body a letter dated
February 15 was addressed to me to ascertain
whether or not I had made any decision in regard
to retaining in the list of P. W. A. projects a new
surgical building for the Boston City Hospital.
In reply I beg to state that I shall approve a loan
order for the carrying out of this project if such
an order is passed by the Council.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
57
CITY COUNCIL.
WITHDRAWAL OF NKW CITY HALL
ORDER.
Tlie following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of tlie Mayor, February 20, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I wish to withdraw the loan order
which I sent to you on February 12, 1934, for a
new City Hall, or if it may not be withdrawn, to
ash you to reject it.
I am fully satisfied that a new City Hall is as
necessary as any public work which Boston could
contemplate at this time, and in addition to that,
that it would more than pay for its maintenance
in economies effected by the saving of rentals now
paid for private buildings in which city depart-
ments are housed.
Information from officials in Washington, how-
ever, indicates that the $1,500,000 which has been
allotted to the City of Boston for the erection of a
surgical building cannot be applied to any other
public works project. In other words a new
City Hall cannot be substituted for the surgical
building and the only way in which a new City
Hall can be provided for among the P. W. A.
projects will be to add it to those already con-
templated. This would entail such a serious
addition to the funded debt of the city that I can-
not approve of a program which would include
both projects at the present time.
It is therefore necessary to choose between the
surgical building and the City Hall. If the City
Hall project be chosen as the one with which we
are to proceed we will not obtain the $1,500,000
which has now been allotted to us for the hospital
project and lam advised by officials at Washington
that the likelihood of an allotment for the new
City Hall is slight, because of limited funds, until
there is a further appropriation by the Congress
of funds for public works.
Whether or not such an appropriation will be
made and whether, if made, we will receive ade-
quate funds for the construction of a new City Hall
is not certain. In view of the pressing importance
at this time of increasing opportunites for employ-
ment and in view of the fact that I am advised by
the Board of Trustees of the City Hospital that a
new surgical building is a pressing necessity I
recommend that your honorable body pass the
loan orders now before you with the exception of
the loan order authorizing borrowing for a new
City Hall.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield. Mayor,
Placed on file.
INFORMATION IN RE CITY HOSPITAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I attach hereto a copy of a report
from the trustees of the City Hospital containing
certain information which your honorable body
requested me to obtain in its order adopted on
February 19, 1934.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the trustees of the Boston City
Hospital be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to furnish the City Council with the
following information for its assistance in pass-
ing upon the pending loan order for a new surgical
building:
1. The daily average number of bed patients
accommodated during the year 1933.
Answer. Main Hospital, 1,272.6; Hay-
market Square Relief Station, 8.1.
2. The number of additional beds which will
be made available if the proposed build-
ing is constructed.
Answer. 2S8.
3; The number of nonresidents of Boston fur-
nished with beds during the year 1933,
and the approximate daily average.
Answer. 1,363 patients; 4, approximate
daily average.
4; The number of bed patients who paid, in
whole or part, during the year 1933, and
the total amount in dollars collected from
bed patients; and the percentage of bed
patients.
Answer. Main Hospital, 3.312 pay patients,
or 8.3 per cent; 1150,687.43; Hay-
market Square Relief Station. 133 pay
patients, or 7.1 per cent; $1,25!). 15.
5. What steps are taken to determine whether
persons admitted have a residence in
Boston?
Answer. Upon application for admission a
history is taken of all patients, which in-
cludes the residence of the patient. Also
daily, from 9 a. m. to 5 p. m., except Satur-
day afternoons, Sundays and holidays, a
clerk from the Settlement Office (part of
the Department of Public Welfare of
Boston) interviews all ambulatory cases
and takes this information to determine
their settlement before admission. After
admission, for those not previously ob-
tained, this information is requested from
the patients on the wards.
6. What steps are taken to determine whether
persons admitted can afford to pay, in
whole or in part?
Answer. Clerks of the Settlement Office
when taking settlement, either before ad-
mission or after while on ward, question
the patients as to their ability to pay.
Also if a patient has evidence of wealth
such as cash, bank accounts, or other
evidences on his person upon admission,
this information is received from the
Valuables Office. This information is
recorded on patient's account cards for
follow-up.
On automobile accidents the patient
while in the hospital is asked the name of
his lawyer. Later, in most of these cases,
the patient requests a copy of his hospital
record or gives permission to the insurance
company to obtain same and at that time
on his request blank we ask the name of
the patient's lawyer; this is recorded on
patient's account card.
On prenatal cases the patients are inter-
viewed by our Social Service Department,
who go into the patient's home conditions,
etc., very carefully, and if patients are
able to pay in whole or in part that informa-
tion is put on patient's account card.
7. How many beds in the City Hospital are
occupied by continued-treatment patients
who might more properly be accom-
modated at Long Island or at some other
institution?
Answer. The total of patients on February
1, 1934, in the hospital over a month was
187. Of them, 158 were Boston settled
and 29 non-Boston settled. Many of
these are held here because there are not
accommodations at Long Island or else-
where.
8. What is the approximate per diem expense,
exclusive of interest on investment in
plant, of maintaining a bed patient in the
City Hospital?
Answer. For year 1932, Main Hospital,
$4.77; Haymarket Square Relief Station,
$4.75.
9. What has been the capital outlay on the
City Hospital plant in the last ten years,
and how many beds have been added to
its accommodations during that period?
Answer. Expenditures on new buildings and
furnishings and land, exclusive of Sana-
torium, past ten years, approximate
$7,643,702.05. Main Hospital added 655
beds; Haymarket Square Relief Station
added 2 beds.
10. Having in view the interest and amortization
charge on a new surgical building and the
operating expenses of such building, could
not the city at less expense arrange with
existing hospitals for the accommodation of
persons eligible for admittance to the
Boston City Hospital who cannot be ac-
commodated there by reason of lack of
space?
Answer. Not having an accurate knowledge
of the number of patients that it would be
necessary to transfer, and not having a
knowledge of the contractual charges that
might be made by other hospitals, we be-
lieve it would be impossible to answer
Question 10 with any satisfaction in the
time allowed.
Placed on file.
FEBRUARY 26, 1934.
58
PROPOSED REDUCTION OF ASSESSED
VALUES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Assessing Department, in reply to your order
of January 29, 1934, concerning the proposed re-
duction of the assessed value of real estate in
Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Assessing Department, February 19, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Pursuant to the order of the City
Council, under date of January 29, 1934, regarding
the advisability of directing the assessors to imme-
diately make plans for the reduction of the assessed
values, I beg to advise you that the Board of
Assessors are considering applications for abate-
ments for the year 1933, the last day for filing
these petitions being December 31, 1933.
The result of the decisions by the Board of
Assessors on these abatements, for the year 1933,
will undoubtedly affect the valuations for 1934.
If reductions are made for 1933, the same con-
sideration may be observed for the year 1934,
providing conditions remain the same.
Regarding the amount, namely, 200 million
dollars, as a figure set for this reduction, it is
absolutely impossible in any way to determine
what the amount of these reductions will be. The
Board of Assessors will place a fair valuation upon
real estate for the year 1934. What that figure
will be and the amount of the reduction over the
valuation of 1933, it is impossible at this time to
determine.
Respectfully,
Edward T. Kelly, Chairman.
Placed on file.
PERIOD FOR MEETING CITY COUNCILORS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
Walter V. McCarthy, Executive Director, Welfare
Department, concerning your order of January 22,
1934, relative to setting aside a certain period each
week to meet the City Councilors.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
February 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
requesting that Secretary Walter V. McCarthy of
the Public Welfare Department be requested to set
aside a definite period weekly to meet City Coun-
cilors, may I respectfully advise that I am very
glad to comply with the request and will hold open
the period from 11 to 1 o'clock on Tuesday of each
week at my office.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
STATISTICAL INFORMATION FROM OVER-
SEERS OF PUBLIC WELFARE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of Public Welfare, concerning your
order of January 22, 1934, relative to an inquiry
concerning number of cases, methods of handling,
and expenditures in that department.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
February 5, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to City Council order re-
questing that the Board of Overseers of the Public
Welfare be requested to furnish the City Council
with information concerning expenditures and
methods with relation to certain phases of the
administration of the department, the following
information is respectfully submitted.
Monthly expenditures of the department for (a). Care of Dependents, (b) Mothers' Aid, and (c) Old
Age Assistance, during the years 1932 and 1933.
Answer.
(a) Dependent Aid.
1932.
1933.
January. . .
February.
March ....
April
May
June
July
August. . . .
September
October. . .
November
December.
735,585
10
$911,386 80
831,745
57
924,409 46
976,663
94
847,447 66
886,497
61
1,087,868 31
860,792
73
919,708 59
877,399
79
1,016,948 92
817,137
81
884,555 98
846,687
17
980,975 05
777,351
70
854,914 92
716,567
00
880,385 10
776,831
iy
987,519 25
930,830
70
973,827 47
(b) Mothers' Aid.
1932.
1933.
January . . .
February .
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October. . .
November
December.
$77,701 50
81,288 05
86,621 67
78,308 61
78,311 78
75,492 00
72,787 94
76,598 25
71,235 60
71,153 70
79,357 25
80,330 53
$85,086 25
81,521 08
78,290 35
95,078 95
90,332 80
95,294 96
83,307 54
101,830 85
83,769 25
96,471 15
97,457 95
95,900 14
59
CITY COUNCIL.
(c) Old Agio Ahsibtance.
January . . .
February. .
March
April
May
June
July
August. . . .
September
October . . .
November
December.
1932.
L933.
350,779 00
396,096 50
62,805 50
90,834 50
74,082 50
74,010 30
83,355 80
116,940 00
90,001 50
102,476 00
93,856 60
99,142 00
90,445 00
99,014 00
97,280 05
100,213 60
92,859 85
101,403 mi
92,035 57
103,288 95
92,769 75
105,469 00
95,808 65
107,914 08
Monthly caseload in 1932 and 1933 for (a) Care of Dependents, (b) Mothers' Aid, and (c) Old Age
Assistance.
Answer.
1932.
Dependent Aid.
Mothers' Aid.
Old Age.
January . . .
February . .
March
April
May
June
July
August. . . .
September
October. . .
November
December.
16,710
19,166
20,709
21,467
21,919
23,701
23,300
23,083
22,296
21,824
22,993
23,967
1,031
1,046
1,065
1,074
1,081
1,076
1,091
1,107
1,117
1,131
1,204
1,248
1,731
2,141
2,510
2,716
2,998
3,067
3,219
3,277
3,322
3,334
3,371
3,394
1933.
Dependent Aid.
Mothers' Aid.
Old Age.
January . . .
February. .
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October. . .
November
December.
25,460
26,609
27,453
27,358
26,875
26,974
26,674
26,298
25,769
26,098
27,430
24,714
1,235
1,275
1,294
1,333
1,370
1,375
1,451
1,428
1,419
1,437
1,456
1,483
3,422
3,384
3,470
3,490
3,488
3,535
3,541
3,572
3,676
3,691
3,785
3,738
3.
Number of recipients taken from dependent
aid rolls to be employed in the Civilian Con-
servation Corps.
Answer.
Of the total enrollment of boys in the Civilian
Conservation Corps 852 families received allot-
ments averaging $25 a month. The average
amount of aid being allowed these families
amounted to $12 a week. Reduction in aid to the
families approximated the monthly allotments
from the boys. Aid was discontinued in sixty-two
(62) families since the allotments in these families
approximated or exceeded the amount of aid being
granted.
4.
Number of recipients taken from dependent aid
rolls to be employed on civil works projects.
Answer.
Skilled workers 2,387
Unskilled workers 3,734
Total 6,121
The schedule of rent allowances to recipients
and the manner in which the payment of such
allowances for rent is checked.
Answer.
Schedule of Rent Allowance.
1 person $2 . 00 per week.
2 persons 2.50 per week.
3 persons 2.75 per week.
4 persons 3 . 00 per week.
5 persons 3.25 per week.
6 persons 3 . 50 per week.
7 persons 3 .75 per week.
8 persons and over 4.00 per week.
The department issues rent receipt cards to the
recipients. These cards are presented to the pay-
masters each week showing the signature of the
landlord or owner for the amount of rent paid
which must be in keeping with the amount allowed
for rent by the department. All complaints aris-
ing in connection with rentals are handled by an
assistant supervisor who is assigned this particular
work.
6-
The methods by which the department attempts
to determine private employment of recipients
or refusal of recipients to accept such employment.
Answer.
At the time of application the last employer of
the applicant is contacted to verify applicant's
statement as to reason for loss of position. All
able-bodied unemployed men are required to
FEBRUARY 26, 1934.
60
work for the aid rendered, the number of days
assigned being based on the amount of relief
allowed. Refusal of work when available consti-
tutes ground for refusal of aid and subsequent
action in the courts on a charge of nonsupport
if it becomes necessary to aid the wife and children.
The methods by which the department attempts
to secure private employment for recipients.
Answer.
The department maintains an employment
division for women and men. This group visits
business houses, department stores, factories, etc.,
particularly those listed as former employers of
applicants. In view of the limited opportunity
to secure work during the past three years the
number of positions secured by this division has
been extremely good.
The basis of allowances made to recipients and
the means employed by the department to assure
the expenditure of allowances to recipients in
accordance with the specific allocation to food,
fuel, clothing and other purposes.
Answer.
Schedule of Allowances to Dependent Aid Cases.
2 persons $7per week.
3 persons 9 per week.
4 persons 10 per week.
5 persons 12 per week.
6 persons 13 per week.
7 persons and over 15 per week, maximum.
The basis for these allowances follows: (a) food
budget compiled by the State Department of
Public Health in cooperation with the Community
Health Association of Boston; (b) rent allowance
in accordance with number in family; (c) light
allowance approximately $1 a week; (d) fuel is
provided during April and November in the amount
of one quarter ton per family and in the amount
of one half ton per family during the months of
December, January, February and March. If oil
is used instead of coal fifty gallons allowed for
April and November and seventy-five gallons for
other four months. Expenditures for rent are
checked as described in No. 5. The department
does not distribute supplies directly to recipients.
When grocery vouchers are given the recipient is
permitted to place the order with any market or
store within the limits of the city. Fuel is supplied
on vouchers presented by the applicant to the
fuel company. Medicines are supplied on pre-
scriptions issued by doctors, hospitals or dis-
pensaries.
9.
The types of supplies purchased by the depart-
ment for recipients and the manner in which such
purchases are made, inspected and distributed.
Answer.
No supplies are purchased by the department.
10.
The improvements made and contemplated by
the department in its case and financial record
systems.
Answer.
(a) The major improvement made in the de-
partment as a whole was the adoption of the Fox
plan, definitely establishing certain key positions
and a specific line of demarcation as between the
two branches in the department, namely, the
relief or social service division and the financial
or disbursing division. A promotional examina-
tion held by the Civil Service Commission es-
tablished the assistant supervisors' positions and
these officials have been appointed and are now
operating in accordance with the plan of organiza-
tion as adopted. An assistant supervisor is
charged with the supervision of three districts,
the city being divided into fifteen districts, each
district in charge of a senior visitor with a staff
of junior visitors. Relief is granted only on ap-
proval by the assistant supervisor in charge.
(b) Rechecking by means of revisiting all
persons receiving relief is carried on by a special
group of investigators under the direction and
supervision of the dependent aid supervisor.
This division operates as an independent check on
the district visitors' work.
(c) Establishment of divisions of Dependent
Aid, Mothers' Aid and Old Age Assistance within
the department. Each of the divisions is under
the jurisdiction of a trained and experienced
supervisor and each division has its staff of field
workers.
(d) An employment division for men con-
sisting of a supervisor of employment and four
field solicitors was set up in April, 1933. All men
are classified according to trade or profession.
All able-bodied men are assigned to some form
of work for the city and those not able to perform
manual labor are required to report to the district
offices at stated periods during each week. For
the week ending February 3, 1934, the following
assignments were made:
Men assigned for 1 day each week 3,140
Men assigned for 2 days each week 2,110
Men assigned for 3 days each week 2,672
Men assigned for 4 days each week 3,168
11,090
Men reporting only 661
Total 11,751 •
The solicitors or field workers in this divsion
visit business houses, department stores, factories,
etc., as described under answer to Question 7. A
detailed record on file in the department discloses
that four hundred twenty-four (424) men were
placed at work by this division during the period
April 7, 1933, to December 31, 1933, inclusive.
In like manner an employment division for women
has been set up. Contacts have been made with
personnel managers in stores and factories and a
number of women and girls have been placed at
work to date.
(e) A division of special investigation under the
supervision of a police officer assigned by the
Police Department has been operating for the
past two years. All desertion, nonsupport, fraud
cases and others are subject to special investiga-
tion by this division and proper legal action insti-
tuted through the Law Department of the city.
The Law Department has cooperated fully by
assigning an assistant corporation counsel to assist
in this work.
(f) New forms for first application have been
put in effect. Residences are verified at the time
of application and almost immediately thereafter
the ownership of real estate, court records, bank
accounts, etc., are verified.
(g)' Establishment of a new system for receiv-
ing reapplications for relief has been effected. An
affidavit containing the applicant's oath regarding
financial status and sundry data is attached and
made a part of all new and reapplications.
(h) A central file, supply and record room was
established. All case records are housed in the
central file and released only on written requisition.
Supplies are in like manner distributed on requisi-
tions signed and approved by division officials.
(i) Grocery vouchers issued by the department
may be used in any store or market within the
limits of the city rather than in any selected store
or group of stores as was the system a few years
ago.
(j) Checks are now issued weekly to approxi-
mately seventy-five hundred recipients. This
includes all Old Age Assistance cases, practically
all Mothers Aid cases (some persons in this group
still prefer to call for cash payment) and to a
miscellaneous group in the Dependent Aid class
who are unable to call at the office for their relief
allowance.
(k) A banking division has been set up which
handles all inquiries and correspondence to the
banks and checks all returns and replies, etc.
Contemplated Changes in Case Record System.
(a) Through cooperation of the State Emer-
gency Relief Administration a sum of money has
been allocated to the department for the purpose of
making a survey of the methods in administering
relief and the general administration of the depart-
ment. The plan calls for the appointment of two
expert consultants to the Executive Director and
staff as needed.
An Expansion of the District Office Plan.
(b) For a great many years the department
has operated district offices and at present has
offices in the several health units and other munic-
ipal buildings. These offices have been used
primarily to provide for interviews as between
61
CITY COUNCIL.
district visitors and recipients and for other minor
activities, The department has been working on
plans for tlio establishment of district relief units
for some time. An adequate program of this
character involves many problems and of necessity
must be developed cautiously. An expansion of
the Hyde Park district office was made several
months ago as an experiment and has been watched
by Hie department to determine the strength and
weaknesses of the plan generally. It is to be
understood however that the Hyde Park district
unit as now set up is not in fact the set-up the
department plans for in the establishment of
adequate district relief units. His Honor the
Mayor has assured the executive director of his
full cooperation and assistance in carrying out this
program.
Changes in Financial Record System.
(a) Revision has been made of the method and
record of payments of relief and a system of in-
ternal check controlling all disbursements has been
installed.
(b) Addressograph equipment has made it
possible for all relief orders including checks and
work cards to be made out with this equipment
effecting a substantial saving in the cost of print-
ing.
(e) Visible statistical records of all cases aided
by the department has also been installed.
(d) A system of inter-departmental communi-
cations between the divisions disbursing relief and
the paying and auditing divisions has been effective
for several months. By means of this system all
sections of the department are notified immediately
of any changes in amounts of payments, suspen-
sions or stops.
(e) Over a year ago the method of issuing
vouchers for groceries and fuel was revised. The
department under this revision obtains in addition
to the signature of the recipient, a record of the
actual items furnished.
Contemplated Changes in Financial System.
(a) A study has been made of our ease records
and disbursement records and it is planned to
install certain statistical equipment which will
permit of a speedy and accurate taking off of
statisticsfrom both the financial and relief divisions.
It is expected that this equipment will be of great
value in auditing disbursements and annual bills
to the Commonwealth and other cities and towns.
An appropriation to permit of the installation of
such equipment has been requested in the budget
of this year.
(b) Installation of a system whereby the
department appropriation will be encumbered at
the time of issuing vouchers and orders rather than
at the time bills are paid.
(c) The acquisition of additional office space
for the paying division in order to relieve congestion
and thereby eliminate to a large degree delay now
unavoidable due to overcrowding.
(d) The appointment of a consultant to the
executive director to make a further survey and
study of the financial and disbursing system as
now operated and to make such recommendations
and changes as may be considered advisable. The
State Emergency Relief Administration has
provided funds to finance this program.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
TILING WORK IN EAST BOSTON TUNNEL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 20, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Transit Department relative to your order of
January 22, 1934, concerning giving citizens of
Boston preference in employment on tiling work to
be done in the East Boston Traffic Tunnel.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Transit Department, February 19, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I return herewith order from the City
Council, dated January 22, requesting that this
department confer with the C. M. Tyler Company
with reference to giving citizens of Boston prefer-
ence in employment on tiling work in the Traffic
Tunnel.
The Board has conferred with this firm and they
have agreed to give the preference to citizens of
Boston on this work.
Respectfully,
T. F. Sullivan, Chairman.
Placed on file.
RECONSTRUCTION OF HYDE PARK
AVENUE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works concerning the
reconstruction of Hyde Park avenue, from Forest
Hills to Readville, and vour order of February 5,
1934.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
February 16, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor.
I return order of the City Council, dated Feb-
ruary 5, relative to the reconstruction of Hyde
Park avenue, from Forest Hills to Readville.
Hyde Park avenue is in good condition, with the
exception of the portion from upper Walk Hill
street to Metropolitan avenue, and we have in-
cluded the reconstruction of this section of the
street in the program of ten streets to be recon-
structed, under the Public Works program, with
funds obtained in part from the Government under
the provisions of the National Industrial Recovery
Act.
The street construction program has been ap-
proved by the officials of the State Emergency
Finance Board and by the authorities in Wash-
ington, and we will be prepared to award a con-
tract as soon as the necessary details regarding
the financing of the project have been straightened
out.
Yours respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
REPAVING PIKE'S ALLEY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners relative to
your order of January 15, 1934, concerning the
repaying of Pike's alley, Ward 3.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
February 15, 1934.
Mr. Joseph F. Mellyn,
Secretary to the Mayor.
Dear Sir, — Inclosed please find correspondence
in regard to order passed by the City Council
"That his Honor the Mayor instruct the Com-
missioner of Public Works to repave Pike's alley,
Ward 3."
Pike's alley is a private way and the Board of
Street Commissioners on January 30, 1934, heard
a petition for the repaving of said Pike's alley.
What the petitioners really desire is the laying
out of Pike's alley as a public way and then an
order for its construction and widening by the
Public Works Department.
This work would require a considerable amount
of property to be taken by the city and the total
cost, according to the estimate of the chief engi-
neer, would be approximately $50,000.
It is the opinion of the Board that the cost of
this project makes it prohibitive and especially
because there does not seem to be any public
demand or necessity for the same.
Very truly yours,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
FEBRUARY 26, 1934.
62
MONTHLY PUBLIC WELFARE REPORT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of Public Welfare concerning your
order of January 22, 1934, relative to certain sta-
tistical information.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
February 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
requesting that the Board of Overseers of the Public
Welfare be requested to furnish the City Council
monthly, as soon as may be after the end of each
m,onth, beginning with the month of January,
certain statistical information, the following
statement is respectfully submitted:
1. Case load at the end of the month.
Answer. Number of cases being aided at end
of January, 1934:
Dependent Aid 24,161
Mothers' Aid 1,505
Old Age Assistance 3,747
29,413
2. The number of recipients of aid dropped
from the rolls during the month.
Answer. 2,368.
3. The number of recipients of aid added to
the rolls during the month.
Answer. 1 ,846.
4. The expenditure for the month for (a) Care
of Dependents, (b) Mothers' Aid, and (c) Old
Age Assistance.
Answer. Expenditures for the month of
January, 1934:
Dependent Aid $849,559 09
Mothers' Aid 104,381 50
Old Age Assistance 115,121 50
Total SI ,069,062 09
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Alaska Fur Shop, for compensation for damage
to property at 57 Causeway street, caused by
bursting of water main.
Antonio Camiola, for compensation for damage
to premises at 96 Cottage street, East Boston,
caused by negligence of city.
Ralph W. Conant, for compensation for damage
to car by city truck.
Mariannina C. Corleto, for compensation for
damage to premises at 241 Maverick street,
caused by negligence of city.
Pasquale Costanza, for compensation for damage
to premises at 92 Cottage street, caused by negli-
gence of city.
Antonio Covino, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 9 Decatur street.
Loraine H. Dean, for compensation for loss of
teeth at City Hospital.
Samuel Freedberg, for compensation for damage
to property at 55-59 Causeway street, caused by
bursting of water main.
William Harrington, for compensation for
damage to property at 97 Homer street, caused by
bursting of water main.
Sarah M. Knowles, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 24 Forest avenue.
Louis Lexenberg, for refund on beer license.
David Pokat, for compensation for damage to
property at 251 Chambers street, caused by water
in cellar.
Robert Robinson, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect at Aniory and
School streets.
Walter Silverman, for compensation for damage
to car by snowplow.
Suffolk Cafeteria, Inc., for refund on beer license.
Eugene C. Webster, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 851 Boylston
street.
Executive.
Petition for children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
Ida H. Dadmun, Peabody Playhouse, March 21.
WASHINGTON STREET SCHOOL,
JAMAICA PLAIN.
Communications were received from the School
Committee that it had rescinded its action of
November 20, 1933, requesting Council to author-
ize School Committee to lease to 55th Artillery,
A. E. F. , Veterans' Association, the Washington
Street School, Jamaica Plain, and voted to request
Council to authorize committee to lease same to
55th Artillery, A. E. F., Veterans' Association,
and to West Roxbury District Veterans' Asso-
ciation. Jamaica Plain.
Placed on file.
CHANGE OF STREET NAMES.
Notice was received from the Board of Street
Commissioners of following changes of names:
Audubon road. Boston proper district, between
Mountfort street and Park Drive, new name,
Park Drive.
Royen road, West Roxbury district, from
Louder's lane to Winchester road, new name,
Calvin road.
Park Lane street, West Roxbury district, new
name. Park lane.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENTS ON MEDICAL BOARD.
Notice was received of acceptance of appoint-
ments on Medical Board for annuities to widows
of policemen and firemen from Drs. John A.
Foley, Arthur W. Fairbanks and Robert C.
Cochrane.
Placed on file.
NOTICE OF INTEREST IN CONTRACT.
Notice was received from Joseph A. Tomasello,
member of the Board of Appeal, of interest in
contract of A. G. Tomasello & Son, Inc., with
City of Boston, for furnishing and installing pipe
sewers, manholes and gravel fill, Boston Traffic
Tunnel.
Placed on file.
MINORS' LICENSES.
Petitions of fifty-seven newsboys and three
bootblacks for minors' licenses were received, and
granted, under the usual conditions.
RECESS.
The Council at 2.33 p. m., on motion of Coun.
GREEN, took a recess subject to the call of the
Chair. The members reassembled in the Council
Chamber and were called to order by President
DOWD at 4.30 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petition (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
Ida H. Dadmun, Peabody Playhouse, March 21,
— recommending that leave be granted.
Report accepted; leave granted under usual
conditions.
2. Report on petition of Boston National
League Baseball Company for license for Sunday
sports, — recommending that license be granted.
The report was accepted, and the license granted
under the usual conditions, and the bond was
approved.
G3
CITY COUNCIL.
LOANS AND RESCISSIONS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, Nob, I to 7 on the calendar, viz.:
J. Ordered, That under l.lic provisions of chap-
ter 420 of (.lie Acts of 1807, an amended by chapter
21)1 of the Acl.H of I 'JOS and chapter 178 of the
Acts of 1930, the sum of $250,000 be, and hereby
is, appropriated, to be expended under the direc-
tion of the Commissioner of Public Works, for
sewerage works, and that to meet said appro-
priation the City Treasurer be authorized to issue,
from time to time, upon the request of the Mayor,
bonds or certificates of indebtedness of the city
to said amount.
On February 12, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 20, navs 0.
2. Ordered, That the Bum of $250,000 be, and
hereby is, appropriated, to be expended under
the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works, for Reconstruction of Streets, and that
to meet said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
the request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates of
indebtedness of the city to said amount.
On February 12, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
3. Ordered, That the right to borrow $450,000
for new wayfarers' lodge, under loan order passed
December 11, 1933, and approved by the Mayor
December 12, 1933, be, and the same hereby is
rescinded.
4. Ordered, That the right to borrow $1,075,000
for new fire houses and departmental buildings,
under loan order passed December 18, 1933,
and approved by the Mayor December 20, 1933,
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
5. Ordered, That the right to borrow $800,000
for new prison buildings, under loan order passed
December 18, 1933, and approved by the Mayor
December 20, 1933, be, and the same hereby is,
rescinded.
On February 12, 1934, the foregoing orders were
read once and passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
6. That the right to borrow money in antici-
pation of the taxes of the current municipal year,
under loan order passed January 8, 1934, and
approved by the Mayor January 9, 1934, be
limited to $2,000,000, and that the authorization
to borrow in excess of said amounts for said
purpose be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
On February 21, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 17, nays 0.
7. Ordered, That to provide temporarily
money to meet the appropriations for the financial
year 1934, the City Treasurer may issue and sell,
at such times and in such amounts as he may deem
best, notes or certificates of indebtedness of the
City of Boston not exceeding $28,000,000 in the
total, in anticipation of the taxes of the current
municipal year; that all such notes or certificates
of indebtedness be dated the day the money for the
same is received, be made payable with the interest
thereon within one year of their date and bear
interest from their date until the same are made
payable at such rate as the City Auditor, the City
Treasurer and the Mayor may determine.
On February 21, 1934, the foregoing order
was read once and passed, yeas 17, nays 0.
President DOWD — Unless there be objection,
the Chair will put the question on the passage of
Nos. 1 to 7, inclusive, on the calendar. Is there
any objection?
Coun. 8HATTUCK— I would like to make sure,
Mr. President, in regard to these seven orders
that we are voting upon. Are they rescissions?
President DO WD — Some are rescissions.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Are there any bond
issues?
President DOWD — Nos. 1 and 2 are bond issues,
No. 1, $250,000 for sewerage works; No. 2, $250,-
000 for reconstruction of streets; No. 3 is a rescis-
sion, No. 4 is a rescission, No. 5 is a rescission,
No. 6 is a rescission, and No. 7 is the new temporary
loan order.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, may I ask
whether any of these items are the P. W. A.
loan orders?
President DOWD— No.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, may I ask
that Nos. 1 and 2, under which we are appro-
priating half a million dollars for streets and
sewers, be voted upon separately?
President DOWD — The question comes on the
passage of No. 1 and No. 2 on the calendar, and
the clerk will call the roll.
Coun. NORTON — I am going to vote against all
orders except those of an emergency nature.
Pn ident DOWD In order thai I here may not
be any misunderstanding, the question comes on
i If final second reading and passage of Nos. 1
and 2 on the calendar.
Nos. 1 and 2 on the calendar were given their
second and final reading and passage by roll call,
yeas 20; nays — Coun, Norton, Shattuck — 2.
President DOWD — Unless there be objection,
tiie question now comes on the passage of Nos.
3 in 7, inclusive.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, for purposes
of the record, I would like to ask the City Clerk,
through the Chair, whether it is necessary to
rescind some of these following orders in order
to make the same amounts available for other
appropriations and work in Boston? I asked the
same question of the Corporation Counsel in a
meeting of the Committee on Finance, and he
informed me that it would in no way affect future
borrowing of a similar amount, but that for the
purpose of clearing the thing up it would be a nice
thing to rescind. I ask that question because I
don't want to go on record as voting against new
prison buildings on Deer Island, the Wayfarers'
Lodge and the fire stations unless it is absolutely
necessary to vote in favor of rescission in order
to make a similar amount available for other
projects.
President DOWD— The Chair would state that
under chapter 366 the Council approved these
loans, but that the loans were disapproved by the
Emergency Board at the State House. So as
it stands now, while these loans are carried on the
books of the city, we cannot spend the money.
Coun. TOBIN — Do I understand that that rul-
ing does not include Item 7?
President DOWD — It simply includes all
rescissions.
Nos. 3 to 7, inclusive, on the calendar were given
their second and final reading and passage, yeas 22,
nays 0.
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. GREEN, for the Committee on Finance,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and six orders
(submitted February 12), $1,000,000 for Recon-
struction of Streets, $2,000,000 for one New High
School and one New Intermediate School, $350,000
for Replacement of Brookline Avenue Water
Main, from Brookline line to Beacon street,
$1,500,000 for New Buildings, City Hospital,
$1,000,000 for Construction of Sewers, $700,000
for Water Main Construction — recommending
passage of same.
The report of the committee was accepted.
President DOWD called up, under additional
unfinished business, at this point Nos. 8 to 13,
inclusive, viz.:
The following orders were read once and passed
on February 12, 1934, yeas 20, nays 0, and were
referred to the Committee on Finance for further
consideration:
8. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amend-
ment thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of
$2,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the School Com-
mittee, for one New High School and one New
Intermediate School, and that to meet said appro-
priation the City Treasurer be authorized to issue,
from time to time, upon request of the Mayor,
bonds or certificates of indebtedness of the city to
said amount.
9. Ordered, That under the provisions of chap-
ter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of $350,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works, for Replacement of the Brookline Avenue
Water Main, from the Brookline line to Beacon
street, and that to meet said appropriation the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon the request of the Mayor, bonds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount.
10. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amend-
ment thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of
$1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the Commissioner
of Public Works, for the Reconstruction of Streets,
and that to meet said appropriation the City
Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or certifi-
cates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
FEBRUARY 26, 1934.
64
11. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amend
ment thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of
$1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the Commissioner
of Public Works, for the Construction, Recon-
struction and Replacement of Sewers and the
Covering of Open Water Courses, and that to meet
said appropriation the City Treasurer be author-
ized to issue, from time to time, upon request of
the Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebtedness
of the city to said amount.
12. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amend-
ment thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of
$1,500,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the Hospital
Trustees, for New Buildings and Alterations and
Equipment, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from
time to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount.
13. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amend-
ment thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of
$700,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the Commissioner
of Public Works, for Water Main Construction,
and that to meet said appropriation the City
Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or cer-
tificates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
The report of the committee was accepted, and
the question came on the second and final reading
of the above orders.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, personally I
am going to vote against about every appropria-
tion mentioned by the clerk. If there is no
objection, I had just as soon have them all taken
upon one vote, unless somebody wants to vote
for some and against others.
President DOWD — Is there any objection to
voting on these as a unit, Nos. 8 to 13, inclusive?
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, in a matter of
this kind I believe we ought to vote on each item
separately. Therefore, I object.
President DOWD — The question first comes on
the passage of No. 8 on the calendar.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, No. 8 calls
for the expenditure of $2,000,000 on schools.
The City of Boston has in its forty-three square
miles of area today more schools than any like
city in the world, more than 300 school buildings,
costing some $68,000,000, from the elementary
schools clear up to the highest grades, and while
the number of children is decreasing, because of
people going to other parts, the expenditure for
schools has been increasing. On account of the
general economic situation and in view of our
position today, being unable so far to collect
more than 70 per cent of the taxes of 1933, while
for the previous two years we have collected up
to the present time 92 per cent, I am going to
vote in favor of emergency expenditures only,
bearing in mind this fact, that in my opinion the
paramount issue before the people of Boston is
the increase in taxes during the last few years
and the even greater increase threatened for the
future. There are over thirty pages set forth in
the six City Records of tax sales pending in my
own ward for this year, because the people of
my ward have been particularly afflicted in this
matter, but it is also a fact that all over our city
people are unable to pay their taxes. Before
running up more debt I here declare that I intend
to vote against everything here that can be post-
poned. The schoolhouses of Boston take care of
137,000 children. It costs more to educate chil-
dren in Boston today than in any other city in
the world of half a million population — $130 for
each child in the public schools of our city. The
average cost in other such cities of America, such
as Philadelphia, Cleveland and New York, is
under $100. We have been building medieval
castles in Brighton and elsewhere and buildings
that we cannot afford to build, and it is the
apparent intention to continue that sort of thing.
As I say, our school expenditure is larger than
that of any other large city in the world, and I
do not intend to add to it by voting $2,000,000
more at this time.
Coun. DONOVAN — Mr. President, I come from
a district that would benefit to the extent of
$1,000,000 under this Public Works programs
I believe that additional expenditures for school,
is badly needed in that district, because of the
fact that every building over there is over fifty
•years old. The Hawthorne School is a fire trap,
over one hundred years old, and over two hundred
children from five to nine years of age are receiv-
ing primary education there. The Florence School
is another old building, four stories high, eighty-
four years old, with wooden floors and stairways.
If a fire ever started in that building while school
sessions were on, practically everyone in the
school would probably perish. Hawes Hall is
also old and in bad shape; ' the Lincoln School is
fifty years old; the Norcross, Thomas N. Hart,
ShurtlerT, John A. Andrews, Benjamin Colt and
Benjamin Dean Schools are also antiquated
buildings and a fire menace. I certainly believe
that the new school structures contemplated
under the Public Works program should be built,
and I trust that these orders will be passed.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I shall vote
against this order and the other orders that follow,
and what I say applies to all of them. These
loans, including several which are coming up in
a few days, also under the P. W. A. program,
aggregate about $8,000,000. The interest charge
of the Federal Government will be 4 per cent,
or $320,000 a year. They will be paid serially,
about one-twentieth each year, and the serial
installments will amount to about $400,000 a year,
a total annual sum beginning with the first of the
year of about $720,000, slightly decreasing in
subsequent years as the installment payments
are made. That, Mr. President, means $720,000
added to the burden of our citizens. Now, where
does the money come from? We have rather
limited resources in the matter of revenue in the
City of Boston and in the other cities and towns
of the Commonwealth. We get a share of the
income tax, a fixed percentage, the amounts de-
creasing with the decreasing incomes of th e last
few years. The source from which all additional
expenditures must be taken is the real estate tax.
That must stand the burden, because the income
tax and other sources of revenue are far less than
the normal expenses of the city. Therefore, the
total amount of this additional burden comes
upon real estate and upon persons who are now
finding it exceedingly difficult to pay their taxes,
to pay their mortgage interest, to keep their places
from foreclosure. The Federal Government is
in a very different position. It has absorbed in
large part the big items of revenue, particularly
the income tax with a graduated step-up, with
the excess profits and surtax provisions, and so
forth. Of course, it has always had the impost
taxes, and the taxes on tobacco and liquor to such
an extent that local taxation of those items is
almost impossible. Thus, the Government has
absorbed the great sources of revenue. Further-
more, it has the power to issue money, it has con-
trol of gold, it can sell bonds when no other com-
munity can sell bonds, it can raise money when no
other community can raise money. Very different
is the case of the cities and towns, which are sub-
stantially in a strait-jacket in so far as revenue is
concerned, in which, in order to meet their ordinary
expenses, to meet their pay roll, to meet the debts
they have incurred, are struggling under a burden
that they can hardly bear. Now, sir, I am not
willing to add to that burden, to add to the diffi-
culty of meeting existing obligations in the way
of pay rolls, debts, and so on. I do not believe
we can borrow ourselves out of this situation; we
cannot load debt on debt without courting dis-
aster. Therefore, sir, I shall vote against all these
measures.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I want to
agree with a great many things that my brother
councilors Shattuck and Norton have said about
these particular orders. But there is one thing
that we cannot lose sight of. We have had
13,000 people on C. W. A. work, receiving revenue
in that way. Some of us know of cases, know
what they have done with their money. We know
that they have paid back debts, room rent and
grocery bills. That is one of the beneficial results
of Civil Works and Public Works appropriations.
It has been further intended, I understand, that
the Public Works program shall take up the work
of the C. W. A. program and that as these 13,000
workers are laid off under C. W. A. appropriations
they will be absorbed in the big Public Works
appropriations. The unfortunate thing, of course,
is that the property owners of Boston must bear
this burden. That is something that we cannot
control or alter. There is not a single city or
town in the nation that is not concerned, and that
in many cases has not approved public works, and
65
CITY COUNCIL.
many of them in western and southern t-i i j«-m are
already i» progress. If we approve these projects
now under consideration i1 means thai there
will be no slack to take up in the C, W, \ ..
thai the people will go on under the Public
Works program and that ihc Federal ideas in
this respect will be carried out, It is unfortunate,
of course, thai property owners here and in other
places musl bear tiie burden. We all know that
taxes are high, but we also know that the plan
is to take care of these people who are unemployed
and who without ho such means would not
be able to support their families or pay their rent.
Those people will be enabled to support themselves
I in pay their bills. I will admit that I don't
believe in many items on the program. The up-
keep of the buildings will also be saddled on tiie
taxpayers. It ia too bad that we eould not get
some other program. But just think, we have
had only a few days to approve of any program.
The people of the Commonwealth, the people
paying the taxes, are asking, "What is Massachu-
setts doing for the workers?" The people of the
City of Boston, whom we represent, say to us,
"What, has Boston done towards approving the
Public Works appropriation?" I recall that last
year when we adopted some items that were then
under consideration the same question arose, and
at that time the feeling was not unanimous as to
items then before us. There were different ideas.
There were questions as to how much money
should be spent on slum elimination, and so on.
It is too bad that we cannot have our ideas ap-
E roved. But, on some of these projects that are
eing planned, whether they agree with our ideas
or not, they will result in putting some draftsmen
and craftsmen at work. We have succeeded in
having some provisions in regard to providing for
labor of the City of Boston. That, at least, is a
step in the right direction, giving them preference.
Certainly, unless we do something, some of our
constituents at some time in the future will have
occasion to ask us, "What did you do to help
alleviate the situation?" We may answer, "We
didn't like the particular program." The reply
will be, "Whether your ideas can be carried out
or not, at least something should be done, and
here you have a program." In Chicago, New
York and other cities they have approved the
contracts, gone to work and started things, and
people are looking to us to do something. This
program will at least provide some work, and will
answer the question, "What has Boston done on
the P. W. A.?"
Coun. GOLDMAN — Mr. President, as for my-
self I am going to vote for every one of these items
from 8 down through 15, and in opposition to the
proposed new City Hall. I cannot conceive of
the reasoning of my colleague from Ward IS
(Coun. Norton) or my colleague from Ward 5
(Coun. Shattuck). I don't see how they can
possibly think of throwing away S3 ,000 ,000 given
to us for nothing under a program that will re-
habilitate in a good measure the unemployed
situation of Boston. In regard to the question
that is bothering some, about paying back the
money that is raised for this program, whether
we get the money or not, we will pay back the
money that is being raised by the Government,
through income taxes or otherwise. Every city
or town in the United States will pay it eventually,
and we will pay our proportionate share, and we
will do that whether we receive any benefit from
it or not. So we had better get whatever benefit
we can. I think that Councilor Norton and
Councilor Shattuck will admit that good work has
been done in the municipality, necessary work,
under the C. W. A. program, that it has helped
out in the employment situation and enabled
many of our people to pay their bills. I think
they must admit also that the carrying out and
completion of this hospital program will give
Boston the finest institution of the kind in the
country. So, Mr. President, inasmuch as our
people will have to pay the bills anyway, I feel
that we should get whatever benefit we can obtain
through this action bv the Federal Government.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I go along
quite a distance with the gentleman from Ward 5
(Coun. Shattuck) and the gentlemen from Ward IS
(Coun. Norton) with reference to the burdens
placed on the real estate taxpayers of the City of
Boston; but, on the other hand, I think there is a
happy medium between being fooled by the cry,
"You can get a million from the United States
Government if you will only spend two millions,"
and the cry that we should suddenly stop all
spending of money. 1 have in mind the Boston
City Hospital Surgical Building, which was not
initially a pari of the I'. W. a, program at all,
but was a pari of a program initiated by Mayor
Curley as long ago as 1924, The surgical build-
ing in o building much needed by the public of
JioHtofi, and is the culminating point of that whole
program, and it is something for the interest of
those who do not have homes to pay taxes upon.
So, irrespective of P. W. A., and having in mind
that it is i In- final culmination of the great hospital
movement started ten years ago, I would roti
for No. 12. I would also vote for No Ml. invoh
ing an expenditure of a million dollarB for the
reconstruction of streets, and for No. 11. to be
expended for the construction, reconstruction
and replacement of sewers and the covering of
open water courses. I feel that those are alBo
matters interesting all our citizens, dealing with
things that are necessary to be done and that
we are therefore justified in acting favorably upon
these orders. While, as I say, I arn not fooled
by the cry that we should spend two dollars to
get one, I still feel, even though we are in a depres-
sion, that Boston has not yet become a deserted
village and that we should keep our Btreets in
repair and sewers under the streets. With respect
to the sehoolhouses, under Item S, I still believe.
as a result of examination into the matter by the
Finance Committee, that West Koxbury and
Roslindale are justified in demanding a high
school, and that the proposed intermediate school
should be placed in South Boston. We in other
sections, who have sufficient school accommoda-
tions for the children of the sections, should not,
I feel, take the attitude that because our sections
are amply provided we will punish the South
Boston and West Roxbury sections which do need
additional school accommodations for their chil-
dren. And, after all, it is the children whom we
are now educating who will pay the bills on
these things in the future. So I feel that those
sections which have been slower in getting accom-
modations for the education of their children
should have our help in obtaining the assistance
they need in the matter. I do feel that at the
present time we do not need a new City Hall, nor
do I feel that we need a new Northern Avenue
Bridge. The present bridge can be repaired. I
understand, at a probable expense of about
$200,000, and will then last at least twenty years.
Thus, as I have indicated, I feel that there is a
happy medium between squandering the city's
money, whether in Washington or Boston, and
economy carried to a point where we become a
deserted village and actually go down with the
ship.
Coun. GREEN — Mr. Chairman, I will say for
the members of the Committee on Finance that
we are holding Nos. 14 and 15 in committee until
Wednesday, when we have our special meeting,
but I would like to have No. 16 brought up on the
question of rejection.
Coun. FINLEY — Mr. President, I am particu-
larly interested in Item 8 of these matters now
under discussion, and I wish to plead with the
members of the Council to give favorable con-
sideration to the request for a new high school
for the West Roxbury and Roslindale district.
I would like to inform the members of this honor-
able body that that high school is needed in a
district that has approximately one-sixth of the
entire population of the City of Boston; that the
fight for that high school has been made for a
period of over a quarter of a century. And I
can say this without fear of contradiction, that
there is not a district of its size anywhere in the
State of Massachusetts where there is not a high
school to take care of the number of people living
in that particular district. Previous members of
this honorable body in their sessions in other
years have gone on record, I believe, without a
dissenting vote in favor of this high school. The
people of my district have been very patient.
They have fought year after year for a high school
without success. Only a year ago they appeared
before the Massachusetts Legislature, putting in
a bill to have a high school in that section which
should be built under a bond issue; but, realizing
the financial condition, as set forth by various
organizations of the district, they adopted a
liberal attitude, asking to have that bill with-
drawn. Everybody in that locality feels that at
this particular time the request for the hospital
should be granted, because of the fact that money
that will help pay for it can now be obtained
under conditions that possibly will not exist in
FEBRUARY 26, 1934.
66
the next era. They feel that there is not a project
that has been proposed before the Federal or
State Board, the high authorities of this state and
nation, which possesses more merit than the
West Roxbury high school. As a new member of
this body, I trust that the other members will
give to this project the same consideration that
has been shown by the State Board, the Federal
Board, and the authorities in Washington. There
has been up to the present moment absolutely no
argument against this particular project, and I
stand here and pray your earnest consideration,
trusting that this particular project will be given
the vote of this honorable body.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I think,
first, that the Committee on Finance deserves
some credit in connection with this program be-
cause of the way they have met every two days ,
have gone into these matters with the greatest
care and have in their official capacity familiarized
themselves with the different projects that have
been submitted to them. I feel, as does every
member of the Council, that the first considera-
tion must be given to those in our city who have
to shoulder the most serious responsibility and
burden, those especially who own small homes in
every section of our city. But we cannot help
being impressed by the statement of the councilor
from Ward 6 (Coun. Donovan) and the statement
of the councilor from Ward 20 (Coun. Finley).
When you go into the South Boston district you
find that they apparently never heard of birth
control. On the streets of South Boston there
are hundreds of little ones who must be cared for.
Every day we hear about the tremendous cost to
society because of the fact that we have not
properly trained our children, and we find that if
we had given to every child an opportunity to get
proper schooling, even if it was only in the pri-
mary and grammar grades, we would not later on
have been worried a hundredfold because some
have not made a better contribution to society.
When we come to the West Roxbury district, we
find a section that is growing more rapidly than
any other in the city; and you will find hundreds
of families going into that section because they
want to have a single home, being forced to get
that home because they have many in their
families, and they want to properly provide for
them. So when we go to such sections we cannot
begin to economize on education and expect to
profit thereby. We have considered these various
appropriations carefully; we have called in the
Corporation Counsel; we have called in various
heads of departments, because we wanted to be
properly directed. Might I say a word on the
City Hospital appropriation, because apparently
we want to expedite votes when we once start
voting? There is a crying necessity for additional
facilities in our Boston City Hospital, and it is
in the interest of our citizens that such facilities
should be provided. Those of our people who go
to that hospital are suffering because of the lack
of certain facilities. They are unable to employ
the services of specialists or to hire rooms in
private institutions. During the entire discussion
of this appropriation I have been disturbed by art
organization in Boston which dwelt on the fact
that we should limit the facilities of the Boston
City Hospital in order to force into private in-
stitutions hundreds of those in our city who are
suffering. I wondered if it had occurred to those
gentlemen how many there are in families in our
cities who cannot afford to pay for the services
of these private institutions. We have in the
West End of our city one of the finest hospitals
to be found anywhere, the Massachusetts General
Hospital, and even in this depression they are
making plans to spend $6 ,000 ,000, in order to
afford more facilities for their patients. So when
private institutions in our city feel the need for
additions to their present facilities, what about
the City Hospital, where the unfortunates go?
The entire Board of Trustees came to the meeting
of the Finance Committee last Friday and gave
us the history behind the proposed surgical build-
ing, and we found that not since 1912, twenty-two
years ago, has there been any addition to the
surgical buildings of the Boston City Hospital.
We were told by this same outside private asso-
ciation that the entire proposed building was to
be used for cots but we find from the trustees that
55 per cent of the building will be used for surgical
purposes. We have in Boston a City Hospital
that is looked up to by every city in the country,
because it is the outstanding municipal hospital,
and a hospital that is as well-governed as any
municipal hospital in the United States. And
so there come to in this matter the pleas of the
suffering in this city, who say to the Municipal
Research Bureau, "Gentlemen, you are the afflu-
ent men of the city, and you lose sight of the
fact, when you call on us to avail ourselves of the
services of private hospitals, that we have not the
money to do it." At this juncture may I say to
you that if your Finance Committee had not been
working, you would be voting today for a City
Hall to cost $1,800,000, to house those who are
well and healthy, and you would be abandoning
in your ward, Mr. President, one of the most
necessary buildings that could be receted in this
great city. For the fact that the City Council
is not so acting, thanks are due to you, Mr. Presi-
dent, for your efforts, and to the members of the
Finance Committee, who stood their ground when
they were told by a high official of the city at our
Finance Committee meeting that the City Hospital
Trustees had abandoned the idea, thought that
the proposed surgical hospital was no longer
necessary. We called in those trustees, and every-
one of them — Mr. Manning, a business man of
standing in Boston; Mr. Dreyfus, another business
man; Karl Adams, Doctor English and Doctor
Sears — stood up and said, "We cannot too strongly
urge the building of this proposed hospital."
Different projects went to the two local state
boards and later to a board in Washington, and
they turned down fire stations, they turned down
a hospital and prison buildings on Deer Island,
they turned down the Wayfarers' Lodge, but
after scrutinizing this request for a new surgical
building, they passed it. After some criticism of
the wording, it came back here; and we then
found that hiB Honor the Mayor wished to ignore
the appeal not only of the trustees but of the
suffering of this city. I am glad that finally the
light dawned on him when he found that this
Council would not pass the new City Hall and
abandon the hospital, and that today he has
shown the wisdom to send to us a request that
his order looking to a new City Hall be withdrawn.
For every item upon which we are called to vote
here — schools, reconstruction of streets, construc-
tion, reconstruction and replacement of sewers
and hospitals — there is a crying need today.
They represent services that the taxpayers, even
the overburdened taxpayers, demand from the
city. I do not believe there is an item included
therein that is not of vital importance to the tax-
payers. On streets and sewers in the outlying
districts, in many places where voters live in
large numbers, little consideration has been given
to them. No, Mr. President, I think the Council
will be wise today in passing all these items.
Coun. KERRIGAN — Mr. President, as a
member of the Finance Committee I voted in
favor of all these projects, and I think every
member of the Council should vote for any project
that will put men at work. This whole program
has been initiated for the purpose of putting men
at work, on useful projects, of course, and I think
we should all be in favor of such a program.
At the present time South Boston is in need of a
school. In some cases the children of the dis-
trict are going to school in portable schoolhouses.
What is the result? Youngsters going to those
places on cold days are dying of pneumonia.
I think this whole situation can be cleared up
by every member here voting for the school
projects, and voting for these other items that
will put men at work and also supply the needs
of the citizens of our city.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, as I
stated before, I am not going into the merits of
these several projects as individual projects.
Of course they have merit. There are a great
many things on which we might spend money to
advantage. But last year, in order to meet our
pay roll, in order to meet our welfare expenses,
in order to meet the running expenses of the
city, we had to borrow money to a large extent
and through the favor of the Federal Government,
because our credit was not sufficient to get it
outside that. We do not know how we are
coming out this year; we have not received the
budget. We don't know whether we are going
to be able to find the revenue to meet our pay
rolls and our necessary welfare and other operating
expenses. Until we know that, until we know
where we stand, and can see that we have the
revenue to pay our ordinary bills, I believe we
should not go into further debt, adding to the
burden that the city now has to bear.
67
CITY COUNCIL.
Conn. NOItTON— Mr. President, if I thought
all those millions would put 1.000 men to work
I would vole for them, For four long years X
opposed the chief executive of this city, who
insisted thai Hie way to start prosperity was to
have bands playing " Happy 1 lays are Here Again,"
"Prosperity is Just Around the Corner," that the
way to progress was to let him spend millions.
He was allowed to spend millions. No city in
America, with the money that was available,
spent more than we did. We have more school-
houses, fire stations, police stations, subways,
more of everything of the kind, than any like city
in the world. If I thought that these millions
would put 1,000 men at work in Boston next spring,
I would vote for them. But let us not be fooled
by these projects. C. W. A. has brought about
good results, because it has quickly put two
and one quarter millions into our city that has
enabled people to get work and to pay their bills.
Those men have gone to work, but that is a
different thing from some of these other projects.
We built the Jeremiah E. Burke High School in
Roxbury, the Mayor of Boston saying, "I want
that money spent there in order to put men at
work," and there were not one hundred men
who went to work on that school for the $1,100,000
that was spent. How many men are going to
work if these millions are provided? No man
wants more than I do to put men at work. I
come from a section that is poverty-stricken
as a result of this great depression, that has twice
as many men in need of public relief as there
are in any section except two of the residential
wards. Do I want to put men at work? Yes;
certainly I do. Is there any member here who
can show me where there will be 1,000 men who
will go to work in Boston as a result of these pro-
posed projects? Can you point to one other
project that the city has ever engaged in, in this
line, that has put any number of men at work?
There were the millions that were appropriated
for the East Boston Tunnel, which we were told
would put 3,000 men at work. How many men
have actually worked on that project? How
many men do any of you members here know
of who were sent to work on it? Can you, or
you, or you mention ten, or can you mention five?
The gentleman from East Boston (Coun. Selvi-
tella) is concerned about the men employed on the
tiling, for example. It seems that not a man from
his section is working there. I want to put men
at work. Show me where these things will put
1,000 men at work, show me where they will
help out the people who are today being burdened
by the tax rate, and I will vote for the orders.
We all know the talk about the number of
men who would be employed on Hyde Park
avenue, with the large expenditure made there,
and I don't think there were one hundred. But
they say, "Put men at work." I have stated
what happened in connection with the construction
of the Jeremiah E. Burke High School, and we all
know the history of the other projects for which
we have been appropriating money for years.
Orders have been continually introduced here
for the appropriation of large sums of money,
with the argument that they would put men at
work. But there was no large number of men
put at work until we received the two and one
quarter millions in Boston under C. W. A. That
did put men at work. If I thought times would
get good this year or next year, I might feel
differently, but you know what my opinion is.
You have heard me stating it here for four years.
I hope I am wrong. No, Mr. President, the way
out is a long, long road. We were years getting
into this, and we are going to be years getting out.
No trick in regard to money, nothing we can do,
will speed the hour of coming back to economic
progress. So why not prepare for what we still
have to meet? We hear talk about hospitals.
We have spent over thirty million dollars on
hospitals since I860, when the first municipal
hospital ivas established here. As shown by the
hospital trustees, in the last decade we have spent
millions on the City Hospital. I will vote in
favor of a hospital at Forest Hills or some adja-
cent station that will take care of certain areas,
but on that small area known as the City Hospital
area we have spent more money than has been
spent on any similar hospital area in the world.
It was the center in 1860. It is not the center now.
Furthermore, every private hospital in Boston
today is in need of patients. I am not asking any
poor person in Boston who cannot afford to pay,
to pay for care in a private hospital, but I am
saying this, that the City of Boston can easily
arrange with the Massachusetts General, with the
lii-ili Israel, with the Carney, with the Si. Eliza-
beth's hospitals and many other splendid insti-
tutions in Boston, and it will not cost one cent
more than it now costs the City to lake care of
our patients in the City Hospital, and they will
not, then be kept in crowded, unsanitary build-
ings, such as we now have up there, as I know them.
Other cities are doing it. Why not send unfortu-
nates who cannot properly be taken care of at the
City Hospital to the Massachusetts General or
to some other of these hospitals, the city paying
the bill under an agreement with the particular
institution? What is wrong with that? That is
what I would like to do. You can dump
$20,000,000 more into the City Hospital and not
have proper hospitalization until you segregate
your patients there. You have the acute, the
chronic and the convalescent. As long as they
are jumbled together it will be a bad institution.
One of the ablest authorities, Dr. S. S. Goldwater,
when called in by the Mayor of one of our large
cities, called attention to the fact that until
patients are segregated — acute, chronic and con-
valescent— and not put all together as they
are at our City Hospital, there will be congestion
and confusion. South Boston needs schools,
yes. Hyde Park needs schools; Roslindale needs
schools. I have heard something about the
need for schools in South Boston in particular.
South Boston is as well taken care of as is our
Hyde Park section, because we have one of the
finest school systems of its kind in America,
in South Boston and in Hyde Park. But even
our city system. I don't believe is as good as the
parochial school system. The Father in charge of
the parochial schools of the archdiocese in an
article in the Pilot two months ago gave figures
of the cost to educate a child in a City of Boston
parochial school and a City of Boston school
alongside the parochial school, and the figures
were all in favor of the parochial schools. It
is too bad that we have not double or treble the
number of schools in this city. They are earing
for 30,000 children in the parochial schools here
today, and still the expenses of our Boston schools
are the highest that they are in any part of the
country or any part of the world.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I have
no desire to prolong the discussion, which I think
has already been entirely too long, but some things
that have been said recently bring me to my feet.
I am in favor of this program that is before us
today for several reasons. One of the main
reasons is that these are items that the City of
Boston will have to take care of this year, next
year or the year after, and we now have an oppor-
tunity to get some help in providing the amount
necessary for these functions. If it is not done
this year, under the conditions now offering them-
selves, we will have to replace these old archaic
buildings that are being used for schools at some
time or other, and will have to start somewhere or
other. The great need at the present time happens
to be in South Boston and West Roxbury. Next
year it will very likely be in some other part of the
city. But these are things that we must provide
for, in the interest of the taxpayers and the people
of Boston, and if we cannot raise enough funds to
meet ordinary expenses, the city will be indeed
in a bad plight. I do not believe, however, that
Boston has got to the point where it cannot raise
the funds to run its ordinary business. As one
of the previous speakers said, the Committee
on Finance has gone over the program and has
sought and obtained the assistance of officials
of the City of Boston in arriving at a just conclu-
sion. They have spent many hours upon the
matter, in order to try to arrive intelligently at
something that would be of the most benefit for
the taxpayers of Boston, as well as putting a fair
proportion of unemployed men at work, thereby
helping out the purposes of the Federal plan now
in effect in every city and town throughout the
United States. We have found, after it had been
originally planned, that we could spend 820,000,000 ;
that we are now down to $6,000,000 as a good
conservative figure for a city as large as the City
of Boston. I think that more than 1,000 men will
be employed under these projects. I think 2,000
men will be placed at work under this program
that we have arranged at the present time. I
hope that the entire program will pass.
Coun. ROBERTS — Mr. President, just a few
words more. I think there should be a reply to
Councilor Norton's remarks. This is not a pro-
gram of our making. There was one program of
the previous Mayor that would involve $26,000,000,
FEBRUARY 26, 1934.
68
under various projects in which it was contemplated
that a large number of men would be put at work.
Now, there is no need for deceiving ourselves as
to the number of men who will be put at work.
I don't know whether the number will be 500 or
1,000. But we haven't any other alternative,
any other program. As a matter of fact, we have
not much to say about the thing. The only
question today is whether we are going to accept
any part of the P. W. A. program. Perhaps
these projects will not increase employment,
particularly but we have 13,000 men who will at
some time in the near future be thrown out of work.
I dare say the majority of us, if we could do so,
would vote to continue the C. W. A., because
under that program there is more money put
into circulation. But this is the best we can do.
The City of Boston is given a chance here by the
Federal Government to expend money in this way,
and no alternative is offered. Therefore, I trust
that we will pass the orders that are before us,
and I now move the previous question.
The main question was ordered, and No. 8 was
given its second and final reading and passage,
yeas 20; nays — Coun. Norton, Shattuck — 2.
The question came on giving the remaining
orders their second and final reading and passage.
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, as I understand
the procedure today we are now giving a second
reading to a number of items on the calendar?
President DOWD — That is correct.
Coun. TOBIN — Following the first reading two
weeks ago. I believe, for purposes of the record,
so that there will be no further technicalities
raised, we should take up those items separately.
President DOWD — The Chair asked if there
was any objection to taking them up together.
There now being objection, the Chair will call up
No. 9.
No. 9 was given its second and final reading and
passage, yeas 20; nays — Coun. Norton, Shattuck
. — 2.
President DOWD — We will now take up No. 10
on the calendar.
No. 10 was given its second and final reading
and passage, yeas 20; nays — Coun. Norton,
Shattuck — 2.
President DOWD — No. 11 on the calendar is
now before us for action.
No. 11 on the calendar was given its second and
final reading and passage, yeas 20; nays — Coun.
Norton, Shattuck — 2.
President DOWD — No. 12 on the calendar.
No. 12 on the calendar was given its second and
final reading and passage, yeas 20; nays — Coun.
Norton, Shattuck — 2.
President DOWD — The question now comes on
the passage of No. 13 on the calendar.
No. 13 on the calendar was given its second and
final reading and passage, yeas 20; nays — Coun.
Norton, Shattuck — 2.
FURTHER FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred February 12) appropriating $1,800,000
for new City Hall — that same ought not to pass,
without prejudice.
The report was accepted and said order rejected.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers and
sailors and their families in the City of Boston for
the month of February, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
COMMITTEE ON JITNEY LICENSES.
Coun. ROBERTS, for the Committee on
Jitneys, submitted the following:
Report on petition of Boston Elevated (referred
February 5) to run motor vehicles between Ken-
more square and the junction of Brookline avenue
and Boylston street — recommending that leave be
granted.
Report accepted; leave granted.
Report on petition of Boston Elevated (referred
February 5) to run motor vehicles from junction
of Everett and Mill streets to Freeport street —
recommending that leave be granted.
Report accepted; leave granted.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
LANDS.
Coun. DONOVAN, for the Committee on Public
Lands, submitted the following:
Report on order (referred February 5) that Park
Commissioners be allowed to purchase at present
assessed value real estate in Tenean Beach section,
between Old Colony Boulevard, Freeport and
Tenean streets on west and Neponset river on
east, to be further developed for beach and park
systems in city — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
NEPTUNE GARDENS, EAST BOSTON.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Whereas, The Boston City Council, through the
chairman of its Executive Committee, is in receipt
of a communication from the Federal Emergency
Administration of Public Works, Washington,
D. C, dated February 19, 1934, and
Whereas, There is an item in said letter covering
Project H-15, Neptune Gardens of East Boston,
in the sum of 33,500,000, and
Whereas, The said letter contains the following
statement :
"According to our records as of February 10,
1934, the following allotments have been made for
the projects in the City of Boston," and
Whereas, The Boston City Council, has never
authorized or approved said project covering the
Neptune Gardens, East Boston, and
Whereas, The Boston City Council under date
of February 19, 1934, adopted an order opposing
the said project, therefore, be it hereby
Resolved, That a letter be forwarded by the
Mayor or by the Boston City Council to the
Federal Emergency Administration of Public
Works, Washington, D. C, disapproving the
allotment aforesaid.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
PAYMENT FOR SNOW REMOVAL.
Coun.-MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public Works
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
pay foremen, clerks, inspectors and laborers the
same as temporary help for overtime work while
engaged in the work of removing snow.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LEASE OF WASHINGTON STREET SCHOOL.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the School Committee be hereby
authorized, in the name and behalf of the city, to
lease to the 55th Artillery, A. E. F., Veterans'
Association, and to the West Roxbury District
Veterans' Association, Jamaica Plain, the Wash-
ington Street School, Jamaica Plain, the specific
assignment of quarters to be designated by the
committee and the lease to be for such period and
upon such terms and conditions as the committee
shall deem advisable.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
AUTOMATIC TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 19.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Centre,
Boylston and Moraine streets, Ward 19.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FLAG DAY.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to make March fourth President's Flag Day in
recognition of the twenty-four Presidents of our
country who were inaugurated on that date, with
no idea of making it a holiday, owing to the recent
Act of Congress changing the Inauguration Day
of future Presidents to some date in January.
69
CITY COUNCIL.
Coun. McGRATII — Mr. President, I might say,
briefly, before that order goes to the Committee
on Rules, that I have introduced it on behalf
of our flag expert, Mr. Leary.
The order was referred to the Committee on
llules.
SIDEWALK ON BAYARD STREET.
Coun. GALLAGHER offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Bayard street, from
North Harvard street to Myrick street, Ward 22,
in front of the estates bordering thereon; said
sidewalk to be from 3 to 10 inches above the
gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in width,
and to be built of artificial stone, with granite
edgestones, under the provisions of chapter 196 of
the Special Acts of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BOSTON NON-FEDERAL PROJECTS.
Coun. WILSON submitted the following and
desired them incorporated in the record:
Western Union telegram, under date of February
12, 1934.
To F. W. Clark,
Executive Assistant, Federal Emergency Ad-
ministration of Public Works, Washington,
D. C.
Please refer to your letter January 20 to Boston
City Councilor Wilson, reporting ten million five
hundred sixty-five thousand dollars already
approved for City of Boston. Would appreciate
prompt advices, via Western Union or airmail,
giving each project and amount for such project,
with grand total as above.
R. G. Wilson, Jr.,
44 School Street, Boston.
Federal Emergency Administration of
Public Works,
Washington, D. C,
February 19, 1934.
Mr. Robert Gardiner Wilson, Jr.,
44 School Street, Boston.
Dear Mr. Wilson, — This is to acknowledge your
telegram of February 12, requesting detailed
statement of the non-Federal projects which have
been approved for the City of Boston.
According to our records, as of February 10,
1934, the following allotments have been made for
projects in the City of Boston:
No.
Project.
Allotment.
H-15...
Neptune Gardens, East
Boston
$3,500,000
875. . .
State Hospital, Carpenter
Shop
18,000
957 .. .
State Hospital, Power
Plant
334,000
960 . . .
State Hospital, Building
for Male Employees . . .
422,000
976. . .
State Hospital, Building
for Female Employees. .
177,000
1944. . .
State Hospital, construc-
tion of three officers'
quarters
5.5.000
2065... .
State Hospital
45,000
2658 . . .
State Hospital, equipping
and furnishing Tuber-
culosis Pavilion
164,000
4193. . .
Sewer Construction
1,000,000
4205. . . .
Street Improvements ....
1,000,000
4207....
Boston City Hospital, Im-
provements
1,500,000
4214. . .
Water Main Repairs on
Brookline avenue
350,000
4217. . .
Schools. :
2,000,000
Total
$10,565,000
I trust this will give you the information re-
quested.
Sincerely yours,
E. W. Clark,
Executive Assistant for the Administrator.
PROPOSED NEW SNOW REMOVAL
EQUIPMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the sum of $400,000 be, and the
same hereby is, appropriated, to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works, for departmental snow removal equip-
ment, and to meet said appropriation the City
Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, on the request of the Mayor, bonds or cer-
tificates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I wish to
explain this order very briefly. Despite much of
the talk we have had today against the passage
of any further loan orders, before this is sent, as
I assume it will be, to the Committee on Finance,
I think there should be just a word of explanation
of its importance. We are all familiar with the
actual breakdown of the City of Boston in the
matter of snow removal, through no fault of the
Public Works Department, in the last ten days.
In the Nichols administration, back in 1926, — as
some of the older members of the Council who
voted on the matter at that time will remember,
— a similar order was passed for the purchase of
snowplows and snow removal equipment, a five-
year loan order. I am informed by one of the
yards in Boston that the expense to which we
were obligated for the removal of snow in con-
nection with the recent snowstorm amounted to
$40,000 a day. I might also say that in the part
of Dorchester with which I am familiar there has
been an expense of $5 an hour for each truck
engaged in such work, which for nine trucks has
amounted to $45 an hour, and for thirteen hours,
$650 a day. That is simply in a particular sec-
tion that I know about. We will say that these
trucks cost $6,500 apiece. That would mean,
the way that we have been going, that we would
pay for a truck in a very short time. I urge,
therefore, that such an amount as I have sug-
gested in my order be appropriated for the pur-
chase of departmental snow removal equipment,
which the City of Boston should have to meet
emergencies such as we have just been through.
Certainly a city like Boston should try to be
reasonably up to date, and not isolated or as hard
to get out of or into as the island of Nantucket.
So I trust that we will replenish our snowplow
and other such equipment, through a short term
loan, so that we may be able to keep open com-
munication between the heart of the city and such
outlying sections as the one where I live. This is
not simply a luxury, but is as important as ambu-
lances, fire department apparatus, milk wagons
and other such things as have to go through our
streets for the convenience and safety of the
public. I certainly hesitate to think what the
result might be in the Dorchester district, for
example, in the next few days, if there were a
serious alarm of fire.
The order was referred to the Committee on
Finance.
LOAN FOR NEW CITY HALL.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the sum of $1,800,000 be, and
the same is hereby, appropriated, to be expended
under the direction of the Public Buildings De-
partment, for a new City Hall and the demolition
of the present structure, and that to meet said
appropriation the City Treasurer be authorized to
issue, from time to time, at the request of the
Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebtedness of
the city to said amount.
Referred to Committee on Finance.
SNOW WORK.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to provide snow work for men who are
equipped with shovels and who are now denied
this work because of lack of proper equipment in
the Public Works Department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
AUTOMATIC TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
FEBRUARY 26, 1934.
70
automatic traffic signals at the junction of East
Eighth and L streets, and also at Andrew square.
Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WHITE WAY LIGHTING, WARD 10.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install a white way system of lighting on Centre
street, from Lamartine street to Hyde square.
Ward 10.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING OF WENONAH STREET.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Wenonah street.
Ward 12.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALK ON TALBOT AVENUE.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Talbot avenue,
Franklin Field side, from Blue Hill avenue to
southerly line of Franklin Field. Ward 14,, in front
of the estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk to
be from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining,
to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to-be built
of artificial stone, with granite edgestones. under
the provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts
of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RESURFACING OF NIGHTINGALE STREET.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor.
to resurface Nightingale street, Ward 14.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MOTION PICTURE MACHINES IN
SCHOOLS.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the School Committee be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to appro-
priate a sum sufficient to provide for the installation
of motion picture machines in the Boston public
schools for educational purposes.
Referred to Executive Committee.
ATTENDANCE BY SCHOOL CHILDREN AT
MOVIES.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Committee on Legislative
Matters of the Boston City Council be requested
to draft a bill, to be presented in the State Legis-
lature, for the purpose of regulating the hours
during which school children may attend motion
picture exhibitions and to request the Legislative
Committee on Kules to admit same for consider-
ation.
Referred to Executive Committee.
INFORMATION FROM CITY PLANNING
BOARD.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Planning Board be re-
quested to furnish the City Council with the
following information:
1. What was the population of Boston at the
different census taking dates, beginning in 1900,
and ending with the date of the last census?
2. What was the population as of the same
dates of Brookline, Cambridge, Newton, Maiden,
Medford, Ouincy and Belmont?
3. Furnish a tabulation showing the increase
in percentage form of these suburbs compared
with the change in the population of the City of
Boston.
4. What, in the opinion of the Planning Board,
is the reason for this great increase in the outlying
suburbs compared with the increase or decrease in
Boston?
5. Has the City Planning Board any sug-
gestions to offer to the City Council to make
Boston, and particularly the older part of the
city, that is, the North End, West End and South
End, a more desirable place so that the population
that has left this part of the city can be replaced?
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, as the
councilor in this body representing the oldest
part of the city, namely, the West End, North
End, South End and the business district, and
realizing how the value of real estate in this district
is being imperiled due to vacancies and inability
to collect rents, I desire the cooperation of the
Board to assist me in requesting that the City
Planning Board make a survey or a report on what
can be done to preserve the solvency of this great
business and residential center. On April 1, 1928,
Ward 3, which I have the honor to represent, was
assessed for $685,624,000, which was 38 per cent
of the total value of the entire city of 81,779,663,000
on that date. On April 1, 1933, real estate in the
same ward was taxed for $591,278,000. The
assessed values of Ward 3 do not mean anything,
as real estate is selling for a great deal less than
it is assessed for and has been for five or six years.
In the West End it is a frequent occurrence for
properties taxed for 830,000 to sell for 810,000,
and only recently a building that was taxed a
few years ago for 840,000 sold for 30 per cent of
its assessed value. These are not isolated cases.
It is frequently what happens. In the South
End the same is true. Real estate on Shawmut
avenue, lower Tremont street and Washington
street and all the way out to Northampton street,
within the Ward 3 limits, and outside, is being sold
at 25 to 40 per cent of its assessed value. Now
this cannot go on forever. For that reason I am
asking the Planning Board, which is very capably
operated by Miss Herlihy, who has had great
experience in city planning, what, in their opinion,
is the cause of this loss of value, and whether they
have any recommendations to make to retard
this depreciation. The City of Boston is moving
away from its center. We should determine why
this is so. Is it a desire on the part of the people
to move to a more ideal community? Is it the
automobile, or what is it? These factors are
going to determine the value of real estate in the
older part of the city. While our real estate in
the West End, North End, South End and even
in the business district around Scollay square,
Fort Hill and the leather district, has been de-
preciating yearly in value, other communities
have not felt the severe blow that we have. AH
one has to do is drive through the suburbs, such
as Cleveland Circle, Belmont, Arlington and other
places, and compare the rents of these stores,
which are only a few years old, with the rents of
our downtown district, and one will be amazed.
Fifteen years ago real estate at the corner of
Spring and Chambers streets was in great demand
and there never was a vacancy. Today these
stores are vacant and cannot be rented for one-
fourth of what they formerly brought. The
same applies to the apartments. Either some-
thing must be done to make residence in the city
more popular and attractive or there has got to
be a wholesale revision of values, not only in the
residential districts of the old city but also in
the business district. For that reason I would
like to secure the views of the City Planning
Board and therefore request that this order be
passed.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. GOLDMAN, at
5.40 p. m., to meet on Wednesday, February 28,
1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
71
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Wednesday, February 28, 1934.
Adjourned meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Murray and
Shattuck.
RECESS.
On motion of Coun. GALLAGHER, the Council
voted at 2.18 p. m. to go into executive session.
The members reassembled at 2.34 p. m. and were
called to order by President DOWD.
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. GREEN, for the Committee on Finance,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(recommitted February 12) that $1,000,000 be
appropriated to be expended under direction of
Commissioner of Public Works for Northern
Avenue Bridge — that same ought not to pass.
The report was accepted, and the question came
on the rejection of the order.
Coun. DONOVAN— Mr. President, I rise at this
time, for Coun. Kerrigan and myself, to ask that
this loan order for $1,000,000 for new Northern
Avenue Bridge be laid on the table, because of the
fact that we have had several differences of opinion
expressed in regard to the cost of repairing the
Northern Avenue Bridge. We have heard from
one source that it might cost $75,000 and from
another source that it might cost $200,000. In
order that we may get definite information, I
move that the order be laid on the table.
The order was laid on the table.
2. Report on order (recommitted February 12)
that sum of $350,000 be appropriated, to be ex-
pended under direction of Police Commissioner,
for police communications system — that same
ought to pass.
The report was accepted, and the question
came on the passage of the order.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I move that
this matter be laid on the table.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I realize that
debate is not in order on a motion to lay on the
table, but I ask unanimous consent to speak.
There being no objection, Coun. WILSON was
allowed to proceed.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I very fre-
quently find myself agreeing with the councilor
from the adjoining ward on certain matters, but
in this particular case, while I hold no brief for
the Police Commissioner of the City of Boston —
being impressed, however, with the fact that he
has the confidence of the men under him, always
a good sign on a football team, in an army, or in a
police department — it is true that this project
has been approved all along the line. Personally,
with conditions as they are, I am strongly in
favor of it. We have been advised by the Cor-
poration Counsel that, while the dead line on this
particular order, as well as on the late lamented
City Hall order and the now pending Northern
Avenue Bridge order, is not March 5, as a practical
proposition it is very urgent, if we desire any
action under the order, that it should take its
second reading as soon as possible, and go on to
Washington; that otherwise its chance in Wash-
ington will be jeopardized. I don't think that
needs much argument, with the forty-eight states
of the country and all the cities and towns rushing
in to get under the Public Works program. So
it seems to me foolish not to give this project,
which in my opinion is much needed, a second
reading today; that by refusing to do so we will
certainly jeopardize and probably kill it, as far
as obtaining any assistance from the Federal
Government is concerned.
Coun. NORTON (having obtained unanimous
consent) — Mr. President, I dislike very much to
have to disagree with the colleague on my left.
This Council last year appropriated $75,000 for
radio for the Police Department. This bill is
incorrectly named. It should be named "police
communications" without any reference to radio,
because this body passed the money for a police
radio system last year. We are not holding up
the police radio system, never have done so. This
body has always insisted that the department
should take advantage of the greatest instrument
for the prevention of crime, police radio, and has
furnished money to put a police radio system into
operation. This order is for wires, for red lights,
telephone communication between police stations,
and not for radio. If what is proposed under this
order is to be carried out, I would like to see
$10,000 or $20,000 a year appropriated for that
purpose, and not have this whole appropriation
made at once. There is some question whether
the United States Government will approve this
project, since most of the money goes for material
and supplies, and very little for labor, and the
Government is emphasizing labor. Personally, I
do not believe the Government will approve a
communications system for the Boston Police
Department, as shown by the fact that it has only
approved of late those projects that represent a
large percentage of labor. I am not going to
bother the Council with data in my possession from
various cities in the country showing what has
been done in the way of police radio; but certainly
red lights and wires have nothing to do with
police radio. I understand that the opinion of the
Commissioner of Public Safety at the State House
is that efficiency of a police radio system has
nothing to do with a telephone system. In other
words, the department at the State House is send-
ing out information and keeping in touch with
different parts of the state without police boxes
or red lights, but, owing to the wonderful medium
of police radio, is getting splendid results. I have
information from the chief of police of Berkeley,
California, whose expert knowledge was used in
the Wickersham report. He does not think that
red lights or telephones have anything to do with
the efficiency of police radio. Now, Mr. President,
I favor police radio, and the members of this Coun-
cil favor it. The question is. whether we want to
spend $75,000 for police radio, and then on top of
that $240,000 for wires and red lights. We are
now given to understand that the $75,000 appro-
priation is to be rescinded. We don't know what
this present order calls for. It is a sort of prize
package, and we have not yet been able to find out
what the Police Commissioner intends to do. We
have been kept in the dark in regard to this whole
matter. It is certainly not an appropriation for
radio. So I see no harm at the present time in
holding this over for one week, putting it on the
table, and I trust that that action will be taken.
Coun. BRACKMAN (having obtained unani-
mous consent) — Mr. President, I think it is rather
dangerous at this time for the Council to indulge
in dilatory tactics regarding this appropriation.
This is an old matter so far as the Council is con-
cerned. It has been pending for some time, and
I think we ought either to pass or reject it today.
I, personally, am in favor of the proposed expendi-
ture of money, feeling that the money will be well
spent. I think the communications system for the
department as set forth by the commissioner, is
probably just as vitally important as the radio.
When it comes to comparing conditions in Boston
with state-wide conditions, you cannot compare
the conditions here in a large city with the con-
ditions out in the country. We must have a com-
munications system, must have boxes, because
not all the police officers on duty in Boston are in
automobiles where they can receive radio messages.
There must be some other way of reaching foot
policemen, either at a fixed post or on their beat.
Because of present conditions we should not delay
further and tie the commissioner's hands by not
giving him the appropriation he has asked for and
the need for which he has explained to the Council
as well as he possibly can under the circumstances.
I don't suppose upon a scientific matter like this
radio question you would get two experts to agree,
any more than you would get them to agree on any
scientific subject. Of course, you have many con-
flicting interests in the radio business and in other
lines. For one reason or another, one company
comes along and says that two-way radio is not
feasible or practicable, and another says it is.
It is simply a matter of difference of opinion be-
tween experts and companies. I don't think you
can get an agreement on which is the best type. I
think the commissioner should obtain the best
72
CITY (JO UN CI I.
advice he possibly can and thai we, in ordei to
uphold Iiih hands in dealing with the crime situation
in lliin oily, should pass this order.
Coun, AGNKVV (having obtained iiu.'iiiiirirjiiR
consent). Mr. President, I don't believe there
is one- member of this Council who opposes the
installation of police radio. If my memory
serves me correctly, last year — while I was not a
member of this body there was considerable
talk and discussion about appropriating money
for the installation of radio, The members of
the Council at that time refused to vote the
amount asked, which would cover different things,
but did vote to make an expenditure of $75,000
for radio. If I am incorrect in my statement,
Mr. President, I wish you would correct me.
We are not opposed to the installation of radio
but I, for one, would like to know in detail what
the $350,000 that is asked for is going to be used
for, whether it is merely for radio or for acces-
sories that go with it. The Corporation Counsel
has been asked various questions and up to the
present time we are awaiting an opinion from him.
The Police Commissioner has appeared before the
Committee on Finance, I understand, and was
unable to explain to the committee in a satis-
factory way how the money was to be spent,
what it was to be used for. Today, when we
meet here, we find before us a fourteen-page
statement concerning the so-called communica-
tion system of the Police Department, including
radio, which we are asked to read and digest,
trying to understand what it is all about. I
don't see why the Council should be asked to vote
on a matter of this kind without an opportunity
to look into it and vote intelligently. I see no
reason why the matter cannot be laid on the
table, giving the members of the Council an
opportunity to digest the facts that are before
them, so that when we do vote we may vote
intelligently. I also ask that this may lie on the
table for at least one week.
Coun. GREEN (having obtained unanimous
consent). Mr. President, as chairman of the
Committee on Finance, I may say that we invited
the Police Commissioner to two or three of pur
meetings. We had three or four meetings, trying
to secure the information. The commissioner
notified us that he had extraordinary powers
created with his position, and that he could go
along and obligate the City of Boston on his
own initiative, which he has done to the extent
of $80,000 for equipment, up to date. There
was no other alternative for the committee than
to report this order out "ought to pass." We
sought information from the Corporation Counsel
and from the commissioner. The commissioner
has left town, and we are now in about the same
position that we have been in all along. We
sought information, got all we could, and the
commissioner dwelt on the fact that he had
extraordinary powers or discretionary powers to
go ahead and obligate the city, which he has done
to the extent of $80,000 up to date. I wish to
inform the members that that is all the infor-
mation we have received on the so-called radio.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I would like to
ask the City Clerk, through you, if the $75,000
that we appropriated last year for radio for the
Police Department has been rescinded.
President DOWD- The Chair will state that
the $75,000 has never been rescinded.
Coun. GOLDMAN (having obtained unanimous
consent). Mr. President, speaking for myself,
I am going to vote in favor of the passage of the
order. Examining the record I find that on
February 13, 1933, the Mayor of Boston at that
time asked for $300,000, and was of the opinion
that the order should pass for that amount.
But the Council reported a new draft, allowing
$75,000, which was passed. I might also remind
the members at the present time, in connection
with this proposed appropriation, of the 30 per
cent clause, which means that over $100,000 of
the $350,000 will come back, if we pass this now.
We are told that if we do not pass this now we
may lose it, that we may lose it in any event, but
certainly if there is an opportunity to get it we
should not lose the chance to avail ourselves of it
if possible. This is not only radio, but the entire
system, blinker system, call system, radio, every-
thing. We all know that there is a lack of coopera-
tion between the Police Commissioner's office and
the office of the District Attorney, that Rip Van
Winkle, and that as a result of lack of cooperation
between them, we are getting nowhere with the
crime situation in the City of Boston. I say
that we ought not to wait one moment, the
should not even table the order, but should p
it at once.
Coun Norton motion to lay on the 'aide was
declared lost. Coun, GLEA80N doubted the
vote and asked for the yeas and n
The motion to lay on the (able was lost, yeas 7,
nays J.'!:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Englcrt, Fitzgerald, Gal-
lagher, Gleason, McGrath, Norton — 7.
Nays — Coun. Brackman, Doherty, Donovan,
Dowd, Finley, Fish. Goldman, Green, Kerrigan,
Roberts, Selvitella, Tobin, Wilson — 13.
President DOWD — The question now comes on
the passage of the order.
Coun. McGKATH— Mr. President, I think
there are a few matters that should be clarified
as far as the Council is concerned in regard to
appropriation for radio in the City of Boston.
Last year, as the councilor on rny right has said
the then Mayor submitted an order to the City
Council calling for $300,000, and the papers all
carried the story that it was for radio purposes.
We sent for those in charge of the Police Depart-
ment and were informed that some $75,000 of this
would be spent for radio and that the balance
would be spent for a wiring system. I voted to
lay this matter on the table because I was impressed
by what the councilor from Ward 18 (Coun.
Norton) said in regard to information that was
coming from a real police head — General Needham,
in charge of the state force, because the councilor
felt, from reports in the papers recently, that this
wiring and communications system, the red lights
and so on, in large measure, was an extravagance.
But the councilor did favor radio communication
and pointed out that many towns in the country
whose police systems are on a very efficient basis
and that had radio messages in their police depart-
ment had no blinker system. Mr. President, there
have been hundreds of thousand spent in this city
on lights at crossings, and every time when that
money was spent we were told that it would relieve
a policeman. Upon the statement of the Police
Commissioner the lights at crossings for automo-
biles and pedestrians have never relieved a single
police officer. Under former Mayor Nichols at
one time we gave the Police Department 300
additional policemen. Still, crime goes on and we
still find more men tagging automobiles and more
men assigned to raiding speakeasies in spite of the
repeal of prohibition, and more men directing
traffic than we find out patrolling the streets of
our city. I was told that on a given night some
months ago, from Northampton street, the South
End, down to North End Park, from one o'clock
to eight o'clock in the morning, there were only five
police officers on foot. I questioned the Police
Commissioner when he came in and would like to
question him again, but he is so interested at this
moment in what the Council may do and so in-
terested in the crime wave that, at your expense
and mine, he is taking a month's leave of absence
in warm Bermuda. That is how interested he is
in what the members of the Council will do at this
moment. When he gets back some one may
inform him of the crime wave here, while in the
meantime "Police Commissioner" Schwartz re-
mains in charge, transferring officers, threatening
those who do good work because of the fact that
he still retains a law business that in large measure
is dependent on the activity of certain lawyers.
So much for the Police Commissioner, who so
resented the questions that were asked of him in
the Finance Committee that he told your chair-
man, other members and myself that he had
extraordinary powers, that he did not even have
to come to the Council, that he could spend all
the money he wanted to spend, and we had nothing
to do about it. That was some weeks ago before
he went on his southern trip. We sent for the
Corporation Counsel and asked him ten days ago
for a ruling on the question — has the Police Com-
missioner such extraordinary powers that, for
example, if he wanted to spend $10,000,000 today
under those powers we could not stop him? The
Corporation Counsel has been before your com-
mittee three times since and has told us that when
he gets around to it we will get an opinion, that
he did not want to give a curbstone opinion but
would write to the Council his opinion as to just
how far the Police Commissioner can go under his
extraordinary powers. And so, through no fault
of the Council or any committee of the Council we
are still waiting for this opinion. We appro-
priated every dollar necessary for radio last year,
FEBRUARY 28, 1934.
73
and month after month went by but the Police
Commissioner would not avail himself of that
appropriation, until finally an indignant public
rose up in its might and demanded that he go
through; and up to that very hour practically
every paper in Boston carried the story that the
reason why the crime wave was going on in our
city was that the commissioner could not install
radio, because the City Council was dilatory and
refused to give him the money. We had given
him the money months before, but he refused to
spend it. He has been reported as saying that he
wants $250,000 of this money for the blinker
system, and he has also told men in the hall about
the way that he works his blinker system. After
midnight cruising cars are used. Well, do those
cruising cars go around to different parts of the
city, are they cruising around in unusual places so
that our citizens do not have to depend for pro-
tection merely on officers on the beats, whose
location can be known as they go from one end
of the beat to the other and ring their boxes?
Do the cruising cars serve that purpose of being in
unusual places at unexpected time? It seems not.
A car stops and watches a light, and when some
citizen has telephoned to a local station house the
light in turn is flashed in the signal box, and a man
in the cruising car gets out and answers the box.
He is told that something has happened on a cer-
tain street, and then a rush is made to try to appre-
hend the criminal. But that does not happen
until the citizen has given a warning of a crime
being committed, and a belated notification of it
comes in that way. The Police Commissioner is
sold on the spending of more money on the blinker
sustem, on the red light on the box that is in no
way connected with the radio. We gave him at
the first of last year money for radio. He has now
advertised, bids have been received, and we are
soon to have installed radio as the result of the
appropriation which this Council gave last year
and which you, Mr. President, have just told the
gentleman from Ward 16 has not been rescinded.
Now, sir, because of the extraordinary conditions
in our city, because of the crime wave, because of
the amount of publicity that has been given to
this matter, I for one am going to vote for this
entire $350,000, because I know that every Boston
paper tomorrow morning will hold up to the public
gaze the members of the Council who do not vote
for it and will not be fair enough to say that last
year we gave to the commissioner the money
necessary for the radio. He already has adver-
tised and received bids for that radio, and there is
nothing the Council could do to stop it. But
under this plan of the commissioner, which the
councilor from Ward 18 (Coun. Norton) says that
General Needham, the head of the State Police,
believes has never been proven workable, we are
asked to appropriate the greater part of this
$350,000, and if we fail to appropriate it the
morning papers will probably carry the story,
"City Council Blocks Police. City Council
Approves of Crime Wave. City Council Refuses
to Allow the Commissioner Money for the Appre-
hension of Criminals." And, unfairly, we will be
given a black eye. They will not carry the story
that the City Council meets for the second time
in the week earnestly trying to settle this and other
matters, while the Police Commissioner is com-
fortably settled in Bermuda, that the City Council
is on the job while the commissioner is on a month's
vacation, leaving "Police Commissioner" Schwartz
in charge, more interested in the concern that will
get this wiring contract than in dealing with the
present critical situation. Perhaps I am showing
cowardice, but under the circumstances I will vote
for something that will cost $250,000 and which
is no more needed than I need two heads, sir.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, owing to the fact
that we have already given $75,000, I move that
this order be cut by $75,000, so as to leave $275,000
President DOWD — Coun. Fish moves that the
order be amended to read $275,000 instead of
$350,000.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I am afraid
that there are two errors involved in that. One
is that the very detailed report we have in front
of us from the Police Commissioner states, I
believe, that the $75,000 was rescinded; and,
whether or not that is so, he never spent that
money and says on page 10 of the report that the
spending of that money would be a total waste
of the city's money. There is the additional
important reason that if this order for the appro-
priation of $350,000 is forwarded to Washington
and is approved, the Government will stand one
third of the expense, although I am not so hopeful
about the fate of the order on the Washington end.
So I don't think we should amend the order.
President DOWD— The Chair will rule the
amendment out of order under section 2 of the
city charter, which reads as follows: "No amend-
ment increasing the amount of loans or altering
the disposition of purchase money or of the pro-
ceeds of loans, shall be made at the time of the
second reading and vote." In view of the fact
that this is the second reading, the amendment
is out of order. The question now comes on
passage.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, before the
vote is taken on the $350,000 order, for the sake
of the record I wish to make a statement in sub-
stantiation of my negative vote. All Boston
wants police radio. This Council four years ago
started demanding police radio. Last year we
voted $75,000 for it. But what the Council is
now asked to pass is an order which will give to the
Police Commissioner $240,000 for wires, red lights,
more boxes, that sort of thing. In the name of
common sense why should not the Police Commis-
sioner in carrying through a project of that sort
take $20,000 a year, as the previous commissioner,
Commissioner Wilson did, gradually replacing
the old system? The leading police commis-
sioners and chiefs of America have stated their
opinion that when police radio is properly operated
the old-time wire and red light system will be
obsolete. Gentlemen, you may think that I am
merely trying to influence the votes here. Listen
to what J. A. Greening, the very efficient chief
of police of Berkeley, California, has to say:
"It is hard to believe that anyone could con-
sider that the police box communication system
is more important than means of communication
by radio."
And still our Police Commissioner proposes to
spend $240,000 for red lights and wiring and but
$75,000 for police radio. Police radio is the most
wonderful thing that was ever devised in the war
against crime. With a proper radio system, if a
crime has been committed — and this has been
demonstrated, in two minutes an officer is at the
door of the house. What a wonderful thing! Out
in Hyde Park a young man came to a place and
said to the woman there, "Sister, give us the
money," and took $200, went out on the main
street, right in the heart of the place, and then
"sister" went out looking for a policeman. How
long do you suppose it was before a policeman was
on the scene — and this was right in the business
area? Twenty-eight minutes! I am not saying
this in any derogatory spirit as far as the police
officers are concerned. But we do know that
there are more police officers on the basis of popu-
lation in the City of Boston than in any other city
of the world, except in lower Manhattan, where
they have wonderful congestion. Of course, under
the present system, that sort of thing is to be ex-
pected, and what I say is intended in no spirit of
criticism or derogation of the men in the depart-
ment. A policeman may be in the next room and
a holdup may be going on here. The Needham
job was done right in front of police headquarters,
with men sitting there and looking out the window.
But they, under the circumstances, undoubtedly
were not to blame. Therefore, I repeat that what
I say is not in any way derogatory of the men in
the Boston Police Department, but I am merely
calling attention to the fact that the greatest in-
strument in dealing with crime and leading to
arrest is the radio system. Therefore, I am and
always have been in favor of the police radio. I
am at this time, however, against having $240,000
spent for wires and red lights. And if this should
go through, if the grant should be made, let us not
fool ourselves in regard to getting back 30 per cent
of the allotment, because in the end it will cost us
more when we conform to the Government re-
strictions. Furthermore, I don't believe the
Government will pass this, because they have been
constantly for four months throwing down items
of this nature, where it is largely a matter of
supplies and materials, and where a minor part is
for actual labor. I do not believe this will be
approved by the United States Government, but
that it will come back into our laps eventually. I
am not going to take any more time on this. We
have been looking for months to have steps taken
for the introduction of a radio system in our police
Department, and we have appropriated money for
the purpose. There is no question but what radio
is now considered the thing in all the leading police
departments of the country. I have here articles
74
CITY COUNCIL.
from the Traveler under date of January 17 and
Kcbiu.-iiy 4, pointing out thai red lights have gone
by, (lii.i the red M^lii theory has been abandoned,
thai the theories and practices of »i\- years ago are
now obsolete Commissioner Needham is plan-
ning for the Massachusetts State Police the bent
radio system in the country. At present fifty-six
cities and towns outside of Boston have 145 radio
equipped cruiser cars on the road, and the time
between the request from one of these cities and
I owns for a cruiser car until that, car reports aver-
ages about seven minutes for the state. In addi-
tion there are about seventy radio-equipped state
police cars. Commissioner Needham also is in
receipt of reports from different towns in the state
that the old system of signalling with red lights
operated from the station or telephone exchange
is giving way to radio-equipped cars. So you can
see the trend at the present time. But our Police
Commissioner from the start has been against
radio. He has always stressed the objections, that
there was too much interference because of high
buildings and vacant lots, dead spots and all that
sort of thing, and then there was the fact that
crooks would be listening in. Those arguments
were repeatedly made for eighteen months against
the city getting radio, until finally the verdict of
the great American cities became so unanimous
that it crashed right into Boston. Not only did
New York adopt the radio system for the police
department, but along Broadway in the stores
notices were put up telling the public how to act
in connection with it; that if you wanted a police-
man you should call the headquarters operator
and within two minutes the policeman would be
at your door. Gentlemen, it is the most wonder-
ful medium for crime detection and apprehension
from the police standpoint that was ever known.
But we were unable to get the police radio here.
Well, time went on, crime became more rampant,
and finally the Governor of the Commonwealth
said to General Needham, "What can we do to
stop crime here?" And General Needham replied
in effect, "Get police radio." So finally the
Governor called upon our Police Commissioner
two months ago and was told, so far as Boston was
concerned, that the system wrould have to wait.
The Governor said, "You get radio, and get it
quick." So while at first the Police Commissioner
thought the radio system was wrong, %vithin
twenty-four hours he came out with another
statement that it wasn't so bad. But not a mem-
ber of the Council knows what this money is going
to be spent for. You have never had it satis-
factorily explained to you what it is all about.
You don't know whether it will be one-way or
two-way radio. So far as you know, they can
put a red light over every building here. The
greatest company in America, the American Radio
Corporation, has told you that in their opinion
the two-way radio system at this time is imprac-
ticable. Here is an extraordinarily interesting
thing as bearing on this whole question. The
Massachusetts Institute of Technology in a report
states that, in their opinion, an expenditure of any
money except this $200,000 odd spent on wires
and so on, is a waste of money. I do know that
Professor Dugald C. Jackson, who made the reports
is the head of the engineering concern that is to
install this new radio and is working on it at the
present time.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, speaking very
briefly on this question, I would state, first of all,
that I am one of those councilors still waiting for
the opinion of the Corporation Counsel of the
City of Boston, one who naturally wants to be
enlightened on the so-called extraordinary powers
of the Police Commissioner. But my vote on
this particular matter is not governed by what
the opinion of the Corporation Counsel or any
other person may be on that or any other such
question at the present time. Nor am I par-
ticularly interested in the fact that the Police
Commissioner, if such be the fact, is at present
taking a vacation in Bermuda or other parts.
My personal opinion is that the Boston Police
Department, while not perhaps 100 per cent
perfect, might have received a good deal of news-
paper credit for their action in apprehending the
murderer of the little girl on Hudson street if the
Needham story had not broken at the time it did
and eclipsed the other. I do not believe the
Police Department is quite as bad as it is some-
times painted, although it might stand some
improvement. Neither do I feel that it is any
particular crime to get away on a vacation, bc-
cause I have iii mind the ablest Mayor Boston ever
bad v. ho bad brains enough to frequently spend
considerable tunc away on vacations, which
i nablcd him after ).<■ got back to do tin- good job
l.i- always did. With reference to Hie %7'iMDi)
that we appropriated for r.-.d..., 1 am impressed,
although I never attended that institution, by
the statement., which :.p ;,.;.,- .... page 10 of tin;
report before us today, coming from the Massa-
chusetts Institute of Technology, as to the advisa-
bility of spending $75,000 for :. police radio system
without tiny work being performed on the general
communications system. "The Institute was of
the opinion that this would be a waste of city
money." While I am not a graduate of Tech,
I do realize that this particular project is an
engineering problem, a technical question arid,
with all due modesty on a question of that kind,
I am content to String along with the Institute of
Technology. I realize that, perhaps with more or
less reason, there has sometimes been bad blood
between the Police Commissioner and members
of the Boston City Council; but I for one do not
care to see the public of Boston at the present
time placed between the Council and the Police
Commissioner because of any argument as to the
Police Commissioner's powers. And personally I
do not care to see the papers tomorrow morning
carrying the story that other members of the
Council and myself endeavored to prevent Boston
obtaining this modern improvement, for which
Boston would have to pay only something like
two thirds of the total expense. Nor, so far as my
personal action here is concerned, do I propose to
send the members of the Boston Police Depart-
ment against the organized forces of crime in
Boston today figuratively with one hand tied
behind their backs. If this S350.000 proposition,
an engineering project, is going to give help, give
to those under-paid men who are protecting the
public an even break in an unfair fight, I am
going to vote for it, whether the papers like it or
not.
The order was given its second and final reading
and passage, yeas 19, nay — Coun. Norton— 1.
3. Report on message of Mayor and five orders
(referred February 26) authorizing the Mayor to
execute loan agreements with the United States
for the following named Public Works projects:
1. Reconstruction of streets at an estimated'
cost of S1,000,000.
2. Construction of one new high school and one
new intermediate school at an estimated cost of
$2,000,000.
3. Replacement of Brookline avenue water
main at an estimated cost of $350,000.
4. Construction of new surgical building at
City Hospital at an estimated cost of $1,500,000.
5. Construction and reconstruction of sewers
at an estimated cost of $1,000,000— that the
orders ought to pass.
The report was accepted, and the orders were
passed, yeas 18, nays 0:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Braekman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dow-d, Englert. Finley, Fish, Gallagher,
Gleason, Goldman. Green, Kerrigan, McGrath,
Roberts, Selvitella, Tobin, Wilson— 18.
Nays— 0.
Coun. TOBIN— Mr. President, do I under-
stand the vote we have just had recorded here
applies to all those individual loan orders, to
every bond issued on an individual loan order?
President DOWD — The action we have just
taken applies to the five individual loan agree-
ments that have been agreed to in Washington,
the five projects under the Curley administration.
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, I desire further
information. Do I understand that for every
loan order passed the same form of bond is approved
by this body, or that there are separate bonds for
each loan order?
President DOWD — The action taken on the
five orders is final, if Washington approves them
Coun. TOBIN— Then, Mr. President, I raise the
point of order whether this one vote approving
the form of bond can be regarded as a vote of
approval of the five loan orders?
President DOWD— The Chair will rule that
the point of order is not well taken.
Adjourned at 3.35 p. m., on motion of Coun.
ROBERTS, to meet on Monday, March 5, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTINQ DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
75
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Boston, March 5, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., Presi-
dent DOWD presiding. Absent, Coun. Gold-
man and Wilson.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were diawn under the law (Coun.
Brackman presiding at the box in the absence
of Mayor Mansfield, and Coun. Gallagher be-
ing called to the chair by President DOWD ) ,
as follows :
Thirty traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear March 7,
1934:
William J. Cahill, Ward 1; Robert F. Cam-
pagna, Ward 1 ; Nieholino Ciampa, Ward 1 ;
George M. Morrow, Ward 1 ; William A. Odell,
Ward 1 ; Bernard L. Donahue, Ward 2 ; Charles
L. Foster Ward 2 ; Thomas F. Grace, Ward 2 ;
Daniel J. McCarthy, Ward 2 ; Wendell Taber,
Ward 5 ; Arthur O. Miquelon, Ward 6 ; William
D. Shea, Ward 6 ; James Sheehan, Ward 8 ;
Joseph F. Brennan, Ward 10 ; Frank Cunning-
ham, Ward 10 ; Kurt Wiesinger, Ward 10 ;
David W. Hunter, Ward 12. David L. Beaulieu,
Ward 13 ; Charles W. Davis, Ward 13 ; Gerard
V. Condon, Ward 14 ; Timothy Corkery, Ward
15 ; Frank E. Clapp, Ward 16 ; Daniel G.
Griffin, Ward 16 ; William P. Foley, Ward 17 ;
William E. Williams, Ward 17 ; Vernon W.
Boyd, Ward 21 ; Asa F. Clark, Ward 21 ;
Thomas F. Fisher, Ward 21 ; William J. Egan,
Ward 22 ; Charles H. Maloney, Ward 22.
Nineteen traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear April 2, 1934 :
Joseph C. Rogers, Jr., Ward 1 ; Manuel J.
Rose, Ward 1 ; Thomas O'Donnell, Ward 3 ;
Howard J. Fristoee, Ward 4 ; John Wyse, Ward
5 ; William J. Dwyer, Ward 10 ; Louis Hoffman,
Ward 10 ; Henry C. Frazier, Ward 13 ; John
D. O'Brien, Ward 15 ; Arthur J. Collins, Ward
16 ; Joseph L. General, Ward 16 ; Cornelius
E. Houghton, Ward 16; Thomas Henry Wil-
liams, Ward 16 ; Charles N. HaTlan, Ward 17 ;
Alfred Swanson, Ward 17 ; Henry N. Nelson,
Ward 19 ; George M. Pike, Ward 19 ; William
F. Farrell, Ward 21 ; John E. Ryan, Ward 22.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Third Session, to appear April 2,
1934:
Frederick E. Cotter, Ward 1 ; Henry L.
Riley, Ward 1 ; James A. Green, Jr., Ward 2 ;
Frank C. Kelly, Ward 2 ; Philip J. Powers,
Ward 2 ; William L. Schell, Ward 2 ; David
Grossman, Ward 3 ; Leoland I. Stubbs, Ward
4 ; James J. Finlay, Ward 6 ; Thomas D. Rice,
Jr., Ward 7 ; David R. Nice, Ward 8 ; James
A. Churchward, Ward 9 ; Frank H. O'Brien,
Ward 9 ; Martin J. Regan, Ward 10 ; Henry
J. Schmith, Ward 10 ; Frank J. Huether, Ward
11; George W. Goddard, Ward 12; Roland
W. Parmenter, Ward 14 ; George C. Johnson,
Ward 16 ; John J. Coleman, Ward 17 ; Harry
D. Hunter, Ward 17 ; Rudd D. Thorne, Ward
17 ; Arthur M. Pautzsch, Ward 18 ; Horace E.
Dunkle, Ward 19 ; Loring Poole, Ward 19 ;
Charles J. Black, Ward 21.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fourth Session, to appear April 2,
1934:
Thomas James Coady, Ward 1 ; Matthew J.
Darcey, Ward 1 ; Albert J. Welling, Ward 1 ;
Michale Rekey, Ward 2 ; Andrew F. Sheehan,
Ward 2 ; Alfred J. Newcomb, Ward 4 ; George
C. Rich, Ward 4; William L. Roth, Ward 4;
J. Brooke Fenno, Jr., Ward 5 ; Horace U.
Gade, Ward 5 ; Denis C. Kiley, Ward 6 ;
Walter Perry, Ward 6 ; Francis J. Whitten,
Ward 6 ; Thomas N. Cooper, Jr., Ward 7 ;
Edward C. Hogan, Ward 7 ; Ernest E. Barford,
Ward 8; Patrick F. O'Toole, Ward 9; Henry
A. Hohmann, Ward 10 ; John P. Ferriero,
Ward 11; Thomas E. Hamilton, Ward 11;
Charles A. Higgins, Ward 15 ; Edward J.
Lane, Ward 16 ; James Whitman Rhodes, Ward
17 ; Chester G. Whitman, Ward 18 ; John T.
Courage, Ward 19 ; Herbert L. Mayer, Ward
19 ; Joseph F. Dever, Ward 21 ; Lynwood
Storer, Ward 22 ; Robert P. Wynott, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fifth Session, to appear April 2,
1934:
John W. Hargrave, Ward 1 ; Edward L.
Ryan, Ward 1 ; Morris Chalfen, Ward 5 ;
John F. Ambrose, Ward 6 ; Arthur W. Knight,
Ward 6 ; Daniel H. Grady, Ward 9 ; Maurice
Simonds, Ward 9 ; Joseph E. Wallace, Ward
10 ; Charles H. Wolboldt, Ward 10 ; Owen R.
O'Neill, Ward 11 ; Morris O. Potash, Ward 11 ;
John Harris, Ward 12 ; Charles D. Cheney,
Ward 13 ; Maurice Condon, Jr., Ward 13 ;
George H. Sullivan, Ward 14 ; Elsworth A.
Tinkham, Ward 14 ; William J. Quirk, Ward
15 ; John T. Fitzgerald, Ward 16 ; Lyman H.
Brazer, Ward 17 ; Charles H. Lewis, Ward 17 ;
John L. Sinclair, Ward 17 ; Louis A. Van
Emden, Ward 17 ; George A. Taylor, Ward 18 ;
John B. Hoar, Jr., Ward 19 ; Wallace L.
Currier, Ward 20 ; Edmund B. Dolan, Ward 20 ;
Ernest J. H. Melling, Ward 20 ; Harry N.
Strickland, Ward 20 ; Clarence E. Burlingham
Ward 21.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, First Session, April Sitting, to appear
April 2, 1934:
Clarence A. Fraser, Ward 1 ; Frank J.
Staffier, Ward 1 ; Cornelius Cahill, Ward 4 ;
John J. Cooke, Ward 6 ; Cornelius J. Driscoll,
Ward 6 : James P. Drummey, Ward 6 ; Edward
L. McBarron, Ward 9 ; George A. Pickering,
Ward 11 ; George N. Gorfinkle, Ward 12 ;
Arthur W. Rumrill, Ward 12 ; Joseph I. Cahn ;
Ward 13 ; Joseph B. O'Rourke, Ward 13 : Car-
roll G. W. Brown, Ward 14 ; Haskell Sharf.
Ward 14; Edward C. Kailher, Ward 16; Wil
liam H. Shewbridge, Ward 16 ; Gustaf Eck
lund. Ward 18 ; Daniel C. Blue, Ward 19
John T. Walsh, Ward 20; Earl D. Sperry
Ward 21 ; Howard H. Hanscom, Ward 22
Garfield Hooper, Ward 22 ; Frank M. Stuart
Ward 22.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, April Sitting, to appear
April 2, 1934:
Ernest W. DeLeskey, Ward 1 ; Robert L.
Wiseman, Ward 4 ; Robert G. Clark, Ward 5 ;
Edward A. Toronto, Ward 5 ; Martin J. Kane,
Ward 6; William J. Lawn, Ward 6; John J.
McCarthy, Ward 6; Martin F. Mullen, Ward
6 ; David Legendre, Ward 7 ; Theodore Saidak,
Ward 7; Burnett A. Thompson, Ward 9; Wil-
liam Higgins, Ward 10 ; Arthur J. Lewis, Ward
11 ; Louis Dinner-, Ward 12 ; Daniel J. Cotter,
Ward 13 ; Joseph J. Keegan, Ward 13 ; Chris-
topher F. Mullen, Ward 14 ; Charlton W. Kins-
man, Ward 15; Raymond W. Noon, Ward 18;
John A. Waibel, Ward 19 ; John F. Grady,
Ward 22; John L. Lehan, Ward 22.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fifth Session, April Sitting, to appear
April 2, 1934:
Anthony DeSantis, Jr., Ward 1 ; Vincent J.
Giella, Ward 1 ; Edward A. Kennedy, Ward 1 ;
Charles J. McAdams, Ward 1 ; Thomas F.
Riley, Ward 3 ; Solomon Schneider, Ward 3 ;
Patrick D. Duffy, Ward 4 ; John L. Hayes,
Ward 4 ; John T. Wood, Ward 5 ; Frank Mc-
Cormick, Ward 7 ; James J. Mellon, Ward 7 ;
Harry Goodwin, Ward 8 ; Wilfred St. George,
Ward 11 ; Edwin L. Smith, Ward 13 ; Edmond
B. Coghlan, Ward 15 ; Thomas J. Christopher,
Ward 16 ; Raymond R. Drysdale, Ward 17 ;
Andrew Iverson, Ward 18 ; Bernard W. Lang,
76
CITY COUNCIL.
Ward 18; William H. Snow, Ward 20; Walter
Carmichael, Ward 21 ; Edward V. Fox, Ward
22.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fourth Session, April Sitting, to appear
April 2, 1934:
Joseph J. Davidson, Ward 1 ; Benjamin F.
Jewkes, Ward 1 ; Henry D. Rogers, Ward 1 ;
Timothy D. Cotter, Ward 2 ; John A. Gustus,
Ward 2; Robert H. Chaput, Ward 6; Philips
Frank Martus, Ward 7 ; Walter H. Thornton,
Ward 8 ; William F. Dacey, Ward 10 ; Theo-
dore F. Eldracher, Ward 10 ; Andrew F. Fran-
cis, Ward 10 ; David Nathan, Ward 12 ; George
J. Devine, Ward 13 ; Arthur L. McKee, Ward
13 ; Louis Kaufman, Ward 14 ; Cornelius J.
Mahoney, Ward 15 ; Edward H. Mellor, Ward
16 ; Frederick P. Foley, Ward 17 ; George A.
Mason, Ward 18 ; Clarence S. Dade, Ward 19 ;
Alfred P. Magee, Ward 19; Frank P. Mc-
Kenzie, Ward 21; Edwin P. Tirrell, Ward 21.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Sixth Session, April Sitting, to appear
April 2, 1934:
Harry L. Lincoln, Ward 2 ; Robert H. Cato-
lani, Ward 5 ; Frank Russell, Ward 5 ; Richard
S. Twitchell, Ward 5; Thomas F. Conway,
Ward 7 ; Frank J. MeCabe, Ward 7 ; Clayton
C. Hutchinson, Ward 10 ; Joseph A. Sauer,
Ward 10 ; Israel G. Levin, Ward 12 ; Leo T.
Lewis, Ward 12; Joseph Frank, Ward 14;
William E. Gould, Ward 17 ; Gaynor O'Gorman,
Ward 18 ; Charles F. Weider, Ward 18 ; Joseph
H. Dearborn, Ward 20 ; George P. Forde,
Ward 20 ; Arthur G. McKean, Ward 20 ;
Thomas J. Walsh, Ward 20 ; Nyer Weinberg,
Ward 21 ; William P. Colford, Ward 22 ;
Thomas Fagan, Ward 22 ; John F. Thornton,
Ward 22.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Seventh Session, April Sitting, to ap-
pear April 2, 1934:
William H. Carey, Ward 1 ; Walter A. Han-
ley, Ward 3 ; John F. Scanlan, Ward 3 ; Joseph
F. Rogers, Ward 4 ; William Stripp, Ward 4 ;
William H. Bridges, Ward 7 ; Michael Mc-
Mahon, Ward 8 ; Joseph F. Hartigan, Ward
9 ; James H. Steeves, Ward 9 ; Albert F.
Drew, Ward 10 ; William Sperber, Ward 12. ;
Lewis F. Chase, Ward 13 ; Patrick J. Bartley,
Ward 14 ; Edward Herman, Ward 14 ; Carl
C. Rasmussen, Ward 15 ; James H. Fife, Ward
16 ; Lewis F. Weir, Ward 16 ; James H.
Henderson, Ward 18 ; William F. Hartigan,
Ward 19 ; Robert J. McClelland, Ward 19 ;
Maurice H. Bridges, Ward 20 ; John V. Smith,
Ward 20; Alfred S. Newhall, Ward 21.
APPOINTMENT OF JAMES GIBLIN.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointment:
Weigher of Goods : James Giblin, 139 Par-
sons street, Brighton.
Laid over a week under the law.
PRESCRIPTIONS FOR RECIPIENTS OF
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 28, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Soldiers' Relief Department con-
cerning your order of February 12, 1934, with
reference to re-establishing the system of issu-
ing prescriptions for medicine to recipients of
soldiers' relief who are under medical care.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Soldiers' Relief Department,
February 26, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Sir, — With reference to order of City Council
dated February 12 and transmitted to this
office on February 19 to re-establish the system
of issuing prescriptions for medicine to re-
cipients of soldiers' relief who are under
medical care, I shall be very happy to comply
with the reepjest of your Honor and the City
Council in this respect. In fact, this has been
my policy since I assumed the duties of Sol-
diers' Relief Commissioner.
Any person who is in need and whose cast-
is a worthy one, who has sickness at home
and presents a prescription for medicine to
this department, will, I assure you, be taken
care of.
Very sincerely yours,
Charles H. Carey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
AUTOMATIC TRAFFIC SIGNALS.
The following were received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 26, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Traffic Commissioner, concerning
your order of February 19, 1934, with refer-
ence to the installation of automatic traffic
signals at the junction of Parker and Heath
streets, Ward 10.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated February 19,
1934, which reads as follows :
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the junc-
tion of Parker and Heath streets, Ward 10.
There are no funds available at the present
time for the installation of these signal lights.
Sincerely yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 26, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Traffic Commissioner, concerning
your order of February 19, 1934, relative to
automatic traffic signals at the intersection of
Meridian and Condor streets. East Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated February 19,
1934, which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the inter-
section of Meridian and Condor streets, Ward 1.
There are no funds available at the present
time for the installation of these signal lights.
Sincerely yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Severally placed on file.
DUNLAP STREET AS ONE-WAY STREET.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, February 26, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Traffic Commissioner, concerning
MARCH 5, 1934.
77
your order of February 12, 1934, with reference
to designating Dunlap street, Dorchester, as
a one-way street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, February 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Receipt is acknowledged of Coun-
cil order, dated February 12, 1934, which reads
as follows :
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission,
through his Honor the Mayor, be, and said
Board hereby is, requested to designate Dunlap
street, Dorchester, as a one-way street.
The matter of making Dunlap street one way
from Washington street to Whitfield street will
be taken up at the next meeting of this
commission and a recommendation will be made
to that effect.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
PROPOSED NAME OF STORROW BASIN.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 1, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Park Department, concerning your
order of February 19, 1934, relative to chang-
ing the names of Charles River Basin and
Charlesbank Park to Storrow Basin, in honor
of the late James J. Storrow.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, February 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commission
change the same of Charlesbank Park to Stor-
row Basin, in honor of the late James J.
Storrow, and stating that Mrs. Storrow recently
gave a million dollars for the reclaiming and
completion of the basin.
Charlesbank was the first playground
established in America. It is known all over
the country as "Charlesbank."
The million dollars donated by Mrs. Storrow
was used in reclaiming the basin above the
bridge. The area under the jurisdiction of the
Park Department is strictly a playground.
Personally, I do not think the name should
be changed. Unofficially, I know that Mrs.
Storrow does not want to have the area called
after her late husband. Her idea is a memorial
of a different nature.
The Metropolitan District Commission states
that the improvements made below Longfellow
Bridge was paid out of an appropriation of
$400,000 made by the City of Boston and not
from any of the Storrow fund.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
TAXES OF BOSTON PORT DEVELOPMENT
COMPANY.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 5, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the City Collector's office, relative to your
order of January 22, 1934, concerning the
taxes paid and unpaid by the Boston Port
Development Company, in East Boston during
the years 1930-33.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Collecting Department,
March 3, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — Reference is here made to
a communication to this department for in-
formation according to an order passed by the
City Council bearing upon the Boston Port
Development Company.
For the years 1930 and 1931, the name of
this concern was the East Boston Develop-
ment Company.
The tax for 1930 amounted to thirty-three
thousand, eight hundred and forty-nine dollars
and fifty-five cents ($33,849.55) with interest
and costs of thirty-nine hundred and nineteen
dollars and sixty-five cents ($3,919.65). This
was paid on1 February 27, 1932.
For the year 1931, the tax amounted to
thirty-four thousand and sixty-one dollars and
eighty-three cents ($34,061.83). That with
interest and costs of twelve hundred and
twenty-four dollars and seventy-seven cents
($1,224.77) was paid on February 27, 1932.
The tax for the year 1932 with a total of
thirty-five thousand, four hundred and eighty-
six dollars and eight cents ($35,486.08) on
which various amounts of seven hundred and
fifty-two dollars and sixty cents ($752.60) have
been paid to date. There is due interest and
costs of four thousand and sixty-five dollars
and twenty -two cents ($4,005.22), thus mak-
ing an amount now due of thirty-eight thou-
sand, seven hundred and ninety-eight dollars
and seventy cents ($38,798.70).
For the year 1933, the total tax was thirty-
one thousand, five hundred and fifty-six dollars
and two cents ($31,556.02) on which have been
paid various amounts of two hundred and
twenty-six dollars and thirty-two cents
($226.32). Interest and costs to date amount
to eleven hundred and fifty-seven dollars and
seventy cents ($1,157.70), thus making for
this year an amount of thirty-two thousand,
four hundred and eighty-seven dollars and forty
cents ($32,487.40).
There has been no tax sale of this property.
The records of this office do not contain any
statement as to why there was no tax sale.
However, the department is preparing a list
of the remaining 1932 unpaid taxes for the
purpose of obtaining tax titles.
Very truly yours,
John F. Doherty,
City Collector.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The fallowing petitions "were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
Robert S. Beck, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city truck.
Bell Electric Supply Company, for com-
pensation for damage to property at 141
Merrimac street, caused by bursting of water
main.
Reginald Boardman, for compensation for
damage to property at 120 Milk street, caused
by broken water main.
Esther Breskin, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 520 Blue
Hill avenue.
Joseph J. Connors, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect on steps
of City Hall Annex.
Elliot Brothers, for refund on beer license.
Louis Fichera, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 244 Beacon
street.
Morris Gordon & Son, Inc., for compensa-
tion for damage to car by dump cart.
78
CITY COUNCIL.
Mildred Harris, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in City Hall.
E. Gordon Harvey, for compensation for
damage to car by (ire apparatus.
Grace M. Hunt, for compensation for dam-
age (to sewer in Emrose terrace, caused by
blasting operations.
James Janssen, for compensation for ilam-
age to sewer in Emrose terrace, caused by
blasting operations.
Ida King, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 9 Charlotte
street.
Margaret E. McCarthy, for compensation
for injuries caused by an alleged defect on
steps of South Boston High School.
Rose M. Mignosa, for refund on beer license.
Mildred Minehan, for compensation for in-
juries caused by city truck.
Thomas P. Moore, for compensation for
damage to car by truck of Park Department.
U. H. Nickerson, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 101 Pearl street, caused
by water in basement.
Gertrude O'Hara, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in East
Boston High School yard.
Rockwood Sprinkler Company of Massa-
chusetts, for compensation for damage to
property at 120 Milk street, caused by broken
water main.
Emelia M. Santosuosso, for compensation for
damage to property at 15 Bradford street,
caused by bursting of water pipes.
John J. Sexton, for refund on beer license.
Committee on Unclaimed Baggage.
Petition of Boston & Maine Railroad for
permission to sell unclaimed baggage.
REINSTATEMENT OF MICHAEL
SANTIANO.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Penal Institutions Department,
March 2, 1934.
To the Members of the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Permission has been received
from the Civil Service Commission as of date
of February 14, 1934, for the reinstatement
of Michael Santiano as officer at the House
of Correction, Deer Island, Boston Harbor,
effective January 21, 1934.
Officer Santiano was absent on leave with-
out pay from November 23, 1933, to January
4, 1934, because of an emergency which arose
wherein he was called back to work tempo-
rarily at the Boston Navy Yard. Leave was
granted because we had, at the House of Cor-
rection, Deer Island, enough temporary officers
to properly supervise the inmates.
I trust that this reinstatement will meet
with the approval of the members of the City
Council.
Sincerely yours,
William G. O'Hare,
Penal Institutions Commissioner.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
ORGANIZATION OF STREET COMMIS-
SIONERS.
Notice was received of organization of
Board of Street Commissioners as follows :
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman, Cornelius A.
Reardon, Secretary.
Placed on file.
CHANGES IN STREET NAMES.
Notice was received from the Board of
Street Commissioners of following changes in
street names :
New Allen street and Glen wood avenue,
Hyde Park district, between Hyde Park ave-
nue and Stony Brook Reservation, new name,
Reservation road.
Placed on file.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Conn. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommend-
ing passage of order for payment of aid to
soldiers and sailors and their families in the
City of Boston for month of March, 1934.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
DATE OF DEMOCRATIC STATE CONVEN-
TION.
Coun. GREEN offered the following :
Whereas, It has been decided to hold the
Democratic State Convention during the month
of June ; and
Whereas, The City of Boston each year,
through its Public Celebrations Department,
devotes considerable time to the preparation
of a program for the proper observance of
Bunker Hill Day, June 17 ; therefore, be it
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
respectfully requests the chairman of the
Democratic State Committee, Hon. Joseph A.
Maynard, to take into consideration this fact
in setting a date for the convention, in order
that it will not be held during the week of
June 17 to conflict with the celebration of
Bunker Hill Day.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
IMPROVEMENTS ON PERRIN STREET.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Perrin street,
entire length, both sides, Ward 12, in front
of the estates bordering thereon ; said side-
walk to be from 3 to 10 inches above the
gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in
width, and to be built of artificial stone,
with granite edgestones, under the provisions
of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Perrin
street, Ward 12.
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
AUTOMATIC TRAFFIC SIGNALS, BEACON
STREET.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following :
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner of
the City of Boston be requested, through his
Honor the Mayor, to install automatic traffic
signals at the intersections of Beacon street
and Berkeley, Clarendon, Dartmouth, Exeter,
Fairfield, Gloucester and Hereford streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION IN RE UNEMPLOYED.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston consider
the advisability of requesting the Police Com-
missioner, when the police of Boston take the
annual census of voters in Boston, to obtain
information relative to the number of un-
employed in Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
It was voted, on motion of Coun. McGRATH,
that when the Council adjourns today it be
to meet on Monday, March 19, 1934, at 2 p. m.
HOUSE BILLS 1046 AND 1047.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council fa-
vored the passage of House Bills Nos. 1046
MARCH 5, 1934.
79
and 1047, or any similar legislation which
would bring about an investigation of all
charges made by the New England Telephone
and Telegraph Company and calculated to
bring about more equitable charges to the
citizens of the city.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, this is an
order similar to one passed by the City Coun-
cil last year, in favor of similar legislation.
The bill of last year was defeated by but
very few votes in the Legislature, and to all
appearances there will be a very close vote
on the bill this year. I understand that most
of the Boston representatives favor it. Hav-
ing in mind the fact that it takes about two
years before any representative citizen of a
city or town can get an adequate hearing
before the Department of Public Utilities on
any given rate case, this proposed legislation
was brought before the Legislature with the
purpose of having a special commission in-
vestigate these charges. The only organized
position I know of outside of that by the
telephone company is from the fact that it
might cost money. I understand, however,
that the committee might very likely report
a bill stating that all reasonable charges shall
be paid by the telephone company itself, and
in such case there would be no cost for this
unpaid commission suggested in House 1046.
The resolution was passed under suspension
of the rule.
AUTOMATIC TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 6.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to in-
stall automatic traffic signals at Flood square,
Ward 6.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE AP-
POINTMENT.
Chairman GALLAGHER called up, under un-
finished business, No. 1 on the calendar, viz. :
1. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor February 26, 1934, of Campbell S.
Higgins, to be a Weigher of Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Roberts. Whole
number of ballots 14, yeas 14, nays 0, and the
appointment was confirmed.
REINSTATEMENT OF MICHAEL SAN-
TIANO.
Chairman GALLAGHER offered the follow-
ing :
Ordered, That under the provisions of chap-
ter 320 of the Acts of 1933 the reinstatement
of Michael Santiano in the employment of
the Penal Institutions Department as an officer
at the House of Correction, Deer Island, be,
and hereby is, approved.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. FITZ-
GERALD, at 2.50 p. m., to meet on Monday,
March 19, 1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
80
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council-
Monday, March 19, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in the Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President DOWD
in the chair. Absent, Coun. Green.
VETOES OF SIDEWALK ORDERS.
The following were received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 10, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith without
my signature and with my disapproval the order
of February 26, 1934, to construct an artificial
stone sidewalk on the Franklin Field side of Talbot
avenue, from Blue Hill avenue to the southerly
line of Franklin Field. I am informed that this
construction properly comes within the jurisdiction
of the Park Department and not of the Public
Works Department to whom the order was ad-
dressed; that there exists now at this place a
suitable gravel sidewalk with granite edgestones and
seats and that the cost of the improvement would
be about $5,200 which the city cannot afford to
spend at the present time upon a project which
does not seem to be necessary. Under these cir-
cumstances I must decline to approve the order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 10, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith without
my signature and with my disapproval the order
of February 26 for the construction of artificial
stone sidewalks on Bayard street, Brighton, from
North Harvard street to Myrick street. I am
informed that artificial stone sidewalks were con-
structed upon this street only a few months ago
at a cost of about $2,500, that they are in excellent
condition and that a replacement of these side-
walks is wholly unnecessary. Under these cir-
cumstances I must decline to approve the order.
But I am further informed that an examination
of the records shows that the required lien order of
the City Council which is necessary to make assess-
ments against the abutters was not presented to
the City Council. If the purpose of the order
which I am returning herewith without my approval
is to legalize the assessments against the abutting
properties I would respectfully suggest that the
order be redrawn to disclose that purpose and
submitted to me again, in which case I shall prob-
ably approve of it.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
, , Office of the Mayor, March 10, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith without
my signature and with my disapproval the order
of March 5 to construct a sidewalk of artificial
stone with granite edgestones upon the entire
length of Perrin street, Ward 12, Roxbury, on
both sides of the street. I am informed that there
is a brick sidewalk now existing on both sides of
this street, that there is no pressing necessity for
substituting artificial stone for the bricks, and
that the proposed improvement would cost $3,300,
which the city can ill afford to spend at this time.
Under these circumstances I must decline to
approve the order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Severally placed on file.
CENSUS OF UNEMPLOYED.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen,' — I beg to acknowledge receipt of
your order of March 5 wherein I am asked to
consider the advisability of having a census of the
unemployed taken in Boston by the police when
they start their annual listing. In accordance
with your order I have written to the Police Com-
missioner and have stated to him that if it is a
practicable thing I am in favor of it.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments,
viz. :
Weighers of Coal: Ethel Littlehale, 570 Albany
street, Boston; Donald Campbell, 212 Border
street, Boston; Henry Foster, 212 Border street,
Boston; Alfred Moore, 50 Call street, Boston;
James Reilly, 116 Chestnut street, Cambridge;
Arnold B. Crosby, 128 Green street, Melrose.
Weigher of Goods: John Patrick Feeney, 46
Clarkson street, Dorchester.
Measurer of Wood: Arnold B. Crosby, 128
Green street, Melrose.
Constables, without authority to serve civil
process and to serve without bond, to be con-
nected with official positions: Joseph Leo Duffley,
15 Spencer street, Dorchester; Sidney E. Sullivan,
7 Mt. Everett street, Dorchester; Archibald P.
McNeil, 14 Blanche street, Dorchester; Clarence
A. Nado, 41 Old Morton street, Dorchester.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
LEASE OF ARMY BASE, SOUTH BOSTON.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 15, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The order adopted by your honor-
able body on February 19, 1934, relative to the
advisability of leasing or purchasing the Army
Base in South Boston was referred by me to the
Boston Port Authority for a report. I inclose
herewith for your information a copy of the report
which I have just received.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Boston Port Authority,
1600 Custom House,
Boston, March 9, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mayor Mansfield, — At a meeting of our
Board, held this morning, there was brought up
for consideration the order of City Council of
February 19, 1934, as to the advisability of leas-
ing or purchasing the Army Base in South Boston.
This order was transmitted to us by the City Clerk ,
through your office, and a report in triplicate was
requested.
In the first place, the Board wishes to point out
that there is no possibility of purchasing the
Army Base. This facility was constructed during
the World War at a cost of approximately twenty
million dollars, and is the property of the United
States Government. The title to it rests in the
hands of the War Department and a part of it
is leased to the United States Shipping Board
Bureau of the Department of Commerce. This
Bureau, in turn, now leases that section of it over
which it has control to the Boston Tidewater
Terminal, Inc., a private terminal operator.
On the question of leasing the Army Base,
this Board has more than once gone on record
to the effect that we are in favor of the Shipping
Board's leasing that part of the Base under its
jurisdiction to a private operator, rather than
attempting to run the property itself or leasing it
to the state or the municipality. Private operation
of the Base, particularly in the last year or two, has
demonstrated that by this kind of operation the
Port has been well served and additional inward
and outward cargo has been attracted. We are
satisfied that for this particular facility private
operation continues to be desirable, if the Terminal
Company conducting the operation is at all times
bearing in mind the best interests of the Port.
In behalf of the Board, therefore, I am directed
to say to you that we are not in favor of the city's
81
CITY COUNCIL.
purchasing or leasing the Army BaHe and that
wo are in favor of continued private operation
of the property.
Yours very truly,
Boston Pout Authority,
Richard Parkhurbt,
Vice Chairman.
Placed on file.
INSTALLATION OF TRAFFIC SIGNALS.
The following were received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 10, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commission, relative to your order
of March 5, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at Flood square, Ward 6.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, March 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order, dated March 5, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at Flood square,
Ward 6.
There are no funds available for the installation
of these signals at the present time.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 10, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commission, relative to your order of
February 26, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at the junction of East
Eighth and L streets and also at Andrew square,
Ward 7.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, March 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order, dated February 26, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of East
Eighth and L streets, and also at Andrew square,
Ward 7.
There are no funds available for the installation
of these signals at the present time.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 10, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commission, relative to your order of
March 5, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at the intersections of
Beacon street and Berkeley, Clarendon, Dart-
mouth, Exeter, Fairfield, Gloucester and Here-
ford streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, March 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston,
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order, dated March 5, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner of the
City of Boston be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to install automatic traffic signals at
the intersections of Beacon street and Berkeley,
Clarendon, Dartmouth, Exeter, Fairfield, Glouces-
ter and Hereford streets.
There are no funds available for the installation
of these signals at the present time.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 10, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commission, relative to your order of
February 26, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Centre,
Boylston and Moraine streets, Ward 19.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, March 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order, dated February 26, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Centre,
Boylston and Moraine streets, Ward 19.
There are no funds available for the installation
of these signals at the present time.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Severally placed on file.
PROPOSED PURCHASE OF LAND, TENEAN
BEACH.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 6, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Commissioners, relative to your order of
February 26, 1934, concerning the purchase of
land in the Tenean Beach section for park purposes
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, March 5, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council that the Park Commissioners be
allowed to purchase, at the present assessed value,
the property adjoining Tenean Beach, owned by
Edward and George P. Hamlin.
The property in question is assessed for approxi-
mately 10 cents per square feet. It would cost
$25,000 additional to fill and develop said area, or
approximately $115,000.
While the Board of Park Commissioners realize
that Tenean Beach is one of the most popular
bathing sites the city has under its jurisdiction,
it feels it is very inadvisable to ask for any such
amount of money for the purchase of land at the
present time, due to economic conditions.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. LoNa, Chairman.
Placed on file.
CENSUS FIGURES OF BOSTON.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a communica-
tion from the City Planning Board, relative to
your order of February 26, 1934, concerning the
census figures of Boston compared with surround-
ing cities and towns and related questions.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
City Planning Board,
March 15, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The City Planning Board has given
careful consideration to the accompanying order
of the City Council, dated February 26, 1934p
MAECH 19, 1934.
82
requesting certain information with regard to
population changes in Boston and vicinity, and
begs to submit herewith the following reply:
Q. 1. What was the population of Boston at the
different census taking dates, beginning
in 1900, and ending with the date of the
last census?
Popula-
lation.
Increase.
Year.
Census.
Number.
Per
Cent.
1900
U. S.
574,136
1905
State.
609,890
35,754
6.2
1910
U. S.
686.092
76,202
12.5
1915
State.
745,439
59,347
8.6
1920
TJ. S.
748,060
2,621
0.35
1925
State.
779,620
31.560
4.2
1930
U. S.
781,188
1,568
0.2
}. 2. What was the population as of the same
dates of Brookline, Cambridge, Newton,
Maiden, Medford, Quincy and Belmont?
A.
Brookline.
1900
U. S.
19,935
1905
State.
23.436
3,501
17.5
1910
U. S.
27,792
4,356
18.6
1915
State.
33,490
5,698
20.5
1920
U. S.
37,748
4,258
12.7
1925
State.
42.681
4,933
13.0
1930
U. S.
47,490
4,809
11.2
Cambridge.
1900
1905
1910
1915
1920
1925
1930
5.548
7,405
3,983
872
9,975
* 6,026
6.0
7.6
3.8
0.8
9.1
*5.04
* Decrease.
Newton.
1900
U. S.
33,587
1905
State.
36.827
3,240
9,7
1910
U. S.
39,806
2,979
8.1
1915
State.
43,113
3,307
8.3
1920
U. S.
46,054
2,941
6.8
1925
State.
53.003
6,949
15.1
1930
U. S.
65,276
12,273
23.2
Maiden.
1900
TJ. S.
33,664
1905
State.
38,037
4,373
13.0
1910
U. S.
44,404
6,367
16.7
1915
State.
48,907
4,503
10.1
1920
U. S.
49,103
196
0.4
1925
State.
51,789
2,686
5.5
1930
U. S.
58.036
6,247
12.0
VIedford.
1900
u. s.
18,244
1905
State.
19,686
1,442
7.9
1910
U. S.
23,150
3,464
17.6
1915
State.
30,509
7,359
31.8
1920
TJ. S.
39,038
8,529
28.0
1925
State.
47,627
8,589
22.0
1930
TJ. S.
59,714
12,087
25.4
Quincy.
Popula-
lation.
Increase.
Year.
Census.
Number.
Per
Cent.
1900
TJ. S.
23.899
1905
State.
28,076
4,177
17.5
1910
U. S.
32,642
4,566
16.3
1915
State.
40,674
8,032
24.6
1920
U. S.
47.876
7,202
17.7
1925
State.
60,055
12,179
25.4
1930
TJ. S.
71,983
11,928
19.9
Belmont.
1900
U. S.
3,929
1905
State
4,360
431
11.0
1910
U. S.
5,542
1,182
27.1
1915
State.
8,081
2,539
45.8
1920
U. S.
10,749
2,668
33.0
1925
State.
15,256
4,507
41.9
1930
TJ. S.
21 ,748
6,492
42.5
Q. 3. Furnish a tabulation showing the increase
in percentage form of these suburbs com-
pared with the change in the population
of the City of Boston.
Total Increase
1900 to 1930.
Per Cent
Increase.
Boston
207,052 persons.
27,555 persons.
21,757 persons.
31.689 persons.
24,372 persons.
41,470 persons.
48,084 persons.
17,819 persons.
36
138
Cambridge
24
94
72
Medford. . .
227
201
453
Q. 4. What, in the opinion of the Planning
Board, is the reason for this great in-
crease in the outlying suburbs compared
with the increase or decrease in Boston?
Transportation.
Transportation is doubtless one of the major
controlling factors. Automobile registration alone
has increased from 3,743 in the State of Massa-
chusetts in 1903 (the earliest record available) to
932,041 in 1933. This fact, together with the
gradual improvement in main thoroughfares such
as the Northern Artery, the Gallivan Boulevard,
the Old Colony Parkway and the Worcester Turn-
pike, has resulted in making the question of dis-
tance from the main business, shopping and social
center a matter of less importance. At the same
time this ability to reach the suburbs easily has
been further emphasized by the congestion pre-
vailing throughout the streets of Boston, the diffi-
culties of parking and the general traveling incon-
venience which is part of the transportation
problem of any large city.
For those who do not make use of automobiles
in reaching the suburban communities a similar
service has been provided through the develop-
ment of the rapid transit system, including the
Boston Elevated, the Washington Street Tunnel,
the Cambridge-Dorchester Tunnel and Extensions
and the East Boston Tunnel. Surface car lines
are greatly facilitated through the Tremont Street
Subway, the East Cambridge Viaduct, and the
Boylston Street Tunnel; while the more remote
localities are rendered accessible by means of
publicly and privately operated bus lines.
All of these facilities tend to lead people away
from the large centers of population into districts
less crowded and with more advantages in the
way of open areas and more rural environment.
83
CITY COUNCIL.
Housing.
Housing conditions are another important con-
sideration. Naturally the houses in the older
sections of the city are becoming, in a general
way, less desirable for living purposes, due to the
absence of modern facilities, inconvenient room
arrangement, or lack of open areas, while the con-
venience of proximity to the business center has
become of less moment as transportation facilities
have improved. There are comparatively few
vacant, areas available for large scale building
operations within the physical limits of the City
of Boston at the present time. It is also true
that as one gets further away from the center,
land values and also rents are lower. There is at
the same time an apparent desire on the part of
many people for larger open areas in connection
with housing facilities and these, of course, are
only possible in the less crowded sections. The
recent action of the Federal Government in
sponsoring subsistence homesteads is indicative of
the present trend toward more spacious living
accommodations.
Taxation.
So far as tax rates are concerned it would not
appear that the suburban sections had any par-
ticular advantage over Boston. The following
figures are quoted from the 1933 table of tax rates:
Boston $32.80 per $1,000.
Brookline 20 . 90 per 1 ,000.
Cambridge 33.50 per 1,000.
Newton 24.80 per 1,000.
Maiden 33.70 per 1,000.
Medford 32.80 per 1,000.
Quincy 29.60 per 1,000.
Belmont 24.00 per 1,000.
Annexations.
In the "Engineering News-Record" of Feb-
ruary 9, 1933, is an article by Howard M. Green.
Boston, St. Louis and Cleveland were taken as
examples and the process of growth and decay of
cities was told in a single quoted paragraph.
"The original city areas become populous and
the inhabitants begin to migrate to adjacent out-
lying areas. This territory then becomes annexed
to the central city, becomes populous in turn, and
the process continues. The original areas mean-
while become less and less suitable for residences
and are used to a growing extent for commercial
and industrial establishments. The area once
given over to fine old homes is invaded by busi-
ness, some of the families move away, and their
dwellings become cheap lodging houses. At this
period the area is of little value for residential pur-
poses, and business has not yet expanded suffi-
ciently to demand it. Residential values decline,
and values are only maintained by the hope that
business will some day pay high prices for down-
town property. In other words the area is blighted.
Finally the dwellings are razed, and their sites
are used for new hotels, office buildings, and com-
mercial undertakings of all sorts. The displaced
population moves into newer and more spacious
areas, thereby hastening the necessity for further
annexations."
Since 1880 Boston has had only one annexation,
that of Hyde Park, when an area of less than
3,000 acres and 16,000 people became a part of
Boston in 1912. Further efforts towards annexa-
tions have met with opposition. The densely
populated cities to the north, west and the south
already have the convenience of transportation
and other facilities between the central city and
the suburban areas and can see no advantage in
annexation to balance the strong characteristic
feeling for local self-government. Hence as far as
annexations are concerned, there is apparently
little opportunity until the time comes when
metropolitan Boston will be incorporated as a
unit with a new structure of municipal government.
Immigration.
There is also the question of immigration.
From 30,000 immigrants into Massachusetts in
1895 there was a steady rise to a maximum of
101,000 in 1913 with nearly as many in 1914.
From 1915 to 1919 there was a decided slackening
due to the war when the average per year was
about 20,000. The average for the next five years
jumped to 46,000 when quota restrictions were
adopted in 1924 and from 1925 to 1930 caused a
gradual decrease of from 30,000 to 18,000. In
1931 immigration dwindled to 7,200, the lowest
figure since 1860, when it was 7,800, and in 1932
there were but 2,500 immigrants.
In General.
The evidence at hand seems to support the
theory that all cities go through a process of
growth and decline. This is not only true of a
city itself, but even when it is broken down into
districts. Boston is the oldest example in that
it includes some of the first settlements in this
country. Charlestown for the last quarter-
century has decreased in population, as has also
the South Boston section. East Boston shows
evidence of having passed its high point with
indications that its curve will tend to go down in
the future. Boston Proper shows a decrease in
the last twenty years. This, of course, is to be
expected in the older sections. The newer and
less densely populated residential sections still
show room for expansion. Roxbury is at the
turn. Dorchester and West Roxbury are the
most heavily populated and are really the dis-
tricts carrying the increase in population for the
city itself. This is due to the fact that these two
districts are not only the largest in area, but have
had undeveloped tracts to which the population
turned in the general outward growth of the
city from the center. Hyde Park and Brighton
at the extreme south and west ends of the city
show the lowest densities and show much smaller
rates of increase than Dorchester and West
Roxbury.
The reason for the apparent continuation of
growth in the cities and towns surrounding Boston
lies in the fact that the population trend having
started later than that of Boston, or having lagged
behind, has not yet reached the point of radical
decrease in rate of increase. This is true in all
cases except Cambridge where the downward
trend is even ahead of that of Boston and a decline
of over 5 per cent is shown in the last census. This
coincides with the fact that the older the section,
the less rapid the rate of growth.
Q. 5. Has the City Planning Board any sugges-
tions to offer to the City Council to
make Boston and particularly the older
part of the city, that is, the North
End, West End and South End a more de-
sirable place so that the population
that has left this part of the city can
be replaced?
Taxation, annexation, immigration and natural
causes appear to have little to offer in the way of
a solution to the problem at the present time
leaving transportation and housing as the two
major possibilities.
Of these, transportation has received a fair share
of attention in recent years but there are still
many fundamental defects in the street plan of
the city. A street plan, however, should not be
designed to promote . either centralization or de-
centralization. Rather it should be designed to
promote safety, comfort and speed of movement
between all parts of the community. This fact
was recognized in the Report on a Thoroughfare
Plan for Boston submitted by the City Planning
Board in 1930. The report was the result of
three years of careful investigation, during which
an unusually complete traffic analysis and fore-
cast was prepared. Ten major projects were
submitted and sixty-four secondary projects, to-
gether with a definite construction program cover-
ing a period of twenty-five years, and a financial
plan.
It was the hope of the City Planning Board that
this report might serve as the basis for an official
plan to be prepared under the provisions of chapter
168 of the Acts of the year 1930, that it would be
subjected to careful examination and constructive
criticism by public and private interests, and that
it might be amended, supplemented, perfected and
eventually approved as the official Thoroughfare
Plan of the City of Boston.
The adoption of such an official Thoroughfare
Plan, accompanied by appropriate construction
and financial programs, will do much to promote
the safety, comfort and convenience of both
business and residential sections. It would also
encourage building developments and tend to
stabilize occupancy and valuations.
A more immediate and definite possibility is to
be found in the field of Housing, however. In
this the experience of Boston is no different from
that of any other large city. There is a lack of
open areas in connection with houses in the older
sections of the city; a minimum of sanitary
facilities have been installed; and in a majority
MARCH 19, 1934.
84
of cases, little or nothing has been done to add to
the appearance of the building or the comfort or
well being of the occupants.
The only real solution is a long range program of
rehabilitation and reconstruction in the older
sections of the city in order to make them at-
tractive, wholesome and desirable as places of
residence.
It is generally admitted that such a program is
an economic impossibility through private capital
although it would require the cooperation of the
private owner. It would also require the coopera-
tion of the city in the provision ot open spaces and
public facilities, and in tax adjustments. It would
also require the cooperation of the Federal Govern-
ment in the initial financing. England, having
provided in fifteen years more than one million
low-cost homes with financial assistance from the
government, is now working on a five-year program
for slum clearance which calls for the demolition
of 210.000 houses and the erection of a quarter of
a million new dwellings. Holland has rehoused
nearly one-seventh of its population with govern-
mental aid. In Vienna more than 60,000 dwellings
have been built for the wage earners in the lowest
brackets. The United States Government has now
set apart $100,000,000 for low- cost housing opera-
tions by the Federal Government and stands ready
to an even greater extent to assist in the carrying
out of limited dividend projects.
The City Planning Board through its Civil
Works Project has been making an intensive
study of housing conditions in the different sections
of the city with the idea of determining potential
sites for low cost housing developments. A some-
what similar study has been carried on by the
Regional Plan Association, Inc., of New York, in
districts where large population losses have been
suffered in the decade from 1920 to 1930. The
Federal Public Works Administration has allocated
$25,000,000 for suitable housing projects that may
be developed under the New York City Housing
Authority. The adoption of House Bill No. 770,
now pending before the Committee on State
Administration of the Massachusetts Legislature,
would permit the appointment of similar housing
authorities in the State of Massachusetts with
similar eligibility to governmental funds.
The following editorial from the Boston Tran-
script of February 27, 1934, is timely:
"Warning to the Cities.
A new note is heard in the discussion of housing
problems. Cities are reminded that they must
compete with outlying communities in the creation
of attractive conditions for living as well as for
working. For if the outward movement of
population keeps on, it will mean heavier tax
burdens for those who remain, and heavier tax
burdens will tend to drive out industry.
Leaders in city planning, assembled in New York
at the suggestion of Mayor LaGuardia, were told
by Ralph T. Walker, president of the New York
chapter of the American Institute of Architects,
that the population of the city was moving away
from the center as if propelled by some centrifugal
force. He added: 'Unless New York City is made
just as fine a community as the outlying com-
munities, it will continue to lose population. This
is certain to affect the city's tax structure. Taxes
would have to be raised to meet the city's debts,
and thus would cause industry to move out of the
city.'
If this is sound doctrine, it may come to pass
that the central cities in urban districts will fight
to keep their people at home as a matter of good
business as well as sentiment. But it obviously
means city planning on a large scale. It involves
the provision of many open spaces available to
young and old for purposes of recreation. It
suggests the alteration of business and residential
neighborhoods according to plans differing widely
from the zoning methods now familiar. Perhaps
under such an order, the people who preferred the
city would offset in numbers those who sought
homes in the suburbs.
However that may be, the remarks of the
New York architect indicate that consideration of
the almighty dollar may become an argument for
more comprehensive city planning. There may be
those who have thought of the dollar as an argu-
ment against it."
The City Planning Board hopes to carry forward
its housing studies in order to be in readiness
to cooperate fully and constructively with State,
Regional and Federal authorities. To that end
there has been established in fourteen different
sections of the city. Local Joint Planning Com-
mittees composed of citizens representing all the
civic organizations and elements of the district.
In addition there are two city-wide advisory
committees, established to cooperate with the
City Planning Board, — the Advisory Committee
on Public Improvements and the Advisory
Committee on Housing. The Advisory Com-
mittee on Public Improvements was established
in 1924, its function being to bring to bear on all
suggested public improvements a cross-section
of public opinion through representatives of all
city-wide civic and professional organizations
The Advisory Committee on Housing was ap-
pointed in 1932 for similar cooperation in the
study of housing conditions.
It is generally agreed that a long range program
for the construction of houses will meet better
than any other program the needs of unemploy-
ment relief and that money spent for such work
will be distributed more widely over the com-
munity than money spent in any other way.
The City Planning Board believes the concern
expressed by the City Council in the foregoing
order is justifiable. It believes the most effective
remedial step is to be found in improved housing
conditions, particularly in the older sections of
the city. It has sponsored constructive housing
measures. It has assembled in part the basic
data necessary to permit of the adoption of a
sound reconstruction program and policy. It
stands ready to cooperate with all other agencies,
public and private, to the end that tax values
may be maintained and strengthened; that
services already installed may be adequately
availed of; that population figures may be stabil-
ized at a point consistent with good living con-
ditions, and that those desiring to live in close
proximity to the center of the city may have the
opportunity to do so in comfortable and attractive
surroundings.
Yours very truly,
Frederic H. Fat,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
FORESTATION ON HARBOR ISLANDS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 19, 1934
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I have been advised that there is
a possibility that the director of Emergency
Conservation Work, appointed under the provisions
of the Act of Congress entitled "An Act for the
relief of unemployment through the performance
of useful public work, and for other purposes,"
approved March 31, 1933, will cause forestation
work to be done on the islands in Boston Harbor
belonging to the City of Boston, if permission to
enter upon the islands and do the necessary work
is given by the City of Boston to the Federal
Government.
I am therefore submitting for your consideration
a form of order relating to such permission, the
passage of which I recommend.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the head of any department or
the members of any board, having the care and
custody of any island or any part thereof belonging
to the City of Boston and located in Boston
Harbor, or the Board of Park Commissioners
with respect to any such island or part thereof
not in the care and custody of any department
or board, be, and they hereby are, authorized to
give to the United States of America permission
to enter upon any such island or part thereof
for the purpose of forestation in accordance with
the provisions of the Act of Congress entitled
"An Act for the relief of unemployment through
the performance of useful public work, and for
other purposes," approved March 31, 1933, and
to do thereon such acts as may be necessary or
desirable in connection therewith under the
direction of the Director of Emergency Con-
servation Work, appointed under said act.
Referred to Executive Committee.
8:
CITY COUNCIL.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to the committees named, viz.:
ClainiH.
Joseph A. Ratal, for compensation for damage to
property at 350 Shawmut avenue, caused by water
from street.
Boston Fish Market Corporation, for refund on
victualler's license.
Morris Burofsky, for refund on refuse tickets.
Charles M. Butters, for compensation for
damage to car by city truck.
Harold T. DeMers, for refund on retail store
bottle license.
Paul Deranian, for refund on beer license.
Mary E. Epple, for compensation for damage to
property by city truck.
Mary K. Felletter, for compensation for injuries
caused by ice on courtyard, City Hall.
Joseph P. Gannon and others, for compensation
for clothing destroyed by fire at 710 Albany street.
John I. Gibbons, for compensation for damage
to property by city truck.
Patrick Harnett, for compensation for damage
to car by snowplow.
Charles Howard, for compensation for damage
to property at 414 Dorchester avenue, caused by
fire apparatus.
W. J. Howard, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
Gordon Joyce, to be reimbursed for execution
issued against him on account of his acts as a
police officer.
Lahood Joseph, for compensation for damage to
pushcart by city truck.
Keystone Realty Corporation, for compensation
for damage to property at 34 Lancaster street,
caused by broken water main.
Joseph E. Latham, for compensation for dam-
age to car by fire apparatus.
S. S. Learnard Company, for compensation for
damage to truck by city cart.
James J. Macek, for compensation for loss of
overcoat at City Hospital.
Macy-Kay Drug Company, for compensation
for damage to property at 707 Washington street,
caused by water in cellar.
A. Maglione, for refund on refuse tickets.
Agatha Makanskas, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city truck.
Mary G. Mattos, for compensation for damage
to car by fire alarm post.
Marie McCormack, for compensation for dam-
age to coat by paint at Surgical Building, City
Hospital.
Theresa Melancom, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 52 Mag-
nolia street.
Thomas Murphy, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Gallivan
Boulevard.
Nann T. Nyhan, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Wait street.
Albin F. Ober, for compensation for damage to
car by fire truck.
Martin J. O'Toole, for refund on liquor license.
Christine E. Roth, for compensation for damage
to property at 64 Northbourne road, Jamaica
Plain, caused by erection of school wall.
Morris Sandersen, for refund on refuse tickets.
John J. Sullivan, for compensation for damage
to truck by sanitary truck.
Winifred Tully, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 8 Meander street.
Underwood Typewriter Company, for compen-
sation for damage to truck by city truck.
William Warwick, for compensation for damage
to property at 148 State street, caused by defect
in water pipes.
Benjamin Wax, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
Frank J. Westwater, for compensation for
injuries caused by sanitary truck.
Mr. and Mrs. Alson R. Whitcher and Mrs.
Dickinson, for compensation for damage to prop-
erty by negligent maintenance of sewer.
Oscar Wolk, for compensation for damage to car
by city truck.
Leonard Ziskend, for compensation for damage
to car by city truck.
Joseph Catanese, for refund on liquor license.
Mt. Lebanon Cemetery Association, to be paid
interest on main pipe deposit.
Kxeeutive.
Petition of Elizabeth G. Carroll, for children
under fifteen years of age to appear at Practical
Arls High School, March SZ.
I'll n ion of Margaret Gustin, to be paid an
annuity on account of death of her husband, a
member of (he Police Department.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway, to operate
motor vehicles between Brookline-Boston line on
Brookline avenue and Kenmore square, over
Brookline avenue and Kenmore square (Boston
section of a route between Chestnut Hill, Brook-
line, and Kenmore square, Boston).
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to Boldiers and
sailors and their families in the City of Boston for
the month of March, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
PROPOSED REINSTATEMENT OF SECOND
ASSISTANT ASSESSORS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to consider the
advisability of reinstating the ten second assistant
assessors recently discharged and placing them on
a stagger basis in the department.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President my
purpose in introducing this order is to get a com-
plete understanding of this matter that has
been brought to our attention and to find out
whether there is any way of Btopping this move-
ment now going on, under the head of economy,
but which will apparently result in the ruthless
discharge of men and women from the city depart-
ments. I don't want it to appear that I am quar-
relling with the Mayor, but I have a right as a
councilor representing a district in this city to do
my share in trying to alleviate a condition that
for the past year under the able leadership of our
President we have been trying to avoid. We
hear every day that the President of the United
States and those working under him are doing
everything they can to fight the depression,
spending millions of dollars for the purpose. We
are slowly emerging from the depression, yet we
find the Mayor of Boston taking a position con-
trary apparently to the policies of the President
and starting a "Stop Roosevelt" program here
in Boston. Three weeks ago ten second assistant
assessors were discharged. Of that group only
one came from my district. The average pay of
these men and women has been SI, 200 to §1,500
a year, making a total of possibly 813,000 that
might be saved for the entire year, and it will
simply mean a cut in the tax rate of about 3 cents.
I do not believe there is a property owner in Boston
who would not be ready and willing to spend that
3 cents if it meant the re-employment of these
men and women and the alleviation of the suffer-
ings of the many children affected by the ouster.
Under the guise of economy, 3 cents is saved on
the tax bill; yet the Mayor within two weeks
appointed a new man as Superintendent of the
Long Island Hospital at a salary of 84,500 a
year — a position, mind you, that was abolished
almost a year ago. If the Mayor was really
serious and sincere he could have put back at
least eight of these people in these positions
that were abolished, if they were placed on a
stagger basis. Most of these discharged employees
have large families, and I have been informed that
in several cases there has been a good deal of
sickness in the family for years. I would not be
at all surprised if some of them will have to be
placed on the rolls of the Public Welfare Depart-
ment, and if on those rolls they would be entitled
to at least 815 a week. So I say that this body
should at least take some steps to prevent the
wholesale further discharge of employees. We
can certainly save many or all of such jobs by
placing the employees on a stagger basis. The
Mayor of Boston is receiving $20,000 a year less
15 per cent. I personally would be willing, in
order to help save the jobs of some of these em-
ployees, to take a cut of 5 per cent, and I know that
MARCH 19, 1934.
86
other members of this body would take the same
position. I feel that the Mayor, by taking such
action as I have proposed, will be able to solve a
situation that is bringing distress to a great many
families here in Boston. The Mayor sees fit to
go to Need ham and give a $7,500 job under this
city government to a resident of that town; he
goes to Newton and hires another man in the same
way. In other words, he is prepared to go to
these outside cities and towns, New Bedford or
other places, and give fat salaried positions in the
City of Boston to people who are not even residents
of Boston. I say the principle is wrong and, al-
though we have not the power to stop him, at
least we ought to point the finger at him and
question his sincerity in giving city jobs to people
who do not reside in Boston, when there are 800,000
residents of Boston from whom he can choose.
He is giving these position to men who are not even
familiar with the life of Boston, who do not know
the impulses and the feelings of Boston residents,
who have everything they want in this world and
don't care about the people who live here. So I
am going to ask you, Mr. President, and members
of this Council, if it is not about time that we took
some step here such as I have proposed. We are
sent here to protect our districts and stop, if
possible, false economy programs, put through to
punish those who were opposed to the Mayor in
the last contest. He told the body that visited
him about ten days ago, composed of senators,
representatives and councilors, that he was going
to discharge any many who opposed him. Is
that the economy that he wishes the people of
Boston to understand that he is putting into effect?
Is that the economy that he is exercising at the
expense of suffering families here in Boston? I
want economy, but I don't want to see human
suffering. We all want economy, but we don't
want to see a ruthless discharge of men and women
who are being sacrificed on the political altar,
resulting in placing poor mothers and children on
the streets and forcing them to go on the Welfare
rolls. So I am going to ask for the passage of this
order, in order that we may at least put these
people back on a stagger basis.
Coun. TOBIN— Mr. President, I move that
the matter be referred to the Executive Committee.
Coun. MURRAY— Mr. President, I move that
we take a vote upon it on the floor now, suspending
the rule, and passing the order.
President DOWD — The question first comes on
the motion to refer to the Executive Committee.
The motion ,to refer the order to the Execu-
tive Committee was declared carried. Coun.
MURRAY doubted the vote and asked for the
yeas and nays.
The motion to refer to the Executive Com-
mittee was carried, yeas 16, nays 5:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty, Dono-
van, Dowd, Finley, Fish, Fitzgerald, Gallagher,
Gleason, Goldman, Kerrigan, MeGrath, Shattuck,
Tobin, Wilson— 16.
Nays — Coun. Englert, Murray, Norton, Roberts,
Selvitella — 5.
DISCHARGED SECOND ASSISTANT
ASSESSORS.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request the
Board of Assessors to make a thorough investiga-
tion to determine whether the necessary economies
can be effected in the department so that the dis-
charged second assistant assessors who were
recently discharged and who are really in need of
employment and whose records are meritorious,
can be re-employed.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I am offering
my order at this time in order that it may be
considered along with Councilor Selvitella's order.
The only difference between the two orders is
that his suggests the stagger system, which I am
not entirely certain will be necessary to adopt in
working out a plan for re-employing these people.
T agree with a great deal that Councilor Selvitella
has said. Of the ten employees who have been
discharged I know only two intimately. Those
are both widow ladies who have worked for the
City of Boston, eight years. So far as appears
from the records of the department they have
never been subjected to a single criticism from
any of their executives, and it is a fact that they
were never called upon to explain their position,
were never given an opportunity to have a hearing,
before they were discharged. They received
notice of only two or three days before the effective
date of their discharge and, so far as I know, they
were never given a chance to defend themselves in
their position, and practically all they know about
the thing is what has appeared in the public press.
Of course, we all know that they have no appeal.
If they are discharged in the interest of economy
they have no right to claim a hearing before the
head of the department or the Mayor. I may
say that immediately upon the discharge of the
two ladies referred to I wrote to the Mayor and
informed him that I was interested in those
ladies, that I knew one of them was the main
support of an invalid mother and that the other
had children attending the Boston schools; that
they received but a paltry sum from the city, not
involving a large amount, and that I felt that a
great hardship was being imposed upon them.
I wrote the Mayor, under date of March 8, inform-
ing him of the situation as I understood it, and
suggesting that if reforms had to be carried out
and it was found necessary to discharge some of
the personnel it would be a good idea to discharge
all the married women in the Assessing Depart-
ment whose husbands were gainfully employed.
Some time afterwards I received an answer from
the Mayor in which he requested me to give him
the names of all such individuals so employed in
that department. Of course, that was a ridiculous
request. The correct ones to give him such in-
formation are the Assessing Board. They can
give him the necessary information, and I submit,
gentlemen, that right in that department are people
occupying positions who cound be easily replaced,
where in some instances the families are receiving
two and three separate salaries from the City of
Boston. And it is very strange that, taking all
of the ten who have been discharged, I am in-
formed that not one of them campaigned for the
present Mayor of the City of Boston. Some took
no part in the campaign whatsoever, but that
made no difference. They were all discharged.
But there is something more at stake in this
matter, Mr. President, than even the reinstate-
ment of these ten people whom we would like to
see reinstated. Last week the Mayor spoke
before the Committee on Cities of the Legislature
and asked for the power to reorganize city depart-
ments. At that time I understand that he was
asked what reorganizations he proposed or in-
tended to make. He said that he was not in a
position to state. I might say also that these
ten people who were discharged, some few days
before election, received a campaign letter from
Frederick W. Mansfield in which he solicited their
support and told them that if he was elected no
person doing an honest day's work for the city
would be discharged. Whether or not he felt
that they were doing an honest day's work, I sub-
mit that, so far as they were concerned, he was
then soliciting their votes, which was some evi-
dence of his feeling toward them in that respect
at that time. I accuse the Mayor of not being
sincere, and I submit that if the Legislature gives
him power to make these reorganizations the
Council should have authority to vote upon the
matter, that if they are not represented in the
action taken a great injustice will be done. When
I say that, the evidence is right here, in these ten
people who have been discharged, either because
of their taking no part in the Mansfield campaign,
or else voting or showing a preference for some
other candidate. We all want economy. As a
matter of fact, this City Council has done a lot
in the line of economy, in many orders that have
been acted upon in the body. We would all like
to see economy, we all want to see the tax rate
cut down, but we are not kidding ourselves the
same as one candidate for Mayor did in the last
election, when he said that he would cut down
the tax rate a certain percentage. It cannot be
done. Those of us who have had experience in
the budget know that we have no power over the
Police Department or over the School Depart-
ment; we know that while we may effect some
economies in City Hall it is very difficult to affect
the tax rate materially. The councilor from
East Boston (Coun. Selvitella) says that the dis-
charge of these ten employees will made a reduc-
tion of 3 cents in the tax rate. I hate to dis-
agree with him, but I doubt whether the discharge
of these ten employees will make a difference of
half a cent in the tax rate. But I say that what
we have seen in this instance is concrete evidence
that if we give this Mayor the power to discharge
employees without recourse to any one it may be
very dangerous. Is he going through City Hall
discharging every individual who was against
87
CITY COUNCIL.
him? Is that where lie is going to start in with
his economy? I think we all stand for a fair,
square deal. I have here given you two examples
of what these discharges that have been made
mean, these two ladies out of the ten of whom I
have personal knowledge, these two widows.
The Lord knows how soon they will be obliged to
apply for welfare. They have been discharged
without any recourse, any attempt to save them
is of no avail, because the discharges are made
under the plea of economy. Therefore, I say we
ought to take some action showing that we stand,
first, for the fair deal for city employees, second,
of course, for the taxpayer. He too, should have,
as we all recognize, a fair deal. But certainly in
the case of these employees, who have no recourse,
no appeal to the Council or anybody else, no
chance for a hearing, it stands to reason that
every citizen of Boston would demand in such a
case that employees of the city be given a fair deal.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
SLUM CLEARANCE.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council go
on record as favoring slum clearance and re-
habilitation of present structures used for homes
in Boston as outlined by the National Housing
Division of Washington, D. C.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 3.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the junction of
Albany street and Broadway, Ward 3.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ROPING OFF STREETS.
Coun. ROBERTS and Coun. SHATTUCK
offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Messenger be authorized
to rope off such streets as may be necessary, as in
former years, in connection with the Marathon
race to be held on April 19, 1934, under the auspices
of the Boston Athletic Association, the expense
attending same to be charged to the appropriation
for City Council, Flags, Ropes and Stakes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
COMMITTEE TO INVESTIGATE WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That a special committee of five (5)
members of the City Council be appointed to
investigate the expenditures, distributions, conduct
and management of the Public Welfare Depart-
ment of the City of Boston and to report to the
City Council on or before the ninth day of April,
1934.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, my
purpose in introducing this order is that in past
years we have been informed by the Corporation
Counsel that when this Council has once passed
the budget all authority in relation to the Public
Welfare Department or the other departments
ceases, so far as the Council is concerned. I
have said on other occasions that I did not agree
with the Corporation Counsel in that respect,
did not think he was right. But the only way
in which we could test the thing out would be
by bringing it before the Supreme Court. Very
shortly the budget will be before the Council,
and the limited time that we will have to go
into details with reference to the Welfare Depart-
ment will not allow us to do the matter justice.
That department is expending close to $14,000,000
yearly, and it will probably reach $15,000,000 this
year. We have just heard two of the councilors
here speak on behalf of men and women w'ho have
been separated from their placeB in the city service
on the ground of economy. We know that the
chief executive of this city is faced with a situa-
tion such as no other Mayor in the history of
Boston has ever been faced with, and that some-
thing has got to be done. I, like every other
member of this body, want to see justice done.
We want to have no man or woman rightfully
entitled to justice, denied it. We want no one
who is entitled to any right or privilege deprived
of it. But we have a situation in which something
must be done. We find one of the men in authority
in that department given another position, and
for months he has been absent from his post of
duty. It is impossible for any one man to look
after the interests of that department unless he is
on the job all the time. We find one member
of the trustees, a dear friend of my own, who
originally came from the section of the city that
I have the honor to represent, who for quite a
few years has been a sick man. I know that
he has been in the West; that for three years or
more he has been away from our city. He
certainly could not give the requisite time to
the work of this Board. Other members of the
Board are not there at regular intervals. They
are away. The whole management of the de-
partment is in the hands of an irresponsible man,
irresponsible, I say, in the sense that he is re-
sponsible to no one. Now, this Council has
power, plenty of power, but we have been allowed
to be swayed from our duty here by opinions
of the Corporation Counsel, naturally influenced
by the Mayor's Office, and any powers that we
may have have naturally been soft-pedalled. We
know that the former Mayor on certain occasions
placed special investigators there, who brought
in true reports, that have never been published,
that have been smothered. What is the answer?
Why? The people of this city are crying out,
because they are suffering from taxation and are
losing their homes. Several thousand city em-
ployees are threatened with the loss of their posi-
tions. The gentleman from East Boston (Coun.
Selvitella) may cry out to high heaven, the gentle-
man from Ward 4 (Coun. Roberts) may cry out
to high heaven, but the Mayor has the power
under the charter and, whether he gets additional
power from the Legislature or not, he can separate
these employees from the pay roll. The Supreme
Court has so ruled in the cases of Fall River and
New Bedford, that he has that power. But I be-
lieve the Mayor is trying to do an honest job,
that he is a humane Mayor, trying to do the best
he can. Now, we are all practical here. There
is not a man here who has not had practical ex-
perience in politics. Men in this body, who have
been elected to the Council, have seen men stand
at the polls against them, using various methods
to defeat them, and would like to see such men
cut off the pay roll, no doubt. I am sympathetic
with employees of the city and am also sympathetic
with those who are paying the taxes. My mind
reverts back thirty-five or forty years to employees
in banks in this city, to employees of Jordan
Marsh, White's, and other establishments who,
when they became old, broken down, infirm,
were separated from the pay roll without a pension
and thrown out into the world, because they were
engaged in private employment and when their
usefulness ceased their employment came to an
end. But nobody saw fit to raise their voices in
their behalf. We are faced with a situation here,
with a condition, and it may well be that the
Mayor in connection with this one department
will be able to lop off $4,000,000 or $5,000,000,
so that he will not have to disturb a single employee
of the city or be faced with an increased tax rate.
Many of our people are troubled with the^ tax
situation and with the increasing burden it is
placing upon our citizens. We hear that the
tax rate is going up to $40, and the Tax Com-
missioner himself cannot see how it is to be re-
duced below $38. The gentleman from the
Back Bay stated, if correctly reported, that it
might go up to $50 or $60, and he knows some-
thing about city and state finances. If that is
the situation, what is going to become of the city?
We are fast becoming a decadent city. All one
has to do is to go over to Cambridge and see the
industries that are going there from Boston,
stores and other establishments, and to see the way
they are crowded at Christmas and other times.
Our taxable property is leaving us; business is
leaving, and in general we are becoming the
sucker city. It is estimated that thousands are
coming to this city from other parts of the metro-
politan district to get on our relief rolls, because
cities like Everett, Revere, Maiden, and others
will only give them a certain amount. If we are
going to continue to put up with that sort of
thing, where are we going to get off? There are
MARCH 19, 1934.
88
thousands of cases in each section of the city that
will bear close investigation. There was one case
where 293 cards were picked out at random, and
practically a hundred of those were shady cases.
Was anything done? No. You will find two and
three in one family receiving aid. The reports
show that they were registering from vacant lots,
gasolene stations, all that sort of thing. How
long is this condition of affairs to continue? Is
it to go on until the bottom comes out of the
barrel? We have talked about the situation there
for a long time, but no action has been taken.
Now, let the thing be settled, once and for all.
Let a special committee of the Council be ap-
pointed to go down there, get the facts, and obtain
some intelligent idea of the situation in the next
two weeks, before the budget has an opportunity
to go through. If anything is wrong, let it be
righted. If the committee can make a true
report to the people of the city that everything
is all right, very well. But we will have to do
something to economize in city expenditures if
we are going to save positions to employees and
if we are going to protect the interests of the
property owners. Some of our people have made
their homes in West Roxbury, Jamaica Plain,
Brighton, and the other outlying districts, trying
to get homes for their families, and the first thing
they know their places are snatched away from
them through the increased tax rate. We see
thousands walking our streets out of employ-
ment, business stagnated, on account of the
millions that are going into the pockets of these
nonresidents who are coming here, obtaining fake
and fictitious residences, and obtaining money
from our Welfare Department. Something must
be done. There is, of course, the rule of five
years' residence here before a man can get a
settlement and be in a position where he can
demand relief from the city. There were forty
men sent from Long Island the other day because
they hadn't a settlement, many of them men
born in Boston, but who, because they may have
been away for a short period of time, have lost
their residence and therefore have been sent
to Tewksbury or placed somewhere on paupers'
rolls. But aliens, nonresidents, can come in here
and they find no difficulty in getting help. And
these things are piling up here, Mr. President;
the burden is becoming greater and greater all
the time. There is only one way in which it
can be stopped, and that is by a true and honest
investigation. Everybody wishes all the help
possible given to honest people who are really in
need, but this thing has become a racket, gentle-
men. I went down there one afternoon last week
and saw hundreds of men in line, and I counted a
number of whom I could truthfully say, to my
way of thinking, that they were not actually in
need of welfare. There were people there with
sealskin coats, men dressed in the height of fashion,
people who would get out of automobiles and
then get in line. Something is radically wrong,
and something must be done. If we are going
to save these men who have lost their positions
and who are threatened with loss of position, in
the Assessing Department, the Building Depart-
ment and other departments, this is the place to
start. Everybody has been afraid to do it. But
the time has now come for the Council to take
action, and I ask that this order be passed under
suspension of the rule, that the president appoint
a committee of five members to investigate, and
that they report back not later than the ninth
of April.
President DOWD — If the councilor has no
objection, the Chair will refer the matter to the
Committee on Rules.
Coun. FITZGERALD— I do object, Mr.
President, because the time is very short, and I
cannot see any reason why this matter should be
referred to the Committee on Rules. This is one
of the rights that the Council has; I am quite
sure that we have all the power necessary to
investigate, and it should not go to the Committee
on Rules. I find, if my authority is right — I
have not given it a thorough looking-into, but it
appears — that under chapter 128 of the Acts of
the Legislature of 1864, a board of twelve over-
seers of the poor for the City of Boston was estab-
lished, whose rights and duties are therein set
forth. That act provided in section 4 that "said
overseers shall render such accounts and reports
of their expenditures, acts and doings as may be
required by the City Council, and the same shall
be audited and allowed, if according to law, in
such manner as the City Council shall from time
determine." While the charter has been changed
since that time, we still retain a legitimate and
proper interest in the doings of the Overseers.
Now. it is important in a matter of this kind that
we should act quickly. If this is referred to the
Committee on Rules, and the Council should then
adjourn for two weeks, all that time would be
lost. In fact, time will be lost anyway by refer-
ence of this matter to a committee. I think we
must all realize the importance of quick action.
Let us vote today for the passage of the order.
If the Council votes the order down, it can accept
the responsibility. Coming from the ward which
pays 46 cents out of every dollar of the tax rate,
I feel, in the interest of the taxpayers in the ward
as well as in the interest of taxpayers throughout
the city, it is imperative that action be immedi-
ately taken. I say that the relief rolls of this
city are padded, and I want to see the thing
cleaned up. I do not hestitate to say that, Mr.
President. I believe there are hundreds and
hundreds claiming residence in certain parts of my
own ward who do not truthfully and rightfully
belong there. If the Council wants to send the
order to the Committee on Rules, they can do so,
but I am going to insist upon a vote upon the
order today.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I heartily agree
with the councilor from Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald)
that this Council has the right to investigate this
matter, and I am heartily in favor of a committee
of five members of this body going down and
investigating the Welfare Department.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I also agree
with the councilor from Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald)
in reference to this particular department. It was
for that reason that back in January, on January
15, I placed an order in the Council requesting a
systematic and detailed survey of the Welfare De-
partment by the Statistics Department of the city,
and looking to the enlargement and completion
of the consolidated index cross-reference system
now being compiled by the Statistics Department.
I understand that an index is bekng made of both
the Welfare and the Soldiers' Relief lists. Cer-
tainly, if we are going to make an investigation of
this kind, it should be done promptly, so that
when we come to consider the budget for the
Welfare Department, amounting at the present
time to something like $14,000,000 a year, we may
have the facts before us. I think the present
Mayor of Boston has been making efforts looking
towards economy. I am beginning to believe that
in some instances, certainly, he is aiming at the
wrong target, however. With every desire to see
economies effected, I cannot see the great impor-
tance, looking to that end, of the discharge of some
unfortunate doctor down the harbor or of ten
assessors, some of whom have been employed by
the city for ten or twelve years, at a saving of
perhaps $10,000, while the sort of thing we are
all familiar with is going on in the Public Welfare
Department. I believe, as I know the members
of the Council do, that at least 25 per cent of the
$250,000 or $300,000 a week now being spent by
the Welfare Department as the year is starting in
should not be spent at all. I know how the mem-
bers of the Council feel about the necessity for
economy and how his Honor the Mayor is en-
deavoring to do the best he can to pare down the
expenses of city departments, that he is even
burning the midnight oil so that department
expenditures can be lopped off — a city position
here, a sidewalk there, and so on. But while
burning the midnight oil he is saving perhaps
$1,000, $2,000, and so on, here and there, he can,
starting out with the new administration, get
after this Public Welfare Department, which is
spending from $250,000 to $300,000 every seven
days, of which at least 20 or 25 per cent is abso-
lutely being stolen from the city. And so I agree
with the effort here being made by the councilor
from Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald), feeling that it
will, first, result in a godsend to city employees
who may otherwise lose their positions because of
inability to pay them, second, to the taxpayers,
who will thus get some relief on their tax bills
through the stopping of this unnecessary and
wrong expenditure, and third, to the people who
are on the welfare themselves, the deserving ones,
who will thereby not suffer because of this 20 or
25 per cent that is being wrongfully expended,
and will be better able to support their wives and
children. I don't see how the City Council is
going to pass intelligently on the Mayor's budget
in a matter of this kind without having some
intelligent idea of the situation in that depart-
89
CITY COUNCIL.
men!,. Therefore, I feel that there is necessity of
immediate action. It should also be a compre-
hensive investigation, a fair and square investi-
gation, and wo should have a report in the matter
before us when we are acting on the budget, so
that we may more intelligently act upon the
requirements of this and the other city depart-
ments. I agree with the councilor from Ward 3
that we must have the facts and figures which
would bo thus brought out in acting intelligently
upon this year's budget.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, it seems
like a far cry back to seven years ago, when I
stood on the floor of this Council and called
attention to the fact that appropriations for the
Welfare Department were then passing $1,000,000
and that aB time went on an expenditure of
$2,000,000 and perhaps the exorbitant figure of
$3,000,000 would be reached. That was in good
times. People were not then greatly concerned
with public welfare. Everyone was making a
dollar and apparently everybody was happy.
Then we came along to the time of the depression
and we saw every department receiving orders
from the Mayor's office to cut down on the budget,
and to my mind they did a very good job. We
saw every department come before the Committee
on Appropriations of the Council with a reduced
budget, reaching perhaps in the total a reduction
of $3,000,000. But it was not enough, because
here was the Welfare Department which had gone
up from $2,000,000 and $3,000,000, to $10,000,000
and finally to $14,000,000, and in spite of this
reduction of $3,000,000 in other departments
through economies, it was therefore necessary in
addition to curtail further in other departments to
the extent of $1,850,000 in order to get through
the year, taking it out of city employees, while
this year the amount will reach $5,000,000. Last
year the figures of every department were gone
over with a fine-tooth comb, and were reduced
$8,000,000, but the department that has not been
reduced, and the department that has been caus-
ing all this trouble, has gone from a little over
$1,000,000 seven years ago to $14,000,000. Our
tax rate has been advanced to a point where the
whole thing has almost fallen down, to a point
where home owners cannot pay their tax bills.
Still the Welfare expenses are going up, the full
brunt being borne by the taxpayers of this city.
That has been the result after seven years of
fighting by former Mayors and City Councils,
and we now have this situation facing the present
administration. You will remember that when
former Mayor Curley went to Europe, I, as Acting
Mayor, brought down the chairman of the Statis-
tics Department, Mr. Balfe, who had in his posses-
sion an order passed by this Council to get certain
information from the Welfare Department. Then
the trouble started. There could be no more
horrible example of lack of cooperation than was
seen when that department was told, "You have
in your possession every card available dealing
with welfare recipients," and we then found that
they were 7,000 cards short. I called in the Cor-
poration Counsel, Mr. Samuel Silverman, and I
put the entire investigation into his hands. As
the councilor from Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald)
said, certain cases were picked out at random at
that time. He took those cases and turned them
over to his private investigators, who were city
employees. The results were astounding. They
found a case, for example, in Dorchester, where
the landlady owning a home there, said that in
the fourteen years she had owned that home
there was never a person of the name given as one
receiving aid from that home who had lived there.
But every once in a while some lady called and
inquired about the particular case, and each time
the landlady became very indignant and said
there was never such a family living there; that
she had lived there for fourteen years and would
know. I was interested then in the visitor's
report, what the visitor had said about the par-
ticular case; but it appeared that, unfortunately,
the entire record had been lost, and Mr. Silverman
said, "Why investigate that case further? " Then
there was another case where a woman owned a
home on Tremont street, in the South End, where
a certain recipient was supposed to live, and the
landlady said that she never heard of her. She
was told that she must be wrong, because checks
had been sent out and the checks had been cashed,
and the question arose, who cashed the checks?
It seemed that they were cashed at a little corner
grocery. The woman said she owned another
house, on Appleton street, but that in that place
there was no such recipient, and had not been for
years. And so the thing went on, and nothing
was cleared up for months in the investigation of
that case. But finally when we held our last
meeting downstairs, and when practically every
case under consideration had been investigated,
what did we find out from that landlady? Up to
that point it seemed that it might be a case of
mistaken identity, but on the day of that last
meeting this lady, although she had not previously
furnished the information, stated that she owned
an additional house at 38 Gray street, and it
appeared that the person receiving aid lived there.
She had forgotten about it at the time previously.
And so it went on, and in the final upshot of the
matter the cases suddenly became as white as
snow. In fact, incidentally, the Boston news-
papers got quite irritated with me, saying I had
intimated that there was fraud in the department
and that suggestions of that kind were not for the
good of the service; that if it had not been for
some of these later developments the department
would have stood condemned in the eyes of the
public. And so the thing has gone on. But
there were cases investigated, and the investiga-
tion was carried on by Corporation Counsel Silver-
man. I sat there in an impartial, neutral capacity,
and he recommended certain things as a result of
the investigation. So the thing has gone on, until
we now have this order introduced by the gentle-
man from Ward 3, an order which seems to me a
necessary order under all the circumstances and
one that should be paBsed at this time. I do not
criticize the Mayor in the present instance because
he is new to the office. He is getting his bearings,
and he will have his problems in connection with
the administration of the affairs of the city. He
has the sole power to look into thoBe records of
the Statistics Department. Only upon the written
order of the Mayor can even the members of the
City Council see those records. But we have had
here in this state studies carried on in criminology
and sociology by high-class men and women who
have had access to the records, and there has been
some access that has brought about questionable
results. I had a case brought to my attention
two years ago of a school teacher in Dorchester,
having a row with another school teacher, and
saying to her, "What can you expect of a family
who were city paupers?" Because the first person
had seen in the records something that you can-
not see, Mr. President. You are an elected official
here, and yet you cannot look at those records,
but every single student in Harvard College or
in Simmons College can walk in and see records
dealing with the most personal relations of people
in this city, people who are taxpayers and resi-
dents. Those records are sacred only in so far as
the members of this Council are concerned; and
so, unless his Honor the Mayor will give to the
committee of the Council the right to look into
the records upstairs, we will be powerless. The
board of twelve, two years ago, voted their lull
power to Mr. McCarthy, who runs that depart-
ment, and then the Federal Government, after
the Civil Works Act was passed, for the first
time in Boston's history, had this entire list of
recipients turned over to a Federal Administrator
here in Boston who was to be appointed by the
Federal Government and who would have a right
to see the name of every recipient and investigate
the case. Then, what happened? We were told
that the reason why Mr. McCarthy could not
come to this chamber while he was at the head of
the Department of Public Welfare was because he
was too busy, because his department had given
him the authority over the expenditure of
$14,000,000 a year; and then we see Mr. Bartlett,
a splendid gentleman, appointed at the head of the
state department of Civil Works, find that there
is a conference between Mr. Bartlett and Mr.
McCarthy, and that then Mr. McCarthy is ap-
pointed to investigate the department of which
he has charge; that Walter V. McCarthy, the
man who was so busy that he could, not come to
the Council to give us information in regard to
welfare recipients, was now placed in an even
busier position, and that the only check on the
Welfare Department which was being run by
Walter V. McCarthy was through Walter V.
McCarthy, appointed by the Federal Government.
Now, sir, when it comes to doing all that can be
done for the needy poor, there was never a man
who sat in this body, regardless of how he might
preach economy, who would deny to any of the
people of this city bread, a home, and a little
warmth. There is not a member of this body
today who would not reach into his own pocket,
regardless of how he preaches economy, and con-
MARCH 19, 1934.
90
tribute to the deserving poor of this city. But I
don't think there is a man in this body who wants
to see, as has happened, a person who runs a
grocery store, a man who owns and drives a
Packard car, going to this department for relief.
Those obtaining relief from the Welfare Depart-
ment are becoming a political force in this city.
They are entering into politics. If you take the
ground that there should be an investigation and
a limitation of the expenditures of that depart-
ment, you are told, "Don't you dare to trifle with
the Welfare Department." Those who are bene-
ficiaries of that department are becoming one of
the strongest organizations in Boston. When
private social agencies in this city break down,
you will find thit they transfer their heritage to
the city-controlled Welfare Department. The
most important way to reduce taxes in this city
today is to put that department under close and
strict supervision, so that it will be confined only
to its proper and legitimate activities in helping
the deserving poor. If you do that there will be
no necessity whatever of cutting salaries of city
employees or of cutting out city employees. Seven
years ago, and in the years since, I have been
intensely interested in this matter. I have told
you that one day there would arise a Frankenstein
in this city, that the welfare recipients would
become so powerfully organized that they would
control the government. There was a man who
ran against me, and on his card it said, "I stand
with the Welfare recipients." There was a man
who spent $2,000 in trying to get elected to this
body, and Commissioner Lydon and Mr. McCarthy
admitted that he was on the soldiers' and welfare
relief rolls, and his family, his father, also. Only
two years ago in this very chamber I called atten-
tion for the first time of then Corporation Counsel
Silverman to the fact that even the Soldiers'
Relief and Public Welfare did not compare their
lists with each other, and in that year, in the
March 17th parade, a man who was on public
welfare rode in the parade in a privately owned
seven-passenger automobile ahead of the councilors,
a man with plenty of money, who was running
that car for pleasure and yet he was on the sol-
diers' relief and on public relief for the full amount,
and is yet. That sort of thing cannot go on, sir.
I asked for information from Morgan Ryan, the
registrar, giving the name of every person in the
City of Boston who owns and runs an automobile
for pleasure. There are many who are on public
welfare that are in that list. I was not after the
little fellow who has perhaps paid $10 for a car,
which he leaves out in his back yard, who does
not have money enough to register it. But, sir,
I was after such people as a man of whom I know
a father of a family, who testified that he had no
automobile, but he has living at home with him
a son of twenty-three years of age and a daughter
of twenty-five, each owning and operating an
automobile for pleasure. Of course, this sort of
thing is going to put some of the recipients of
public welfare in bad, but we have got to put
some persons in bad, sir, if we are going to do
justice to people who have struggled for a life-
time to put a roof over their families, only to find
that they are being engulfed because a lot of
fakirs, who wouldn't even work in 1928, when
there was work to do, are now being supported
by the city, a lot of fakirs, men who were bums
in good times and who will try to get help from
the public as long as they live, and they are ruin-
ing the little fellow who owns a home and whose
taxes are becoming so excessive that he cannot
carry the burden. And the Federal Government
comes along and says, "If you are on welfare we
will take care of you; you can get coal, shoes,
whatever you need." And then we find many
of this class to whom I have referred on welfare.
The only man who is being penalized is the man
who is suffering because of his frugality, the man
who has worked hard, and who has been trying
to get a home — whether in the heart of Dorchester,
Jamaica Plain, Brighton, Charlestown or else-
where; the man who, after years of labor trying
to get a home and to protect his wife and children,
is getting caught like a rat in a trap and cannot
get out. Yes, he can get out, but the only way
is by losing his home, losing his job and living off
the City of Boston. And so, sir, I believe that
we should here and now suspend the rules and
pass this order, that this committee should be
appointed, and that we should immediately get in
touch with the facts concerning some of these
recipients of welfare. They will not tell the
truth. They will go outside and say that the
councilors have little to do when they engage in
such business as this! They will say that we are
taking away the slice of bread and the glass of
milk from the children. That is the sort of
charge that we have had to meet all these years
when we have tried to have this department
placed on a good and honest basis. And you
may have a fight on your hands from these very
people when you go back to your constituents to be
returned. We must meet the situation confront-
ing us in this city before there has been such a
Frankenstein erected that it will run our city.
They had their candidates in every ward in the
City of Boston this year, and made a determined
fight to turn this body over to the control of the
Welfare Department, and they were not far from
achieving their purpose in some of the wards, sir.
As the days go on, a common cause will bring
them together. You know that they are fakirs,
you all know that in your wards. When we are
asked to name them, you, gentlemen, will not act
as police officers, and neither will I. But there
are those who are entrusted with the duty of
looking after the affairs of this city who can
properly be called upon to bring forth the facts.
Let us take the lists that are upstairs in Mr. Balfe's
office, as a result of the investigation, and turn
them over to the Corporation Counsel's office to
investigate. Let them put back the system that
the twelve members of the Board voted for, at
my suggestion, once a month to have every re-
cipient of welfare sign a receipt, giving also "the
present address." Also, in the case of those who
sign by cross, have that witnessed by some mem-
ber of the department. Then, have your investi-
gation. It will not then simply be the word of
an employee of the department against the man
who signed by cross, but it will be witnessed so
that an investigation will show whether or not it
was right. Let us have this committee, sir, and
let us have a thorough investigation of this depart-
ment. Let us take some action to stop the Bort
of thing we all know is going on. Let us purge
the list, and in so doing let us show our wish and
intention to cooperate with the Mayor, who has a
tremendous burden facing him this year. If he
will put into effect down there what the twelve
trustees voted to put into effect, signing triplicate
copies giving the names and present address of
every recipient of welfare, then a proper investiga-
tion can be made and the sort of thing that is now
going on will cease. This committee, if it is given
the right to do so, can go in and investigate those
names; we can pick out twenty-five, fifty, one
hundred names, present them to the Corporation
Counsel's office and have an investigation made
within twenty-four hours, and that sort of thing
can be continued until this whole business is
straightened out. Then, if we get reports from
the Corporation Counsel's office that individuals
have not lived here or lived there for six months
or any period of time, there is something wrong.
The trouble is that after the twelve members of
that body had so voted unanimously, when they
started to put their vote into effect, they found
that the list was so faulty that they themselves
were ashamed. I challenge the Public Welfare
Department of the City of Boston to go through
with their unanimous vote, to give us an honest
deal, and to get rid of the fakirs.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I shall
vote in favor of this order. I believe it to be a
step in the right direction. I believe, however,
that we must not "kid" ourselves into thinking
that this one step or any one step will be sufficient
to pull us out of the situation in which we find
ourselves. Last year, partly through borrowing
and partly through a grant of the Federal Govern-
ment, we took about $7,000,000 of our expenditures
off the tax levy, and it was only in that way that a
reduction in taxation was effected. Otherwise,
the tax rate would have been over $35 on a thou-
sand, the highest figure we have ever reached
in this city; although if we figured on true value —
and that is what led to the figure I referred to the
other day at a legislative hearing — the rate in very
many cases would be much higher than that.
I know a recent case of a house on Marlborough
street, in my district, on the sunny side, the side
on which ordinarily a house would sell at the
better price. That house was sold for $8,500,
athough assessed for over $20,000. In other
words, it was being taxed at about $100 on a
thousand of its real valuation, and that is not an
unusual case. I know another house on the
same street for which a few weeks ago a prospec-
tive buyer offered to give $8,000, and after looking
it over withdrew the offer, and that house was
assessed for over $20,000. So it is clear that we
91
CITY COUNCII,
luivo reached a point where drastic economy is
necessary— economy in the Welfare Department,
ho far as in possible cutting olT unworthy cases,
cutting off fake cases; economy in every depart-
ment, and doing without unnecessary employees.
Thoro is no reason whatever why the City of
Boston as a whole should pay salaries to persons
who are on the pay roll but who are doing no
necessary work. If we stick to essentials and pay
for those essentials we will be doing all we can
and at the same time will keep our city solvent,
paying the wages we have agreed to pay, paying
the salaries we have agreed to pay, and meeting
our other obligations. So, while this is a step
in the right direction, there must be economy all
along the line.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, this order is
not one that is going to get us anywhere, or one
hundred similar orders are not going to get us
anywhere, without other necessary action being
taken. Who is going to investigate the cases of
100,000 men, women and children? There is
just one thing to do in the Welfare Department,
first, and that is to decentralize it, and I have
introduced over one hundred orders to have it
decentralized. There is no reason why West
Roxbury and South Boston cannot have what
Hyde Park has today, their own welfare head-
quarters. Then, with the cooperation of school
teachers and others, with a properly functioning
committee of investigators in each district, health
nurses and others, we will know who is on the
roll and whether they have a right to be on the
roll. Now, why don't you men stand with me
and vote, say, for one month's budget? There
is only one power we have here, and you can
talk here until the end of time and you will not
change that fact. Everybody wants people in
Boston fed, but why not exercise our power to
vote a one month's budget, and then if things
are not properly handled, we can bring them to
task. But the important thing at once is to
decentralize the department.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
President DOWD appointed as said committee
Councilors McGrath, Fitzgerald, Tobin, Shattuck
and Wilson.
PAYMENT TO JOHN DUCEY.
Coun. ENGLERT offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approved the enactment of legislation to
authorize the city to pay a sum of money for the
benefit of John Ducey, who lost an eye on account
of an accident at the Franklin Park Golf Links.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REQUESTED REINSTATEMENT OP
FULTON P. WESSON.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to reinstate
Mr. Fulton P. Wesson to the Police Department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RESTORATION OF SAVIN HILL BATH
HOUSE.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request the
Park Commissioner to have the Savin Hill Bath
House, which was recently damaged by fire, made
available for those using the beach at the opening
of the bathing season.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MESSAGE TO PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Whereas, His Honor the Mayor, in a radio
address from City Hall on February 26, speaking
on unemployed, stated, "All my life I have been a
pleader for the masses who work and struggle to
rear their families. My career has been devoted
to driving out of the temple those who preach
the gospel of despair. Defeatism has no place in
our homes, in our state, nor in our nation. . .
Thus, it seems to me, and I am warranted in be-
lieving thai, you, loo, my radio audience, are con-
vinced that at last a good turn is about to be
accomplished, when the nation, every state, every
city and town are putting their shoulder to the
wheel for the restoration of normal conditions";
be it
Resolved, That the above remarks be incor-
porated in a message to be sent by his Honor the
Mayor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt as
congratulation from the City of Boston for putting
in force the splendid democratic principles of
employing thousands of Boston unemployed during
this long period of depression and hardship.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NOTICE OF HEARINGS ON GASOLENE
PERMITS, ETC.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commissioners
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
furnish members of the City Council with due
notice of hearings to be held on petitions with
reference to pipe line feed for gasolene or fuel oil
in their respective districts.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
EXTENSION OF TIME LIMIT OF
CHAPTER 347.
Coun. SELVITELLA, for Couc. Green, offered
the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the enactment of legislation extend-
ing the time limit of chapter 347 of the Acts of
1931.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PAYMENT TO PATRICK F. McKEON.
President DOWD offered the following:
Ordered, That there be allowed and paid to
Patrick F. McKeon the sum of two hundred
dollars a year, to date from March 19, 1934, as
part compensation for extra services rendered at
meetings of the City Council and committees
thereof; such payment to continue until other-
wise ordered, and to be charged to the appropria-
tion for City Council, A-l.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 14 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor.
to repave with smooth pavement Greenwood
street, from York street to Harvard street, Ward 14.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Woodrow avenue,
Ward 14.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to substitute electric lights for the present gas
lamps on Mascot street, Ward 14, and to install
such additional lights as may be necessary to
properly illuminate said street.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to substitute modern electric lights in place of the
present gas lights on Bowdoin avenue, Ward 14,
and to install whatever additional lights as may be
necessary, as requested in the petition signed by
property owners and residents on said avenue.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
APPROVAL OF HOUSE BILL NO. 40.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the enactment of legislation estab-
lishing a commission to raise additional revenue
for the Commonwealth and the cities and towns
thereof, said legislation being House Bill No. 40 of
1934.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MARCH 19, 1934.
92
COORDINATION OF POLICE FORCES.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of the City of
Boston hereby indorse the passage of Senate
Bill 260, referred to as the Governor's Bill for the
coordination of the police forces.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, I in-
troduce that resolve in view of the fact that the
bill provides for the appointment of the Police
Commissioner of Boston by the Mayor of Boston,
returning this city to home rule. I hope the
Council will give its indorsement to the bill.
President DOWD— The Chair will refer the
resolution to the Executive Committee.
The resolution was referred to the Executive
Committee.
PERMANENT COURT OF INTER-
NATIONAL JUSTICE.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Resolved, That the Congress of the United
States follow traditional American foreign policy
and refuse to sanction American adherence to the
Permanent Court of International Justice, a
creature of the League of Nations, and as such
inextricably bound up with Old World intrigues
and diplomacy detrimental to the best interests
of the United States.
Coun. FINLEY — Mr President, the American
people are engaged in a great struggle against
those reactionary forces, both political and eco-
nomic, which threatened our very life as a nation.
And we are winning that fight, thanks to the
inspired leadership of a great President and the
loyalty of a determined populace. But while
we concentrate on the battle to gain the heights
of prosperity we face an even greater menace
from those forces which, since 1917, have been
working to involve our great country in the turmoil
of European conflict. In 1919, under the leader-
ship of a great United States Senator, the late
Henry Cabot Lodge, we were saved from the
danger which then threatened us. Braving the
wrath of a hostile administration, the great Bay
State political leader successfully fought ratifica-
tion of the Treaty of "Versailles incorporating as it
did the iniquitous League of Nations. At the next
national election the American people, in the
largest outpouring of votes up to that time, re-
pudiated that party which dared to suggest a
desertion of traditional American nationalism in
exchange for a worthless internationalism. Un-
dismayed, the League advocates tried a more
subtle method of approach. Their next move
was to secure adherence to the Permanent Court of
International Justice by the United States. They
covered their treachery with sugar-coated phrases
about our desire for world peace and the amicable
settlement of international disputes. But they
wanted us to get into the League of Nations, not
in the honest, upright American way, by forth-
right adherence to the League of Nations, but in
the craven, despicable way, — through the back
door, — through the World Court. They were
very clever about it. They insisted that the
World Court had no connection with the League
of Nations and that our adherence was merely a
friendly gesture of good will to Europe. The
first statement is a downright lie and the last is
worthless as argument. The World Court was
provided for in the same covenant which sets up
the League of Nations. Its judges are elected
by the League. Their salaries are paid by the
League. Their decisions are rendered at the
request of the League In short, the so-called
World Court is nothing but a creature of the
League of Nations, depending on the League not
only for its existence but also for its sanction
Without the mailed fist of the League, standing in
the background to enforce its decisions, the World
Court is a vain and worthless thing. Let the
Congress of the United States take this initial step
and sanction adherence to the World Court and
it will be but a step before we are plunged head-
long into European intrigues and conflicts. Mr.
President, you and I are acting here today in our .
official capacity because those who have gone
before had the wisdom and the foresight to have
ever before them that watchword "America for
Americans." It was that watchword which
carried the struggling colonies to a breath-taking
victory over Great Britain. It was "America
for Americans" which sustained us in every trying
day in our long and glorious history. It is "Amer-
ica for Americans" which must be our watchword
now in these days of reconstruction. Therefore,
Mr. President, since our need is pressing and since
Congress may act- on the World Court at any
moment, I ask for passage of this resolution under
a suspension of the rules.
Referred to Committee on Rules.
WARD 19 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. MURRAY offered the f ollowing: '
Ordered, That the Street Commissioners,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to lay
out and construct Grover street, Ward 19.
Ordered, That the Street Commissioners,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to lay
out and construct Brown terrace, from Seaverns
avenue to Harrison avenue, Ward 19.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
DECENTRALIZATION OF WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to instruct the Overseers of Public Welfare
to decentralize said department.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, tomorrow
there is to be heard at the State House a bill to
decentralize the Welfare Department and appoint
a single head. I certainly hope that the colleagues
who have spoken today so sympathetically and
feelingly in this matter will be up there tomorrow
in the interests of the people of Boston.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, I suggest
that there should be some one man to speak for the
Council at the hearings in the State House. I
notice that various councilors go up there to speak
and, for fear that the opinion of one councilor
should be interpreted as the feeling of all, I would
suggest that the President of the Council go there
tomorrow and speak for the body on the bill that
deals with the power of consolidation of depart-
ments, as well as the one dealing with a single head
for the Welfare Department. I would suggest
that the President of the Council, as President of
the body, represent the body before the committee.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I trust that
no colleague in this body will give up his inalienable
right as an American citizen to appear before any
committee at the State House. I certainly do not
feel that any order, motion or resolution introduced
into this Council will take away from any member
of the body his inalienable American right. To-
morrow there are bills to be considered by the
Committee on Cities under which the Mayor of
Boston will be at least supposed to try to do some-
thing for the Welfare Department and other
departments. I believe that a single head for that
department, or practically anything that the
Mayor wants, will be better than what we see down
there now. No matter how bad the bill may be, it
cannot be any worse than what we see down there
today. I suppose all my talk on this floor may
not mean much as far as having something done in
this matter is concerned. It may please some one
in the gallery. But we can only do one of two
things: First, we can stand here for a one month 's
budget, and I wonder how many here will so stand
when the pressure is put on? Second, we can go to
the State House tomorrow, look over the bill that
has been introduced, and if we agree with it, as far
as reconstruction of the Welfare Department is
concerned, talk in favor of it. I don't think,
Mr. President, that I as a councilor have got to
ask you to appear at the State House and voice my
sentiments. I have voiced them pretty well for
the last twenty years, and if the Lord gives me
power, I will continue to voice them for the next
twenty years.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
Coun. TOBIN— Mr. President.
President DOWD — For what purpose does the
gentleman rise?
Coun. TOBIN — I desire to make a statement,
Mr. President.
President DOWD — If there is no objection, the
gentleman may proceed.
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, while my re-
marks may be considered out of order at this time,
I think it might be advisable to state to the mem-
98
CITY COUNCIL.
bora of the City Council that we have a Legislatives
Coinniitt.ee in this body; that the committee lias
met and liaH passed upon over ninety l> i I Ih affecting
the government of our city, and that this committee
liaH not yet. reported to tlie full body of the ' louncil.
But, with reference to the particular bill under
discussion, or that will be discussed tomorrow, we
have had a vote here already, passed by the entire
mcinbci .ln|, ,,l i |,e buds . I hal ivc fa\ or - uch a bill
So your Legislative Committee, after we come
back from executive session, will report to the City
Council their attitude and will state it to the com-
mittee of the Legislature tomorrow.
INFORMATION IN RE NEPTUNE GARDENS
HOUSINC PROJECT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to inform the Council as to the following
matters in his statement relating to the Neptune
Gardens Housing Project in East Boston, which
appeared in the City Record of March 10, 1934:
1. Who made the vacancy survey of East
Boston which showed that 97 per cent of the apart-
ments are rented?
2. Who made the estimate that the cost of
branch sewer connections, house connections with
water and sewer mains, and street surfacing would
be $65,000 to $85,000?
3. The length of branch sewers, the number and
length of house connections with water and sewer
mains, and the area of street resurfacing which
it is estimated must be constructed for this cost
of $65,000 to $85,000?
4. Who made the estimate that the project
would produce from $50,000 to $100,000 in taxes,
when completed?
5. Why, in view of the expenditure of $3,500,000
on this project, it is estimated that it will produce
only $50,000 to $100,000 in taxes, which represents
an assessed valuation of only $1,500,000
to $3,000,000?
6. The amount of money ' which he was in-
formed the promoters of the project has invested
or would invest?
7. The area of the land which he was informed
would be sold to the incorporators of this project,
the owners of this land, and the sale price?
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DISCREPANCY IN FIGURES SUBMITTED.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Welfare Department
be requested to inform the Council, through his
Honor the Mayor, why the total expenditures for
Dependent Aid, Mothers' Aid, and Old Age Assist-
ance for January, 1934, as reported to the City
Council on February 10, were stated to be
$1,069,062.09; whereas, the Auditor's Monthly
Exhibit for January. 1934, stated that the total
expenditures were $964,269.13.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
STAGGER SYSTEM FOR CITY EMPLOYEES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of seeking
legislation so that he can place in operation a three
or four day week, the 8o-called "stagger system,"
as an alternative to the outright discharge of city
employees.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
SYNCHRONIZATION OF ACCOUNTS.
Coun NORTON offered the following:
Ordered That the Acting City Auditor be re-
quested to synchronize the accounts in the Public
Welfare Department with those in his office so
that, when information as to expenditures is made
public by both departments, the figures will agree.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
UNAPPROVED DEPARTMENT CONSOLI-
DATION.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, may I ask the
clerk, through the Chair, with regard to an order
"That the Legislative Committee of the City
Council be instructed to oppose the passage of any
bill by the Legislature for the consolidation of city
departments not providing for approval by the
City Council," whether a copy of that order was
furnished to our Legislative Committee? That
was an order that was passed, supposedly with the
unanimous consent of the Council.
President DOWD — The clerk informs me that a
copy of the order was sent to the Legislative Com-
mittee in the regular course of business.
EXTENSION OF PRESENT LIST OF POLICE
APPOINTMENTS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered. That the Police Commissioner, through
his honor the Mayor be, and he hereby is, respect-
fully requested to ask the Civil Service Commis-
sion to extend the present list for appointments to
the Police Department beyond April 29 until
July 1, 1934.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, in reference to
that order I might say that my order of February
12, addressed to the Police Commissioner through
his Honor the Mayor, requested the commission to
fill a substantia! number of the vacancies now
existing in the Police Department but, in any
event, if such appointments are delayed until
July 1, to provide for an extension of the present
civil service list until such time. The answer came
back from the commissioner's office that "I beg to
inform you that this is a matter that comes solely
within the jurisdiction of the Civil Service Com-
mission and is not within the province of the Police
Commissioner." Of course, we all understand
that, so I now reiterate our earlier request —
namely, asking that the Police Commissioner take
favorable action upon our request to fill a sub-
stantial number of the vacancies now existing,
and that if the appointments are delayed until
July 1, some provision be made for an extension of
the present civil service list until such time. I
trust that favorable action will be taken upon the
request, thereby insuring to some of the men on
that list, most of whom are supposedly veterans,
a possible chance for appointment before the list
dies.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
RECESS.
On motion of Coun. FISH, a recess was taken at
3.50 p. m., subject to the call of the Chair, for the
purpose of going into executive session. The
members reassembled in the Council Chamber and
were called to order by President DOWD at
4.55 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on order (referred March 5) that
reinstatement of Michael Santiano in employment
of Penal Institutions Department be approved —
that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) for permission for forestation
work to be done by Federal Government on islands
in Boston Harbor — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
3. Report on message of Mayor in re Loan and
Grant Agreements between United States and
City of Boston (referred February 19) —that same
be placed on file.
Report accepted; message and copy of agree-
ment placed on file.
4. Report on petition of Elizabeth G. Carroll
(referred today) for children under fifteen years
of age to appear at Practical Arts High School,
March 22 — recommending that leave be granted
under usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted under usual
conditions.
5. Report on order (referred today) that the
Public Welfare Department be requested to inform
the Council, through his Honor the Mayor, why
total expenditures for Dependent Aid, Mothers'
Aid, and Old Age Assistance for January, 1934,
as reported to the City Council on February 10,
MARCH 19, 1934.
94
were stated to be $1,069,062.09, whereas the Audi-
tor's Monthly Exhibit for January, 1934, stated
that the total expenditures were $964,269.13 —
recommending that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
6. Report on order (referred today) for investi-
gation to determine whether necessary economies
can be effected so that discharged second assistant
assessors can be re-employed — that same ought
to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
7. Report on order (referred today) that Board
of Assessors be requested to consider the advisa-
bility of reinstating the second assistant assessors
recently discharged and placing them on a stagger
basis — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 1 on the calendar, viz.:
1. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor March 5, 1934, of James Giblin, to be a
Weigher of Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Selvitella. Whole num-
ber of ballots 18, yeas 18, and the appointment
was confirmed.
INDORSEMENT OF HOUSE BILL 950.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Committee on Legislative
Matters of the City Council be instructed to
appear at the hearing before the Committee on
Cities of the Legislature in favor of House Bill
No. 950, An Act relative to Reorganizing the
Department of Public Welfare in the City of
Boston, and to report the result of their appear-
ance at the next meeting of the City Council.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALK ON OLD MORTON STREET.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Old Morton street
(both sides), from Morton street to River street,
Ward 17, in front of the estates bordering thereon;
said sidewalk to be from 3 to 10 inches above
the gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in
width, and to be built of artificial stone, with
granite edgestones, under the provisions of chap-
ter 196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned at 5.02 p. m., on motion of Coun.
AGNEW, to meet on Monday, March 26, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
95
CITY OF BOSTON
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, March 26, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President DOWD
in the chair. Absent, Coun. Green.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments:
Weighers of Coal and Weighers of Goods: Harold
E. Pope, 51 Taylor street, Waltham; John R.
McSorley, 28 Appleton street, Maiden,.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
USE OF U. S. VETERANS' HOSPITAL NO. 44.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Superintendent of Boston City Hospital
relative to your order of February 19, 1934, con-
cerning the advisability of utilizing the buildings
formerly occupied by the Federal Government
as U. S. Veterans' Hospital No. 44, West Roxbury,
as a convalescent hospital or for other hospital
purposes.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, March 15, 1934.
(Attention Mr. John Gilmore, Jr.)
Hon Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — In reply to the order of the
City Council, "that his Honor the Mayor be
requested to confer with the City Hospital Trustees
to consider the advisability of utilizing the build-
ings formerly occupied by the Federal Government
as U. S. Veterans' Hospital No. 44, West Roxbury,
as a convalescent hospital or for other hospital
purposes," the trustees of this hospital have given
careful consideration to the use of the old Veterans'
Hospital No. 44, in West Roxbury. They have
firmly decided that they have no purpose to which
these buildings could be devoted, and they would
much prefer that the buildings and grounds be
taken over by the City of Boston.
Yours sincerely,
John J. Dowling,
Superintendent.
Placed on file.
SYNCHRONIZING OF CERTAIN ACCOUNTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a communi-
cation from the Acting City Auditor in reply to
your order concerning the synchronizing of certain
accounts.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Auditing Department, March 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — This report is submitted in response
to the order of the City Council of March 19, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Acting City Auditor be
requested to synchronize the accounts in the Public
Welfare Department with those in his office so
that, when information as to expenditures is made
public by both departments, the figures will agree.
The accounts of the auditor's office and those of
the Public Welfare Department have always been
synchronized in that they cover the same periods
of time.
The auditor is required by ordinance and statute
to furnish a monthly exhibit of the actual pay-
ments made by the city on behalf of each depart-
ment.
The accounts of any department which en-
cumbers its books with unpaid liabilities will
necessarily differ in any particular month from the
auditor's exhibit of cash payments for the same
month, but the two statements become reconciled
when the outstanding bills are presented and paid.
In the particular instance to which public atten-
tion has been called, namely the statements of the
auditor's office and the Public Welfare Depart-
ment for the month of January, there is no real
discrepancy as the two reports were not made on
the same basis and are therefore not comparable.
Respectfully,
Wilfred J. Doyle,
Acting City Auditor.
Placed on file.
APPROPRIATION FOR SNOW REMOVAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attached
communication from the Commissioner of Public
Works in which he requests that an appropriation
be immediately made available to meet expenses
incurred during the current year in removing snow
from the streets of the city. The commissioner's
request is based upon the fact that, prior to the
passage of the budget, city departments are lim-
ited in their total expenditures to one third of their
appropriations for the previous year. Payment
of snow removal bills, within this limit, would
materially reduce the amount which the Public
Works Department may expend for ordinary de-
partmental requirements. Since the major por-
tion of the expenditures of this department in the
early months of the year is for pay rolls, any ma-
terial reduction in the amount which the depart-
ment is now authorized to expend, in anticipation
of the passage of the budget, would undoubtedly
result in the holding up of the regular pay rolls of
the department. Because of the large number of
employees involved I feel it is necessary that action
should be taken to protect their interest and wel-
fare.
I accordingly submit herewith an order pro-
viding for the appropriation of $750,000 for snow
removal and respectfully recommend adoption of
this order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
March 21, 1934.
To the Honorable Mayor.
Chapter 320 of the Acts of 1889 provides that
a department of the City of Boston may expend
in anticipation of the budget not more than one
third of the department amount appropriated for
said department for the previous year.
The bills contracted for snow removal since
January 1, 1934, amount to approximately
$725,000. An appropriation of $800,000 for
snow removal has been requested in the 1934
budget. A prolonged delay in payment for work
done will involve hardships on many of the parties
who have furnished labor, trucks and other equip-
ment and who are not financially able to wait for
payment until the 1934 budget is finally approved
by the City Council and the Honorable Mayor.
Due to the large amount involved it is impossible
to consider any payments under the one third
provision, as such payments might affect the
regular budget items.
I respectfully suggest that consideration be
given to the transmittal of a budget covering the
snow removal appropriation to the City Council
for immediate action. I understand that in
previous years such action has been taken on
special items.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
96
CITY COUNCIL.
the firHl. day of January, 1934, of performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City Council
during the year upon the City of Boston, or the
departments or officers thereof, the respective sum
of money specified in the table hereinafter set
forth be, and the same is, hereby appropriated,
to be expended for the object and purpose herein-
after stated, that the sum be raised by taxation
upon the polls and estates taxable in the City of
Boston, and that all orders relating to appropria-
tions, taxes and the interest thereupon apply to
the taxes herein provided for.
Snow removal $750,000
Referred to Executive Committee.
OPINION ON TAX SALES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
i Gentlemen, — I am submitting herewith the
opinion of Corporation Counsel Henry E. Foley
upon the order adopted by your honorable body
on February 14, 1934, relative to the City Col-
lector being instructed by the Mayor not to sell
dwelling houses wherein the total amount of taxes
due is less than $25.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, March 26, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — Under date of February 14,
1934, you asked for a report upon an order of the
City Council which reads as follows:
"Ordered: That the City Collector be instructed
through his Honor the Mayor not to proceed to
sell any dwelling house wherein the total amount
of taxes due is less than $25."
The duty of collecting taxes, which has not been
abated or suspended as provided by law, is im-
posed by statute upon the collector, and he is
required to furnish a bond for the faithful per-
formance of his duty. Chapter 69, General Laws
(Ter. Ed.).
He is a public officer whose powers and duties
with regard to the collection of taxes are controlled
by statute. Sec Graten v. Cambridge, 250 Mass.
317.
I am, therefore, of the opinion that you have no
authority to direct the City Collector with refer-
ence to the subject matter of said order.
Very truly yours,
Heney E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
ESTIMATES ON NORTHERN AVENUE
BRIDGE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith report from
Public Works Commissioner, Christopher J.
Carven, to which is attached a report from J. R
Worcester & Co., consulting engineers, who had
been engaged to estimate the cost of repairing the
old Northern Avenue Bridge or building a new
bridge and which includes the estimate from the
McClintic-Marshall Company as to such cost.
I am not in favor of building a new bridge at a
new location which I am informed would cost
approximately $2,800,000. Temporary repairs
with restricted traffic would cost $100,000, but I
think it would be inadvisable to spend that sum
which obviously would give only temporary relief
and would not open the bridge fully to traffic.
The question to be decided is whether we should
spend at least $375,000 to repair the draw, $650,000
to build a new draw, or $1,000,000 to build a new
bridge.
Since the draw if repaired would have only from
twenty to twenty-five years of life and the new
draw would cost about two thirds of the sum re-
quired for a new bridge I am of the opinion that
a new bridge to cost $1,000,000 would be the most
practical solution of the problem. The order
appropriating 11,000,000 nnd'T P. W. A. ih already
before your honorable body. I recommend that
that order be adopted.
Yours truly,
Frf.dkuick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, March 22, 19.11.
To the Honorable Mayor of Boston.
I respectfully forward for your information the
annexed report of the J. R. Worcester & Co. on
the Northern Avenue Bridge. In brief they
estimate that:
For replacing the present structure for
a life of from twenty to twenty-five
years an estimated cost of. $375,000
For a new draw span and repairing the
present approach span an estimated-
cost of $650,000
For a new bridge in present location an
estimated cost of $1,000,000
Their proposal for a new bridge in a new loca-
tion calls for a continuation of Oliver street across
to South Boston and through the New York,
New Haven & Hartford Railroad property until
it meets Northern avenue again as shown on the
accompanying blueprint. The cost of the new
bridge in this location would involve the abandon-
ment of the Fort Hill Receiving Station and a
radical revision of freight houses and tracks on the
New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad
property; the bridge alone is estimated at a cost
of $1,300,000. This estimate does not take into
consideration the cost of removing the Fort Hill
Receiving Station to a new location and the
heavy land damage to the New York, New Haven
& Hartford Railroad property; it would easily
call for an additional expenditure of $1,500,000,
making a total cost of a new bridge in a new
location approximately $2,800,000. The estimate
of $100,000 as quoted in the second paragraph
on page two of the report covers the putting of
the bridge into condition for temporary use for a
limited time and restricted travel until a new
bridge on a new location could be built.
I am of the opinion that the excessive cost,
namely, $375,000 for repairing the present bridge,
eliminates the consideration of repair and the
consideration should be given to either the second
or third estimate, namely, a new draw span and
repairing present approach span at an estimated
cost of $675,000 or a new bridge costing $1,000,000.
Respectfully,
C. J. Cakven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Copy of Letter from J. R. Worcester & Co.,
Engineers, 79 Milk Street, Boston, to Commis-
sioner Christopher Carven, Department of
Public Works, Dated March 22, 1934.
Dear Sir, — We submit herewith a more detailed
report on the Northern Avenue Bridge than was
contained in our progress report of March 19.
We shall take up the items in the same order as
in the previous report.
Repairing the Present Bridge.
We have gone over the structure very carefully
as regards the draw span, the Boston approach
span, the short approach span at the South Boston
end, together with all of the machinery and
operating devices. We have carefully examined
the broken members of the draw span, inspected all
joints, removing pin nuts at all points on the
bottom chord of outside trusses and at numerous
points on the interior trusses and occasionally on
the top chords. We have carefully examined all
movable parts and have a complete record of all
parts of the structure examined. We have taken
up sections of the flooring, both on the draw span
and approach spans to determine the condition of
portions of the steelwork which were hidden from
view.
As a result of our examination, we prepared a
list of work which we considered necessary to put
the bridge into substantially as good condition
as it was when new. This list consists of eighteen
items of work to be done on the draw span,
ten items on the approach spans, and four items
of a general nature applying to the whole struc-
ture. A copy of these items is appended.
This list of items was delivered to the McClintic-
Marshall Company after they had made an inspec-
tion of the bridge to determine the field conditions.
We also furnished them a complete set of draw-
ings of the present structure and requested that
MAECH 26, 1934.
97
they also include the cost of installing electrical
operation to replace the existing compressed
air equipment.
They have estimated that the total cost of this
work would be $325,000, of which 8225,000 applies
to the draw span and $100,000 to the approach
spans. To this should be added the sum of
$10,000 for the repair of pit in the draw pier.
To these sums should be added 12 per cent to
cover engineering work which would consist of
numerous detailed drawings illustrating work to
be done and a careful inspection of the work at
the shops and in the field.
This would bring the entire cost of the repair
work to approximately $375,000, which is con-
siderably more than we anticipated at the time
when we made our preliminary report dated
February 26. At that time we had not started
on the examination of the approach spans and
had expected to find them in fairly good condition.
Upon making this examination, we found a large
percentage of eye bars to have lost from 30 to 50
per cent of their sections by corrosion where they
pass through the floor. This is quite a serious
defect and one which will be expensive to remedy.
In our opinion, it would be unwise to expend
the sum of $375,000 to renew the present struc-
ture. We believe, however, that the bridge could
be put into condition for temporary use for a
limited time and restricted travel for approximately
$100,000.
Estimate of Cost of a New Structure on the
Present Location.
We have estimated the cost of a new structure
on the present location, utilizing three of the old
piers and the present abutments and constructing
three new intermediate piers and a trunnion pier.
This bridge would have a capacity for six lanes of
travel and sidewalks the same as the present
bridge and would consist of girder spans for the
approaches and a bascule for the draw span. It
would be quite similar in appearance to the new
Congress Street Bridge but with a roadway two
lanes wider. In preparing our detailed estimate
this week with more time at our disposal, we have
been able to reduce our previous estimate by the
amount of $100,000. We believe, therefore, that
the cost of a new bridge as outlined above in the
present location could be constructed for the sum of
$1,000,000. Below is a summary of the estimate.
Remove old bridge $75,000
New piers 310,000
Approach span's 187,000
Draw span 202,000
Work on present piers and abutments. . 25,000
Fender pier 36,000
Dredging 13,000
Draw tender's house and foundation. . . 9,000
Lighting 15,000
Paving 25,000
Railings 9,000
$906,000
Engineering and incidentals, 10 per
cent 90,600
$996,600
Say $1,000,000
It is quite possible on consideration of the differ-
ence in location, a bridge with lesser architectural
treatment would be acceptable, and in such case a
further reduction of approximately $75,000 in
cost would be anticipated, reducing the total cost
to $925,000.
Estimate of Cost of New Bridge on New Location.
The additional cost of a bridge on the new loca-
tion, described in our earlier report of March 19,
would be due to the construction of three more
piers, the slightly longer length of a bridge in the
new location over the present location, also new
westerly approach to Atlantic avenue and short
temporary connection on the easterly end leading
to existing Northern avenue. In addition to the
above, an expenditure of $100,000 would be re-
quired to repair the present bridge sufficiently to
use it as a temporary structure for restricted travel
during the construction of the new one. This
would bring the total estimate of cost of this
structure up to $1,300,000.
Respectfully submitted,
J. R. Worcester & Co.
Referred to Executive Committee.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
American Curtain Company, for refund on
refuse tickets.
Edward Bateson. for reimbursement for over-
coat destroyed by fire.
Beecher-Hollins Company, for compensation
for damage to property at 40 Lancaster street,
caused by break in water pipe.
Bernard Bernstein, for compensation for over-
coat stolen at Parkman House Building.
E. F. Caldwell, Inc., for compensation for dam-
age to truck by city truck.
Schuyler Dillon, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Gallivan
Boulevard.
Alice M. Donovan, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 10 Bayard street,
Allston.
Edward Drake, for refund on refuse tickets.
Roland Dupont, for compensation for damage
to car by truck of Park Department.
Exchange Club, for compensation for damage
to property at 22 Batterymarch street, caused
by broken water main.
Dorothy B. Frye, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Common-
wealth avenue.
Rudolph A. Garneau, for reimbursement for
overcoat destroyed by fire.
Gem Loan Company, for refund on refuse tickets.
Mrs. George H. Hafferty, for compensation for
injuries caused by city car.
Hotel and Railroad. News Company, for com-
pensation for damage to truck by city truck.
Catherine G. Leonard, for compensation for
damage to property at 65 Chestnut street, Charles-
town, caused by shots from police car.
Abbie L. McCarthy, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 65 Chestnut street, Charlestown,
caused by shots from police car.
Rose McKenney, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 32 Soley street,
Charlestown.
Lino Meta, for compensation for damage to car
by rubbish wagon.
Louis Miano, for compensation for damage
to overcoat on ferry.
William H. Norris & Sons, Inc., for compensa-
tion for damage to horse and wagon on Meridian
Street Drawbridge.
Hyman Rosenzwicz, for refund on refuse tickets.
Lillian I. Smith, for refund on beer license.
Frank T. Sullivan, for compensation for damage
to property at 65 Chestnut street, Charlestown, by
shots from police car.
Vincent N. Thomay, for refund on liquor license.
Edgar Trapanier, for compensation for damage
to property at Clarendon Hills Filling Station
caused by city motor vehicle.
Jacob J. Tatun, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in West Walnut
park.
Florence R. Upham, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 1511 Washing-
ton street.
Blanche Upton, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at courthouse, Boston.
West Roxbury Pharmacy, Inc., for refund on
refuse tickets.
Jack M. Zellman, for refund on beer license.
Michael Glynn, for compensation for injuries
caused by being hit by ice which was being
shovelled by city employees.
Barney Lezberg, for refund on beer license.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
Edwin T. Thayer, Hyde Park High School,
March 23, 24.
Lillafrances Viles, Current Events Clubhouse,
May 5.
Marion H. Kennedy, High School of Practical
Arts, April 5.
REINSTATEMENT OF FRANK V.
FALCONE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Fire Department, March 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Frank V. Falcone, 297 Kittredge
street, Roslindale, was appointed to the Boston
98
CITY COUNCIL.
Firo Department on July 23, 1023, and resigned
on December 1, 1933. He now desires to lie
reinstated.
Because of his length of service in the depart-
ment, and the fact that his resignation was so
recent, your approval of his reinstatement is re-
quested, in accordance with the provisions of
chapter 320 of the Acts of 1933.
His reinstatement has already received the
approval of the Commissioner of Civil Service.
Yours very truly,
Edwakd F. McLaughlin,
Fire Commissioner.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
REINSTATEMENT OF DOROTHY V.
HENNESSEY.
The following was received:
The School Committee, March 22, 1934.
Mr. Wilfred J. Doyle,
City Clerk,
Dear Sir, — Under the provisions of chapter 320
of the Acts of 1933, the School Committee of the
City of Boston respectfully asks that the City
Council approve the reinstatement of Miss Dorothy
V. Hennessey, secretary in the High School of
Practical Arts.
Miss Hennessey was on leave granted by the
superintendent, without pay, from September 6
to December 8, 1933, on account of the critical
illness of her mother.
Under date of March 5, 1934, the Commissioner
of Civil Service notified thiB department that
under civil service regulations, formal request
should be made on that office for Miss Hennessey's
reinstatement, and in answer to a request then
forwarded to the Department of Civil Service,
the commissioner informed the superintendent
that authority was given for her reinstatement,
subject to the approval of the City Council.
Very truly yours,
Ellen M. Cronin,
Secretary.
Referred to Executive Committee.
SIDEWALK ASSESSMENTS.
Notices were received from the Commissioner
of Public Works, with accompanying orders
assessing one half cost of constructing artificial
stone sidewalks to owners of record of estates
bordering thereon, viz.:
Half Cost.
Draper street, Ward 15 $61 33
CheBtnut Hill avenue, Ward 21 819 41
Auckland street, Ward 13 50 70
Mt. Everett street, Ward 15 157 14
Bowdoin street, Wards 14 and 15 372 40
Cherokee street. Ward 10 646 88
Neponset avenue, Ward 16 1,249 45
Rosseter street, Ward 14 33 40
Ashmont street, Ward 16 ' 84 53
Medway street, Ward 17 177 13
Topliff street, Ward 15 89 82
Topliff street, Ward 15 67 28
Ashmont street, Ward 16 k 188 06
Faneuil and Bigelow streets, Ward 22.. . 110 23
Edison green, around park, Ward 7 154 61
Atherton street, Wards 10, 11, 19 702 99
Gallivan Boulevard, Ward 17 142 08
Gallivan Boulevard, Ward 17 238 43
Centre street, Ward 16 1,286 20
Reed's court, Ward 8 511 25
Mozart street, Ward 10 205 34
The orders were severally passed under suspen-
sion of the rule.
MINORS' LICENSES.
Petitions were presented for minors' licenses for
seventy-four newsboys and one bootblack.
Licenses were granted under the usual conditions.
RETIREMENT OF LOUIS V. JENNINGS.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the enactment of legislation making
Louis V. Jennings eligible to receive upon retire-
ment certain allowances under the Boston Re-
tirement Act.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PROPOSING GOOD FRIDAY CLOSING OF
CITY HALL.
Couil. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor close City
Hall between the hours of 12 m. and 3 p. m. on
Good Friday.
President IJOWD— The Chair will rule the order
out of order because of the fact that the Mayor
has already sent a similar order to all city de-
partments.
LAND ON GROTTO GLEN ROAD.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to fill
in and put in proper condition land at the end of
Grotto Glen road, Ward 10.
Coun. DOHERTY— Mr. President, I would
like to explain this order briefly. Three years ago
there was some complaint about this land adjacent
to the Jefferson School Playground, and at that
time the Park Commissioner had a fence placed
there. Recently, however, children have been
getting through a hole under the fence, and last
week two children who had got through in that
way were fortunately saved from drowning by the
neighbors. Something should be done to fill in
and put the land in proper condition, and I have
therefore introduced this order. I move its passage
under suspension of the rule.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
EXPENDITURES FOR SNOW REMOVAL
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Boston Finance Commission
be requested to investigate the expenditure of
over $700,000 for the removal of snow during
the recent storms and to report its findings to the
City Council.
Referred to Executive Committee.
LOCKER BUILDING, CHESTNUT HILL
PLAYGROUND.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the sum of twenty-five thousand
dollars be, and the same hereby is, appropriated,
to be expended under the direction of the Park
Commission, for the construction of a locker build-
ing, etc., on the Chestnut Hill Playground, and
that to meet said appropriation the City Treasurer
be authorized to issue, from time to time, upon the
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates of
indebtedness of the city to said amount.
Referred to Committee on Finance.
SURVEY OF EAST BOSTON STREET
LIGHTING.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to make a survey of the present street lighting
system in East Boston, and to furnish the City
Council with the following information.
1. The number of gas lamps on Bennington street
and Saratoga street.
2. When does the present contract with the
Boston Consolidated Gas Company for
furnishing gas lighting in the East Boston
district expire?
3. The number of electric lamps on Bennington
street and Saratoga street.
4. What is the cost per annum of electric lamps on
Bennington street and Saratoga street?
5. What is the total cost of gas lamps per annum
on Bennington and Saratoga streets?
6. The advisability of substituting electric light-
ing in place of gas lighting on Bennington and
Saratoga streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION IN CONNECTION WITH
BUDGET.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and here-
by is, requested to submit to the City Council,
MARCH 26, 1934.
99
with his budget recommendations for the current
fiscal year, the following information:
(1) An analysis of the 1933 tax rate and of the
probable 1934 tax rate, with supporting
estimates of revenues and expenditures.
(2) A tabulation of all budget items for the
departments in the regular city and county
budgets, showing:
(a) 1924 expenditures.
(b) 1933 expenditures.
(c) 1934 requests.
(d) 1934 recommendations.
(3) An analysis of salary and nonsalary items
entering into all other estimated 1934 ex-
penditures outside the budget, such as
those from the proceeds of loans, and
revenue sources.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, this order
is introduced more or less in anticipation of the
fact that at some later date, probably before long,
we will receive the budget from his Honor the
Mayor. It seems to me desirable that at the same
time when we receive it we shall receive statistical
information which will enable us to judge of the
appropriations asked for as compared with past
expenditures, and also that we should get such
information as would enable us to see the picture
as a whole — that is, the expenditures on the one
hand and the means to meet those expenditures
on the other hand, taking into consideration both
revenue and loan orders, if any. The tabulation
asked for under Item 2, as to expenditures, requests
and recommendations, is very similar to the
statistical information which is given in the
state budget. I have made one variation. That
is, instead of asking for the expenditures of the last
two preceding years, I have asked for the ex-
penditures of last year and then have skipped back
to 1924, asking for the expenditures of that year.
The purpose is to see what we were spending when
we were back at normal, so to speak, and compare
that with the expenditures of last year. I think
1924 is the New Deal date to which they are trying
to get back in the matter of prices, and so forth.
So in this case it would perhaps be an appropriate
date from that point of view. I believe this in-
formation, if furnished at the time when we receive
the budget, will save time and will also enable us
to consider the budget more intelligently.
The order was passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION IN RE WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Welfare Department,
through his Honor the Mayor, be, and said De-
partment hereby is, requested promptly to advise
the City Council, giving the requested information
separately for each calendar year from 1928 to 193.3,
inclusive:
(a) The total amount of payments by the Public
Welfare Department to recipients for the
year.
(b) The total expense of operating the Public
. Welfare Department, other than money
paid to recipients for the year.
(c) The total expenses of the Public Welfare
Department for the year (a plus b).
(d) The number of persons employed in the work
of the Public Welfare Department for the
year, not including visitors.
(e) The number of visitors employed during the
year by the d epartment.
(f) The total number of employees in the Public
Welfare Department for the year (d plus e).
(g) The total number of active cases receiving
aid according to the records of the Public
Welfare Department as of December 31,
each year,
(h) The total amount of payments by the Public
Welfare Department of each of said years
out of trust funds.
Ordered, That the City Auditor, through his
Honor the Mayor, be, and he hereby is, respect-
fully requested promptly to advise the City
Council, giving the requested information sepa-
rately for each year from 1928 to 1932, inclusive:
(a) The total amount of payments by the Public
Welfare Department to recipients for the
year.
(b) The total expense of operating the Public
Welfare Department other than money
paid to recipients for the year.
(c) The total expenses of the Public Welfare
Department for the year (a plus b).
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
BUDGET APPROPRIATION FOR HEALTH
UNITS.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
not to eliminate from the budget any appropria-
tion for personal services affecting the health units.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, it has
come to my attention that the Mayor intends to
reduce the forces in some of the health units and,
in view of the very excellent work done by the
health units of Boston in relieving distressed
mothers and children, and otherwise, I certainly
trust that the Council will go on record as opposed
to so cutting the budget that those units will not
have the regular force that they have had in the
past.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, may I ask
the gentleman through you, sir, whether the
people he refers to are the cooks in the health
units? I understand that there are some health
unit cooks who have nobody to cook for.
President DOWD — Does the councilor care to
answer?
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I don't
understand what the councilor means. I never
heard of cooks in connection with health units,
and it was not my understanding that the
employees referred to were cooks, but members of
the staff of the health units.
Coun. SHATTUCK— I understand that at
some time they had some kind of a roof garden
recreation place for children on the top of the health
units and had cooks to provide meals for them.
Last year that activity was taken away, but they
still have the cooks, with nobody to cook for.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
POLICE LISTING OF RESIDENTS.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, that his Honor the Mayor request the
Police Commissioner to order an extremely careful
check-up on April 1 of all residents in the city as
the list is now being used as a basis for welfare
payments.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.33 p. m., on motion of
Coun. KERRIGAN, to take a recess subject to
the call of the Chair. The members reassembled
in the Council Chamber, and were called to order
by President DOWD at 4.19 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
Edwin T. Thayer, Hyde Park High School,
March 23, 24; Lillaf ranees Viles, Current Events
Clubhouse, May 5; Marion H. Kennedy, High
School of Practical Arts, April 5 — recommending
that leave be granted on usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted on usual condi-
tions.
2. Report on communication from School
Department (referred today) requesting reinstate-
ment of Dorothy V. Hennessey as secretary in
the High School of Practical Arts — recommending
passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
320 of the Acts of 1933 the reinstatament of
Dorothy V. Hennessey as secretary in the High
School of Practical Arts be, and hereby is, approved.
Report accepted; said order passed.
3. Report on communication from Fire Com-
missioner (referred today) requesting reinstate-
ment of Frank V. Falcone as member of Boston
Fire Department recommending the passage of
the accompanying order, viz.:
100
CITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, That, under the provisions of chapter
320 of the Acts of lO.'i.'i the reinstatement of
Frank V. Falcone in the Boston Fire Department
Im\ and hereby is, approved.
Report accepted; said order passed.
4. Report on order (referred today) requesting
Finance Commission to investigate expenditure of
over $700,000 for removal of snow during recent
storms recommending passage of accompanying
new draft, viz.:
Ordered, That the Boston Finance Commis-
sion be requested to investigate the expenditure of
over $700,000 for the removal of snow during the
recent storms, and to report its findings to the
City Council.
The report was accepted and the order passed.
5. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) that sum of $750,000 be appro-
priated for snow removal — recommending that
same ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the question came
on the passage of the order.
Ccun. MURRAY — Mr. President, I introduced
an order some time ago in the Council, in the form
of a questionnaire, to find out if there was not some
way to pay the help of the City of Boston — in-
spectors, foremen and laborers — for work done
on snow removal during the last snow storms.
As yet I have not received an answer. I would
like to know if those men are not to be considered.
The commissioner says that all of his men working
on snow were given money, and I know some who
claim that they have not been. So that is a ques-
tion that I would also like to have considered,
whether payments along that line might not come
out of this money.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I am
going to record my vote in opposition to this order,
because, if we are to believe the statements in
the press, out of the $725,000 expended for the
removal of snow, only $120,000 has been paid for
labor. For that reason, if for no other, I believe
we ought to hold up this order until such time as
we get complete information. It was stated to
us in Executive Committee by the Commissioner
of Public Works that there are at least two con-
tractors who, while they were supposed to be
devoting their time to the removal of ashes, were
also receiving money for the removal of snow,
contrary to the terms of their contracts and con-
trary to the principles of economy that our Mayor
wants the people of the City of Boston to believe
that he is putting into effect. I cannot see any
good reason why the members of the Council
should vote for an order of this kind under which
a few favored contractors are apparently receiving
$500,000 or $600,000, while only $120,000 is paid
in wages to the men actually employed in snow
removal. I hope the other members will concur
in my views and, if possible, hold this matter up
until we get a complete report from the Commis-
sioner of Public Works.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I don't
see how the figures that the councilor has just
stated as having seen in the press recently can be
correct, in view of what the commissioner told us
in executive session. Of course, I appreciate the
fact that probably the larger part of this expendi-
ture is for the hiring of trucks, which represents
the most important part of the snow removal.
If there are some discrepancies, we have the word
of the commissioner that he intends to look into
the matter carefully before he pays for the work
that has been done. But I don't see how the
Council can hold this matter up, when we think
of the number of people who contracted to remove
snow and who in many cases cannot afford to
wait for their money; and also when we think
of the small contractors, men who happen to own
trucks, who have laid out money in connection
with this work in the hope that they would get
their money at an early date. So I do not see how
we can properly hold up the appropriation of this
money. I think the responsibility for seeing that
it is paid out properly is up to the commissioner
and the Mayor. Our duty is simply to vote for
the appropriation, and it is their duty to see that
it is spent properly.
Coun, ROBERTS— Mr. President, there is
apparently some doubt as to how this money is
to be spent. Nobody wants to hold up men who
are entitled to their money, but in view of the
doubt that exists in regard to the matter, and the
fact that there is a report from the Finance Com-
mission pending, I would move for the time being
to reduce the amount from $750,000 to $125,000,
which amount, I understand from the information
given us by the commissioner, is the amount
directly due to the laborers. The balance can
be acted upon later at any time after we have
received from the Finance Commission and the
Commissioner of Public Works information show-
ing that the expenditure is warranted.
President DOWD — The question is on Coun-
cilor Roberts' motion to reduce the amount to
$125,000.
Coun.. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I don't
know just how the $125,000 was arrived at. Ap-
parently some statement is said to have been
published somewhere to the effect that only
$125,000 out of the $725,000 was spent for labor.
If any such statement was published, I think it
was obviously inaccurate. It may relate possibly
to some of the labor that was hired, but it is very
clear that, directly or indirectly, a very large part
of the total appropriation, undoubtedly a good
deal more than half of the total, was spent for
labor. It would seem to rne that if there is suf-
ficient doubt about this matter to warrant it,
however, and if the urgency of immediate action
is not great, we had better find out a little more
about it, rather than adopt an amendment which
is merely a shot in the dark, and which does not
solve the problem at all. Therefore, sir, I am
opposed to the amendment.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I introduced
an order calling on the Finance Commission to
investigate the whole matter of snow removal.
While I cannot prove it offhand, there is consid-
erable feeling around to the effect that a large
amount of the money was wasted, probably largely
because of the necessity of quick action. The
storm came up without warning, and the organ-
ization to handle the snow removal was thrown
together in a hasty manner. The City of Boston
was called upon to pay more money in connection
with that snow storm than for any storm that I
recollect, having to handle at least forty-three
inches of snow. Under the circumstances, I make
the suggestion that we place the whole matter
on the table for one week or until we get some
information from the Finance Commission.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, with ref-
erence to the motion — ■
President DOWD — The question now before
the Council is on laying on the table, which is
not debatable.
The motion to lay on the table was declared
carried by a voice vote. Coun. FISH doubted
the vote and asked for a rising vote.
The motion to lay on the table was defeated
by rising vote, 8 to 11.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I now press
my motion to reduce the principal sum to $125,000.
My reason is that the Commissioner of Public
Works stated that he would not pay anyone,
anyway, until he was satisfied that the money
claimed was justly due.
Coun. GLEASON— Mr. President, the last
snowstorm was one of the greatest that we ever
saw in Boston. But it did furnish work to a
large number of people and saved many poor
persons from starving, as they were thereby
enabled to earn many dollars, enough to help
them out. This appropriation ought to go through
as it has been presented to us, Mr. President.
I realize what it is to be hungry, and I know the
situation in which many of the people of my dis-
trict have been recently. As a result of this
snowstorm, many of them were enabled to earn
$30 or $40, which kept them from starvation.
So I think that the amount of $750,000 is at this
time the least that the City of Boston can give to
the poor people who have thereby been enabled
to get work. Therefore, I want to go on record as
voting against Councilor Roberts' amendment.
The opportunity given people of Boston to get
work because of the snowstorm was one of the
greatest things that ever happened here. People
who were starving, who needed shoes, who needed
clothes, were able to get work and to pay their
bills. So I am going to ask the Council today to
vote against the amendment offered by Councilor
Roberts, one of the best friends I have in the Council.
Coun. TOBIN— Mr. President, I hope this
amendment will not be adopted but that the
report of the committee will be accepted, and the
order passed as it has been presented to us. So
that we may know what we are discussing in
detail, I think it might be well to bring up the
specific figures that were called to our attention
by the Public Works Commissioner when he
spoke to us in executive session. If my under-
standing is correct, he stated that of this amount of
MARCH 26, 1934.
101
money now being asked, $750,000, there was
$434,235 spent for contractors for the use of
trucks and to employ men. These men were
employed by contractors in fourteen districts,
in accordance with the usual procedure in the
Public Works Department, and the men employed
in that branch of the snow removal numbered
2,000. There was also, in this figure, $69,000 in
addition paid for trucks used by the Public Works
Department. There was paid directly in wages
by the City of Boston $123,000 for men, that
item alone being a specific item for labor. That
item covered the employment of 2,800 men.
There was also $1,200 for the meals of the different
men and $2,500 for hire of tractors, so it can be
readily seen that at least half this money went
for wages and work that was done, and that the
laborers worked under hard conditions. In view
of these facts I think the amendment should be
defeated.
Coun. Roberts' amendment was defeated, and
the order as introduced was adopted, yeas 19, nay
Coun. Selvitella — 1.
REPORT ON UNCLAIMED BAGGAGE.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, in the absence
of our chairman, Councilor Fitzgerald, Councilor
McGrath and myself offer this report of the
Committee on Unclaimed Baggage.
Coun. WILSON submitted the following:
Report on petition of Boston & Maine Railroad
(referred March 5) to sell unclaimed baggage and
parcel room matter at public auction, as provided
in chapter 135 of the General Laws, recommend-
ing passage of the accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the Boston & Maine Railroad
be authorized to sell, at public auction, on or
before May 1, 1934, after publication of notice
of the time and place of sale, the articles remaining
unclaimed in the possession of said railroad in the
City of Boston.
Report accepted; said order passed.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS.
Coun. BRACKMAN, in submitting reports of
Committee on Claims, said:
Mr. President, I wish to make a statement
in regard to these reports that may enlighten the
members. In each case, judgment has been
obtained against a city employee, and has been
issued. The cases were all defended by the Law
Department and also in each case the payment is
recommended by the Corporation Counsel and the
department concerned.
1. Report on petition of William A. Gormley,
8 Bowdoin square, Dorchester (referred Janu-
ary 2), to be reimbursed for amount of judgment
issued against him on account of his acts as oper-
ator of motor vehicle belonging to Bridge and
Ferry Division of the City of Boston, June 2,
1930, recommending passage of accompanying
order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred forty-
nine dollars and forty-five cents be allowed and
paid to William A. Gormley in reimbursement for
the amount of judgment issued against him on
account of his acts as operator of a motor vehicle
belonging to the Bridge and Ferry Division,
City of Boston, June 2, 1930, said sum to be
charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; said order passed.
2. Report on petition of Bliss W. Robinson,
7 Maple park, Dorchester (referred January 15),
to be reimbursed for amount of judgment issued
against him on account of his acts as operator of
motor vehicle belonging to Sewer Division, Public
Works Department, City of Boston, January 14,
1933, recommending passage of accompanying
order, viz. :
Ordered, That the sum of forty-two dollars
and fifty-five cents be allowed and paid to Bliss W.
Robinson in reimbursement for the amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of a motor vehicle belonging
to the Sewer Division, Public Works Department,
City of Boston, said sum to be charged to the
Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; said order passed.
3. Report on petition of James T. Doherty,
214 Neponset avenue, Dorchester (referred
January 8), to be reimbursed for amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of motor vehicle belonging to
Park Department, City of Boston, recommending
passage of the accompanying order.
Ordered, That the sum of two hundred forty-
three dollars be allowed and paid to James T.
Doherty in reimbursement for the amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of a motor vehicle belonging to
the Park Department, City of Boston, said sum
to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
4. Report on petition of Michael J. Maher,
7 Elmira street, Brighton (referred February 12),
to be reimbursed for amount of judgment issued
against him on account of his acts as operator
of fire apparatus belonging to Fire Department,
City of Boston, December 28. 1933, recommending
passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of thirty-five dollars and
thirty-five cents be allowed and paid to Michael
J. Maher in reimbursement for the amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of fire apparatus belonging to the
City of Boston, Fire Department, said sum to be
charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
5. Report on petition of John J. Daley, 68
Bailey street, Dorchester (referred December 4,
1933), to be reimbursed for amount of judgment
issued against him on account of his acts as
operator of automobile belonging to Department
of School Buildings, City of Boston, August 24,
1931, — recommending passage of accompanying
order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred and fifty
dollars be allowed and paid 'to John J. Daley in
reimbursement for the amount of a judgment
issued against him on account of his acts as oper-
ator of a motor vehicle belonging to the Depart-
ment of School Buildings, City of Boston, said sum
to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
6. Report on petition of Edward J. Phaneuf , 45
Bailey street, Dorchester (referred January 8), to
be reimbursed for amount of judgment issued
against him on account of his acts as operator of
motor vehicle belonging to Department of School
Buildings, City of Boston, September 10, 1933, —
recommending passage of accompanying order,
viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of one thousand dollars
be allowed and paid to Edward J. Phaneuf in reim-
bursement for the amount of judgment issued
against him on account of his acts as operator of
motor vehicle belonging to the Department of
School Buildings, City of Boston, said sum to be
charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
7. Report on petition of James J. Cusack, 47
Vernon street, Roxbury (referred November 12,
1933), to be reimbursed for amount of judg-
ment issued against him on account of his acts as
operator of truck belonging to Sanitary Division,
Public Works Department, January 5. 1933, —
recommending passage of the accompanying order,
viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of two hundred twelve
dollars and ten cents be allowed and paid to James
J. Cusack in reimbursement for the amount of a
judgment issued against him on account of his acts
as operator of a motor vehicle belonging to the
City of Boston, Sanitary Division, Public Works
Department, said sum to be charged to the Re-
serve Fund.
8. Report on petition of Preston E. Gray,
706 Tremont street, Boston (referred January 29) ,
to be reimbursed for personal injuries and damage
to clothing and eyeglasses sustained on January 13,
1934, while assisting police officer in making an
arrest — recommending passage of the accom-
panying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred dollars be
allowed and paid to Preston E. Gray in reimburse-
ment for personal injuries and damage to clothing
and eyeglasses sustained on January 13, 1934,
while assisting police officer in making an arrest,
said sum to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
THANKS TO MR. YAWKEY.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Resolved, We, the members of the Boston City
Council, wish to extend to Mr. Yawkey of the
Red Sox Base Ball Club our sincere thanks for
the hundreds of positions that he has provided for
the unemployed of the City of Boston and feel that
102
CITY COUNCIL.
if we had more like him who had the interest of
the city at heart il- would be a ureal, benefit to our
community.
Conn. GLEASON — Mr. President, I want to
any just a few words. I think the Citj Council
should go on record as expressing its appreciation
of what has been done by Mr. Yawkcy, the presi-
dent of the Red Sox. He has come here and,
in rebuilding the Fenway Base Ball Park, has
spent millions of dollars to keep our unemployed
working all winter. Therefore, I think we should
go on record as thanking him for the fine work
he has done in behalf of the unemployed of the
City of Boston.
The resolution was passed under suspension of
the rule.
PAYMENTS TO J. P. McCABE
COMPANY.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commissioner
hold up further payments to the J. P. McCabe
Company until such time as the McCabe Com-
pany furnish information to the City Council as
to where their trucks were operating during the
last snow removal.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
ACCEPTANCE OF HUMPHREYS PLACE.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to accept and lay out Humphreys place, Ward 7,
as a public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DISCHARGE OF CITY EMPLOYEES.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Resolved, That if it be necessary to discharge
city employees in the interest of economy, due
consideration be given to the financial condition
of those to be discharged to the end that no
injustice be done to those who have no other means
of support.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I was present
when the case of six women, employees of the
laundry department of the City Hospital, who
have been discharged, was taken up by the Presi-
dent of this body with his Honor the Mayor.
Some time within the last two or three weeks
these women received a discharge order to vslcate
the next. day. Of the six women discharged, five
were either widows or women with invalid husbands.
or single women who had no ol her means of support
and could not obtain any other positions under
existing circumstances. Everything points to the
fact that these women will have to apply for
Ad fur- within a reasonably short period of time.
Mr. President, you yourself were present at the
conference held with the Mayor in regard to these
women, and it was pointed out by the woukmj thai
among the 100 employees of the laundry depart-
ment of the City Hospital there were quite a
number of the women who were married and whose
husbands in some instances were employed in
different capacities in the City Hospital. In
some instances, their names appeared sometimes
two or three times on lie ' I Hospital pay roll.
I requested the Mayor at that time, if any dis-
charges were necessary in the interest of economy,
to have some responsible investigation made to
determine which ones, if discharge was necessary,
should be selected. I maintain that in the cases
where those names appeared more than once on
the rolls of the City Hospital, there was a -prima
facie case against such employees, as opposed to
the ones who were actually discharged. The
Mayor admitted that he had not gone over the
list and did not know who was in charge, and he
did not accept the responsibility for the discharges.
Although he is seeking one-man rule at this time
and wants to assume all the responsibility for
discharging people and making consolidations of
departments, in this particular instance he denied
responsibilty for discharging these women. My
order simply puts the Council on record as giving
a fair deal to these widows and other people who
have no means of support and who may, if dis-
charged, have to be placed on public welfare
where the city will perhaps have to pay them as
much as they have been getting. If discharges
are necessary let us have some judgment used,
not simply discharging citizens haphazard, without
any check-up, in the name of economy.
The resolution was passed under suspension of
the rule.
STENOGRAPHER, CLERK OF COMMITTEES
DEPARTMENT
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That in addition to the positions now
set forth in the ordinance concerning the Clerk of
Committees Department there be provided the
further position of stenographer and clerk at
81,800 per annum, less 15 per cent, under chapter
121 of the Acts of 1933.
Referred to Executive Committee.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. NORTON, at
4.50 p. m., to meet on Monday. April 2, 1934, at
2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
103
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, April 2, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in the Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President DOWD
in the chair. Absent, Coun. Green.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn, under the law, Coun.
BRACKMAN presiding at the box in the ab-
sence of the Mayor, as follows:
Thirty traverse jurors, Superior Criminal Court,
Second Session, to appear April 4, 1934:
Anthony Denietolis, Ward 1; Charles R. Downey,
Ward i; John B. Shannon, Ward 1; James Con-
nolly, Ward 2; Patrick S. Murray, Ward 2; Joseph
Capobianco, Ward 3; Robert D. Tukey, Ward 3;
James McMahon, Ward 5; Patrick F. Curtin,
Ward 6; Louis J. Curtis, Ward 6; Henry C. Foley,
Ward 6; Robert F. Tomilson, Ward 6; Fred W.
Lurvey, Jr., Ward 8; William J. Reilly, Ward 8;
William J. Roulston, Ward 8; Joseph Searamella,
Ward 8; John C. Farrenkopf, Ward 11; Warren B.
Lamprey, Ward 11; James W. Lassiter, Ward 12;
Edward F. Robbins, Ward 12; John W. Canavan,
Jr., Ward 17; Edward P. Duffly, Ward 17; George
H. Regan, Ward 17; Edward J. Hyland, Ward 18;
Harry E. Morgan, Ward 18; Arthur G. Powell,
Ward 18; James J. McDonald, Ward 19; Henry F.
Sprenger, Ward 20; George H. Gunnison, Ward 21;
Rudolph L. Newman, Ward 21.
Twenty-one traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear May 7, 1934:
Thomas L. Cannon, Ward 1; Charles F. Lyons,
Ward 1; George F. McCrevan, Ward 2; Herbert E.
Roberts, Ward 3; Michael J. Haney, Ward 6;
John J. McCarthy, Ward 7; Angus J. McPhee,
Ward 7; Joseph P. Donovan, Ward 8; Samuel
Becker, Ward 14; James Landers, Ward 14;
Charles Paisner, Ward 14; Michael Penney, Ward
14; Harry Shuman, Ward 14; John E. Driver,
Ward 15; Henry J. Seymour, Ward 15; William C.
Ryan, Ward 16; Allen S. Emery, Ward 17; Harry
L. Nelson, Ward 17; Edward F. Leech, Ward 18;
Albert W. Fuller, Ward 20; William B. Jackson
Ward 21.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Third Session, to appear May 7, 1934:
John S. Donahue, Ward 1; Matthew L. Lafferty,
Ward 1 ; William Collins, Ward 4; Rankin S.Dickin-
son, Ward 4; Constantine Alizio, Ward 5; Richard
J. Burton, Ward 5; Frederick A. Quinn, Ward 5;
Stephen J. Goddard, Ward 6; Patrick J. Kelly,
Ward 6; Thomas A. Quinn, Ward 7; George E.
Newton, Ward 8; William J. Gallagher, Ward 9;
Thomas F. Walsh, Ward 10; Anthony Guida,
Ward 13; Andrew J. Lynam, Ward 13; George L.
Wearin, Ward 13; Frederick E. Wilkinson, Ward
13; Henry W. Erickson, Ward 16; John F. Flaherty,
Ward 16; John F. Joyce, Ward 16; Charles P.
Wirtz, Ward 16; Fred T. Kebler, Ward 18; F.
Harold Norris, Ward 19; Timothy J. Clifford,
Ward 20; Dennis R. Stankard, Ward 21; John
Dowling, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Fourth Session, to appear May 7, 1934:
James A. Boyd, Ward 1; James J. DeLancy,
Ward 1; Gaetano Esposito, Ward 1; George A.
Lewis, Ward 1; John B. McCarthy, Ward 1;
Joseph F. McLaughlin, Ward 1 ; Joseph Stasio,
Ward 1; Frank Dolan, Ward 3; William H.
Osburn, Ward 4; Samuel H. Mitchell, Ward 5;
James H. McMuIlen, Ward 6; Richard Leonard,
Ward 7; Edward R. Bickerton. Ward 8; Joseph
A. Goslin, Ward 8; Oscar Hahn, Ward 10; Patrick
King, Ward 13; Harold F. Clauss, Ward 15;
Joseph P. Doherty, Ward 15; Richard B. Ross,
Ward 16; James J. McElaney, Ward 17; Walter
C. Bitz, Ward 18; Frederick C. Hicker, Ward 18;
Harold M. Marque, Ward 18; Andere C. Ber-
quist, Ward 19; Frederick W. Card, Ward 19;
Richard L. Casey, Jr., Ward 19; Albert M.
Coleman, Ward 21; John F. Doherty, Ward 21;
Earl Singer, Ward 21.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Fifth Session, to appear May 7, 1934:
John Werner, Ward 1; Robert C. Cunningham,
Ward 2; George Savage, Ward 4; John T. Night-
ingale, Ward 5; Patrick T. Hackett, Ward 6;
John F. O'Brien, Ward 6; Grover C. Fryer,
Ward 7; Michael Clougherty, Ward 9; Clifton E.
Chandler, Ward 10; Thomas J. Francis, Ward 10;
Archibald J. Gillis, Ward 11; Herbert W. Homans,
Ward 12; William H. Denehy, Ward 13; Joseph
A. Day, Ward 14; John L. Lombard, Ward 15;
John E. Hedberg, Ward 16; Herbert R. Key,
Ward 17; John F. Macneil, Ward 17; Charles E.
Hanrahan, Ward 18; Howard P. Jackson, Ward
18; William H. McDermott, Ward 18; William
E. Dacey, Ward 20; Carl W. Larson, Ward 20;
Charles L. MacGillivray, Ward 20; Duncan
McNab, Ward 20; Harold H. MacDonald, Ward
21; Edward G. Poole, Ward 21; Joseph Wagner,
Ward 21; Albert N. Sutcliffe, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, First Session, April Sitting, to appear
May 7, 1934:
Richard Rothwell, Ward 1; Michael F. Mc-
Gonagle, Ward 2; Arthur C. Nicholson, Ward 4;
Thomas J. Walsh, Ward 4; Donald M. Blair,
Ward 5; Walter H. Bohn, Ward 6; Adrianus F.
Hamels, Ward 6; Gilbert E. McGregor, Ward 8;
James V. McCloskey. Ward 10; Charles A.
Schell, Ward 13; John P. Walsh, Ward 13; Arthur
M. Sacks, Ward 14; Joseph A. Connolly, Ward 15;
Charles A. Curran, Ward 16; Patrick Heavey,
Ward 16; Jeremiah S. Regan, Ward 17; Walter
G. Young, Ward 17; Ambrose Burton, Ward 18;
John O'Leary, Ward 18; Harold A. Sheehan,
Ward 18; Paul J. Sheehan, Ward 18; George A.
Gilman, Ward 20; Thomas J. Harding, Ward 20;
Harry Peck, Ward 21.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, April Sitting, to appear May
7, 1934:
James J. Flynn, Ward 1; Henry S. Surettet
Ward 1; Bernard J. Farren, Ward 2; John J-
McMorrow, Ward 7; James P. Kenney, Ward 8;
Alfonso S. Lattimore, Ward 9; John W. Chandler,
Ward 10; Maurice J. Simons, Ward 14; Walter
T. Bird, Ward 15; Joseph P. Gately, Ward 15;
Maxel Newfield, Ward 15; Francis D. Flvnn,
Ward 16; John W. Hunter, Ward 16; John J.
Kilroy, Ward 16; Arthur C. MacDonald, Ward
16; Albert F. Norris, Ward 16; George B. Pierce,
Ward 16; Samuel Park, Ward 17; John D.
McKee, Ward 20; John Alconda, Ward 21; James
A. Daniels, Ward 21; A. Arthur Jewett, Ward 21.
Twenty-one traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fourth Session, April Sitting, to appear
May 7, 1934:
Robert Dalton, Ward 1 ; Patrick J. Ryan, Ward
2; Victor J. Langone, Ward 3; Charles G. Sprague,
Ward 5; Walter F. Norman, Ward 8; Silas F.
Taylor, Ward 9; Michael J. Lee, Ward 10; John
Thomas, Ward 10; William F. Litchfield, Ward
11; Benjamin Rubinovitz, Ward 14; Ernest A.
Weidner, Ward 15; George U. Clough, Jr., Ward
16; John B. DeCelle, Ward 16; Charles F. Law-
rence, Ward 17; Gustaf L. Appleblad, Ward 18;
Walter E. Bowie, Ward 18; John H. Dav, Ward
18; Archie Kay Walsh, Ward 18; Richard Duffie,
Ward 20; Edward Kadets, Ward 21; Theodore
P. Plato, Ward 22.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fifth Session, April Sitting, to appear May
7, 1934:
John K. Gorman, Ward 1; Francis W. Hopkins,
Ward 2; James G. Mahonev, Ward 2; Peter
Flaherty, Ward 7; Carl H. Schneider, Ward 8;
Daniel J. Mahoney, Ward 10; Joseph M. McGlynn,
Ward 10; Samuel Perlman, Ward 12; James A.
Tremble, Ward 13; Arthur F. Kelley, Ward 14;
Harry J. Kenney, Ward 14; Joseph J. Dwyer,
Ward 15; Charles Kurker, Ward 15; Luther
Robinson, Ward 15; Louie F. Capelle, Ward 16;
Martin F. Coyne, Ward 16; Charles J. Thompson,
Ward 16; Joseph W. Hersey, Jr., Ward 17; Austin
E. Roberts, Ward 18; Peter Christensen, Ward
19; Robert S. Gillmore, Ward 19; William J.
Delaney, Ward 21; Charles B. Haynes, Ward 22,
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Sixth Session, April Sitting, to appear
May 7, 1934:
Arthur D. Roome, Ward 1; Walter S. Howard,
Ward 2; James N. Hamilton, Ward 3; James J.
104
CITY COUNCIL.
Minton, Ward 6; James A. Ilealy, Ward 7; John
F. Quirk, Jr., Ward 7; Michael T. Donnellan,
Ward 9; William E. Mcintosh, Ward 10; Dennis
J. Mahony, Ward 11; Gordon McLellan, Ward 11;
John T. Ohinn, Ward 12; Charles A. Johnson,
Ward 12; Huntress A. Hay ward, Ward 13j Michael
J. McGrath, Ward 13; Samuel Blacker, Ward 14;
Michael Marcus, Ward 14; Leonard M. Wetmore,
Ward 15; Karl R. Briel, Ward 1G; Nels (). Samp-
son, Ward 18; Henry Stone, Ward 19; Homer A.
Lightbody, Ward 20; Thomas F. Kiernan, Ward
22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Seventh Session, April Sitting, to appear
May 7, 1934:
Charles H. Castor, Ward 2; John Harrison,
Ward 2; Bernard Harte, Ward 2; Joseph Scho-
field, Ward 3; Joseph Franklin McCallum, Ward 4;
Arthur L. Bellerose, Ward 5; Frederick H. Gay,
Ward 5; John F. English, Ward 7; John T. Geary,
Ward 8; Michael McLaughlin, Ward 8; Joseph P.
Nephin, Ward 9; Carl Schrader, Ward 11; John E.
Keefe, Ward 12; Robert W. Pierce, Ward 13;
Joseph A. Ohrenberger, Jr., Ward 16; Edward J.
Bergin, Ward 18; Ernest Chaplin, Ward 18;
John E. Karcher, Ward 18; Thomas J. McDon-
nell, Ward 18; Richard Haughland, Ward 20;
Irving E. Willev, Ward 20; Anthony J. Bell,
Ward 21; Josefe W. Leavitt, Ward 21; Elmer L
Needham, Ward 22.
REMOVAL OF RESTRICTIONS ON LAND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen,- — I am submitting herewith a letter
from Corporation Counsel Henry E. Foley, Es-
quire, relative to removing certain restrictions
upon two parcels of land at the corner of Harrison
avenue and East Newton street in this city. The
letter with the order accompanying it is self-
explanatory, and it appearing that the Park De-
partment and the Commissioner of Public Works
are not adverse to the adoption of the order and
that the rights of the City of Boston are in no way
adversely affected, I recommend that the order
be adopted.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, April 2, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — Inclosed please find an order
which if it meets with your approval is to be re-
ferred to the City Council for action.
As you will see, the order contemplates the
releasing of certain restrictions upon two parcels
of land situated on the corner of Harrison avenue
and East Newton street in the City of Boston.
The Massachusetts Memorial Hospital, for-
merly the Massachusetts Homeopathic Hospital,
a Massachusetts corporation, is the owner of the
said two parcels of land and is desirous of building
thereon hospital buildings adjoining the buildings
it now owns in that vicinity.
Mr. Mason, the attorney for the above-named
Massachusetts Memorial Hospital, informs me
that the said corporation has asked for and is
about to receive funds from the Federal Govern-
ment to proceed with the erection of said buildings.
The said corporation finds it, however, inadvisable
and inconvenient to erect these additional parcels
for hospital purposes unless the said restrictions
mentioned in the order are released.
I am informed that the Park Department has
no interest in the matter and that the Commis-
sioner of Public Works of the City of Boston is
not adverse to it.
If the matter meets with your Honor's approval,
please have the order introduced in the City
Council.
Yours very truly,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Whereas, The City of Boston by deed dated
January 18, 1873, and . recorded with Suffolk
Deeds, Book 1144, page 33, conveyed a certain
parcel of land now numbered 748 Harrison avenue,
and conveyed the said land subject to certain
conditions or restrictions, two of said restrictions
being numbered 4 and .1 and in the following
words, namely:
"4. No dwelling house or other building except
necessary out buildings shall be erected or placed
on the rear of said lot."
"5. No building which may be erected on said
lot shall be less than three stories in height exclu-
sive of basement and attic, nor have an ell of more
than two stories in height, nor shall said building
or said ell have exterior walla of any other material
than brick, stone or iron, nor shall be used or
occupied for any other purpose or in any other
way than as a dwelling house or a dwelling house
and apothecary, dry goods, provision, grocery or
hardware shop."
and
Whereas, The City of Boston by deed dated
August 24, 1871, and recorded with Suffolk Deeds,
Book 1066, page 13, conveyed a certain parcel
of land now numbered 744 Harrison avenue and
55 East Newton street in said City of Boston,
subject to certain conditions or restrictions, two
of said restrictions being numbered 4 and 7 and
in the following words, namely:
"4. No dwelling house or other building
except necessary out buildings shall be erected or
placed on the rear of said lot."
"7. The building which may be erected on
said lot shall not be placed nearer the line of
Newton street than six feet but bay windows and
an open porch may be constructed on said build-
ing and said bay windows projecting to a line not
nearer the said line of said Newton street than
three feet therefrom and said porch projecting to
a line not nearer the said line of Newton street
than two feet therefrom."
and
Whereas, The Massachusetts Memorial Hospi-
tal, formerly the Massachusetts Homeopathic
Hospital, a Massachusetts corporation, is the
present owner of both of the above mentioned
parcels, and is desirous of using the said parcels
for new hospital buildings to be built upon the
said premises; now, therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized, in the name and behalf of
the City of Boston, by a written instrument in
form satisfactory to the Law Department of the
City of Boston, to release, in so far as the City of
Boston legally can, the said land from said restric-
tions without interfering with the legal or equitable
rights of others.
Referred to Committee on Public Lands.
WOODROW AVENUE, WARD 14.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith send you a communi-
cation received from the Commissioner of Public
Works, relative to your order of March 19, 1934,
concerning the repaying of Woodrow avenue.
Ward 14.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
March 29, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor.
I return order of the City Council relative to the
construction of a smooth pavement in Woodrow
avenue, Ward 14.
Woodrow avenue, from Norfolk street to Blue
Hill avenue, is one of the streets listed in the
P. W. A. project of $1,000,000, to be constructed
during the present season.
The estimated cost of this construction is
$41,500.
Yours respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 3.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Traffic Commissioner, relative to your order of
APRIL 2, 1934.
105
March 19, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Albany
street and Broadway, Ward 3.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Eoston,
Traffic Commission, March 28, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated March 19, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Albany
street and Broadway, Ward 3."
This intersection has the highest accident
frequency in Boston at the present time.
There are no funds available for this installa-
tion. When funds become available I will rec-
ommend that this intersection be given prior
consideration.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hicket,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
VETO OF SIDEWALK ON OLD MORTON
STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 31, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith, with my dis-
approval, the order adopted in the City Council
on March 19, 1934, that the Commissioner of
Public Works make a sidewalk along Old Morton
street (both sides), from Morton street to River
street, Ward 17. I am informed that there is a
gravel or dirt sidewalk at this location and while
irregular in width due to large trees growing in the
sidewalk it is sufficient and adequate and there is
no pressing necessity for the installation of an
artificial stone sidewalk. I am further informed
that the estimated cost of constructing this side-
walk is $6,400. Under these circumstances I
must decline to approve the order.
Respec tfully
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
SAVIN HILL BATH HOUSE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 29, 1934.
T» the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
March 19, 1934, concerning the repairing of the
fire damage to the Savin Hill Bath House.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, March 28, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council requesting that the Savin Hill Bath
HouBe be made available for those using the beach
at the opening of the bathing season.
Please be assured that the bath house will be
made available for use on or before June 15, 1934.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
EXTENSION OF LIST OF APPOINTMENTS,
POLICE DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 29, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Acting Police Commissioner, relative to your
order of March 19, 1934, concerning the extension
of the present list of appointments to the Police
Department beyond April 29 until July 1.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Police Department, March 28, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — -In the absence of Commissioner
Hultman I beg to acknowledge receipt of your
communication of March 27 inclosing an order of
the City Council, dated March 19, requesting
Commissioner Hultman to ask the Civil Service
Commission to extend the present list of appoint-
ments to the Police Department beyond April 29
uct.il July 1, and would advise that this is a matter
which comes solely within the jurisdiction of the
Civil Service Commission, and should be referred
to them for consideration.
Very truly yours,
Martin H. King,
Acting Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
the absence of
to acknowledge
9 relative to an
you to consider
POLICE CENSUS OF UNEMPLOYED.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 27, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Acting Police Commissioner, relative to your
order of March 5, 1934, concerning the advis-
ability of having the police obtain information
relative to the number of unemployed in Boston
when the annual census is taken.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston, Police Department.
Office of the Commissioner, March 16, 1934.
Hon Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mayor Mansfield, — In
Commissioner Hultman I beg
receipt of your letter of March
order of the City Council asking
the advisability of having the police obtain in
formation relative to the number of unemployed
in Boston when the annual census is taken, and
would advise that a census of the unemployed in
Boston has recently been completed as a state
C. W. A. project and is now in the process of being
tabulated.
I am informed that Mrs. Page, 169 Congress
street, who is in charge of this project, will have
the complete data available shortly, and undoubt-
edly the information that is desired can be fur-
nished by her.
In view of the duplication of effort, time and
expense involved, I do not consider this a prac-
ticable thing.
Very truly yours,
Martin H. King,
Acting Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
VETO OF RESOLVE ON CHAPTER 347.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — -I am returning with my disap-
proval the resolve adopted on March 19, 1934,
favoring the enactment of legislation extending
the time limit of chapter 347 of the Acts of 1931
concerning municipal buildings in Charlestown.
I beg to inform the honorable Council that exam-
ination of that act discloses that it is in full force
and effect for a period of five years from the date
of its passage which was May 21, 1931. Thus it
appears that no action to extend the time limit
of the act is necessary at least until 1936.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor'
Placed on file.
REINSTATEMENT OF FULTON P. WESSON.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 29, 1924.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Acting Police Commissioner, relative to your
order of March 19, 1924, concerning the rein-
statement of Fulton P. Wesson as a police officer.
Respe 'tfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
106
OITY COUNCIL.
March 28, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — In the absence of Commissioner
Hultman I beg to acknowledge receipt of your
communication of March 27 inclosing an order
of the City Council, dated March 19, requesting
the reinstatement of Fulton P. Wesson as a police
officer in this department, and would advise you
that when appointments are again made to the
Police Department in the grade of patrolman, the
application of Mr. Wesson will be given consider-
ation.
Very truly yours,
Martin H. King,
Acting Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
PERSONAL SERVICE IN HEALTH UNITS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I acknowledge the receipt of the
order adopted on March 26 in which the Mayor is
requested not to eliminate from the budget any
appropriation for personal service affecting the
health units.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
FINANCIAL CONDITION OF DIS-
CHARGED EMPLOYEES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I acknowledge the receipt of reso-
lution adopted on March 26 to the effect that if
it be necessary to discharge employees due con-
sideration be given to the financial condition of
those to be discharged to the end that no injustice
be done to those who have no other means of
support.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
DECENTRALIZATION OF WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, March 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I acknowledge receipt of the order
adopted on March 19 in which the Mayor is re-
quested to instruct the Overseers of the Public
Welfare to decentralize the department.
I beg to inform you that plans are already on foot
to accomplish this end and that seven local dis-
tribution units have already been established.
It is the intention eventually to formulate plans
which will obviate the necessity of welfare recipients
being compelled to come from distant parts of the
city to the welfare headquarters.
I may add that I have caused a copy of the order
to be forwarded to the Overseers of the Public
Welfare.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
WELFARE DEPARTMENT
EXPENDITURES.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a report of
the City Auditor, relative to your order of March
26, 1934, concerning certain expenditures of the
Public Welfare Department from 1928 to 1933,
inclusive.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Auditing Department, March 31, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following statement is submitted
in response to the order of the City Council of
March 26, 1934, asking for information concerning
Public Welfare expenditures:
Public Welfare Department.
Total Amount of Payments to Recipients.
1928 $2,212,224 40
1929 2,479,504 07
1930 3,681,377 57
1931 * 7,157,0.54 48
1932 t 12,024,401 35
1933 X 13,618,223 54
Total Expense of Operating Public Welfare De-
partment Other than Money Paid to Re-
cipients.
1928 $142,701 26
1929 149,611 92
1930 163,241 88
1931 225,966 95
1932.... 351,830 46
1933 510,057 77
Total Expenses of Public Welfare Department.
1928 $2,354,925 66
1929. 2,629,115 99
1930 3,844,619 45
1931.... * 7,383,021 43
1932 t 12,376,231 81
1933 % 14,128,281 31
* Includes $75,000 from Unemployment Relief
Fund and $255,000 from Public Welfare Depart-
ment Trust Funds.
t Includes $2,945,016.77 received from Unem-
ployment Relief Fund.
% Includes $747,499.81 received from Unem-
ployment Relief Fund.
Respectfully,
Wilfred J. Doyle, Acting City Auditor.
Placed on file.
LAND ON GROTTO GLEN ROAD.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to your
order of March 26, 1934, concerning the filling in
and putting in proper condition land at the end of
Grotto Glen road, Ward 10.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
March 30, 1934.
Mr. John J. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — Reporting on the order of the City
Council to the Public Works Department through
his Honor the Mayor, to be requested to fill in the
land at the end of Grotto Glen road, Ward 10, beg
leave to state that the land in question belongs to
the estate of Martin M. Lomasney of which Daniel
J. Lyne is administrator. The executor of said
estate has applied for and received permission to
use said land as a dump by the Health Depart-
ment and that the Public Works Department has
made arrangements to dump ashes and clean
rubbish in said location at its pleasure.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Ada F. Alden, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 173 Massachusetts
avenue. . ,
Etta M. Brackett, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at Causeway
and Portland streets.
APRIL 2, 1934.
107
E. R. Brown Company, for compensation for
damage to property at 28 Lancaster street, caused
by bursting of water main.
Margaret Campbell, for compensation for dam-
age to coat caused by an alleged defect in Exeter
street.
Peter Caracostos, for compensation for damage
to car by street sign.
Nicholas Condil, for refund on liquor license.
E. A. DeWolfe, for compensation for damage
to car by fire truck.
Frederick DiCicco, for refund on liquor license.
Empire Linen Service, for compensation for
damage to truck by sanitary wagon.
George N. Frykberg, for compensation for
damage to car by police car.
Lawrence German, for compensation for loss
of tools in fire at Boston Water Works.
George Kakatsaki, for refund on liquor license.
Charles B. Lander, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Scollay
square.
A. Maggioli & Co., for compensation for dam-
age to property at 13 and 15 Ferry street, caused
by bursting of water main.
Thomas S. McKinnon, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Washington
street.
Angelo Messia, for compensation for damage to
property at 4 Bowditch street, caused by city
truck.
Mrs. Monica Noel, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 22 South
Huntington avenue.
Mary E. Powell, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Maywood street.
Catherine E. Ryan, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Columbia
road.
Mary F. Ryan, for compensation for deprecia-
tion of property at 74-78 Savin Hill avenue,
caused by inadequate sewer.
Frank Schiff, for compensation for damage to
property at 1129 Washington street, caused by
break in water main.
E. B. Seery, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck
Miriam Shapiro, for refund on liquor license.
Aaron Smith, for compensation for damage to
property at 151 Milk street, caused by break in
water main.
Daniel P. Sullivan, for compensation for damage
to property at 11 Pershing road, caused by sinking
of main sewer.
John Troy, for compensation for loss of tools at
Public Works Department yard.
Underwood Elliott Fisher Company, for com-
pensation for damage to truck by city truck.
Executive.
Petition of Catherine M. Hanley to be paid
annuity on account of death of husband, George J.
Hanley, late member of Police Department.
APPOINTMENT OF ACTING HEAD OF
DEPARTMENT OF STATISTICS.
Notice was received from the Mayor of appoint-
ment of Charles J. Fox, Budget Commissioner,
to be acting chairman and head of Department
of Statistics, to take the place of James P. Balfe,
resigned, beginning Friday, March 30, 1934.
Placed on file.
NOTICE OF INTEREST IN CITY WORK
Notice was received from Frederic H. Fay,
chairman of City Planning Board, that his firm,
Fay, Spofford & Thorndike, has been requested
by Commissioner of Public Works of Boston to
investigate the condition of Northern Avenue
Bridge.
Placed on file.
REMARKS OF JOSEPH LEE, JR.
Coun. DONOVAN and Coun. KERRIGAN
offered the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council goes
on record as opposed to the disparaging remarks
made by Mr. Joseph Lee, Jr., of the Boston Council
of Social Agencies, as quoted in the Boston papers
of yesterday relative to the character and condi-
tions of the people of South Boston, Roxbury and
other sections of Boston.
Coun. DONOVAN — Mr. President, in yester-
day's press I was amazed to read that Mr. Joseph
Lee, Jr., President of the Boston Council of Social
Agencies, had spoken disparagingly of people
whom I have the honor to represent in this
honorable body. I want to say to Mr. Lee that
from that district he speaks of, South Boston,
have gone men who have become leaders in the
social and financial affairs of this city, that from
that district have come the late Congressman
James A. Gallivan, the present District Attorney,
the present United States District Attorney,
Francis J. W. Ford, Michael J. Perkins, one of
the outstanding heroes of the World War, and
innumerable others who have become prominent
in the business and public life of this city and state.
I say to Mr. Lee that, while he may think that
some of the people of that district are of a low type,
they are clean of heart and do not deserve the
characterizations he gave them. The social
service agencies of Boston have done a wonderful
work in the past four years, throughout this
depression, and it is certainly too bad that at
this late day this man should come out with such
remarks against the character of our people.
He is not the only man who has made derogatory
remarks about the people of my district. In the
last mayoralty campaign in Boston, we heard over
the radio and from the public platform statements
made against the character of some of our people.
This sort of thing has gone too far, Mr. President,
defaming decent, God-fearing men and women.
From my district have come great political and
public leaders, men who have made their mark
in this city, state and nation; and let us have no
more such defamation of those clean-minded,
God-fearing people, who have always been an
honor to the community in which they live and
to the state and nation.
Coun. KERRIGAN— Mr. President, I also
would like to say just a word upon this matter.
I want to be recorded as resenting the remarks
made by Joseph Lee, Jr. It is a very sad and dis-
couraging thing to see such remarks emanating
from the son of Mr. Joseph Lee, Sr., who has
spent much of his money in the building up of
public parks and in public welfare activities, not
alone in the City of Boston but in the whole
country. It is sad, indeed, that a son of his
should come out with such unwarranted characteri-
zation as "low-grade Irish," the "low-grade
Polish," and the "low-grade Lithuanians" in
South Boston and other sections of the city. I
think that this man, who has made such an un-
called-for and unjust criticism of good, respectable
people of this city, should be called upon to make
a public apology, and I demand a public apology.
I wish to be recorded as vigorously protesting
against such remarks by Joseph Lee, Jr.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, may I simply
say in regard to the remarks that have been made
in regard to the Irish and other people of this city,
that where a man of his type makes such state-
ments we must simply remember that where there
is no sense there is no feeling.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I am
glad that this order has been introduced, because
I believe censure should be passed upon any
individual who issues documents containing any
such language. It is that type of individual who
promotes the principles of flitlerism, and the sad
thing is that such people should exist on the face
of this earth. I am in accord with any man who
stands up and defends his own people. Because
these are hard-working people is no reason why
they should be referred to as cheap or indecent
The resolution was passed under suspension
of the rule.
DISCHARGE OF EMPLOYEES BY MAYOR.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council go on
record against the wholesale and ruthless discharge
of city employees by the Mayor of Boston.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, in intro-
ducing this resolution there is no doubt in my
mind that no member of this Council is in accord
with the policies that have been put into effect
by the Mayor of Boston. My purpose in intro-
ducing the resolution is to show to the people of
Boston and to the 21,000 city employees that we
do not encourage false economy. Last week we
witnessed one of the worst spectacles in the way
of discharging men and women in the employ of
this city that has been seen since the days of the
late Mayor George A. Hibbard. The Mayor saw
I OH
CITY COUNCIL.
fit to send out to city employees at a time when
the Easter spirit was supposed to prevail, when
every Christian heart was meditating, during
Holy Week, eold-blooded, heartless notices to the
effect that they, without any warning, had been
suspended or discharged from the city's service.
Such notices have been received in the past three
weeks by scrubwomen, messengers of mercy, low-
salaried clerks, whose services or abilities had never
been questioned, people who had given the best
part of their lives in the employ of the city, whose
term of office ranged from six months to thirty-
five years. I shall never forget last Thursday,
when some of these men, with tears streaming
down their cheeks, came to me as well as to other
members of this body, asking for our assistance.
I am told that one of the men in the Street Laying-
Out Department collapsed when he received the
notice. Another man, with thirteen children,
living in my district but who has spent nineteen
years in the service of the city, received his notice
on Holy Thursday. It was the same with another
man, after thirty years in the service of the city,
a low-salaried worker, his wife with a six-months'
old child and sick in bed. He told me that it
was necessary for him to cash in his insurance
policy in order to pay the doctor's bill, and this
despite the fact that he had already told the
Mayor of conditions in his home. We all desire
economy, Mr. President, but let us be true to our-
selves and to the people of Boston. There is the
discharge of James P. Balfe, for thirty-five years
an employee in the City of Boston, and one of the
best men in the city's employ, who had created
one of the most important departments in the
city, the Statistical Department. Several weeks
ago a committee was appointed to investigate the
Public Welfare Department. Mr. Balfe had the
record of every welfare recipient,' and he came
before our committee and gave information freely
and voluntarily of cases upon which the com-
mittee wanted more information. I charge now
that the reason why Mr. Balfe was discharged
was because Mayor Mansfield wants to suppress
an investigation of the Public Welfare Depart-
ment. Before the Committee on Cities of the
Legislature, in a hearing in which other members
of the Council and myself were present, Mayor
Mansfield made the astounding statement that
5 per cent of the expenditure to public welfare
recipients was fraudulent, was a fake. It appeared
from the figure given that over $700,000 was
being taken improperly from the Public Welfare
Department. I assumed that Mayor Mansfield
knew what he was talking about, because he gave
this information voluntarily to the Committee on
Cities in connection with his bill to reorganize the
Welfare Department. But it seems now that
Mayor Mansfield does not want an investigation,
because he does not want to take the responsi-
bility for these frauds, and because Mr. Balfe
gave to our committee freely and voluntarily this
information, it appears now that the members
of that committee will never be able to get further
information in the same manner, freely and volun-
tarily, from the Statistics Department. Then we
come to the case of Charles Bogan, for thirty-five
years in the service of the city, who after the
Spanish-American War entered the employ of
the city. He was given his papers on Holy Thurs-
day, because the Mayor wanted to vent his own
personal feeling in regard to him. Then, I come
to the case of the supervisor of ferries, John F.
Sullivan of East Boston, a man close to sixty years
of age, bearing a name that has been highly
respected in East Boston for generations, a man
whose father was a prominent figure in East Bos-
ton and who had a ferryboat named after him.
With less than a year to go to receive his pension,
he also was given such an Easter greeting on Holy
Thursday. Is this the economy in which Mayor
Mansfield wants the people to believe? Is he
going to continue to be advised by these fake
reformers, H. C. Loeffler and Bob Cunniff of the
Fin Com.? If you want to know upon whom the
Mayor of Boston is relying, any man in this room
can wait downstairs from half-past five to six
o'clock, and can see H. C. Loeffler and Mr. Cunniff
going into the Mayor's office for consultation.
They are the Mayors of Boston. I cannot under-
stand by what authority these men have the right
to be consulted aB against men of long experience,
such men as have been discharged, who could
give the Mayor necessary information and wise
advice. Then, there is the Boston Municipal
Research Bureau. It is nothing but the old Good
Government Association dressed up a little bit
differently. I would simply call attention to these
pamphlets that you and I have received, distri-
buted by the Boston Municipal Research Bureau.
Who is paying the cost of such an expensive
document as this which we have all received?
Some one is surely footing the bills, and some
day we will probably get the complete picture.
If Mayor Mansfield cannot run the city without
the aid of these fake reformers, who have for some
time been a thorn in the side of the people of
Boston, he ought to resign and hand the reins over
to somebody else. Certainly, he can get the
information and the advice he needs from such
men as Commissioner Fox, a man who has much
better knowledge of city affairs than is possessed
by the Municipal Research Bureau, and there are
many others who could easily and properly give
him the information he needs in running the
affairs of the city; and certainly he could be
engaged in better business than going around at a
time like this and discharging such men as he has
discharged from different departments with less
than forty-eight hours' notice. Therefore, on
this resolution, Mr. President, I am going to ask
for a suspension of the rule, without reference
to any committee. I believe the resolution should
be passed at this time, because, although we have
not the right or authority to stop the sort of thing
that has been going on, we can serve notice that
the members of this Council do not encourage
any such ruthless, malicious and discreditable
tactics as he has employed against the city
workers.
The resolution was passed under suspension of
the rule.
RESTORATION OF FORTY-HOUR WEEK,
ETC.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commissioner
be requested, through Mb Honor the Mayor, to
reconsider the restoration of a forty-hour week
without reduction of pay for all employees in the
Ferry Service.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, several
weeks ago the employees of the Ferry Service re-
ceived notice that their hours would be increased
from forty to forty-eight. This department is
one of the few departments, I am informed, that
will have to work forty-eight hours a week under
the new system. My only interest in this matter
is that President Campfield of the Boston Central
Labor Union is a member of Mayor Mansfield's
brain trust. President Campfield knows that more
than sixty per cent of the employees of the Ferry
Service belong to the same union that he is presi-
dent of. I cannot understand the inconsistency
of the man. He either ought to resign from the
brain trust or resign as president of the Boston
Central Labor Union, because he cannot act in
such a dual capacity. Increasing the hours of
employment of these men is contrary to every
principle advocated by President Roosevelt, as
well as being contrary to the rules and regulations
of the Boston Central Labor Ijnion.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
INFORMATION FROM DEPARTMENT OF
PUBLIC WELFARE.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to instruct the Overseers of the Public
Welfare and the secretary and other subordinates
in the department to produce before the Special
Committee on the City Council on Investigation
of the Public Welfare Department, any docu-
ments, statistics, cards and other records of the
department which the committee may by vote
request to be produced.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, my pur-
pose in introducing this order is that I fear that
the 3,000,000 cards which have been compiled by
that valuable former employee of the city, whom
.the councilor from East Boston has just referred
to, Mr. Balfe, may go astray. According to the
ruling under the past administration, it was
necessary to get a written order from the Mayor
himself for any member of the Council to have
access to the files. Therefore, I have been en-
deavoring, on behalf of the Public Welfare Com-
mittee which you recently appointed, sir, of which
I was made chairman, to get the assistance of
those files, to be able to look to them for very
APRIL 2, 1934.
109
valuable information. I noticed as I came into
the Council today that on the desk of every
councilor there is a booklet which is entitled
"Look Down Bleak Street." I don't know
whether that is meant for the members of the
Council or for the taxpayers and small home
owners of Boston. It is a very worthy association
that has put out this booklet, and they have put
it out because the drive which they recently
conducted to raise by popular subscription $4,-
500.000 fell down. It fell down to the extent of
$1,800,000. Unlike the situation in other cities
of the country, sir, the welfare for the City of
Boston is taken out of taxes, so that the man who
owns a small home must "contribute not only his
fair share of taxes for the general support of the
activities of the community, but will now be forced
to also contribute the $1,800,000 that this private
association was unable to raise. I, of course, am
interested in Mr. Balfe, who served here for over
thirty years and who was peculiarly adapted to
working out in the Bureau of Statistics the vast
amount of information which was asked for by
members of the City Council two and a half years
ago under an order that I had introduced, which
later was signed by his Honor the Mayor, and
which established in the Statistical Department a
means of obtaining not alone the most valuable
information which we could gather, but the only
information of the kind that could be collected
from the different departments of the City of
Boston, with a view to preventing duplication of
payment to recipients of welfare of one character
or another. You will remember, Mr. President,
and so will the other members of the old Council
how much trouble we had in attempting to get
from the Public Welfare Department vital infor-
mation. We would send for the chairman of the
Board of Overseers and he would come into this
room. We would ask him a question of vital
importance to the people of the city who sent us
here, and we would be told that he could not give
us the information because the valuable secretary
of the Board, Mr. McCarthy, was too busy to
come with him, and he had all the records. We
would postpone the thing for a week and send for
them again, and on that occasion Mr. McCarthy
would put in his appearance, and when we would
ask him a question he would say that unfor-
tunately he could not give us the information
because Mr. Hecht was not present, and Mr.
Hecht had the information. And so this Council
and the former Mayor of Boston were used as a
political football by the Board of Overseers of the
Public Welfare, and we as elected officials were
denied valuable and vital information. In the
latter part of 1932 we made a valiant effort to get
that information, and it was denied to us. It
was denied to us as elected officials, but it appeared
that information which was refused to us was
given to people from Simmons College, who were
allowed to look over even the most intimate
records that the city possessed. The answer to
us was, "We haven't time, even though you have
passed an order through the Council requesting
this information and it has been signed by the
Mayor, to give it to the Council nor to the Board
of Statistics upstairs." All through January,
February, March, and up to the month of June,
we could not get this information from a depart-
ment that was then spending up to $14,000,000
a year, representing $7 on every $1,000 of tax rate
in the city, which meant a tax of $70 on every man
owning a $10,000 home in Boston. But we were
told that we couldn't get the information, that
they didn't have it compiled. And even the City
Auditor, the grandest man who was ever employed
by the City of Boston, Rupert Carven, did not
have the figures beyond November, 1932. I
raised the question, how was it that in the seven
months past §7,000,000 had been spent in this
department, and this man, this rock of honesty,
Rupert Carven, could not in June get the infor-
mation. And then he was discharged, thrown
out, because he dared to ask in regard to the
welfare; and when Rupert Carven left this City
Hall the brains of the municipal government
walked out through the door, and brainless men
were left in charge. And then I wrote in to the
Boston Council of Social Agencies, in charge of
Roy M. Cushman, the man who has recently been
appointed to a high position in the F. E. R. A.,
the man in whose office was found what the
councilor from South Boston has just talked
about, a plan describing certain sections of our
city. The first opportunity that the citizens of
the city ever had to get a true picture of welfare
conditions here, a picture which has been denied
to this Council, a picture which Mr. Balfe had
endeavored to help make clear, was when the
government of these United States formulated the
C. W. A. They sent word to every city in America
that they wanted the entire welfare roll, that they
wanted the name, address and condition of every
family receiving money from the city turned over
to the man who was appointed C. W. A. director
in each city. And so in Boston it seemed that at
last we had come to a parting of the ways, that
we had arrived at a point where some man would
be appointed to spend Federal money and would
have access to every record that Mr. McCarthy
had in his possession. Mr. McCarthy could not
come here when we wanted to see him, because
his department had gone from an expenditure of a
little over a million to an expenditure of $14,-
000,000 a year. He was the busiest man^ in
Boston, and he told us so. He could not find time
to come here; he was working nights, Sundays and
holidays. And then there was a trip taken up
the hill by Roy M. Cushman and Walter
McCarthy. They visited Mr. Bartlett, and we
were astounded to learn that the government
C. W. A. man who was appointed in charge of
government work for Boston, to investigate the
rolls of McCarthy, was McCarthy hinself. The
check-up of McCarthy by the government was to
be by McCarthy; and so once again we saw the
workings of the powerful influences which were
taking $14,000,000 a year out of the homes of
people who could not afford it. And then a new
light dawned on the horizon, and F. E. R. A. was
put into effect, to be even a more complete check-
up on welfare recipients in the cities of the country
than was the C. W. A. and it resulted in the
appointment of Mr. McCarthy, and it reacted so
viciously that Mr. Bartlett got out of the position
and a new man, Mr. Carney, took over the direc-
tion of the work for the government, and no
Mr. McCarthy would get in under him. He would
see to that! So he went far afield and appointed
the man who had got McCarthy appointed,
Roy Cushman! So we will have a real check-up
now of the welfare! I was interested in getting one of
these booklets, which they did not even trust the
printer to print, but printed in their own office,
back in 1933, to find this said by the Boston
Council of Social Agencies:
"Our thanks are due to those organizations which
have helped in the preparation of the material
and in the supplying of data. We must mention
the City Department of Public Welfare."
And I remind you again that our City Auditor,
Rupert Carven, stated in June of 1933 that the
records of expenditures of that, department had
not been brought up beyond November, 1932.
He was asking for the information week after
week, and he told me that the answer always was,
"We haven't those records available." They
were valuable records, and he was concerned about
the matter. Still, we find on page 22 here this
statement, about families receiving relief from the
first of November, 1932, to the first of March, 1933.
This is issued in April of 1933, and in obtaining the
information the mailing list of the Public Welfare
Department was used, and they speak of the case
load for these four months showing a steady
increase in the number of families receiving two
types of aid — old age assistance and mothers' aid —
as compared with some time in November. And
then they say that figures for the two classes of
dependent aid were received in seven lots, from
the Welfare Department during the months of
December, 1932, and January and February of
1933, "the chronic cases being the first to come
through." In other words, in December, 1932,
and in January, February and March of 1933,
according to this booklet gotten out by a private
association in April, 1933, the Welfare Department
not only turned over their complete rolls but aided
to the extent that they are thanked by this associa-
tion for seven times giving them information which
even showed the chronic cases that come first.
Here were these millions being spent, and your
City Auditor could not get that information. But
by far the most interesting part of this entire book
is contained in one of the last paragraphs, when,
after showing every sort of a plan and map that
it is possible to get out setting forth the types
of people who live in the city — the, infant mor-
tality, deaths from tuberculosis, the number of
people coming from the Irish Free State, Italy,
Germany, Russia, and so forth and so on, to
which I have no objection, understand; I never
have been able to gather such valuable informa-
tion in the years that I have been in politics as is
contained in certain ways in this book, because I
IK)
CITY COUNCIL.
could not got the information from ihc city de-
partments that Uicy as outsiders can walk is and
Ket — they flay:
"Since the number of individuals aided by the
I >!■!>: '''it of Public Welfare, while estimated, in
not definitely known, no valid calculations can be
made of the pel nail are of individuals in JSoSton
and its areas who are receiving relief."
Here iH an organization of experts vitally con-
cerned with the giving of welfare aid, who can
work out in the last detail vital statistics of every
character in the City of Boston, who have ac-
cessible to them the entire roll, as they say here,
the entire roll of the Welfare Department, being
turned over to their possession, who can have
seven conferences at which vital statistics are
submitted by the Welfare Department during a
period of three months, and yet in summarizing the
thing in their booklet, having this vast mass of
detail at hand, their conclusion is that there is no
man living, not even they, who knows how many
men there are on welfare. And that is what
we have always contended. It is a very peculiar
thing, Mr. President, that when three or four
members of this Council left this body a couple
of weeks ago and ventured up to Beacon Hill
to the Committee on Cities to talk for the bill
that had been introduced by Mayor Frederick W.
Mansfield, his own Corporation Counsel was there
that day to speak for it, his legislative agent was
there to support it, three or four members of the
Council including myself spoke for it, and the
chairman of the committee has sent to your Clerk
of Committees for a stenographic copy of what
was said by the councilors, because it contained
by far the most valuable information, the chairman
of the Committee on Cities said, that they had
received up to date. But several days later,
the day before the Mayor marched up to the hill,
several of the high-salaried employees of Boston
laughed at me because of this futile effort to get
some information from a department that spends
.$14,000,000 a year, representing $7 per 81,000
in the tax rate. They said, "Joe, they will reach
your friend the Mayor, and when he goes up
there tomorrow he will have rubber heels and will
pussy-foot on this bill"; and I was astounded to
hear the Mayor spend 90 per cent of his time
criticizing the City Council, the members of which
had supported the bill that he introduced. He
introduced the bill, we did not, and we supported
the bill, and yet he spent more time criticizing
the members of the Council who went up there
to talk in support of his bill than he did in talldng
upon the bill. Then he was questioned by a mem-
ber of the committee. Since he started his cam-
paign for Mayor he has had a tendency to talk
statistics. That is bad, unless a fellow is an
authority on statistics. He has a man named
Loeffler who gives him statistics, the same man
who got him to say that 65 cents of every dollar
spent in 1933 went for three things — waste, graft
and corruption. He was wrong then, as he has
been wrong since. The same man issued the
statement that Boston was a poor city to live in,
as evidenced by the fact that only 25 per cent of
the people here own their own homes. It seems
that he had learned that out in Detroit while
investigating conditions, and he believed it was
true. That is what he was told. And he said
that conditions in that respect were different here
from what they were in Detroit. But he ad-
mitted that he had not been informed that 44
per cent of the people employed in Boston live
outside of Boston and own their own homes out-
side, and when that was called to his attention
he admitted that it was quite a different thing.
But it seems that Mr. Loeffler again whispered
in the Mayor's ear, when the Mayor himself ad-
mitted that he was not very well informed in the
matter, that the graft or improper payments in
the Welfare Department amounted to 5 per cent.
But when I mentioned the figure of $700,000 per
year in that connection, he said, "How ridiculous!"
Well, let me see about that, sir. He himself had
said that perhaps 5 per cent of the money spent
for welfare goes into the hands of fraudulent
recipients. But later on, when I mentioned the
figure of $700,000, stating that it was an astounding
thing to hear the Mayor say before the committee
that $700,000 was going into the hands of fraudu-
lent recipients of welfare, at a time when he had
discharged forty low-paid city employees whose
total salaries amounted to $37,600, and stating
that he would have to discharge a great many more
men and women city employees before that
$700,000 that on his own statement was being
wasted in the Welfare Department on fraudulent
recipients would be reached, he looked at the
figure of $700,000 and said ''That is not true,"
:""| I "aid, as stated in last Sunday's paper, thai
McGraths conclusions, an always, were wrong
because Ins facts were wrong. Today I wanl to
apologize for Laving taken his facts. I am ip
posed to be the man who is always wrong, not
getting my fa. Is from a man from' Detroit, who
does not know where I. a -I Ho-ion or Dorchester
are. And to this hour and to this day liis H< I
the Mayor insists that only 5 per cent of $1 4,000,000
goes into the hands of fraudulent recipients, ob-
jecting when I mention $700,000, but not seeming
to realize (hat. $700,000 is 5 per cent, of SI I 000.000.
Now, sir, I have had little education. I was not
allowed, did not have the opportunity, to go
through the schools that some of the statisticians
have attended. I have not even taken the neces-
sary courses in night school. I am just an ordinary
fellow, and I am very sorry if I was in error in
stating that 5 per cent of $14,000,000 was $700,000.
The Mayor says that a man whose facts are
wrong must necessarily arrive at wrong con-
clusions. There is the situation today. We
are getting statistics, we are getting percentages,
but are not getting the actual figures in dollars and
cents. We are seeing an association come in here
advocating the saving of $5,500 by removal of the
smallpox hospital, up in your ward, Mr. President,
on Southampton street, which would mean that if a
case of smallpox or leprosy should occur in the city
and the victim should be put over into the South
Department of the City Hospital, other patients
would be brought in proximity to such diseases.
That building, Mr. President, is the only place
where the little fevered bodies of children with
contagious diseases can be placed. If the Mayor
had ever stood on Albany street up in your ward
and seen those mothers looking across the yard to
see the little white face of a child who had been
fortunate enough to come through the scourge of
diphtheria, scarlet fever, or some other contagious
disease, appearing at the window, the poor mother
hoping that the little child appearing at the window
while she anxiously waited was hers, I think he
could realize the importance of continuing the
proper provision for such cases instead of taking
Mr. Loeffler's advice, and saving $5,500 in this way,
at the same time unnecessarily exposing other
patients to serious hazards, and that he would
feel that a much better solution would be to throw
out some of the bums now getting thousands of
dollars a year from Public Welfare. (Applause.)
While Mr. Loeffler's suggestions might seem to
save $5,500 for the moment, we can all under-
stand that it would not be real economy to close
up the smallpox hospital and put patients who
might be brought in with these dangerous con-
tagious diseases in close proximity to little children
and others. We have heard the cry for the re-
organization of the Health Department, sir, the
valuable statistics of which will be found upstairs
if they do not destroy our records. We have
heard the cry to discharge thirty-two of those
messengers of mercy, the nurses to motherless
children, who have found in those women the only
ones they could call mother, the only ones whose
tender hands smoothed their pillows and tucked
them away in bed. Was it economy, sir, to dis-
charge those nurses, some of whom had been in
the service for ten years or more? Is it economy to
cm-tail work in this city which has so greatly re-
duced the great white plague with which years
ago almost every family in Boston was afflicted?
Some of us remember when at least one in almost
every family was a victim, and was practically
excluded from the society of his or her fellow beings.
But as the years have gone on the health societies
of Boston, the Health Department, working with
the physicians and nurses, have made Boston the
leading health center of the country and have
reduced the great white plague in twenty years by
50 per cent. Is it economy to dispense with the
tender touch of those nurses, is it economy to take
away the bottle of milk from the poor children in
large families where the advocates of birth control
would say it would be better to have them die than
to have them live without proper care and to
suffer? Should not the care and supervision
in such cases, for which this city has become
famous in all these years, be continued? Mr.
President and fellow members, looking ahead
through the years and trying to realize what the
great Bookkeeper above puts down on the debit
and credit sides, trying to realize what the city
owes to these little ones and to other unfortunates
in the community, we should be willing to spend
APRIL 2, 1934.
Ill
millions in that direction, and should not think for
one moment of such petty ways to save. The
bodies of these little ones are undernourished now,
sir, and they are susceptible to communicable
diseases. We have in this city a record of treat-
ment of communicable diseases of which we may
be well proud. Boston stands high in the treat-
ment of those who have suffered from the white
plague. If our efforts are to come to naught, if
the -work that we have carried on so splendidly is
to be stopped, if children are to be placed in bed-
rooms with no outside windows, with the only
ventilation perhaps on a hallway, the health of
our people will go down, the deaths from tuber-
culosis will increase, and those who are required
to sleep in rooms without ventilation will become
stunted and feeble. These nurses, on their errands
of mercy, have gone about our city and found out
where the cancer spots are; they have sought out
the sore spots and have done what they could to
remedy conditions as they found them, and all
money spent in such ways is well spent. And
don't put men down at Long Island who talk
only dollars and cents. You have people there
who have given their all to society, who have fought
the battle of life and who finally, through no fault
of their own, have been sent down to the Island
against their wishes, there to await the end. We
have seen what has happened down at Long
Island, when a poor, old fellow was turned out on
the streets of Boston on a night when the ther-
mometer was below zero, and when thirty or forty
other inmates were allowed to go, and I under-
stand that there will probably be a follow-up,
that more will be discharged. I say that, instead
of this Loeffler from Detroit, we should get a man
who knows something about Boston conditions, a
Bostonian. I say to Mr. Loeffler, no Bostonian
would for one moment do the dirty work that you
are carrying on. I say that some day soon you
will sneak out of this city on a dark night, when
people cannot see your face. In the meantime, the
people of this city can hold responsible the man
elected as Mayor, who is listening to the dictates
of the Municipal Research Bureau, and when he
has finished he will get nothing but a medal. We
saw the cartoon in the morning's paper of the man
who rose from the ashes and gave a warning to the
present Mayor, that "When you are done they
will throw you aside and give you a little medal,
saying, ' Well done, thou good and faithful serv-
ant.'" I say to the Mayor of Boston today that
you had better not go farther with discharges,
denying thereby to children of this city proper
attention and food, and doing things which will
result in depriving the people of this city generally
of the care and help to which they are properly
entitled in a civilized community. And I say to
Loeffler, "Go back to Detroit. They may want
you there, but we in Boston are sick of you, and if
you don't soon leave, you may be ridden out on a
rail."
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
"SHARE-THE-WORK" STAGGER SYSTEM.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to discharge outright no worthy city
employee until first he has vigorously exhausted
the possibilities of the so-called "share the work"
stagger system.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I agree whole-
heartedly with many of the things that the previous
speaker has said about discharging city help. Let
us try to get this stagger plan put into operation.
Otherwise, you will have hundreds, if not thous-
ands, go. We can all appreciate the conditions
that are confronting the city. How much good is
all our talk here going to do? Last year we col-
lected in this city — this is the amount to date —
$44,683,000 to run the city. The taxes came due
September 15, 1933. Almost six months have
elapsed, and we find that out of the amount
we have collected to date $44,162,000 have been
paid out in salaries for the year 1933, leaving
nothing for welfare, for hospitals, or to carry on
municipal functions. There is the condition that
we face. What are we going to do about it?
In the light of that situation, I believe that the
Mayor, unless we can sell to him this stagger plan,
is going to discharge city employees by the hun-
dreds and by the thousands. There seems to me
no escape from that conclusion. We know what
has happened in the great city of Chicago. They
have had to resort to the stagger plan. I have a
letter here from John A. Richert, under date of
March 23, in which he states:
"While the city has not been able to employ
additional help, it has not added materially to
unemployment by cutting employees off the pay
roll entirely. This has necessitated a shifting of
employees from one department, or kind of work,
to another, the reducing of time for those working,
and cuts in salaries as above mentioned. Gradual
reduction in the force has been obtained by not
filling vacancies. In fact, the appropriations for
1934, in order to pay out, contemplate a progres-
sive reduction in the force during the year by not
filling vacancies."
The same situation obtains in Detroit. I have
here under date of March 31a letter from Mayor
Couzens, stating that, "In some instances part-
time schedules were adopted so as to spread the
work among the greatest possible number of
employees, and in some departments we still have
employees working on three and four day schedules.
At the present time there are approximately 1,900
former city employees on the classified list of the
Civil Service Commission who have been laid off,
due to lack of funds. In addition to this, several
thousand day laborers in the various departments
have been permanently dismissed." It also
appears that in Detroit, as shown by a letter of
March 30 from the City Comptroller, — and I was
surprised to learn this, — they have employed
4,987 street railway employees, and the city of
Detroit has also spread its work. He says that
the city is "attempting to place employees on a
five-day week basis in lieu of employing more
people and paying less wages."
In Baltimore, we find the same situation, — "We
have endeavored to give the labor thirty hours a
week at 45 cents per hour, but each bureau has
been held strictly within its budgetary appro-
priations and has operated its particular labor to
the best possible advantage. Most bureaus work
the stagger system of three weeks on and one week
off, at forty hours a week, which gives a total of
thirty hours per week. Others operate six hours
per day, five days per week."
We get similar word from the city of Phila-
delphia. Now, in the name of humanity, instead
of throwing thousands of people out, why can't
we stagger the work? Before discharging men in
any department, I believe that all those entitled
to pensions should be pensioned. Half a loaf is
better than no bread, and why not pension men
who are entitled to it, rather than discharging
them, giving something to live on until the great
mediator, Death, comes along? Give them a
chance to live, give them half a loaf. All married
women whose husbands are working should be let
go, in favor of those who have dependents. No
person should be added to the city pay roll, and
I would include in that statement men in the
Police and Fire Departments, where the question
arises, Where are we going to get the money to
pay those we have got? About $44,500,000 has
been collected up to date, and over $44,000,000
has been paid out in salaries, leaving nothing for
welfare expenses, nothing for hospitalization.
How long can that sort of thing go on, gentlemen?
When orders come in to put on 200 more policemen
or 200 more firemen, let us remember the condi-
tions confronting us today. We simply have not
the money, and the problem is to hold those whom
we have. By adding 200 more policemen or
firemen you are only hastening the day when we
will have no money whatever for the men in those
departments. In Philadelphia last year 300
policemen were fired, some of whom had been on
the force for twenty years. I never want to see
that day come to Boston, a time when we must
fire our policemen, firemen, or other employees,
when it is possible to stagger the work and to save
them. Any officials receiving over $5,000 a year
should pay back the amount over that, to go into
the welfare fund. They could leave a statement
with the City Treasurer by which all amounts over
$5,000 should be automatically taken out of their
checks, thus reducing their pay and putting it
into the Welfare Department fund. Why should
anybody working for the City of Boston today
receive over $5,000 a year in salary? For four long
years I have made this demand, and for four long
years I have stood up here and advocated the
cutting down of millions of dollars in expenditures.
But we have gone along, and we are now faced with
this calamity which may compel us to fire thous-
ands of city employees, because we have no money
to pay them. Ex-Mayor Peters is authority for the
112
CITY COUNCIL.
Htatoment that 5 per cent of the city and county
employcoB leavo the rolls yearly on account of
pension or death. If we stapler the work, the
cniploycoB will not have to be reduced greatly in
number. But we muni, recognize cold facts. We
must realize the conditions that are confronting
not only this city but every city in the country
today. It is far better to take the bull by the
horns in a matter of this kind, to face the situation,
in the interest of all the employees, rather than
to have payless pay days. We can pass a budget
for one month, for instance, and try the thing out
under the stagger plan, sharing the work, and the
stagger plan is in line with liberal sentiment
throughout the world. It is something that we
should put into effect under the conditions now
confronting us; and, what is more, it .is your duty
and my duty, if you will stand with me, to insist
that a man who is within a few months of a pension,
a man who has worked for the city for thirty
years, shall at least, instead of being suspended or
discharged, be put on the stagger system.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, I don't
think we should act so hastily on this proposition.
The gentleman has been advocating a resort
to the stagger system and all that sort of thing.
I do not believe that at this time we should com-
mit ourselves to the policy of the stagger system,
advocated by the councilor from Hyde Park.
There are a number of things to be considered
in connection with that. I will agree with him
that this Council has voted millions for tunnels,
widenings, a lot of things they should not have
voted for, but I think many of us cast our votes
on those matters in the firm belief that they would
be carried out in an honest manner. I think
any of us who voted for the East Boston Tunnel
to please the late councilor from East Boston
did so simply as a matter of sympathy, to assist
him and his people, and did not realize how the
thing was really going to work out. We did not
realize in connection with this East Boston Tun-
nel proposition the amounts that would be stolen
in these land-takings. A number of patriotic
men advocated this and a lot of these things
which were supposed to be done under the recovery
administration. But let us remember one thing,
that the Statute of Limitations has not expired
on those so-called tunnel takings, and certain
high-toned gentlemen in this town should now
be required to pay back what they have received.
But I feel that we should go slow in some of these
things that are supposed to remedy present con-
ditions, that we should not be carried too hastily
off our feet. There are too many sides to these
questions, and they must all be carefully considered.
When you talk about putting into effect the so-
called stagger system, I don't believe that a man
who has been working thirty years for the city
should be forced out, should lose his position. As
the gentleman from Dorchester (Coun. McGratb)
has said, why don't we hear more talk about
trying to close up the leaks in a department of
our city that is now spending going on $15,000,000
a year? For four years we have been told "Don't
investigate that department," and even now
there are records on file made from outside sources
during the past four months which show, if my
information is correct, men who have been out
of the city for months, nobody knows where they
are really located, who are recipients of aid in
that department. Of course, there are city em-
ployees who are a great deal to blame for the
situation there. It should have been taken hold
of long ago. But the City Council has been
ignored. Competent investigators should have
been hired, as has been done in other cities. But
they have not only got the money through taxes,
but people all over the city have been appealed to,
to contribute to that fund. It was under the guise
of protecting the taxpayers, through some tax-
payers' association, and the citizens — even school-
masters, who are supposed to have some common
sense — contributed to this fund. But I am afraid
that if we pass the order offered by the councilor
from Hyde Park, we will be making a mistake. I
believe this is a matter upon which we should go
slowly, that we should exhaust every other means
and not put the Council at this time on record as
the gentleman proposes to do. I don't believe a
man who has given honest and faithful service to
the city should be thrown out, when he has been
here for thirty years and has done good work. We
should take into consideration the fact that many
of the departments have been depleted. Take the
Public Works Department, yard after yard has
been practically wiped out. Men have died and
their places have nof been filled. Hut, there are
many departments where you cannot at u moment's
notice suspend with the services of employees,
without at least going into detail, so that you will
know what you are about, not acting hastily. I
feel that a committee of the Council might well
advise with his Honor the Mayor. I believe he is a
reasonable man. There are, of course, certain
things that ought to be done, certain things that
will have to be overcome. It is a serious problem
all along the line. But certainly we should not
hastily paBB an order here asking the Mayor to do
these things without proper consideration. Let a
committee of three or five members of the Council
go into the proposition, and let them, if necessary,
consult with the Mayor as to what they think
ought to be done. I realize full well that the city
is not receiving the money that it should receive
in taxes. We realize also that there must come a
day of reckoning. But let us not vote in a hap-
hazard way for an order of this kind without
proper consideration. It would be a mistake.
Before we do that, it should be referred to a proper
committee of three or five members, and they
should be given time to look into it before the
budget is passed upon, showing, if that is their
conclusion, that certain reforms should take
place. It may well be that some plan should be
adopted, in view of the situation confronting the
city, perhaps in the way of reducing salaries, or
perhaps involving some other action; but why
should we go on record at this time as saying that
we believe in the stagger system without a proper
examination into the facts? It may be said that
the city departments have given the Mayor in-
formation, and that they are the ones responsible,
but it may be that they have gone ahead in many
instances trying to save their own hides. If that is
the story, we can find out through investigation;
if it is something else, we can find that out. I
remember years ago, under the Hibbard ad-
ministration, that there was talk about discon-
tinuing certain yards, and at that time there was
talk of throwing out 400 men. But there was a
man at the head of one of those yards, a Mr. Low,
who did not agree that that was the thing to do,
and he walked into the Mayor's office and said,
"Mr. Mayor, I can prove to you that I can do
the work just as well as or better than it can be
done by contractors, and save money for the
city. Will you give me the opportunity?" The
Mayor told him that he would give him a chance.
Well, he called the men together and told thern
what was happening, what was threatened, and
he said to them, "Here is our yard out here in
the Roxbury district, and it is up to us to make
good, and I shall expect every man to work with
that end in view. I am convinced that we can
do the work cheaper and better than it can be
done by contractors." And so the men pitched
in, went ahead and made good, and never lost a
man. That was William S. Low, and that was
the demonstration he made. Of course, these
things are being put up to the Mayor, and there
are problems that have to be met. But let us
go slow on this matter. Let us give it some
thought and consideration before acting as the
councilor proposes. I have told you the story
of one man who years ago went to Mayor Hibbard
and proved that he could do what was necessary,
and who did it. The others did not have the nerve,
courage or ability to do it. But he did it, and he
made good. There may be a similar way of
handling the situation today; perhaps the same
plan would work out. Let us go slow, and not
follow the gentleman from Hyde Park in this
matter without having it considered by a committee
of the Council.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I rather
favor the order introduced by the councilor from
Hyde Park, suggesting a plan whereby his Honor
the Mayor before he discharges city help will look
into the possibilities of the stagger system. In
other words, there is at least the chance that this
may help to solve the problem. I do not believe,
however, in acting like a bunch of ostriches and
buryng our heads in the sand in the face of impend-
ing disaster.
President DOWD here called Coun. McGRATH
to the chair.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, there is
no doubt in my mind, nor do I believe there is
any in the minds of other members of the Council,
that we are now facing a crisis and that something
APRIL 2, 1934.
113
has to be done. The City of Boston is no different
from any private enterprise that has to find ways
and means of financing its particular business.
What do we find outside? That employees have
been discharged by the thousand in every private
enterprise in the City of Boston, the State, and
throughout the United States. We had hoped
to be able to possibly escape any such disaster
in Boston, and I am still in hopes that we may
be able to avert any further firing of city help.
But I say, if some help has to be fired, if 700 or
800 have to go, why should such ones be the only
ones to suffer? Why cannot we find some ways
and means of dividing among all the city em-
ployees some of the payless pay days? I hope
the day will never come when Boston will see a
payless pay day. I, for one, am against the dis-
missal of any employee if we can avoid it. I am
with the Mayor, and I am sure that his heart
aches when he has to discharge anybody, because
I believe he is just as humane as any man in this
body. I am not rising to his defence, but I believe
any man who is trying to give the taxpayers of
Boston a fair break should have our sympathy
and support in all proper efforts to that end. It
would indeed be an unhappy day if the tax bills
of this city should go out at a figure of $42 a
thousand, and in that case there would be only
one responsible individual, of course, and that
would be the Mayor of Boston. We have to
cooperate with him. We all wish to keep in the
city's employ every man, with the exception of
those who do not do a full day's work. But there
is, of course, this talk of padded pay rolls for years.
I certainly do not wish to see, and I don't think
any of us desire to see, widows and those in des-
titute circumstances losing their homes because
of high taxes; and, of course, we cannot favor
keeping on the pay rolls of Boston men who never
did an honest day's work. I don't believe any-
body in Boston sympathizes with that kind of
man. But we do sympathize with the man who
gives us eight hours' work for eight hours' wages,
and we want to see such men saved. I am sure
that every man in Boston is in accord with that.
Let us not, however, be too hasty in judging
whether or not the Mayor is carrying out his oath
of office, that he is a cold-blooded, stony-hearted
man, who is out to do malicious and unjust things.
I don't believe any man here feels that the man
in that office would ruthlessly and cold-bloodedly
cut off the heads of honest employees. I have
sat here and listened to what has been said. I
am in sympathy with many of the statements
that have been made. But let us not forget the
worries in the hearts of the people of Boston gen-
erally at this time. Let us forget politics a little
while, and try to do the honest thing by the honest
people of Boston.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I agree
with many of the things that have been said by
the two preceding speakers. The gentleman from
Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald) said, "Why pass all
these resolutions without consideration?" The
gentleman who has just spoken said, "Let us
have a little cooperation." I believe these resolu-
tions are flying about pretty thick and fast, most
of them being acted upon under suspension of the
rule, without debate, and apparently unanimously.
This is a difficult question. The Mayor of Boston
is in a tough spot. We cannot properly do our
full duty if we act merely as knockers, as critics.
We should be constructive as well. Here is a
situation where we have to balance revenue
against expense, and we have to have an equi-
librium. There must be cooperation, if we are
not to go the way of Fall River, Chicago and
many other localities that did not stop to listen
until they were over the precipice. Therefore,
I believe we should study these things carefully,
study them in committee, and that we should
have cooperation here. We should be construc-
tive in considering these things, and not simply
knock, knock, knock.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, speaking very
briefly, perhaps setting a late example, I believe
there is a good deal in what the councilor from
Hyde Park (Coun. Norton) advocates in this
present emergency. I am, however, strongly
impressed with the close connection existing
. between public welfare expenditures of $14,000,000
a year and this enforced reduction of salaries and
discharge or suspension of employees. I don't
think we need to have many investigations to
clearly see that relationship. I don't think the
Mayor and the department heads need to spend
a lot of time on the question of whether employees
in the departments need to be fired, if that par-
ticular leak is stopped. I was impressed with the
figures that you quoted, Mr. Chairman (Coun.
McGrath), and that the Mayor quoted before the
legislative committee, setting forth a possible
saving in the Welfare Department of at least
$600,000 or $700,000 a year. Boiled down— I am
not so good on statistics myself — that would
mean the employment of a good many clerks and
other employees of this city; and when you add
to that the savings that can be made by pension-
ing certain employees and in other ways, it would
result in quite a saving in the entire tax rate.
But I am not going to quibble over this question,
and I am not going to talk at this time on two
minor orders that I am going to introduce later.
I merely wish to say now that I agree with the
suggestion that we should not tamper too much
with these things without such investigation as
one of our committees might make. It is all
right to talk economy, but I still contend that
before discharging men who are perhaps getting
$2,000 a year or less from the city, we should
look into the possibility of saving this $600,000
or $700,000 in the Welfare Department, money
which is apparently now going out the window;
and also that we Bhould consider very carefully
before crippling our Fire or Police Department,
before taking action that may result in destruc-
tion of property or in increased highway robbery,
before reducing valuable hospital and nursing
activities. If we do not act intelligently on these
matters, it might be like trying to get a cinder
out of a man's eye while he is bleeding to death.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 4 p. m., on motion of
Coun. SELVITELLA, to take a recess subject to
the call of the Chair.
The members reassembled in the Council
Chamber and were called to order by President
DOWD at 5.15 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on order (referred March 26) that
in addition to positions now set forth in ordinance
concerning Clerk of Committees Department
there be provided the further position of stenog-
rapher and clerk at $1,800 per annum, less 15
per cent, in accordance with chapter 121 of the
Acts of 1933 — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
Report of Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Coun. ROBERTS, for the Special Committee
on Jitney Licenses, submitted the following:
1. Report on petition (referred February 5)
of Boston Elevated Railway Company for license
to operate motor vehicles between junction of
Massachusetts avenue and Boylston street and
Dudley street terminal— recommending that
license be granted.
Report accepted; license granted on usual
conditions.
2. Report on petition (referred February 12)
of Eastern Massachusetts Street Railway Com-
pany for license to operate motor vehicles from
Haymarket square to Revere line — recommending
that license be granted.
Report accepted; license granted on usual
conditions.
PREFERENCE FOR EMPLOYEES WHO
ARE RESIDENTS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, requested to instruct all depart-
ment heads with reference to any further dis-
charges or enforced vacations, that resident
employees in any department are to be given
preference over nonresidents.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
114
CITY COUNCIL.
INFORMATION IN RE STATISTICS
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered Uie following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, respectfully requested to advise the
Council forthwith concerning the recent discharge
of Mr. Balfe of the Statistics Department and
especially with reference to what precautions, if
any, have been taken to prevent the removal or
alteration of available detailed information in the
Statistics Department" relating to Public Welfare
cases now being investigated by a committee of
the City Council, or any tampering with said
records.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INSTALLATION OF CATCH-BASIN.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Department of Public Works
arrange for the installation of a catch-basin on
the lower end of the alley way, which is a con-
tinuation of Ray street, connecting through to
Circuit street, in order to prevent water from
flowing into and flooding private property border-
ing the said alley way.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BELDEN STREET, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to make
Belden street, Ward 7, a one-way thoroughfare
from Dudley street to Holden street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz.:
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor March 26, 1934, of Harold E. Pope and
John R. McSorley, to be Weighers of Coal and
Weighers of Goods.
The question came on confirmation.
Committee, Coun. Agnew and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots 20, yeas 20, and the appoint-
ments were confirmed.
APPROPRIATION FOR NORTHERN
AVENUE BRIDGE.
On motion of Coun. GALLAGHER, the Council
voted to take from the table No. 3 on the calendar,
viz.:
3. Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, the sum
of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to
be expended under the direction of the Commis-
sioner of Public Works, for Northern Avenue
Bridge, and that to meet said appropriation the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time
to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or cer-
tificates of indebtedness of the city to said amount.
On February 12, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
President DOWD — The question now comes on
the second and final passage of the order, and the
clerk will call the roll.
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, this order asks
the sum of $1,000,000 be appropriated for con-
struction of the Northern Avenue Bridge under
the direction of the Commissioner of Public Works.
I hope the order will not be adopted. The present
structure was built some twenty-five years ago
under the direction of Fay, Spofford & Thorndike.
Mr. Fay, at that time associated with the City of
Boston in the Engineering Department, and his
partner, Mr. Spofford, who appeared before our
committee today, are familiar with the old struc-
ture. According to their estimates, repairs of the
present structure would cost in the vicinity of
$100,000. The bridge, repaired at that figure,
would then last for approximately twenty years.
We will then have, with this expenditure, practi-
cally the same bridge that we have had for the
past twenty-five years. During this time the
bridge has served its purpose and with proper
reconstruction, rebuilding, will probably carry on
the same work for the next twenty years. It
seems hard at this time, when we are talking
economy, that the city must even reduce the
wages and the number of its employees, to impose
upon the city an expenditure of $900,000 for the
building of a new structure; especially so, Mr.
President, when we cannot trust the estimates of
the engineers who have submitted this $1,000,000
figure for the consideration of the body. We
cannot trust this figure, Mr. President, because,
taking the history of the order in the Council this
year, the first estimate for the repair of the structure
was an innocent amount. The estimate of the
.1. R. Worcester Company for repair of this bridge
was $325,000, the same company that gave us the
figure of $1,000,000 for the new bridge. The
estimate of our own bridge and ferry head was
that the structure could be repaired and recon-
structed in a proper manner at a figure of approxi-
mately $200,000. In this $1,000,000 figure, Mr.
President, the engineers themselves say that
875,000 will be used for ornamentation of the
bridge— $75,000 for ornament on a bridge used
principally not for pleasure, but for heavy traffic,
heavy trucks and railroad cars. We certainly
need not spend out of this million dollars $75,000
for ornaments, Mr. President; neither need we
appropriate $1,000,000 for the building of a new
structure when the present structure can be
repaired in a suitable manner by the proper
authorities for the amount stated. It seems to
me that the City Council should not at this time
pass a $1,000,000 appropriation, even taking into
consideration the fact that one-third of the cost
will be borne under the C. W. A. plan by the
Federal Government. We would still have over
$600,000 to bear, probably $400,000 more than
the cost of repairs; we would still have the carrying
charges and interest rate on the $600,000 borrowed.
It certainly seems that sound reason and judgment
demand that this order should not be adopted.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, this order
provides for the borrowing of $1,000,000, of which
the United States Government would furnish
about $300,000 and the City of Boston would
furnish $700,000, for a new bridge. We have been
told by both engineering concerns that have
studied this question — Fay, Spofford & Thorndike
and the J. R. Worcester Company — that this
bridge could be repaired for $100,000 or $110,000,
or that it could be reconstructed so that we would
have a bridge similar to that built in 1918, and
which has lasted during the twenty-six years
since then, for $375,000. Furthermore, if we
built the new bridge for $1,000,000, it appears
that $75,000 of that million is to be for ornament,
wholly unnecessary in that particular location.
If there is a question, sir, of whether we can meet
our pay roll, if there is a question whether we can
meet the interest and installments on our debt,
those are the first charges to be considered. I
would not spend one cent for ornament; I would
not spend one cent unnecessarily for a new struc-
ture, so long as there is any doubt about our pay
rolls or about the payment of interest on our public
debt. Let us spend every cent that is necessary
for interest and pay rolls, not one cent for ornament,
not one cent that is unnecessary. I am opposed
to the order for that reason. I believe it can be
resubmitted by his Honor the Mayor in an amount
not exceeding $375,000, that the government
would probably be willing to help out to the
extent of 30 per cent on that amount, and that
in the end we will get our reconstructed bridge
for $262,500, as against the proposed $700,000.
Therefore, sir, I shall vote against this order.
The order failed of final passage, yeas 7, nays 13:
Yeas — Coun. Donovan, Dowd, Finley, Fitz-
gerald, Gleason, Goldman, Kerrigan — 7.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Englert, Fish, Gallagher, McGrath, Norton,
Roberts, Selvitella, Shattuck, Tobin, Wilson — 13,
On motion of Coun. DONOVAN the rejection
of the order was reconsidered.
Coun. KERRIGAN— Mr. President, I now
move that we lay the matter on the table.
President DOWD — The Chair would remind
the Council that this order, if laid on the table, .
will go into effect before the next meeting. The
question is on Councilor Kerrigan's motion to lay
on the table.
Coun. Kerrigan's motion to lay the order on the
table was declared lost. Coun. DONOVAN
doubted the vote and asked for the yeas and nays.
APRIL 2, 1934.
115
The motion to lay on the table was lost, yeas 7,
nays 13:
Yeas — Coun. Donovan, Dowd, Finley, Fitz-
gerald, Gleason, Goldman, Kerrigan — 7.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Braekman, Doherty,
Englert, Fish, Gallagher, McGrath, Norton,
Roberts, Selvitella, Shattuok, Tobin, Wilson— 13.
President DOWD — The question again comes on
the passage of the order.
The order failed of passage, yeas 7, nays 13:
Yeas — Coun. Donovan, Dowd, Finley, Fitz-
gerald, Gleason, -Goldman, Kerrigan — 7.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Braekman, Doherty,
Englert, Fish. Gallagher, McGrath, Norton,
Roberts, Selvitella, Shattuck, Tobin, Wilson —13.
PAYMENT FOR SNOW REMOVAL BY
TRUCKS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to issue orders that no truck be paid for
recent snow removal by the City of Boston unless
the owner can show that the Excise Tax has been
paid to the City of Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. NORTON, at
5.35 p. m., to meet on Monday, April 9, 1934, at
2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
116
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, April 9, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p.m., President DOWD
in the chair. Absent, Coun. Gleason, Green and
Shattuck.
APPOINTMENT OF COAL WEIGHERS,
ETC.
A communication was received from the Mayor
submitting the appointments of Minor Officers
Paid by Fees for the term of one year beginning
May 1, 1934, as contained in City Document
No. 47.
Laid over for one week under the law.
DISAPPROVAL OF PAYMENT TO
JOHN DUCEY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith with my
disapproval the resolve adopted on March 19,
1934, wherein your honorable body approved the
enactment of legislation to authorize the city to
pay a sum of money for the benefit of John Ducey
who lost an eye on account of an accident at the
Franklin Park Golf Links. I am advised by the
Corporation Counsel that there is absolutely no
liability on the part of the city and that the
records of the case disclose no negligence on the
part of any city employee. Under these circum-
stances I must decline to approve of the resolve.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
DECENTRALIZATION OF WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of January 29, 1934, concerning the
advisability of decentralizing the activities of the
Welfare Department into the various sections of
Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
April 6, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following report is respectfully
submitted in response to order of the City Council
which reads as follows
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to instruct the Overseers of Public Welfare
to decentralize said department.
Kindly be advised that plans are being made
to establish more adequate district offices in several
parts of the city. Certain unused municipal
buildings have been examined and others are to
be examined in an attempt to establish district
quarters suitable to handle the necessary func-
tions in connection with relief disbursements, etc.,
in various districts.
Respectfully yours.
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
FREE RIDES ON EAST BOSTON FERRIES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of January 22, 1934, concerning the
number of free passes issued, and the total number
of free rides given on the East Boston Ferries
during the past fiscal year.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
April 3, 1934.
To the Honorable Frederick W. Mansfield.
I am in receipt of an order from the City Council
dated January 22, reading as follows:
"That the Commissioner of Public Works,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
advise the Council regarding the number of free
passes issued, and the total number of free rides
given on the East Boston Ferries during the past
fiscal year."
and beg leave to submit the following information
relative to free passes:
Number
of Trips.
Ambulances 5,251
Fire Department 5,814
Police Department 3,554
Funerals 861
Public Works Department 117
Paymaster 32
Health Department 210
United States Mail 5
J. B. Shurtliffe Family 661
Sisters of the Poor 724
National Guard 4
Post Santa . . . . i 11
Total trips 17,244
One pass was issued for the year to a C. W. A.
truck employed in carrying materials from Boston
merchants to the C. W. A. projects at the North
and South Ferry. This vehicle made eighteen
trips during the year.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
CHECK-UP ON APRIL FIRST RESIDENTS.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Acting Police Commissioner, relative to your
order of March 26, 1934, concerning a careful
check-up on April 1 of all residents in the city.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
■ Police Department, March 31, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of your communica-
tion of March 29 inclosing order of City Council,
dated March 26, requesting that an extremely
careful check be made of residents as of April 1, as
the list is to be used as a basis for welfare payments.
I am inclosing herewith three copies of super-
intendent's order, dated March 29, 1934, directed
to the members of the department for the purpose
of impressing upon them the importance of per-
forming the work in a thorough manner.
Very truly yours,
E. C. Htjltman,
Police Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Police Department, March 29, 1934.
Divisions 1 to 19.
Captain, — I am directed by the Acting Police
Commissioner to call the attention of division
commanders to the subject of Police Listing which
begins on Monday, April 2, 1934.
117
OITY (JOUNOIL.
It, iH important that officers doing tho listing
shall make every reasonable elTort to procure the
names of all persons twenty years of age and over,
who are entitled to be listed, as by so doing the
work of investigating sii|)|ilementary a ppl ii-.-i I ions
of persons who were not police listed during the
listing period will be reduced to a minimum; and
thus avoid the necessity of performing work
which could have been accomplished to a large
extent during the listing period.
This, of course, calls for the exercise of sound
judgment to insure that no person is listed who
should not be listed as a resident as of April 1, 1934.
Division commanders will instruct officers as to
their duty in this matter. If an officer should
come to a building while listing, for which no
master card (green card) has been written, he
should make a green card and list the building.
James McDevitt,
Acting Superintendent of Police.
Placed on file.
RESCISSION OF .$1,000,000 NORTHERN
AVENUE ORDER.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under date of February 12, 1934,
your honorable body passed an order authorizing
the city, in accordance with the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, to engage in the
following public works project:
Reconstruction and replacement of Northern
Avenue Bridge at an estimated cost of $1,000,000.
I am submitting herewith an order rescinding
said authorization and authorizing the city to
engage in the following public works project:
Reconstruction and repair of Northern Avenue
Bridge at an estimated cost of $375,000.
I recommend adoption of the accompanying
order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That so much of the order passed
February 12, 1934, and approved by the Mayor
February 16, 1934, "that in accordance with the
provisions of section 2, Part 1, of chapter 366 of the
Acts of 1933, the City of Boston shall engage in the
following public works projects:
(a) Reconstruction and replacement
of Northern Avenue Bridge at an
estimated cost of $1 ,000,000
(b) Establishment of a modern and
efficient police communication
system at an estimated cost of ... . $350,000"
relating to the reconstruction and replacement of
Northern Avenue Bridge at an estimated cost of
$1,000,000 be, and the same hereby is, rescinded;
and
Ordered, That in accordance with the provisions
of section 2, Part 1, of chapter 366 of the Acts of
1933, and acts in amendment thereof or in addition
thereto, the City of Boston shall engage in the
following public works project:
Reconstruction and repair of Northern
Avenue Bridge at an estimated
cost of $375,000
Referred to Committee on Finance.
LOAN ORDER OF $375,000 FOR NORTHERN
AVENUE BRIDGE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith a loan order
providing for an appropriation of $375,000 to
cover the estimated cost of reconstruction and
repair of the present Northern Avenue Bridge.
This important artery of traffic has been closed
for several weeks pending a decision as to the
nature and extent of the work which will be neces-
sary in order to reopen the bridge.
In view of the action taken by your honorable
body at its last session it appears that the members
of the Council are opposed to the construction of a
new bridge. This being so I am submitting an
order which provides for the only other desirable
alternative, namely, the reconstruction and repair
of the existing structure. The amount provided
in the accompanying order is that estimated by
engineers and experts who have investigated the
present condition of the bridge. I therefore
recommend adoption of the accompanying order
by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Fkedeiuck W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the sum of $375,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be expended
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public
Works for Reconstruction and Repair of Northern
Avenue Bridge, and that to meet said appro-
priation the City Treasurer be authorized to issue,
from time to time, upon request of the Mayor,
bonds or certificates of indebtedness of the city
to said amount.
Referred to Committee on Finance.
PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 9, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — On February 28, 1934, your
honorable body passed orders, approved by me
on the same date, authorizing me to execute and
deliver to the United States of America for and
in behalf of the City of Boston three counter-
parts of five loan and grant agreements between
the City of Boston and the United States of
America relating to the following five public
works projects:
1. Reconstruction of ten major streets, P.
W. A. Docket No. 4205.
2. Nine-story fireproof surgical building at
City Hospital, P. W. A. Docket No. 4207.
3. Replacing Brookline avenue water main by
new 48-inch water main, P. W. A. Docket No.
4214.
4. Two fireproof school buildings, P. W. A.
Docket No. 4217.
5. Construction and reconstruction of sewers,
P. W. A. Docket No. 4193.
Inasmuch as said loan and grant agreements
provided for the payment by the City of Boston
of interest on said loans at the rate of 4 per cent
per annum, and inasmuch as the City Treasurer
has advised me that borrowing by the City of
Boston from private sources can now be effected
at lower rates of interest and more advantageously
to the city, I have asked the Federal Emergency
Administrator of Public Works if he would con-
sent to the rescission of said loan and grant agree-
ments and the substitution therefor of grant
agreements relating to these projects in order that
the city may secure Federal grants and at the same
time receive the advantages of borrowing from
private sources.
I have received from the Federal Emergency-
Administrator of Public Works with letter, of
transmittal dated April 5, 1934, forms of grant
agreements relating to four of the above named
projects, to wit:
1. Reconstruction of ten major streets, P. W.
A. Docket No. 4205.
2. Nine-story fireproof surgical building at
City Hospital, P. W. A. Docket No. 4207.
3. Replacing Brookline avenue water main by
new 48-inch water main, P. W. A. Docket No.
4214.
4. Two fireproof school buildings, P. W. A.
Docket No. 4217, one copy of each of which I
submit herewith; and I have been advised by
him that the form of grant agreement relating to
the project of construction and reconstruction of
sewers, P. W. A. Docket No. 4193 will be forwarded
to the city this week.
I am submitting herewith four orders authoriz-
ing consent to the rescission of the loan and grant
agreements relating to the four projects with
reference to which the city has received forms of
grant agreements, and approving and authorizing
the execution and delivery to the United States of
America of said four grant agreements, in accord-
ance with the instructions of the administrator.
I recommend prompt consideration and passage
by your honorable body of these four orders, be-
cause of the limited time available for the execution
APRIL 9, 1934.
118
and delivery of these agreements and because of the
desirability of commencing work on these projects
without delay.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to consent for and in behalf of the City
of Boston to the rescission of the loan and grant
agreement between the City of Boston and the
United States of America, approved by the City
Council on February 28, 1934, relating to the
project of reconstruction of ten major streets,
P. W. A. Docket No. 4205; and further
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to execute and deliver to the United
States of America for and in behalf of the City
of Boston, three counterparts of the grant agree-
ment between the City of Boston and the United
States of America relating to said project and
providing for the grant to the City of Boston by
the United States of America of certain funds
upon the terms and conditions in said grant agree-
ment set forth, one copy of which grant agreement
has been submitted to this meeting and is made a
part of the minutes hereof, and that said grant
agreement be, and the same hereby is, approved.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to consent for and in behalf of the
City of Boston to the rescission of the loan and
grant agreement between the City of Boston and
the United States of America, approved by the
City Council on February 28, 1934, relating to
the project of nine-story fireproof surgical build-
ing at City Hospital, P. W. A. Docket No. 4207;
and further
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to execute and deliver to the United
States of America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston, three counter-parts of the grant agree-
ment between the City of Boston and the United
States of America relating to said project and
providing for the grant to the City of Boston by
the United States of America of certain funds
upon the terms and conditions in said grant
agreement set forth, one copy of which grant
agreement has been submitted to this meeting and
is made a part of the minutes hereof, and that said
grant agreement be and the same hereby is approved
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to consent for and in behalf of the City
of Boston to the rescission of the loan and grant
agreement between the City of Boston and the
United States of America, approved by the City
Council on February 28, 1934, relating to the
project of replacing Brookline avenue water main
by new 48-inch water main, P. W. A. Docket
No. 4214; and further
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to execute and deliver to the United
States of America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston, three counter-parts of the grant agree-
ment between the City of Boston and the United
States of America relating to said project and
providing for the grant to the City of Boston by
the United States of America of certain funds
upon the terms and conditions in said grant agree-
ment set forth, one copy of which grant agreement
has been submitted to this meeting and is made a
part of the minutes hereof, and that said grant
agreement be and the same hereby is approved.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby
is, authorized to consent for and in behalf of the
City of Boston to the rescission of the loan and
grant agreement between the City of Boston and
the United States of America, approved by the
City Council on February 28, 1934, relating to the
project of two fireproof school buildings, P. W. A.
Docket No. 4217; and further
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to execute and deliver to the United
States of America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston, three counter-parts of the grant agreement
between the City of Boston and the United States
of America relating to said project and providing
for the grant to the City of Boston by the United
States of America of certain funds upon the terms
and conditions in said grant agreement set forth,
one copy of which grant agreement has been
submitted to this meeting and is made a part of
the minutes hereof, and that said grant agreement
be and the same hereby is approved.
(Accompanying the orders were the grant agree-
ments referred to.)
Referred to the Executive Committee.
DISAPPROVAL OF PAYMENT TO LOUIS
KATZ.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith with my
disapproval a resolve adopted by your honorable
body approving the enactment of legislation
authorizing the City of Boston to pay a sum of
money to one Louis Katz.
I am advised by the Corporation Counsel that
there is absolutely no liability on the part of the
city and that the records of the case disclose no
negligence on the part of any city employee.
Under these circumstances I must decline to
approve of the resolve.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
PUBLIC WELFARE EXPENDITURES, 1928-
1933.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of Public Welfare, relative to your
order of March 26, 1934, concerning expenditures,
personnel and case totals in that department for
the years 1928-33, inclusive.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
April 6, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following report is respectfully
submitted in response to an order of the City
Council which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Public Welfare Department,
through his Honor the Mayor, be, and said depart-
ment hereby is, requested promptly to advise the
City Council, giving the requested information
separately for each calendar year from 1928 to
1933, inclusive, —
(a) The total amount of payments by the Public
Welfare Department to recipients for the
year.
(b) The total expense of operating the Public
Welfare Department, other than money
paid to recipients for the year.
(c) The total expenses of the Public Welfare
Department for the year, (a) plus (b).
(d) The number of persons employed in the work
of the Public Welfare Department for the
year, not including visitors.
(e) The number of visitors employed during the
year by the department.
(f) The total number of employees in the Public
Welfare Department for the year, (d) plus
(e).
(g) The total number of active cases receiving aid
according to the records of the Public
Welfare Department as of December 31,
each year,
(h) The total amount of payments by the Public
Welfare Department each of said years out
of trust funds.
(a)
1928 Cash on hand January 1. . . $2,398 96
Drafts on City Treasurer.. . 2,212,224 40
Total :-.•••• $2,214,623 36
Expenditures to recipients
for year 2,199,822 33
Cash on hand Decem-
ber 31 $14,801 03
1929 Cash on hand January 1 . . . $14,801 03
Drafts on City Treasurer.. . 2,479,504 07
Total $2,494,305 10
Expenditures to recipients
for year 2,485,713 42
Cash on hand Decem-
ber 31 $8,589 68
119
CITY COUNCIL.
1930 CaBh on hand January 1 .. . {8,589 68
Drafts on City TrciiBurcr. . . 3,681 ,.{77 67
Total :•;•■• $3,689,067 25
Expenditures to recipients
for year 3,671,602 13
Cash on hand Decem-
ber 31 $18,275 12
1031 Cash on hand January 1. . . $18,275 12
Drafts on City Treasurer.. . *f 7,147,054 48
Total $7,165,329 60
Expenditures to recipients
for year 7,103,752 58
Cash on hand Decem-
ber 31 $61,577 02
1032 Cash on hand January 1 . . . $61,577 02
Drafts on City Treasurer. . J 11,995,401 35
Total $12,056,978 37
Expenditures to recipients
for year 11,988,229 94
Cash on hand December
31 $68,748 43
1933 Cash on hand January 1 . . . $68,748 43
Drafts on City Treasurer . . 13,618,223 54
Total $13,686,971 97
Expenditures to recipients
for year 13,610,377 42
Cash on hand December
31 $76,594 55
(b)
1928 $142,701 26
1929 149,611 92
1930 163,241 88
1931 225,966 95
1932 351,830 46
1933 510,057 77
(c)
1928 .$2,342,523 59
1920 2,635,327 34
1930 3,834,934 01
1931. 7,329,719 53
1932 12,340,060 40
1933 14,120,435 19
(d)
1928 49
1929 49
1930 60
1931 115
1932 183
1933 250
(e)
1928 19
1929 20
1930 24
1931 48
1932 102
1033 213
(f)
1928 . 68
1929 69
1930 84
1931 163
1932 285
1933 463
(g)
1928 4,223
1929 4,908
1930 9,087
1931 15,380
1932 28,168
1933 29,935
* An additional $10,000 was drawn and ex-
pended under the item Special Fund.
t $255,000 was transferred from accumulated
Trust Funds Income.
t An additional $29,000 was drawn and spent
under the item Special Fund.
(h)
1928 $37,315 32
1929 36,106 H7
1030 38,158 70
1931 *t 95,172 02
1932 t J22,o:,:, 63
1933 32,000 96
* In addition $255,000 of accumulated income
was transferred to Dependent Aid.
t $10,000 of this amount was drawn on the
City Treasurer.
X $20,000 of thiB amount was drawn on the City
Treasurer.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
40-HOUR WEEK, FERRY SERVICE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 9, 1934.
To the City Council,
Gentlemen, — I acknowledge receipt of the order
adopted April 2 requesting the Public Works Com-
missioner to consider the restoration of a forty-
hour week, without reduction of pay, for all
employees in the Ferry Service. I have forwarded
this order to the Public Works Commissioner for a
report.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
PAYMENT FOR SNOW REMOVAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I acknowledge receipt of the order
passed April 2 requesting the Mayor to issue orders
that no bills for trucks be paid for snow removal
unless the owner can show that the excise tax has
been paid to the city. I have transmitted this
order to the City Treasurer and have also asked
him to collect other taxes that may be due from
persons about to receive large checks for snow
removal.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
RECORDS OF STATISTICS DEPART-
MENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen,— I am in receipt of the order adopted
April 2 wherein the Mayor is requested to advise
the Council forthwith concerning the recent dis-
charge of Mr. Balfe of the Statistics Department
and especially with reference to what precautions,
if any, have been taken to prevent the removal or
alteration of available detailed information in the
Statistics Department relating to public welfare
cases now being investigated by a committee of
the City Council, or any tampering of said records.
I beg to inform you that the department has
been placed in charge of Charles J. Fox, Esquire,
Budget Commissioner, as acting head of the de-
partment and that all necessary precautions for
preservation of the records referred to have been
taken by him.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
AVAILABILITY OF PUBLIC WELFARE
RECORDS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I acknowledge the receipt of the
order adopted April 2 requesting the Mayor to
instruct the Overseers of the Public Welfare and
APRIL 9, 1934.
120
other subordinates in that department to produce
certain documents, cards and statistics before the
special committee of the City Council investigating
the Public Welfare Department. I have trans-
mitted this request to the Overseers of the Public
Welfare Department and have requested them to
place every document, paper and record in their
possession at the disposal of the committee.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
BLOSSOM STREET BUILDING.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Superintendent of Public Buildings relative to
your order of February 12, 1934, concerning the
completion of an additional story on the Blossom
Street Wardroom and Municipal Building, Ward 3.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Buildings Department, April 3, 1934.
John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary to the Mayor.
Dear Sir, — Referring to the attached memoran-
dum regarding an additional story on the old
wardroom on Blossom street, I am inclosing here-
with three copies of a report of Building Com-
missioner Roemer which explains the situation in
detail.
I would add that this information has already
been given to Councilor Fitzgerald directly, hence
my reason for not returning the memorandum to
you.
Very truly yours,
Roswell G. Hall,
Superintendent of Public Buildings.
City of Boston,
Building Department, March 1, 1934.
Mr. Roswell G. Hall,
Superintendent of Public Buildings.
Dear Sir, — Tn re Blossom Street Wardroom and
Municipal Building, Blossom street, Ward 3.
On examination of the records and the original
plans of the above described building, I cannot
agree with the proposer of the order in the City
Council that the original plans for this building
included another story.
The original plans contain no provision for this
additional story, and an examination of the design
discloses the fact that the walls are not of sufficient
thickness to sustain an additional story.
In order to build an additional story to this
present structure it would be necessary:
First. — To investigate the soil under the founda-
tions to determine their carrying capacity.
Second. — To reinforce the present walls.
Third. — To raise the entire roof as a unit to the
desired elevation.
Fourth. — To determine the purpose for which
the altered building will be used.
I want to call your attention to section 105,
chapter 550, Acts of 1907, as amended, which
states that a building containing a hall or assembly
room with a capacity of more than eight hundred
persons shall be of first-class construction. The
present hall has a capacity of 467 persons, and it
is fair to assume that if another hall is to be erected
on the additional third story the aggregate capacity
of both halls would be over eight hundred, and
according to the provisions of the same section
the aggregate capacity shall be considered as
determining whether or not the building shall be of
fireproof constructon, unless the several halls are
inclosed by or separated from each other by fire-
proof walls, or floors, with fireproof doors in the
same, in which case the building may be of second-
class construction,
I would be pleased to go over the plans and
computations made by the engineers in this de-
partment relative to this building at your con-
venience.
Very truly yours,
Edward W. Roemer,
Building Commissioner.
Placed on file.
HUMPHREYS PLACE, WARD 7.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of March 26, 1934, concerning the
acceptance and laying out of Humphreys place,
Ward 7.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
April 4, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
My dear Mr. Secretary, — In regard to the
acceptance and laying out of Humphreys place,
Ward 7, as requested by an order of the City
Council under date of March 26, 1934, I wish to
state that the plan for this street has been started
but nothing further has been done.
This matter must take its place along with
many other similar requests and petitions awaiting
a decision on just how much new street construc-
tion may be undertaken during 1934. When
that question is settled the acceptance and laying
out of Humphreys place will receive consideration.
Very truly yours,
Owen A. Gallagher,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
TRANSFER OF OFFICERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 6, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Police Commissioner, relative to your order of
February 19, 1934, concerning the transferring of
officers now on duty in the Municipal and District
Courts, especially assigned to present and proBe-
cute criminal cases, to more active duty.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Police Department, April 4, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary to the Mayor.
Dear Sir, — Replying to your communication of
April 2, 1934, referring to an order of the City
Council dated February 19, 1934, that the Police
Commissioner be requested to transfer to more
active duty the police officers now on duty in the
Municipal and District Courts to present and
prosecute criminal cases, I wish to advise you that
in accordance with Rule 40 of the Rules and
Regulations of the Police Department, it has
always been the practice to detail an officer of
rank from a police division to attend the sessions
of the Municipal and Superior Criminal Courts,
from time to time, for general observation of the
conduct of police officers and their presentation of
cases.
The office of Supervisor of Cases was created
in this department for the purpose of assisting
the courts in providing greater efficiency and
uniformity in the presentation of criminal cases,
and this system, since it has been established,
has received the wholehearted support and ap-
proval of the various justices sitting in the criminal
courts.
For your further information I would say that
many police departments outside of Boston assign
a police official to present and prosecute criminal
cases in their various jurisdictions.
Very truly yours,
E. C. Hultman,
Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
DISCREPANCY IN PUBLIC WELFARE
MONTHLY REPORTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
121
CITY COUNCIL..
your order of March 10 1934, concerning a differ-
ence in the total expenditures for Dependent Aid,
Mothers' Aid and Old Age Assistance, for the
month of January, 1934, as reported to the City
Council on February 10 and as shown in the
auditor's monthly exhibit.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
April 0, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following report is respectfully
submitted in response to an order of the City
Council which reads as follows:
Discrepancy between accounts of expenditures
of the Welfare Department and Auditing Depart-
ment, January, 1934.
The Public Welfare Department's statement of
expenditures in any given month is a report of
aid disbursements, including cash payments,
grocery orders, orders for medicine, and other
sundry items during said month. The bills cover-
ing many of these items are not actually paid,
however, until the following month. The City
Auditor's report for any given month is a report
of actual cash expenditures by the City Treasurer
for said month. The accounts of the Auditor's
Department and the Public Welfare Department
will necessarily differ in any particular month but
the two statements become reconciled when the
outstanding bills are presented and paid and there
is in fact no so-called discrepancy.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Ralph Acone, for compensation for damage to
car caused by an alleged defect in Saratoga street,
East Boston.
Ruth Alpert, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Fay street.
Matthew F. Braxton, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Belvidere
street.
Caroline Casey, for compensation for damage
to property at 22 Florida street, caused by backing
up of sewage.
Grace Foster, for compensation for damage to
car caused by an alleged defect in Atlantic avenue.
William L. Galvin, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city truck.
Edward F. Gardner, for refund on liquor license.
James Warren Rose, for compensation for
glasses broken while working on Washington
street, Dorchester.
Ellen M. Sheridan, for compensation for hand
poisoned while working at City Hospital.
Samuel Stone, for compensation for damage to
car by city car.
David Weiner, for refund on hackney license.
Elizabeth F. Welch, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Agassiz road.
John Capobianco, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 28 Hanover street.
Harry S. and Sarah Liner, for refund on tavern
license.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
Sarah Horlich, Repertory Theatre, June 6.
Rose E. Sidman, Repertory Theatre, May 29.
Marie Ryan, Recital Hall, May 21.
Miriam Winslow, Repertory Theatre, April 2S.
Mildred C. Sacco, East Boston High School,
April 13.
RESIGNATION OF LOUIS J. LANATA.
Notice was received from the Board of Street
Commissioners of acceptance of resignation of
Louis J. Lanata, constable in Street Laying-Out
Department, to be effective April 6, 1934.
Placed on file.
ESTABLISHMENT OF HEALTH UNITS.
The following was received:
' ' i i v of Boston,
( :■' liobi i i \\ hili I' mid.
April 3, 1934.
Mr. Wilfred J. Doyle,
City Clerk.
Dear Mr. Doyle, — At a meeting of the trustees
of the George Robert White Fund, held on the
second instant, it was
Voted, That the communication from the City
Council, dated January 29, 1934, requesting the
establishment of a Health Unit in the vicinity of
Heath square, Ward 10, Boston; the communi-
cation from the City Council, dated February 12,
1934, requesting the establishment of a Health
Unit located centrally in Dorchester, and the
communication from the City Council, dated
February 19, 1934, requesting the establishment
of a Health Unit at Woodrow avenue and Blue
Hill avenue, Ward 14, Boston, be filed and that
the Manager be instructed to notify the Council
that the same will be given the consideration of
the trustees in due course, —
and I hereby advise you of the same.
Yours very truly,
Edward L. Logan,
Manager.
Placed on file.
ORDINANCES IN RE CLERK OF COM-
MITTEES DEPARTMENT.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
An Ordinance Concerning the Clerk of Com-
mittees Department.
Be it ordained by the City Council of Boston, as
follows:
Chapter eleven of the Ordinances of 1929 is
hereby amended in section one by striking out
the words, "the second assistant clerk of com-
mittees" and inserting in place thereof the words
"two stenographer-clerks."
An Ordinance Concerning the Salaries of Officers
Connected With the City Council.
Be it ordained by the City Council of Boston, as
follows:
Section 1. Section five of chapter three of the
Revised Ordinances of 1925, as amended by chap-
ter ten of the Ordinances of 1929 and chapter
two of the Ordinances of 1930, is hereby further
amended in the clause establishing the salaries
of the officers connected with the city council by
striking out the words "the second assistant
clerk of committees, thirty-seven hundred fifty
dollars" and inserting in place thereof the words
"the two stenographer-clerks, eighteen hundred
dollars each."
Sect. 2. The salaries established in the pre-
ceding section shall be subject to any reduction
made under the provisions of chapter 121 of the
Acts of 1933.
Severally referred to the Executive Committee.
REINSTATEMENT OF ROLAND P. GREEN.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approves the enactment of legislation to
authorize the reinstatement of Roland P. Green
in the Police Department of said city, provided
that such legislation includes a referendum to the
Mayor and City Council.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REINSTATEMENT OF JOHN T. FLATLEY.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approves the enactment of legislation to
authorize the reinstatement of John T. Flatley in
the Police Department of said city, provided that
such legislation includes a referendum to the
Mayor and City Council.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APRIL 9, 1934.
1*22
INFORMATION ASKED OF MAYOR.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to furnish the Council with the following
information in regard to statements made by him
in the Boston Herald during October, 1933:
"During the past twelve years only 35 per cent
of every dollar paid by the people of the city for
taxes has been contributed to the support of the
city government. The other 65 per cent has been
stolen by political pirates. When you pay a
dollar in taxes you should get a dollar of value in
return. . . .
"But in the face of this situation, which I con-
tend was due to the riotous waste and extravagance
during the Curley term, they are now spreading
the foolish propaganda that if I am elected I will
cut 6,000 city employees from the pay rolls and
reduce the number of city departments from 37
to 22.
"There is absolutely no truth in these stories
and no faithful employee of the city need have
any fear of his job or his wages when I am mayor."
As the budget of 1933 was $36,750,000 as
against the budget submitted by you for 1934 of
$35,474,050.80, a decrease of slightly over 3 per
cent,
1. Was the charge made by Frederick W.
Mansfield that 65 per cent went to "political
pirates" unwarranted and false?
2. Or is there an amount totaling 62 per cent
of the budget of 1934 that represents waste, graft
and corruption?
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.26 p. m.. on motion of
Coun. BRACKMAN, to take a recess subject to
the call of the Chair. The members reassembled
in the Council Chamber and were called to order
by President DOWD at 3.19 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
Sarah Horlich, Repertory Theatre, June 6.
Rose E. Sidman, Repertory Theatre, May 29.
Marie Ryan, Recital Hall, May 21.
Miriam Winslow, Repertory Theatre, April 28.
Mildred C. Sacco, East Boston High School,
April 13, — recommending that leave be granted,
under usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted under usual
conditions.
2. Report on ordinances (referred today) con-
cerning Clerk of Committees Department and
salaries of officers connected with City Council —
that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said ordinances passed.
3. Report on message of Mayor and orders
(referred April 9) authorizing consent to rescission
of loan and grant agreements relating to four
projects with reference to which city had received
forms of grant agreements, and approving and
authorizing execution and delivery to the United
States of America of said four grant agreements,
in accordance with instructions of the adminis-
trator— recommending that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said orders passed, yeas 18,
nays 0.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldier's Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers
and sailors and their families for the month of
April, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
HARMON STREET, WARD 18.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Street Commissioners, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to accept and
lay out Harmon street, Ward 18.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REDUCTION IN REAL ESTATE
VALUATIONS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to consider the
matter of reducing the present real estate valua-
tion in Boston at least two hundred millions of
dollars.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, the assessors
of the City of Boston are now placing a value upon
the real estate of Boston for the purposes of taxa-
tion in the year 1934. The law states that this
valuation shall be the "fair cash value" of the
property, the "market value." For years Boston's
buildings and homes have been over-assessed.
Hundreds of small home owners have lost their
homes because of these high assessments. I
represent a ward of small home owners. This
year, in my ward, more small homes were sold
for unpaid taxes than any ward of the entire city.
Let us compare these valuations of Boston with
those of other cities. In 1933 the City of Boston
valued the entire real estate of the city for the
purposes of taxation, as being worth $1,651,972,800.
Philadelphia, with almost three times as many
people as Boston, claimed that its total real
estate value, for purposes of taxation, was $3,096-
415,851. St. Louis, with over 30,000 more people
than Boston, valued its total real estate as being
worth $962,551,683 — almost one half that of Bos-
ton. Detroit, with almost double the population
of Boston, valued its real estate, for taxation pur-
poses, as being worth $1,884,016,460. These assess-
ments are all based on 100 per cent values for the
year 1933. Boston's homes and buildings appear
to be paying much more in taxes than the same
home or buildings would in other large American
cities. On account of assessment troubles in the
City of Chicago I am unable to present compara-
tive figures for that city for the year 1933, since
they have not as yet been declared. In the year
1932 Chicago, for purposes of taxation, declared
that its real estate was worth $1,554,413,020. I
must add that Chicago's realty is assessed at
37 per cent of its fair cash market value while
Boston assesses at 100 per cent. Chicago, with
over four times the population of Boston, in 1932
collected realty taxes on a total valuation almost
$200,000,000 under that of Boston. In 1932
Boston, for purposes of taxation, assessed taxes
on a total realty valuation of $1,753,824,300.
High assessments plus the highest adjustable tax
rate of any large American city has helped to
ruin Boston. Business today is highly com-
petitive. How can Boston's business compete
with that of other cities with this situation existing?
"The power to tax is the power to destroy."
Is it any wonder that we are losing our business?
Is it any wonder that we have the lowest percentage
of home owners of any large American city, less
than 26 per cent of the 179,000 odd families in
Boston owning their own home, while other large
cities can claim as high as 50 per cent? One
section of my ward has become a veritable "De-
serted Village" of homes that have been lost
because the owners were unable to pay the highest
adjustable tax rate of any large American city,
plus the highest assessments of any large American
city. I ask the Board of Assessors, through his
Honor the Mayor, to take steps to remedy this
situation at once.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TAXES OWED BY CONTRACTORS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of directing
the City Treasurer to pay no contractor for work
performed for the City of Boston until taxes owed
by that contractor to the City of Boston have
been paid.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I understand
that work has been done by certain contractors
who have not paid all taxes on their property to
the city. I believe the matter should be at least
checked up to see whether or not contractors who
are expecting work from the city have paid their
taxes.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
1'2'S
CITY COUNCIL.
STAGGER SYSTEM.
Conn. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of requesting that
where the so-called "stagger system" is to bo
invoked, that everyone share and share alike, from
department heads down.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I understand
that there is one department where the head of
the department is not to share with his men. 1
believe that from top to bottom everyone should
share and share alike. In the Health Department
the head of the department is sharing, the same as
every other employee.
Coun. WILSON — -Mr. President, since this is
going on the record, I wish to present a few figures
which I think have a bearing on this proposed
stagger or sharing system. I would like to call
attention to the fact that there are 21,562 city
and county employees, all of whom have received
a reduction ranging from 5 to 15 per cent in 1933
under the act of the Legislature, and this reduc-
tion has been continued for 1934; that there are
employed in various departments where the
stagger system cannot be put into effect, either
through independence of the Mayor or for other
obvious reasons, the following number of employ-
ees: County, 1,052, schools, 6,508, Fire Depart-
ment, 1,640, Police Department, 2,424, Hospital
Department, 2,547, Welfare Department, 308,
and Library Department, 841, or a total of 15,320
who cannot be affected by the proposed stagger
system out of the total of 21,562. So that would
leave as the employees to whom this stagger
system would be applied but 6,242, all of whom
have been subject to reductions already, who have
taken cuts, and who would be required to bear the
entire burden of the stagger system. I would
point out the obvious unfairness of requiring
these 6,242 employees out of the total number of
21,562 to accept this system when it is not and
cannot be applied to the entire body of employees,
and also the fact that it would be applied whether
employees have been twenty or thirty years in
the city service or had been in the service but one
or two years; also the obvious unfairness of
expecting men in the city employ who are doing a
certain kind of work to have to be subjected to
this, while others doing the same kind of work
were free from it — for example, elevatormen in
City Hall as compared with those doing the same
kind of work in the courthouse. So I think we
should act slowly in this matter, that we should
give it thorough consideration before going on
record in favor of the stagger system.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, that order
of mine refers only to departments that have been
placed on the stagger system, where the head of
the department is not being subjected to the same
sort of thing that his men are subjected to. And
I might say that I am not here to favor the stagger
system except as an alternative to firing the men.
It seems to me it is certainly preferable that a
man should be paid for a four-day week rather
than have no work at all. I would prefer to see
John F. Sullivan working for four days in the week,
a man who has had a long connection with the city
service, and Mr. Balfe, who has been for thirty
years or over in the city employ, working four
days a week, instead of being thrown out and hav-
ing nothing. I am only arguing for the stagger
system as an alternative to firing men outright.
Before they are absolutely discharged, I think
the stagger system should be tried out. I am
sorry that I cannot agree with the colleague on
this matter. In other cities, instead of firing men
outright, they have resorted to the stagger system.
In Chicago, for example, as set forth in a letter I
have received from the Committee on Finance
of Chicago under date of April 6, employees of
different departments, instead of being fired, are
working part time. The police, for example,
work six days per week, clerks, five days, inspec-
tors, five days, mechanics of one group, five days,
and another only four days, and so forth. All of a
group are treated alike, even though a part of a
group may be off duty on different days of the
week. So I do feel that in Boston, as an alternative
for firing the men, this stagger system or share-the-
work system should be tried. I might add, Mr.
President, that a few weeks ago I called upon
Congressman John McCormack, Congressman
Douglass, ex-Senator Joseph Mulhern and ex-
Mayor John F. Fitzgerald, to request the Mayor of
Boston not to discharge worthy city employees in
the employ of the city for many years,' without first
trying out the stagger or share-the-work system.
I am pleased to report that all these men have gone
the limit in taking the position thai no faithful city
employees should be discharged. I believe that, as
a result of their work up to date, many discharges
have been prevented. If any members of the
Council wish to go into information I have at my
disposal in this matter, I would be very glad to
furnish them with that information.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
APPOINTMENT OF NONRESIDENTS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Resolved, That we, members of the Boston
City Council, are unalterably opposed to the ap-
pointment of any nonresident to any position
wherein the salary of which is taxable to the citizens
of Boston.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, while
the Mayor of Boston has been firing men that had
a long term of service in the city's employ, he has
seen fit during the past three months to go beyond
the limits of the City of Boston and appoint men
who not only do not reside in this city, but who
have given fictitious addresses in Boston. I have
reference, for instance, to the case of one Warren
A. Loomis, purchasing agent, who comes from
Needham, and who has been appointed at a salary
of $7,500 a year. I also have reference to Dr.
Henry Clay, superintendent at Long Island, who
comes from the City of Newton and who receives
from the taxpayers of Boston $4,500 a year, in
addition to board and lodging for himself and
family. I am also informed that he has down
there his brother-in-law and his family, also from
Newton. Going further, we find Thomas A.
Fitzgerald receiving $5,100 a year, and coming
from Newton at the time of his appointment, and
now hailing from Milton. We go further and find
Timothy W. Murphy, a deputy assessor, getting
$5,000 a year as secretary of the Board, and com-
ing from Dedham street in Newton. Here is a
man now asking widows in Boston to pay their
taxes, where Mayor Curley last year remitted at
least half of their taxes, and these widows are now
receiving notices sent out by Timothy W. Murphy
of Newton, as deputy assessor, taking away what
Mayor Curley allowed through his Board of As-
sessors. Then we come to the name of Edward
M. Richardson, property superintendent of the
Public Works Department, who hails from Gar-
rison street, Newton, and who is receiving a salary
of $4,000 a year from the City of Boston. Then
only recently upon examining into the matter last
Saturday, we find Walter M. Driscoll, who has
been appointed as assistant purchasing agent,
coming from Taunton and giving a fictitious ad-
dress in Brighton, and now we find a Wesley J.
Backman appointed as cable inspector, who gave
the address of 107 Marion street, East Boston,
in my district, and who lives on Summit street,
Everett. Only a few hours ago I called up his
home in Everett and was informed that he would
not be home until six o'clock tonight. I checked
up with the Election Department and was told
that his name does not appear on the police list
nor on the election list of the City of Boston.
Why this subterfuge? If the Mayor wishes to
insult 800,000 residents of Boston, why does he
not do so openly? Why is this subterfuge, this
resort to fictitious addresses? So I believe this
Council ought to go on record as opposed to any
continued efforts on the part of the Mayor of
Boston to enrich men coming from Newton and
other places outside of the city. Some day I hope
to get the real reason why Newton has been par-
ticularly favored. I am, therefore, going to ask
for a suspension of the ride and the passage of
the order.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
WARD 6 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement East Sixth street,
from K street to Farragut road, Ward 6.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement O street, Ward 6.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
APRIL Q, 1934.
124
REINSTATEMENT OF FULTON P. WESSON.
President DOWD offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby approves the enactment of legislation to
authorize the reinstatement of Fulton P. Wesson
in the Police Department of said city, provided
that such legislation includes a referendum to the
Mayor and City Council.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ROPING OFF OF UNION PARK STREET.
President DOWD offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Messenger be, and he
hereby is, authorized to rope off Union Park street,
between 2.30 and 4.30 p. m. on Saturday, April
14, for the cross country run of the Cathedral
Club, the expense incident thereto to be charged
to the appropriation for City Council, Flags,
Ropes and Stakes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
GAY HEAD STREET, WARD 10.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Gay Head street,
Ward 10.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Gay Head street,
entire length, both sides, Ward 10, in front of the
estates bordering thereon; said Bidewalk to be from
3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining, to be
from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built of
granolithic, with granite edgestones, under the
provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of
1917.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING OF BELDEN STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Belden street,
Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ARE CERTAIN APPOINTEES LEGAL
VOTERS?
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Election Commis-
sioners, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to check the residences of Walter M.
Driscoll, of 16 Duncklee street, and Wesley J.
Backman, of 107 Marion street, to determine
whether said men are legal voters of the City of
Boston.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, in light of
what has been said about these two appointees by
the councilor from East Boston (Coun. Selvitella),
I believe that either the new election commis-
sioners or the old ones should check up these men
to see whether or not they are bona fide residents
of the City of Boston, and report back to this body.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
EXTENSION OF TIME FOR REPORT.
Coun. TO BIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Special Committee on Public
Welfare of the City Council be granted an exten-
sion of time for the filing of its report.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BUDGET FOR PUBLIC WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Budget Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to send
to the City Council immediately a copy of the
budget for the Public Welfare Department as
submitted to the Legislative Committee at the
State House.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PRINTING OF MAYOR'S RADIO ADDRESS,
ETC.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor's radio address of
March 19, 1934, and the Boston Municipal Re-
search Bulletin of June 13, 1932, each on the
subject of "The Municipal Pay Roll," be printed
in the minutes of this meeting of the City Council.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, at the outset,
in taking up this subject of "Twice-Told Tales,"
I want to state my position squarely and to say
very frankly, in all fairness, that the Mayor of
Boston, in my opinion, came into office flush with
• good intentions. I am one of those who think he
really believed in the campaign that 65 per cent
of the money expended at City Hall went for graft,
waste and corruption. But during the past three
months that he has been in office, he must have
learned how ridiculous that belief was. He, like
members of the Council, has, of course, been feel-
ing the pressure of taxpayers in angry protest
against an increase in the 1934 tax rate, which
events and influences far beyond his control, or
that of former Mayor Curley, have made in-
evitable. As a matter of ordinary arithmetic,
over $6 per thousand of the tax rate is due to the
startling jump in welfare expense which has
multiplied to over five times its 1928 figure, and
that is the item which has finally broken the
financial back of the city. The Mayor has had to
do something. One logical alternative would
have been the prompt and thorough purging of
the padded welfare lists at the very outset of his
administration. While members of the City
Council have urged that at least 20 per cent of
the list is bad, even the Mayor has estimated that
5 per cent, namely, $700,000 a year, or $2,000 each
and every day, is being stolen from the city.
Effective stopping of that tremendous leak would
have eliminated the necessity for the recent dis-
charges, would have helped the taxpayers and
would have protected the honest welfare cases.
I realize that any Mayor can afford to listen to
helpful advice. The one danger is when the
insistent advice of some one special element in the
community begins to outweigh all others. And
so I say to the Mayor of Boston, for years the
State street crowd have let real estate carry the
burden of taxation. They have kept their in-
tangible personal property interests out from
under. Now, real estate, over-taxed and over-
assessed, has at last reached the breaking point,
and the old State street crowd, instead of admit-
ting that the time has finally come when intangible
wealth, in the form of stocks and bonds, shall pay
some fair share of the taxation burden, are using
you, Mr. Mayor, as a decoy to start a back-fire.
"Slash wages," they tell you, Mr. Mayor; "Fire
some more nurses and laborers and clerks." And
when you have finally fired or cut men and women
employees to an extent aggregating $1,000,000
annually in wages, it will amount to just 57 cents
on the tax rate. Meanwhile, on your own admis-
sion, three-quarters of a million will have slipped
out the back door of the Welfare Department.
And so I say, be fair with all elements in the com-
munity, Mr. Mayor. Above all, leave it to the
Boston Municipal Research Bureau to preach their
own gospel. I have in my hand Bulletin No. 5
of that organization, issued as long ago as June
13, 1932, which I ask to be printed as part of the
record. The subject was "The Municipal Pay-
roll," and it urged the 15 per cent reduction in
municipal salaries and wages which was later
effected, and which it was claimed would be
$4,000,000 saved in 1933. I also have in my
hand the City Record issue of March 24, 1934,
which contains the Mayor's radio broadcast on
March 19 of this year, which, even at the risk of
duplication, I ask be also printed as a part of the
record. The subject was "The MunicipaljPayroll."
It might be well, while I am on this subject of
"Twice-Told Tales," if I read, for example, the
first paragraph from Bulletin No. 5 of the Boston
Municipal Research Bureau, issued as long ago
as June 13, 1932. It starts off as follows:
"It is futile to attempt any real program of
economy in the city government while ignoring
125
CITY COUNCIL
tho imperative need of reducing the cost of the
municipal payroll. At tho present time tho
21,000 employees of city and county departments
receive more that $38,000,000 per year. That
sum is equivalent to over .$200 for every family in
Boston. It represents almost one-half the annual
cost of the municipal government. It has increased
substantially since the depression began, although
the ability of tho public to meet the cost has been
reduced severely."
That iB the first paragraph of the Boston Munic-
ipal Research Bureau's bulletin of June 13, 1932,
and even at the danger of boring you I will now
read the first paragraph of the Mayor's radio
address of March 19, 1934, as published in the
City Record of March 24, 1934:
"It is futile to attempt any real program of
economy in the city government while ignoring
the imperative need of reducing the cost of the
municipal payroll. At the present time the
21,000 employees of city and county departments
receive more than S3S,t)0U,()00 per year. That sum
is equivalent to over $200 to every family in
Boston. It represents almost one-half the annual
cost of the municipal government. It has in-
creased substantially since the depression began,
although the ability of the public to meet the cost
has been reduced severely."
And the record will show that there is not the
change of even a comma, a period, a word or a
sentence. And so I say, comparing that Bulletin
of June 13, 1932, with the Mayor's radio speech
of March 19, 1934, even though many things may
have been changed in between, this statement of
the Municipal Research Bureau, although it is
two years old, is still their baby. Here it is, word
for word, the arguments successfully used to effect
the 15 per cent reduction of municipal wages back
in 1932. Mr. President, I urge the Mayor of
Boston — who, I repeat again, is trying hard, not
to let himself be used by this particular element
in the community as a mouthpiece to effect a
further 20 per cent cut in municipal wages in 1934,
to at least not do bo until he has purged the Welfare
Department and pruned a few of the high class
help, and amputated a few hundred of our non-
resident pay roll patriots.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I am glad
that the councilor has brought the matter up at
this time, and I wish he might have stressed even
further than he did the point that the words
uttered by his Honor the Mayor are those that
have been given to him by the Municipal Research
Bureau. At the time when I discussed this matter
a couple of weeks ago, I suggested that we were
all interested in the welfare of the city and that
Frederick W. Mansfield, who had been elected
Mayor, should not yield that office to a man who
is not even a resident of the City of Boston. If
you will remember, he answered at that time by
saying that because McGrath's facts were wrong,
necessarily his conclusions must be wrong, and he
said that he was in no way connected with the
Municipal Research Bureau. I was, therefore,
amazed on picking up a Boston newspaper last
Sunday to read, when he was questioned about
the Municipal Research Bureau dictating policies,
the Mayor's reply that this was an error; that they
had absolutely nothing to do with him; that these
thoughts were his thoughts; that these ideas were
his ideas; that he had studied as a student of
municipal government the various pay roll items,
the various items of expenditures in the city, and
that the speeches he was making were creatures
of his own mind. I, too, had read this Bulletin of
June 13, 1932, put out by the Municipal Research
Bureau in the third year, one of the darkest years
of the great depression. I had believed, as we all
believed, and as was believed by every newspaper
in Boston, as we have seen by their editorials, that
in the year 1934 there was a New Deal, that there
was a new President, and that the people of the
country looked confidently to him and felt that
he was doing a most efficient job. We know that
in 1932 the purchasing power of the dollar was
far greater than it is today. I have here a little
article in which the figures have been worked out,
showing how much greater the purchasing power
of the dollar was in June of 1932 than it was in
March of 1934. And yet his Honor the Mayor, in
making his recent radio address, took that bulletin
of June, 1932, issued by the Municipal Research
Bureau. Apparently somebody placed it in his
hand and he stood before a microphone and gave
it to the citizens of the City of Boston as a speech
emanating from and originating in his own brain —
showing what a masterful group this Municipal
Research Bureau is, when he could Bland before
the microphone and say, "Fred Mansfield speak-
ing," and then give, purporting to be the result of
his study of days and nights and the product of
his research aB a master of municipal government,
what had been issued by the Boston Municipal
Research Bureau and was two years old. As the
councilor well sayB, there is not a word changed,
there is not a change in punctuation. He took
that bulletin two years old, that bulletin of another
day, issued in the depthB of the depression, and
read it as if it pertained to today. That is con-
clusive proof that the Municipal Research Bureau,
Mr. President, is running this city. There is no
member of this Council who does not hear the
appeal of the public for lower taxes and who is not
willing to respond to it. That is just as trite as
saying, "Feed the poor, minister to the sick."
But I say that before this Council stops with the
two words, "Reduce taxes," we should add two
more words, saying, "Reduce taxes on homes."
We know that in the past industrial property has
gotten the better of the argument before the
state-controlled Board of Tax Appeals, and homes
have been discriminated against. That is a long
story, but it is true. And so every member of the
Council has had people coming to him from their
homes at night and on Sundays and holidays,
making an appeal to him to go before the Collecting
Department or the Board of Tax Commissioners
and ask either that they reduce the assessment,
or that the home owners be given time to pay the
taxes that are now overdue on their homes. It is
on the method of reducing taxes that we differ.
We don't say that the Mayor is wrong in saying
"Reduce taxes," but we say he is absolutely wrong
when he reduces taxes at the expense of the
underpaid; that he is wrong when he says "Curtail
the Hospital Department, Long Island, the Health
Department." We say he is absolutely wrong
when he does not apply his economy program to
men holding two positions, men who are heads of
departments and having an additional salary
outside. When an appeal comes in for an economy
that benefits those represented by the majority
of this Council, he will find a welcome response
here. But so long, gentlemen, as he simply
follows the Municipal Research Bureau, when he
goes to Detroit and gets a man who has lived there
but who knows nothing about Boston to come on
here, when he goes to St. Louis and does the same
thing, and then comes here and puts out statements
to the effect that 65 per cent of every dollar goes
for waste, graft and corruption, — and we have
never heard that denied by the gentleman who
made the statement, — certainly he lays himself
open to question; particularly when there is placed
in the hands of the Mayor a pamphlet which is
supposed to pertain to conditions today, when in
reality it deals with a condition as shown by the
gentleman from Ward 17 (Coun. Wilson), set
forth in bulletin No. 5, issued by the Boston
Municipal Research Bureau June 13, 1932, and he
uses it in this way. Mr. President, we want to
remove hypocrisy, we want to get back to sincerity.
Everyone of the twenty-two members here realizes
the seriousness of the cry to "protect the homes
of the people of Boston." We have spoken of it
often, it is a matter that is uppermost in our minds.
But stop fooling the public. Let us not have
speeches delivered today that are simply quoted
from a pamphlet issued two years ago. And let
us remember that we have in our midst many able
men competent to deal with problems that con-
front this city. Boston, a center of education,
has always been able to find in its midst men
capable of administering their own affairs and the
affairs of the city. We don't have to go to Detroit,
to Newton or Milton. We have here enough
men of ability and standing. There is just one
more statement I wish to make before closing,
and it is this. We may be told that the Mayor
wanted to select a purchasing agent who was
competent for the job and that he could not find
an honest man in Boston to administer that office.
That is not true. He could not find an honest man
in the 28 per cent of the voters who supported
Frederick W. Mansfield.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. Chairman, I wish to
add just a few words to what my colleagues have
already said. About a month ago I said in this
chamber that some of the acts of the Mayor were
insincere; that they were not now in accord with
things he said when he was campaigning last
October or November, when every city employee
APRIL 9, 1934.
126
received a certain letter. I am not going to offer
that today, but we have seen how much he meant
when he wrote that particular letter saying that
workers would not be reduced; that conditions
were such that, while cuts could not be restored,
the policemen and firemen, however, would get
their step-rate increases. That, first, was the
statement he made at one time. Second, he
appealed to the Legislature for sole authority to
change the departments, to consolidate, telling
them when that occurred discharges would have to
be made. Several weeks after that when dis-
charges were made and when you, Mr. President,
and myself went before him in regard to the
matter, he declined to take the responsibility,
stating that the responsibility for such discharges
lay with the department heads, that he had nothing
to do in the matter, that it was up to them. And
now he has made a third statement: That he had
no connection with the Municipal Research
Bureau, in spite of the fact that, as the councilor
from Dorchester (Coun. Wilson) has stated, he
quoted not a small part from the bulletin of the
Municipal Research Bureau issued in 1932, but
practically adopted all of it into his recent radio
speech, dealing with his economy program. I
certainly think it is time that his Honor the Mayor
should be sincere with us. I hope he will read
these proceedings and that from now on in his
dealings with this body he will be frank and sincere.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I can't say
that I find fault with the Mayor's position. We
are told that the Mayor copies. We all copy.
Public men are continually being accused of
copying, when they are acting perfectly con-
scientiously. There is no newspaper in the coun-
try that has not been accused from time to time
of copying something. (From the reporters'
table, "Wrong!" and laughter.) Well, I except
the Boston Globe. (Laughter.) Al Smith in the
1928 campaign delivered a speech on finance,
and Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1932 campaign
delivered the same speech, practically exactly
the same, and the explanation finally came out
that the Bubstance of it had come through Pro-
fessor Moley or one of his colleagues. It simply
meant that Mr. Roosevelt and Al Smith had been
given the same dope from the same source. I
believe the great German, Goethe, said there were
but twelve jokes in the world, and no more. But
that is a situation in which any man seeking
information from different sources is apt to find
himself. Governor Cox, when he was Governor
of Ohio, was much flustered upon finding out on
the day set apart for commemoration of the
birth of former President McKinley practically
the speech he delivered had been delivered ten
years previous by some leading executive of the
country. Sometimes these things come because
of different people obtaining information from the
same source, and sometimes because men's minds
run in the same channel. I disagree with his
Honor the Mayor in his action as it may affect
the health and safety of the people of our city. I
want to have the health of our people protected.
I want to get the men and women who are out,
back. I would like to see John Sullivan put back;
would like to see Mr. Balfe put back, if not on full
time, on part time. I don't want to see our
hospitals or our health work generally curtailed;
I don't want to see the work of any of our depart-
ments seriously impaired. If employees cannot
be put to work on full time, stagger the work and
put them on part time. Share the work. But
many of them are out on the streets now. We
are to have the Mayor for four years. What is the
best way to handle these matters? Something
must be done, money must be saved somewhere.
Last year's taxes have not been collected. Where
is the money coming from, for hospital, welfare, and
other things? We cannot take it out of the air.
We can appropriate money for a short period,
and see how things work out, and then appropriate
more, feeling our way along. But something must
be done, and it certainly seems to me that the best
solution will come through a stagger, share-the-
work plan. But just remember, gentlemen, we
have not started yet, have not scratched the
surface.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
Following is the material that the Council
voted to incorporate in the record:
Bulletin
Boston Municipal Research Bureau,
80 Federal Street, Boston, Mass.
Bulletin No. 5. June 13, 1932.
The Municipal Payroll.
It is futile to attempt any real program of
economy in the city government while ignoring
the imperative need of reducing the cost of the
municipal payroll. At the present time the
21,000 employees of city and county departments
receive more than $38,000,000 per year. That
sum is equivalent to over $200 for every family in
Boston. It represents almost one-half the annual
cost of the municipal government. It has in-
creased substantially since the depression began,
although the ability of the public to meet the
cost has been reduced severely.
In the years of prosperity preceding 1930,
local governmental services expanded rapidly
and new functions were added. Considerations
of economy were not deemed important. The
payrolls increased in each year both as to number
employed and compensation paid. Since the
depression the payrolls have continued on an
inflated prosperity-time basis, and in addition
hundreds of new employees have been added,
and many salary increases have been granted.
In the short space of the past fourteen years, the
annual payroll appropriation of city departments
alone jumped from $10,000,000 to $21,300,000,
a 113 per cent increase.
There is always a great temptation to be liberal
with the public money on the municipal payroll.
But the time has come when the interests of the
public who pay the bills must be considered.
The city government cannot afford to keep a
single unnecessary employee on the payroll nor to
continue rates of compensation at pre-depression
heights.
When the city budget was published last Febru-
ary, a four-fold policy for economy in the city
payroll was announced. Unnecessary positions
were to be eliminated; vacancies would not be
filled, salary increases would not be granted;
recipients of public welfare aid would be used
instead of hiring many temporary employees;
and no overtime payments would be allowed.
As far as it went this policy had all appearances
of genuine economy. But the facts prove that
no substantial savings from the operation of thiB
policy were expected or planned by city officials.
The total 1932 payroll appropriations in city
departments, including those for the Park Depart-
ment which will be taken from Parkman Fund
income, will exceed the amount actually expended
last year.
These are unusual times. Mere lip-service to
economy which is not followed by actual per-
formance, will not appease a public which is
being called upon to pay more in taxes than it
can afford, and more than is necessary. We urge
that the policies as to the municipal payroll
already announced by the city administration be
put into actual effect to the maximum possible
extent and that the public be given the benefit
of the savings which would inevitably result.
Furthermore, the city government must face
squarely and fearlessly the question of reductions
in salaries and wages. It can no longer be avoided
nor can palliatives put off the inevitable. The
financial emergency makes a maintenance of pre-
depression salary levels an indefensible and unfair
use of the power of taxation.
Public employees have enjoyed a certainty of
employment which is enviable even in normal
times. During the 40 months of the depression,
they have been retained at full-time pay, with no
lay-offs and with vacations and pensions. With
the decline in the cost of living, the purchasing
power of their incomes has increased steadily, so
that at the present time they are receiving the
equivalent of a twenty per cent increase in pay.
On the other hand, most of those who must bear
the cost of the municipal payroll, have suffered
severe reductions in pay, are on part time, or have
no jobs at all.
It has been argued that reduced wages in public
employment mean lower buying power. The
money to pay these wages comes from the public.
It is worth just as much in buying power to them
as to public employees. Moreover a reduction
amounting to more than the decrease in living
costs would leave intact the purchasing power
which public employees had in the days of pros-
perity. If anything less than this is done, public
127
CITY COUNCIL.
employees will bo permit. led to profit from tin-
distress of others. One of the principal causes of
I. lie larger purchasing power of public ernployoefi,
iH flic lowered income of Hioho privately employed.
The public employee is now able to pay less to
those in private employ who supply him with
food, clothing) and other commodities. It is not
unreasonable for the private employees to expeet
the public employee also to take a cut.
There is no danger that such action by the city
government would establish a precedent and
encourage private employers to follow. Private
employment has not waited for any such prece-
dent. The force of economic necessity has already
compelled action. Nor should there be any fear
that pay reductions would destroy the morale of
public employees. Although they are in a posi-
tion to attract strong political support and public
sympathy, it is mistaken kindness to encourage
them to believe that they are in a favored class
that can demand immunity from economic vicissi-
tudes at the expense of those on whom the burden
of a depression inevitably falls.
In our opinion, a reasonable reduction in the
rates of compensation in public positions is the
most essential step toward governmental retrench-
ment. In no other way can so large a reduction in
the cost of government be made without adding to
the list of the unemployed. It will inflict rela-
tively little hardship, whereas the increased or
sustained level of taxation which will otherwise be
necessary will be an intolerable burden upon the
community.
Specifically, we recommend that an average
reduction of 15 per cent in municipal salaries and
wages be put into effect, commencing July 1, 1932,
for the balance of the year, and that unless condi-
tions improve measurably, the reduction continue
for the entire year in 1933. This reduction is
substantially less than the decline in the cost of
living since 1929. Even allowing for exceptional
cases where reductions are impracticable, the
aggregate savings would be at least $2,000,000 for
the remaining six months of 1932, and $4,000,000
for the entire year in 1933.
City Record.
Saturday, March 24, 1934.
Mayor Mansfield Discusses Municipal Payroll
as Related to his Economy Program for
City — Points to Futility of Any Attempt at
Real Reductions in Burdens without Taking
into Consideration the Imperative Need of
Reductions in this Branch — Outlines his
Efforts in Regular Weekly Broadcast from
City Hall Station.
In his regular weekly broadcast on March 19,
1934, Mayor Mansfield discussed the municipal
payroll as follows:
It is futile to attempt any real program of
economy in the city government while ignoring
the imperative need of reducing the cost of the
municipal payroll. At the present time the 21,000
employees of city and county departments receive
more than $38,000,000 per year. That sum is
equivalent to over $200 to every family in Boston.
It represents almost one half the annual cost of
the municipal government. It has increased
substantially since the depression began, although
the ability of the public to meet the cost has been
reduced severely.
In the years of prosperity preceding 1930,
local governmental services expanded rapidly and
new functions were added. Considerations of
economy were not deemed important. The
payroll increased in each year both as to number
employed and compensation paid. Since the
depression the payrolls have continued on an
inflated prosperity-time basis, and, in addition,
hundreds of new employees have been added,
and many salary increases have been granted.
In the short space of fourteen years, the annual
payroll appropriation of city departments alone
jumped from $10,000,000 to $21,300,000, a 113
per cent increase.
There is always a great temptation to be liberal
with the public money on the municipal payroll.
But the time has come when the interests of the
public who pay the bills must be considered.
The city government cannot afford to keep a
single unnecessary employee on the payroll
nor to continue rates of compensation at pre-
depression heights.
In February, 1932, a fourfold policy for economy
in the city payroll was announced. Unnecessary
positions were to be eliminated; vacancies would
not be filled; salary increases would not be granted;
recipients of public welfare aid would be used
instead of hiring many temporary employees;
and no overtime payments would be allowed.
As'far as it went this policy had all appearances
of genuine economy. But the facts prove that
no substantial savings from "the operation of this
policy were expected or planned by city officials.
The total 1932 payroll appropriations in city
departments, including thoBe for the Park De-
partment which were taken from Parkman Fund
income, exceeded the amount actually expended
in 1931.
Performance Needed.
These are unusual times. Mere lip-service
to economy which is not followed by actual
Eerformance, will not appease a public which is
eing called upon to pay more in taxes than it
can afford, and more than is necessary. The
policies as to the municipal payroll that were
promised but not performed by the city adminis-
tration be put into actual effect to the maximum
possible extent and that the public be given the
benefit of the savings which would inevitably
result.
Public employees have enjoyed a certainty of
employment which is enviable even in normal
timeB. During the depression they have been
retained at full-time pay, with no lay-offs and with
vacations and pensions. With the decline in
the cost of living, the purchasing power of their
incomes had increased steadily, so that for a
long time they had been receiving the equivalent
of a twenty per cent increase in pay. On the
other hand, most of those who must bear the
cost of the municipal payroll have suffered severe
reductions in pay, are on part time, or have no
jobs at all.
It has been argued that reduced payrolls in
public employment mean lower buying power.
The money to pay these wages comes from the
public. It is worth just as much in buying power
to them as to public employees. Moreover a
reduction amounting to more than the decrease
in living costs would leave intact, the purchasing
power which public employees had in the days of
prosperity. If anything less than this is done,
public employees will be permitted to profit from
the distress of others. One of the principal causes
of the larger purchasing power of public employees
is the lowered income of those privately employed.
The public employee is now able to pay less to
those in private employ who supply him with
food, clothing, and other commodities. It is
not unreasonable for the private employees
to expect the public employee also to contribute
something to the general welfare.
There is no danger that such action by the
city government would establish a precedent
and encourage private employers to follow.
Private employment has not waited for any such
precedent. The force of economic necessity has
already compelled action. Nor should there be
any fear that the morale of public employees
would be destroyed. Although they are in a
position to attract strong political support and
public sympathy, it is mistaken kindness to
encourage them to believe that they are in a
favored class that can demand immunity from
economic vicissitudes at the expense of those on
whom the burden of a depression inevitably falls.
REPAVING OF CHISWICK ROAD, WARD 21.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Chiswick road,
from Commonwealth avenue to Chestnut Hill
avenue, Ward 21.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned, at 4.45 p. m., on motion of Coun.
ENGLERT, to meet on Monday, April 16, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
128
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council-
Monday, April 16, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Gleason.
OPINION OF CORPORATION COUNSEL ON
POLICE DEPARTMENT EXPENDITURES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith an opinion of
the Corporation Counsel upon two questions
submitted to him on February 19, 1934, as follows:
1. Whether the Police Commissioner could
properly expend money or involve the City of
Boston in a contract for the future payment of
money in excess of appropriations therefor; and
2. Whether certain contracts dated February
15, 1934, between the General Electric Company
and the City of Boston, and between R. J. Con-
nolly, Inc.. and the City of Boston were invalid on
grounds specified in the inquiry.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, April 2, 1934.
Committee on Finance,
City Council.
Gentlemen, — I have received a letter, dated
February 19, 1934, from John E. Baldwin, Clerk
of Committees, in which he has advised me that
you have requested my opinion with reference to
expenditures and contracts of the Police Depart-
ment of the City of Boston.
It is my understanding from Mr. Baldwin's
letter that you wish my opinion with regard to the
following matters:
1. May the iPolice Commissioner properly
expend money or involve the City of Boston in a
contract for the future payment of money in excess
of appropriations therefor; and
2. Are the contracts, dated February 15, 1934,
between General Electric Company and the City
of Boston, relating to a two-way radio telephone
system, and R. J. Connolly, Inc., and the City of
Boston, relating to building alterations to provide
a communication control room at police head-
quarters, respectively, invalid on the ground that
they purport to obligate the city for the future
payment of money in excess of appropriations?
Section 8 of chapter 291 of the Acts of 1906, as
amended, provides that the City of Boston shall
pay the salary of the Police Commissioner and the
secretary, and the expense of such rooms, "suitably
furnished, as shall be convenient and suitable for
the performance" of the Police Commissioner's
duties, that the city shall provide all such accom-
modations for the police of the city as the
Police Commissioner may require, and that
" ... All expenses for the maintenance
of buildings, the pay of the police, clerks, stenog-
raphers and other employees, and all incidental
expenses incurred in the performance of the
duties of said commissioner or in the administra-
tion of said police shall be paid by the City of
Boston upon the requisition of said police com-
missioner."
Section 9 of said chapter 291, as amended and
now in force, authorizes the Police Commissioner
to employ legal assistance and to incur expense
therefor to a fixed amount, "which expense shall
be paid by the City of Boston upon the requisition"
of the Police Commissioner.
There are no other statutory provisions ex-
pressly purporting to impose upon the city an
obligation to pay expenses of the Police Depart-
ment.
If the obligations imposed by sections 8 and 9
were unlimited by other provisions of law, it would
seem clear that the city would be obligated to
make the expenditures required of it under these
sections even if there were no appropriations
available therefor and that the expenses directed
by said sections to be paid by the city could
properly be incurred in the absence of such appro-
priations.
See in this connection Batchelder v. City of
Salem, 4 Cush. 599 (1848).
Two subsidiary questions must, therefore, be
considered before an opinion can be given as to the
matters concerning which you have inquired.
The first is — What expenses are included within
the words contained in section 8 "all incidental
expenses incurred in the performance of the duties
of said commissioner or in the administration of
said police"?
The second is — Are the obligations imposed on
the city by sections 8 and 9 limited by other
provisions of law, and, if so, to what extent?
1. As to the expenses covered by section 8:
The above-quoted words in section 8 "all incidental
expenses" are susceptible of at least two inter-
pretations. They may be interpreted to include
all expenses incidental to the performance of the
commissioner's duties or the administration of the
police, or, in other words, all expenses of the
Police Department, or they may be interpreted
to include all expenses of a minor or subordinate
character. As there has been no judicial de-
termination of the proper interpretation of these
words, their meaning is not free from doubt. I
am of the opinion, however, that these words
should be interpreted to include only expenses of a
minor or subordinate character and not expenses
of major or independent significance. To construe
these words as including all expenses incidental to
the performance of the commissioner's duties or
incidental to police administration is to treat as
surplusage the word "incurred" and also as un-
necessary and surplusage other specific provisions
of sections 8 and 9 (e. g., provisions with ref-
erence to the pay of the police, stenographers
and clerks).
2. As to the limits on sections 8 and 9: In
this connection the following statutory provisions
must be considered:
Section 3 of chapter 486 of the Acts of 1909, as
amended, which provides that:
"All appropriations, other than for school pur-
poses, to be met from taxes, revenue, or any
source other than loans shall originate with the
mayor, who within thirty days after the beginning
of the fiscal year shall submit to the city council
the annual budget of the current expenses of the
city and county, and may submit thereafter sup-
plementary budgets until such time as the tax
rate for the year shall have been fixed. The city
council may reduce or reject any item, but with-
out the approval of the mayor shall not increase,
any item in, nor the total of a budget, nor add
any item thereto, nor shall it originate a budget.
It shall be the duty of the city and county officials,
when requested by the mayor, to submit forth-
with in such detail as he may require estimates
for the next fiscal year of the expenditures of the
department or office under their charge, which
estimates shall be transmitted to the city
council. . . ."
Section 16 of said chapter 486, which provides
that:
"No official of said city, except in case of
extreme emergency involving the health or safety
of the people or their property, shall expend inten-
tionally in any fiscal year any sum in excess of the
appropriations duly made in accordance with law,
nor involve the city in any contract for the future
payment of money in excess of such appropria-
tion, except as provided in section six of this act."
Chapter 320 of the Acts of 1889, which provides
that:
"... at the beginning of the financial
year, to meet the liabilities of the several depart-
ments incurred in the carrying on of the work
entrusted to them, until the city government shall
otherwise order, expenditures may be made,
liabilities may be incurred and payments made
from the treasury from any funds therein, and
the treasurer may borrow money in anticipation
of taxes to provide funds. Such expenditures and
liabilities shall not exceed for each department,
one third the entire amount appropriated for tire
department the previous year, and shall be con-
sidered and reckoned as a part of the expenditures
of, and the money paid therefor as a part of the
appropriations for, the current financial year."
Section 1 of chapter 206 of the Acts of 1891,
which provides that:
129
CITY COUNCIL.
"The City of Boston shall not borrow any
money for purposes taken into account in deter-
mining its debt limit, unless the mayor shall in
writing certify upon the order authorizing the
loan that the amount intended to be so borrowed
is not, in his opinion, to meet a current expense,
or that such money is to meet a current expense,
but that public necessity requires the borrowing
of the same."
In a letter to Stephen O'Meara, then Police
Commissioner, dated December 8, 1910, Dana
Malone, as Attorney General for the Common-
wealth, stated it to be his opinion that, notwith-
standing the provisions of chapter 486 of the Acts
of 1909, the Police Commissioner could properly
"make requisition upon the City of Boston for all
expenses for the maintenance of buildings, the pay
of the police, clerks, stenographers and other
employees and all incidental expenses incurred in
the performance of the duties of said Commissioner
or in the administration of said police, without
regard to the amount of money previously appro-
priated by the City Council," that requisitions of
the Police Commissioner need not be based on
estimates of the probable expenditures of the
department, and that the Police Commissioner
was not an "official of said city" within the
meaning of these words in section 16 of chapter
486 of the Acts of 1909.
That letter was written prior to the decisions
in such cases as Flood v. Hodges, 231 Mass. 252
(1918), Decatur v. Peabody, 251 Mass. 82, Park-
hurst J). Revere, 263 Mass. 364, and Burt v. Taun-
ton, 275 Mass. 535, hereinafter referred to, and,
while the matter is by no means free from doubt,
I cannot advise you that you can rely on the
conclusions in that letter.
If the opinion in that letter is sound then we
are led to the conclusion that there is no legal
technique for fixing the limits of police depart-
ments' expenditures in connection with determin-
ing the tax rate for the year and that, even after
the tax rate is determined, further expenses may
be incurred for current purposes, which expenses
can only be met by borrowing — in other words, if
the opinion in that letter is sound, the tax rate
cannot be intelligently determined and the Police
Commissioner has the broad power, in effect, to
involve the city in debt for current expenses. I
do not believe that he has such broad power.
Sections 3 and 16 of chapter 486 of the Acts of
1909, chapter 320 of the Acts of 1889, and sec-
tion 1 of chapter 206 of the Acts of 1891 should,
in my opinion, be read together in determining
the limits, if any, of sections 8 and 9 of chapter 291
of the Acts of 1906.
Section 3 of chapter 486 requires the mayor to
submit to the City Council an annual budget of
the current expenses of the city and county (other
than expenses for school purposes ■ — special statu-
tory provisions existing with reference to such
expenses) and permits the submission of supple-
mentary budgets thereafter until the tax rate is
fixed. It contemplates that appropriations for
current expenses shall not exceed the amounts set
forth in the budgets, and provides for estimates by
"city and county officials" to aid in preparing the
annual budget. Section 16 forbids any "official
of the city" making, or contracting for, expendi-
tures in excess of appropriations. Section 1 of
chapter 206 of the Acts of 1891 contemplates that
there shall be no borrowing by the city for current
expenses, unless the mayor determines that public
necessity requires it. Chapter 320 of the Acts of
1889, provides for expenditures before appropria-
tions based on the budget can be made and fixes
the limit of such expenditures.
The policy underlying these statutory provisions
is readily discernible and is the same as that under-
lying the similar statutory provisions now con-
tained in section 32 of chapter 44 of the General
Laws dealing with budgets of cities other than
Boston. Discussing the policy underlying the
latter statutory provisions the Supreme Judicial
Court said, in Flood v. Hodges, supra:
"The manifest purpose of the framers of the
act was to set rigid barriers against expenditures
in excess of appropriations, to prevent the borrow-
ing of money for current expenses, to confine the
making of long time loans strictly to raising money
for permanent improvements, and in general to
put cities upon a sound financial basis so far as
those ends can be achieved by legislation. The
budget system was one of the means adopted.
The responsibility for framing and presenting the
budget is placed on the mayor. He is required,
within a brief time after the annual organization
of the city government, 'to submit to the city
council the annual budget of the current expenses
of the city.' The budget consists of an itemized
and detailed statement of the money required
to meet all the current expenses of the city for the
year, with clear specifications of the amounts to
be expended for each particular purpose. The
preparation of a budget of necessity implies a
comprehensive survey of all the needs for expen-
ditures for the ordinary municipal operations and
an intelligent and discriminating calculation of
necessary charges. That is made an executive
function. The power of the mayor in this direc-
tion, even by way of supplementary budgets,
comes to an end when the tax rate has been fixed
for the year. . . . The manifest design of
these provisions is to provide early in the municipal
year a complete schedule of appropriations for the
general uses of the city and to discourage a ten-
dency to spend more than the municipal income,"
and in Burt v. Municipal Council of Taunton,
supra:
"As has been held repeatedly, the design of the
budget law for cities was to set rigid barriers
against expenditures in excess of appropriations,
to cultivate municipal thrift, to prevent the bor-
rowing of money for current expenses, and in
general to put cities upon a sound financial basis so
far as those ends can be achieved by legislation."
No exception is made, in the statutory provisions
with regard to Boston's finances, heretofore quoted,
for police expenditures and no other limits are fixed
for such expenditures, as in the case of expenditures
for school purposes. The budget referred to in
section 3 is a budget of the "current expenses of
the city and county." Current expenses of the
Police Department are clearly current expenses
of the city. It would seem, therefore, that Police
Department expenses were intended by the Legis-
lature to be included within the budget.
Doubts which have been expressed as to the
applicability of section 16 to the Police Com-
missioner have generally arisen from the use of
the term therein "official of said city."
While the Police Commissioner is an official
appointed by the Governor and may for some
purposes be properly described as a state officer
(see Sullivan v. Lawson, 267 Mass. 438 (1929),
Attorney General v. Brissenden, 271 Mass. 172
(1930), it is not at all inaccurate to describe him
also as a city official.
See, in this connection:
Trustees of Public Library t>. Rector of Trinity
Church, 263 Mass. 173, 179 (1928), where the
Court said:
"It is plain, therefore, that groups of indi-
viduals exercising local or internal powers and
duties may be deemed to be acting as depart-
ments of a municipality, irrespective of the degree
or kind of control over them possessed by the
Commonwealth as contrasted with the local
government. The fact that the members of the
licensing board and finance commission are ap-
pointed by the governor . . . and that the
amount to be appropriated annually for the finance
commission is fixed byithe Legislature ....
do not determine whether or not the licensing
board and the finance commission are depart-
ments of the city of Boston."
"Although policemen are public
officers, a police department may be a depart-
ment of a municipality. Adams v. Selectmen of
Northbridge, 253 Mass. 408, 409. If the police
commissioner, who is appointed by the governor,
St. 1906, c. 291, sec. 7, notifies the city of Boston
that land is needed as a site for a building to be
used as police headquarters, the land may be
taken under St. 1909, c. 486, sec. 31, which pro-
vides in part as follows: "At the request of any
department . . . the board of street com-
missioners, in the name of the city, may take in
fee for any municipal purpose any land ..."
Police Commissioner of Boston v. Boston, 239
Mass. 401, 407, 408. "Police officers perform
certain duties strictly local, including the enforce-
ment of the city ordinances."
See, also,
Police Commissioner of Boston v. Boston 239
Mass. 401,407, 409.
Police Commissioner of Boston v. Commissioner
of Civil Service, 278 Mass. 507 (1932).
Prince v. Boston, 148 Mass. 285, 289, (1889).
The policy underlying our budget laws calls for
a construction of the term "official of the city" as
including the Police Commissioner. Furthermore,
it should be borne in mind that section 3, which by
its terms requires the budget to provide for current
expenses of the city and therefore, by implication,
of the Police Department, also requires city officials
APRIL 16, 1934.
130
to furnish estimates of expenditures. If the
Police Commissioner is not one of the "city
officials" required to furnish estimates the budget
must be prepared without his assistance. It is
hard to believe that this was intended. Moreover,
if the Police Commissioner is one of the " city
officials" referred to in section 3, it would seem to
involve no strain to hold him to be an "official of
the city" within section 16.
While the language of sections 8 and 9 of chapter
291 of the Acts of 1906 is mandatory it is my
opinion that, in view of the statutory provisions
with reference to the city's finances heretofore
discussed and the policy underlying those pro-
visions sections 8 and 9 should not be construed
to give the Police Commissioner power to incur
expenses and obligate the city without regard to
budgetary provisions of law.
Two decisions are helpful in determining the
limits of sections 8 and 9. These are Decatur v.
Peabody, 251 Mass. 82 (1925) and Parkhurst v.
Revere, 263 Mass. 364 (1928).
Decatur v. Peabody (supra) involved a petition
for a writ of mandamus to compel the payment of
salary increases voted to the petitioners by the
School Committee of Peabody. The Court said:
(Page 83.) "The great question in this case is
whether, when the school committee of a city other
than Boston has voted to increase salaries of
teachers in the public schools according to its own
conceptions of the public needs, and has trans-
mitted the estimate of the annual expenses of the
school department based on such increase to the
mayor in conformity to the budget requirements
of G. L., c. 44, sec. 32, the mayor and city council
are bound to provide appropriations based on such
increase. Stated more concisely the question is,
whether the ultimate power to establish the
salaries of teachers in the public schools, giving
instruction in the branches required to be taught
by G. L., c. 71, is vested in the school committee
or in the mayor and city council of cities outside
of Boston."
(Page 86.) "In dealing with municipal finance,
by St. 1913, c. 719, the General Court provided in
substance and effect that in all cities except
Boston there shall annually be prepared and pre-
sented for consideration by the legislative depart-
ment a budget which shall consist of an itemized
and detailed statement of the money required for
the several municipal departments and other city
charges. The legislative department of the city
may reduce or reject any item, but cannot increase
any item nor add new items. It also was provided
that no department should incur liabilities in
excess of the appropriation made in the budget as
finally established, with exceptions not here
material. All acts and parts of acts inconsistent
with the municipal indebtedness act were repealed
by sec. 22 of that act."
(Page 86.) "The main provisions of the munic-
ipal indebtedness act are in G. L., c. 44, ss. 32
and 31. All the previously existing provisions of
the statutes respecting school committees and their
powers were reenacted in substance in G. L., c. 71.
The special and hitherto unlimited power of the
school committee to contract with teachers is
in s. 38, and the committee's general authority
over schools, in s. 37. These provisions are in
almost the same words as those long familiar in
our statutes
"There are thus in the General Laws two
provisions, which, if treated as detached and
separate enactments, seem to be contrary one to
the other. The chapter on municipal finance
appears to give to the mayor and legislative
department of the city absolute power over the
budget, with complete and exclusive control
over appropriations, and thus to require every
municipal department to yield to its determina-
tion as to the amount of money available for any
public expenditure. The chapter relating to pub-
lic schools appears to vest in the school committee
complete and exclusive control over the salaries
to be paid to teachers in the public schools with-
out being required to consult with any other
public board.
"These respective provisions were combined in
the revision of statutes known as General Laws.
There is no indication of legislative thought that
there was any inconsistency or repugnancy be-
tween the several statutes thus consolidated.
There is every presumption that this body of
statute law was intended to be consistent and
harmonious."
(Page 87.) "A statute, such as that dealing with
municipal finance, commonly carries with it an
implication that all other provisions of law are to
yield to its terms. Its general scope and its main
purpose are directed toward uniformity, clarity
and economy in the use of public funds. Several
commissions have been appointed in recent
years to study municipal finance and to report
to the General Court. The importance attributed
to the subject is thus accentuated. All municipal
activities must be supported out of the public treasury.
They are all dependent upon appropriations made
by the legislative department of cities. They naturally
would all be put upon the same footing.
"One consideration and one alone puts the
school committee with respect to salaries of
teachers upon a basis different from that of other
municipal departments. There is contained in
G. L., c. 71, s. 34, a provision long in our statutes,
in these words, ' Towns shall raise by taxation money
necessary for the support of public schools as required
by this chapter.'"
(Page 88.) "It is clear that the design of
section 24 was to make the observance of certain
requirements of G. L., c. 71, imperative upon
municipalities and not subject even to the limita-
tions of the provisions of law as to the budget.
This compulsion imposed by the General Court
is peremptory and unequivocal. It is something
more than the simple permission to one board
of public officers to make contracts, or to fix
salaries. These are to be found in other statutes.
See, for example, G. L., c. Ill, s. 27. All such
general provisions are subject to appropriations
made under the provisions of the budget law.
With reference to public schools there is both
the power in the school committee and the express
legislative mandate to the municipality to 'raise
by taxation' the necessary money. It follows
from the provisions of said - s. 34, touching the
public schools, that it is the duty of those framing
the budget under G. L., c. 44, s. 39, to conform to
G. L., c. 71, s. SS, and to provide for the salaries of
teachers in the public schools as voted by the school
committee. ' '
(Page .99.) "We do not go so far as to hold
that the school committee has power to disregard
the provisions of G. L., c. 44, s. 31, and involve the
city in debt in excess of appropriation. A different
remedy is set forth in G. L., c. 71, s. 34, for failure
to raise money necessary for the support of public
schools as required by said c. 71. The question
presented by this record has been one of genuine
difficulty about which municipal officers of
integrity and zeal for the public welfare well
might and doubtless have differed. But it cannot
be assumed that any mayor and city council,
when the law has been interpreted, would fail to
make the necessary appropriations."
This case indicates that, when a city is subject
to the budgetary provisions of the Municipal
Indebtedness Act, even though the statutes
also provide that the city in question "shall"
raise by taxation money for the support of its
schools and confers upon the school committee
authority to incur expenses necessary for such
support, the latter provisions are restricted by
virtue of the budgetary laws relating to appro-
priations, but that, in view of the mandate to
"raise by taxation," the necessary money, it is
the duty of those framing the budget to provide
for items determined by the school committee to
be necessary and included in the estimates of
expenditures submitted by the school committee.
Parkhurst v. Revere, 263 Mass. 354 (1928),
involved an action of contract for the purchase
price of books alleged to have been sold to the
City of Revere. The school committee at the
beginning of the year submitted an estimate of
its expenditures to the Mayor including an item
for text books and supplies. Of the amount
estimated only part was appropriated. Further
estimates were later submitted but the full amount
of the estimates was not appropriated. At the
time the books in question were sold to the city
the appropriations for text books and supplies
were exhausted and no further appropriations were
made. The Court said:
(Page 570.) "At the outset the question is pre-
sented whether under the circumstances the school
committee has the power to involve the city in
debt in excess of an appropriation therefor. G. L.,
c. 71, s. 48, provides in part that 'The (school
committee shall, at the expense of the town (town
includes city, G. L., c. 4, 2. 7, cl. 34) purchase text
books. . . ." This provision is mandatory,
Decatur v. Auditor of Peabodv, 251 Mass. 82, 88,
89. St. 1914, c. 657, s. 49, provides in part that
' Unless otherwise required by law, the school
181
CITY COUNCIL.
committee shall cause no liability to be incurred
. . . beyond the aggregate appropriation
granted by the council . . .'
"However, the provisions of G. L., c. 44, en-
titled 'Municipal Finance,' were intended to place
municipal expenditures upon a strict budget basis.
The school committee is required by s. 4!) of St.
1914, e. 887, to submit in January of each year an
estimate of the amount of money necessary for the
proper maintenance of the schools during the
succeeding financial year; it is thus required to
plan for its expenditures in advance. Obviously
the legislative purpose cannot be accomplished
if any department is allowed to make expenditures
which were not included in the estimate submitted
by it.
"It remains to be considered whether the school
committee in the case at bar included in its esti-
mate for the financial year 1921 an amount suffi-
cient to pay for text books reasonably required
during that year. The case was tried on an agreed
statement of facts by a judge without a jury.
No other evidence was introduced by either party.
It is impossible to determine from the agreed
facts whether the estimate submitted by the
school committee did or did not include an amount
sufficient to pay for all the text books alleged to
have been purchased from the plaintiffs. The bur-
den was on the plaintiffs to establish that the
estimate included an amount sufficient to pay for
the text books in question.
"Without intimating whether under any cir-
cumstances the school committee has the power
to charge the city for a debt incurred in excess
of an appropriation, it is plain that the submission
of an estimate for an amount sufficient to pay for
the text books sold by the plaintiffs is a prerequi-
site to the imposing' upon the city of a binding
obligation."
This case indicates that, where a city is subject
to budgetary laws, even though the statutes pro-
vide that the school committee shall, at the expense
of the city, purchase text books, such text books
can not properly be purchased by the school
committee without an available appropriation
therefor at least unless the school committee
submits an estimate including this expense in
connection with the formulation of the budget.
The Court expressly left open the question of
whether, if such estimate is made but no pro-
vision is allowed in the budget therefor, the
purchase can properly be made.
One case deserves specific mention in this con-
nection, namely, Police Commissioner of Boston
v. Boston, 279 Mass. 577. This case was before
the Court upon writs for mandamus and a writ
for certiorari. The writs were denied on the
ground that the remedy sought was not proper.
Step-rate increases were involved. The Police
Commissioner had included in his estimate of
expenditures sums sufficient, to pay these increases
and while no specific appropriations were made
for such increases the appropriations made were
sufficient therefor. The Court said by way of
dictum:
"It is not alleged that no appropriation is avail-
able for the payment of patrolmen, though the
letter from the mayor to the police commissioner
indicates that no specific appropriation for step-
rate increases in their pay was included in the
budget. We do not intimate that, in view of the
absolute duty of paying the police upon requisi-
tion of the police commissioner imposed by statute
upon the city, an appropriation available for the
purpose is a condition precedent to liability of the
city to a patrolman for pay for his services. See
St. 1909, c. 486, ss. 3, 16. Compare Police Com-
mssioner of Boston y. Boston, 239 Mass. 401;
Batchelder v. Salem, 4 Cush. 599; Charlestown v.
Gardner, 96 Mass. 587; Decatur v. Auditor of
Peabody, 251 Mass. 82. But this question need
not be considered in this proceeding.
It is submitted that, while this case in no way
indicates that if an expense provided for by
sections 8 and 9 of chapter 291 is not included
in a budget estimate it can be incurred without
appropriation, it gives some indication that the
Court might hold that if such expense is included
and no appropriation is made it may be so in-
curred. The point was not argued before the
Court by counsel for the city and was not neces-
sary for the decision, so that not much, if any,
reliance may be placed on the inference which can
be drawn from the language of the Court.
In view of the foregoing it is my opinion with
reference to your first inquiry:
1. The Police Department expenses not pro-
vided for in sections 8 and 9 of chapter 291 of the
Acts of 1908 'assuming thai nol all expenses are
provided for in said sections) cannol properly be
incurred in the absence of an appropriation there-
for except in cases of extreme emergency involving
the health or safety of the people or their prop-
erty, unless they are incurred within the limits of
section 330 of the Acts of 1889, and
2. That Police Department expenses provided
for in sections 8 and 9 of said chapter 291 cannot
properly be incurred in the absence of an appro-
priation therefor, except in cases of extreme
emergency involving the health or safety of the
people or their property, unless they are incurred
within the limits of section 320 of the Acts of
1889, with the following possible further exception
— that if the Police Commissioner includes in his
estimate of expenditures as necessary expenses,
expenses included within the provisions of sections
8 and 9, the city may be obligated to pay said
expenses if the same are subsequently incurred in
the year for which the estimate was submitted
even though no appropriation be made therefor.
II.
The answer to your first inquiry prepares the
way for an answer to your second and more
specific inquiry with regard to the agreements
entered into by the Police Commissioner under
date of February 15, 1934, with General Electric
Company and R. J. Connolly, Inc.
It is my understanding that at the time these
agreements were entered into $75,000 had been
duly appropriated to be expended under the
direction of the Police Commissioner for a police
radio system, the necessary funds to be borrowed
by the city. It is also my understanding that
this was the only appropriation in effect at the
time the contracts were entered into available to
meet the payments called for thereunder.
I further understand that when the Police
Commissioner presented his budget estimates for
1934 he included an item of 8350,000 for a police
communication system and that, after the execu-
tion and delivery of the agreements in question,
the sum of $350,000 was duly appropriated to be
expended under the provisions of chapter 366 of
the Acts of 1933, as amended, for such a system.
Under, the terms of the agreement with General
Electric Company it was provided that, subject
to certain additions and deductions therein
described, the city should pay to General Electric
Company the sum of $89,800 and General Electric
Company should furnish all labor, material and
equipment required for certain work described in
paragraph six of the proposal incorporated in the
agreement and to complete said work in three
hundred fifty calendar days.
It is my opinion that the expenses to be incurred
under this agreement are not "incidental expenses"
within the meaning of these words in section 8 of
chapter 291 of the Acts of 1906 and are not in-
cluded within the expenses provided for by chapter
320 of the Acts of 1889. It is, therefore, my
opinion that the expenses so to be incurred properly
could not be incurred without appropriation
therefor except in case of extreme emergency
involving the health or safety of the people or their
property. While the Police Commissioner must
determine with reference to his expenditures and
contracts what constitutes such an emergency, his
determination is not necessarily conclusive. I
have not been advised that the Police Commis-
sioner has determined that the contract in question
is needed because of such an emergency but I do
not believe that such a determination, if made,
would be sustained by the courts. As the agree-
ment in question calls for payments in excess of
the amount appropriated it is my opinion that
it is not binding upon the city.
If a court should hold that the term "incidental
expenses" includes all police department expenses,
I am inclined to believe that it would not hold that
the city .authorities were under a duty to appro-
priate all sums requested by the Police Commis-
sioner. In other words, I am inclined to believe
that, if a broad interpretation were given the
words "incidental expenses," the courts would
hold that the Police Commissioner was subject to
all the limitations of our budget law.
While an order has recently been made appro-
priating $350,000 for a police communication
system, it should be noted that this order was
made after the General Electric Company con-
tract was apparently executed and delivered and
authorizes expenditures only in accordance with
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, as amended.
Chapter 366 as amended authorizes cities to
APRIL 16, 1934.
132
engage in certain public works projects but only
"in case the proper federal authorities have ap-
proved a grant therefor" and authorizes cities to
carry out such projects "in all respects subject to
the provisions of" the National Industrial Recovery
Act. The federal authorities have not as yet offi-
cially approved a grant for the police communica-
tion system and the General Electric Company
contract does not comply with federal require-
ments made prior to the provisions of the National
Industrial Recovery Act.
In view of the foregoing I am of the opinion that
the adoption of the above-mentioned appropriation
order of S350.000 does not make the General
Electric Company contract a binding one upon the
city.
Under the terms of the agreement with R. J.
Connolly, Inc., it was provided that the city should
pay to R. J. Connolly, Inc., the sum of SI, 539,
and that R. J. Connolly, Inc., should provide all
the labor, materials and equipment required to
perform certain work described in certain specifica-
tions referred to in the agreement and entitled
"Specification P, Building Alterations to Provide
Communication Control Room at Police Head-
quarters."
As the amount to be paid under this contract was
within the amount appropriated for a Police Radio
System and as the subject matter of the contract
was incidental to such a system, I cannot advise
you that the contract is invalid as in excess of
appropriations.
Very truly yours.
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
The message was placed on file and the opinion,
on motion of Coun. TOBIN, was ordered printed
as a city document.
RECONSTRUCTION OF WARDS 9, 12 AND 14
STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — 1 transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
orders of the City Council, concerning the recon-
struction of various streets in Wards 9, 12 and 14.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, April 12, 1934.
To the Honorable Mayor.
I return herewith orders of the City Council
relative to the reconstruction of various streets
and respectfully report that the estimated cost
of constructing permanent pavements in these
streets is as follows:
Estimated Cost.
Norfolk street, Ward 9, from Lambert ave-
nue to Highland street $6,000
Hansborough street, Ward 14, from Blue
Hill avenue to Harvard street 7,300
Wenonah street, Ward 12, from Elm Hill
avenue to Waumbeck street 7,000
Nightingale street, Ward 14, Bernard street
to Talbot avenue 17,800
Howland street, Ward 12, from Warren to
Harold streets 22,200
Waumbeck street, Ward 12, from Warren
street to Humboldt avenue 11,800
Perrin street, Ward 12, from Moreland
to Waverly streets 6,600
Wakullah street, Ward 12, from Rockland
to Dale streets 3,000
Sufficient funds are not available with which to
do any large amount of street construction work
this year.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
RIGHT OF WAY FOR FIRE APPARATUS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 10, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Law Department, with an attached letter from
the Fire Commissioner, relative to your order of
January 29, 1934, concerning the issuance by cer-
tain members of the Boston Fire Department of
summonses to motorists not giving the right of
way to fire apparatus en route to a fire.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, April 9, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — Under date of February 13,
1934, you called my attention to the following
order of the City Council and have asked my
opinion as to the advisability of the legislation
therein suggested for consideration:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to consider the advisability of requesting
legislation so that certain members of the Boston
Fire Department might be given the right to issue
reckless driving summonses to motorists not giving
the right of way to fire apparatus en route to a
fire, since the majority of accidents involving fire
apparatus is caused by the motorists not giving
the right of way.
I have taken the liberty of calling the matter
of the proposed legislation to the attention of the
Fire Commissioner and inclose herewith a letter
from him with regard to the same.
In view of the fact that the Fire Commissioner,
whose department would chiefly be affected by
such legislation, does not consider such legislation
necessary or desirable, and because the objections
stated by him in his inclosed letter appear to me
to be substantially sound, I do not believe that
you should ask for such legislation at the present
time.
Yours truly,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
City of Boston,
Fire Department, March 24, 1934.
Henry E. Foley, Esq.,
Corporation Counsel.
Dear Sir, — Mr. Isidore H. Fox, Legislative
Counsel for the City of Boston, has asked me to
write to you concerning the following order:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to consider the advisability of requesting
legislation so that certain members of the Boston
Fire Department might be given the right to issue
reckless driving summonses to motorists not giving
the right of way to fire apparatus en route to a
fire, since the majority of accidents involving fire
apparatus is caused by the motorist not giving
the right of way.
I appreciate very much the splendid intentions
and worthy purpose of the City Council in passing
this order but, in giving my opinion at the request
of Mr. Fox, I would like to emphasize the fact
that the authority requested by the order has
received consideration from me several times in
the past. My study of the situation and my
conception of the purpose for which the Fire De-
partment is organized leads me to believe it would
be most unwise to give the members of the Fire
Department not only the authority but the obli-
gation to issue summonses to motorists who in-
terfere with the response of apparatus to fires. I
base this opinion on the fact that I believe this
is purely a police and court function.
When this department has information to
identify the drivers of automobiles who mali-
ciously and deliberately interfere with the response
of the apparatus to fires, it has been the custom
to report them to the police or the Registrar of
Motor Vehicles. Placing the additional obliga-
tion on the members of the department to stop
and issue summonses would only tend to delay
the response of the apparatus and at the same
time cause further confusion of a police and court
function.
Yours very truly,
Edward F. McLaughlin,
Fire Commissioner.
Placed on file.
BROWN TERRACE, WARD 19.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Street Commissiomers, relative to
133
CITY COUNCIL.
your order of March 1!), 1034, concerning the
laying out and construction of Brown terrace,
from Seaverns avenue to Harris avenue, Ward lu!
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
„ , . April 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of BohIi.h.
Dear Sir, — In reply to your request for report
on the order of the City Couneil requesting the
laying out and construction of Brown terrace,
from Seaverns avenue to Harris avenue, Ward 19,
I wish to state that nothing at all has been done'
on this street and the matter of further considera-
tion must stand in obeyance until a definite policy
of new street construction is determined.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
GROVER STREET, WARD 19.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of March 19, 1934, concerning the
laying out and construction of Grover street.
Ward 19.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
April 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — In reply to your request for report
on the order of the City Council requesting the
laying out and construction of Grover street,
Ward 19, I wish to state that nothing at all has been
done on this street and the matter of further
consideration must stand in obeyance until a
definite policy of new street construction is deter-
mined.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
FORM OF GRANT AGREEMENT IN RE
SEWERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 16, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I have received from the Federal
Emergency Administrator of Public Works with
letter of transmittal dated April 13, 1934, forms of
grant agreement relating to the following Public
Works Project:
Construction, Reconstruction and Replacement
of Sewers and the Covering of Open Water Courses,
P. W. A. Docket No. 4193, one copy of which I
submit herewith. I am also submitting herewith
a form of order authorizing consent to the re-
scission of the loan and grant agreement relating
to said project, which loan and grant agreement
was approved by your honorable body by order
passed on February 28, 1934, and approving and
authorizing the execution and delivery to the
United States of America of said grant agreement,
in accordance with the instructions of the adminis-
trator.
For the reasons set forth in my letter to you
of April 9, 1934, I recommend prompt considera-
tion and passage by your honorable body of said
order because of the limited time available for the
execution and delivery of said grant agreement
and because of the desirability of commencing
work on said project without delay.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to consent for and in behalf of the City
of Boston to the rescission of the loan and grant
agreement between the City of Boston and the
i nited States of America, approved by the City
Council ...i February 28, 1934, relating to the
project of Construction, Reconstruction and
Replacement of Sewers and the Covering of Open
Water Courses, P. W. A. Docket No. 4193; and
Further Ordered. That the Mayor be, and he
hereby in. authorized to Pxcnito and deliver to the
United Slates of America for and in behalf of the
City of Boston, three counter-parts of the grant
agreement between the City of Boston and the
I nited States of America relating to said project
and providing for the grant to the City of Boston
by the United Stales of America of certain hind.
upon the terms and conditions in said grant agree-
ment set forth, one copy of which grant agreement
has been submitted to Ihis meeting and is made a
part of the minutes hereof, and that said grant
agreement be and the same hereby is approved.
Referred to Executive Committee.
HARMON STREET, WARD 18.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 16, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of April 9, 1934, concerning the accept-
ance and laying out of Harmon street, Ward 18.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners, April 13, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir,— In reply to your communication under
date of April 11, 1934, concerning order of the
City Council relative to the acceptance and laying
out of Harmon street, Ward 18, I wish to report
that this request must take its place with many
other similar petitions awaiting a determination
of the extent of our new street construction pro-
gram for 1934.
If and when sufficient funds are made available
for such work this street will receive the careful
consideration of the Board.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
AVAILABILITY OF PUBLIC WELFARE
DOCUMENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 16, 19.34.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of Public Welfare, relative to your
order of April 2, 1934, concerning the production
of documents, statistics, cards and other records of
the department before the Special Committee of the
City Council on Investigation of the Public Welfare
Department.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare, April 13, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following reply is respectfully
submitted in response to an order of the City
Council which reads as follows:
That his Honor the Mayor be requested to in-
struct the Overseers of the Public Welfare and the
secretary and other subordinates in the depart-
ment to produce before the Special Committee of
the City Council on Investigation of the Public
Welfare Department, any documents, statistics,
cards and other records of the department which
the committee may by vote request to be produced.
Kindly be advised that the Department of
Public Welfare desires to cooperate in every way
with the Special Committee of the City Council,
and in this connection the executive director of
the department will be glad to appear before the
Special Committee of the City Council on Investi-
gation of the Public Welfare upon request in writing
APRIL 16, 1934.
134
and will produce or have produced any documents,
statistics, cards and other records of the depart-
ment which the committee may by vote request.
Respectfully yours,
Walteb V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENT OF CONSTABLES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 16, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body, I hereby appoint the following
named persons constables of the City of Boston
for the term of one year beginning with the first
day of May, 1934, authorized to serve civil process
upon filing bonds.
Since under the law all constables' terms expire
on April thirtieth of each year, the commissions of
all constables not named herein will expire on
April 30, 1934, and thereafter all such persons will
cease to be constables of the City of Boston.
A further list of constables will be submitted to
your honorable body at its next meeting.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Amerieo Alviti, 71 Meridian street, East Boston,
Ward 1; William A. Amsie, 29 South Munroe
terrace, Dorchester, Ward 16; Henry Atwood,
128 Wrentham street, Dorchester, Ward 16;
Chester A. Bailey, 1140 Commonwealth avenue.
Brighton, Ward 21; Charles A. Bancroft, 32
Colorado street, Mattapan, Ward 18; David
Belson, 21 Park Vale avenue, Allston, Ward 21;
Joseph L. Bennett, 20 Deckard street, Roxbury,
Ward 12; Carl Birger Berg, 301 Norfolk street,
Dorchester, Ward 17; George A. Borofski, 39
Park Vale avenue, Allston, Ward 21; Thomas F.
Brett, 15 Malta street, Mattapan, Ward 18;
Charles B. Broad, 7 Price road, Allston, Ward 21;
George W. Brooker, 20 Doncaster street, Dorches-
ter, Ward 18; Francis E. Brown, 98 Folsom street,
Hyde Park, Ward 18; Joseph B. Brown, 31 Fabyan
street, Ward 14; Warren A. Brown, 53 Hereford
street, Ward 5; Louis Budd, 32 Wildwood street,
Dorchester, Ward 14; Sherman H. Calderwood,
106 Houghton street, Dorchester, Ward 16; Edgar
F. Callahan, 84 Gordon street, Brighton, Ward 21;
Thomas Cannizzarro, 177 K street, South Boston,
Ward 6; James A. Canton, 169 Glenway street,
Dorchester, Ward 14; William Carmill, 506 East
Fourth street, South Boston, Ward 6; Daniel B.
Carmody, 21 Wabeno street, Roxbury, Ward 12;
Thomas C. Carr, 196 Savin Hill avenue, Dorchester,
Ward 13; William K. Coburn, 116 Englewood
avenue, Brighton, Ward 21; Harry I. Cohen, 47
Glenway street, Dorchester, Ward 14; Sidney
Cohen, 151 Woodrow avenue, Dorchester, Ward
14; Samuel Coulter, 40 Empire street, Allston,
Ward 22; Joseph Coviello, 2 Centre terrace,
Roxbury, Ward 20; Henry G. Dahlquist, 1743
Dorchester avenue, Dorchester, Ward 16; Charles
M. Daley, 49 Walter street, Roslindale, Ward 20;
John J. Daunt, 68 Adamson street, Allston, Ward
22; William Davis, 115 Devon street, Dorchester,
Ward 14; Walter F. Delaney, 6 Hutchinson street,
Dorchester, Ward 16; John J. Dillon, 25 Ches-
brough road, West Roxbury, Ward 20; Joseph
Dinubile, 28 Porter street. East Boston. Ward 1;
David A. Donahue, 366 Meridian street, East Bos-
ton, Ward 1 ; Walter A. Donlan, 55 Penfield street,
Roslindale, Ward 20; Daniel J. Donovan, 71 Bald-
win street, Charlestown, Ward 2; Emory Douglass,
62 Turner street. Ward 22; Stephen J. Dunleavy,
3 Oakman street, Dorchester, Ward 16; Charles
W. Duran, 64 Munroe street, Roxbury, Ward 12;
George H. Evans, 44 Quint avenue, Allston,
Ward 21; Nathan Farber, 46 Forsyth street,
Ward 4; Gilbert I. Favor, 131 Maple street,
Ward 20; Thomas J. Francis, 1 Lorenzo street,
Dorchester, Ward 16; Thomas Freedman, 7. Iola
street, Dorchester, Ward 14; Paul R. Gast, 98 St.
Rose street, Jamaica Plain, Ward 11; Albert G.
Gilbert, 688 Walk Hill street, Dorchester, Ward 14;
Arthur Glass, 244 Warren street, Roxbury, Ward
12; Morris J. Glick, 38 Holborn street, Roxbury,
Ward 12; William A. Glynn, 31 Centre street,
Roxbury, Ward 9; Louis Goldberg, 55 Goodale
road, Dorchester, Ward 14; Jacob Goldberg, 536
Harvard street, Dorchester, Ward 14; Samuel
Goldkrand, 108 Waumbeck street, Roxbury,
Ward 12; Meyer Goldstein, 43 Cheney street,
Roxbury, Ward 12; Samuel Goldstein, 9 Astoria
street, Dorchester, Ward 14; Solomon Gorfinkle,
62 Cheney street, Roxbury, Ward 12; Abner
Goulston, 1127 Commonwealth avenue, Brighton,
Ward 21; Edmund C. Grady, 1066 Saratoga
street, East Boston, Ward 1; John S. Grady, 15
Wachusett street, Forest Hills, Ward 19; Sears H.
Grant, 645 Beacon street, Ward 5; George W.
Green, 70 Bartlett street, Roxbury, Ward 9;
Leon J. Greene, 41 Edgerly road, Boston, Ward
4; William C. Gregory, 98 Lake street, Brighton,
Ward 22; St. Clair E. Hale, 1617 Dorchester
avenue, Dorchester, Ward 16; John F. Halli-
gan, 460 Quincy street, Dorchester, Ward 15;
Francis L. Hannigan, 13 Shepard street, Brighton,
22; John D. Hayes, 41 Edgerly road, Boston,
Ward 4; Richard Hegarty, 69 Ballou avenue,
Dorchester, Ward 14; Joseph Herman, 93 Lucerne
street, Dorchester, Ward 14; John H. Howard,
472 Gallivan Boulevard, Dorchester, Ward 16;
Jacob Isgur, 82 Lorna road, Dorchester, Ward 18;
Charles H. Jackson, 497 Huntington avenue,
Boston, Ward 4; Max Jacobs, 49 Chambers street,
Ward 3; Harry Kahn, 24 Ruthven street, Roxbury,
Ward 12; David Benedict Kaplan, 93 Lawrence
avenue, Ward 14; William H. Kenney, 41 Bowdoin
street, Boston Ward 3; Thomas H. King, 81
Roxbury street, Ward 9, David Klayman, 502 Nor-
folk street, Dorchester, Ward 18; Charles C.
Knibbs, 15 Park Vale avenue, Brighton, Ward 21;
Bronis Kontrim, 120 Marine road. South Boston,
Ward 7; Mark H. Krafsur, 447 Norfolk street, Dor-
chester, Ward 14; Nathan Kravistky, 306 Washing-
ton street, Dochester, Ward 16; Abraham Krinsky,
68 Johnston road, Dorchester, Ward 14; Abraham
Landfield, 5 Leston street, Dorchester, Ward 14;
Frank F. Lane, 137 Peterborough street, Boston,
Ward 21; Albert A. Levine, 6 Weldon street,
Roxbury, Ward 10; Louis Levine, 1330 Common-
wealth avenue, Brighton, Ward 21; Maurice
Levine, 23 Wabeno street, Roxbury, Ward 12;
Frank J. Macchia, 4 Charter street, Boston,
Ward 3; Robert C. Mains, 31 Justin road, Brighton,
Ward 22; Leslie P. Mann, 54 St. Stephen street,
Boston, Ward 4; Henry Marco, 720 Morton
street, Mattapan, Ward 14; Isie Martin, 12 Ashton
street, Dorchester, Ward 14; John A. May, 68
Monadnock street, Dorchester, Ward 13; Lawrence
F. McEachern, 235 Bennington street, East
Boston, Ward 1; John T. McGovern, 34 Worcester
square, Ward 8; William P. Miles, 11 Groom
street, Dorchester, Ward 7; John J. Miller, 100
Colborne road, Brighton, Ward 21; Harold C.
Mitchell, 274 Brookline avenue, Boston, Ward 4;
John A. Mitchell, 96 Milton avenue, Dorchester,
Ward 17; Bernard M. Mullen, 90 Homer street,
East Boston, Ward 1; Andrew W. Murphy, 185
Park street, West Roxbury, Ward 20; Patrick H.
Murphy, 5 Althea street, Dorchester, Ward 16;
Nathan Neitlich, 102 Talbot avenue, Dorchester,
Ward 14; Fred K. Nopolitaro, 58 Auburn street,
Ward 3; John B. Nowak, 56 Pinckney street,
Boston, Ward 5; Elmer S. Nyman, 350 Columbus
avenue, Boston, Ward 4; Edward Ober, 95 Night-
ingale street, Docrhester, Ward 14; Emil Ober,
222 Norwall street, Dorhester, Ward 17; Michael
W. Ober, 80 King street, Dorchester, Ward 16;
Bert Oppenheim, 1634 Commonwealth avenue,
Brighton, Ward 21; Louis H. Oppenheim, 1638
Commonwealth avenue, Brighton, Ward 21;
Frederick Patridge, 107 West Cottage street,
Roxbury, Ward 8; James G. Peters, 107 Sawyer
avneue, Dorchester, Ward 13; Philip S. Phillips,
829 Blue Hill avenue, Dorchester, Ward 14;
Leonard M. Pike, 50 Bailey street, Dorchester,
Ward 17; David I. Rattet, 34 Stanwood street,
Roxbury, Ward 14; Walter W. Regan, 207 Gold
street, South Boston, Ward 6; Harry Reinherz,
52 Columbia road, Dorchester, Ward 14; Abraham
Rosenberg, 58 Brunswick street, Roxbury, Ward
12; Morris Rosenberg, 19 Melville avenue, Brighton,
Ward 21; William T. Rosengarten, 195 Humboldt
avenue, Roxbury, Ward 12; Albert M. Sacks,
19 Brenton street, Dorchester, Ward 14; William
Schneider, 56 Torrey street, Dorchester, Ward 17;
Samuel Shain, 36 Fessenden street, Dorchester,
Ward 18; Frank Shaw, 133 Pembroke street,
Boston, Ward 4; Sidney J. Sheinfield, 166 Rosseter
street, Dorchester, Ward 14; Isaac Shulman,
173 Columbia road, Dorchester, Ward 14; Joseph
Simansky, 61 Wales street, Dorchester, Ward 14;
Michael F. Simmons, 13 Woodville park, Roxbury,
Ward 8; Henry J. D. Small, 14 Windermere road,
Dorchester, Ward 13; Leon Small, 103 Geneva
avenue, Dorhcester, Ward 14; Gustave Spanier,
155 Strathmore road, Brighton, Ward 21; Frank
Staula,^ 83 Maple street, Hyde Park Ward 18;
John Sualich 115 Homestead street, Roxbury,
Ward 12; Ulysses T. Sullivan, 19 Myrtle street,
13f>
CITY COUNCIL.
ItiiHl Ward 3; Jerome Suvallo, 598 Harvard
street., Mattapan, Ward L4; George .1. Swidler,
Ii8 IIoHiiier inn Dorchester, Ward 14; Benjamin
J, TackefT, 52 Columbia road, Dorchester, Ward
11; Anthony J. Testa, 185 Maverick street, East
Boston, Ward 1; William Topper, 107 Devon
street, Dorchester, Ward 14; David Tobey, 81
Walnut avenue, Roxbury, Ward 12; Francis J.
Tobin, 29 Parsons Btreet, Brighton, Ward 22;
Joseph Todisco, 149 Paris Btreet, East Boston,
Wanl 1; Joseph M. Torr, 133 Pembroke street,
Boston, Ward 4; Aber Uckerman, 24 Deckard
street, Roxbury, Ward 12; Roman J. Vasil, 11
Granada avenue, Roslindale, Ward 18; John J.
Walsh, 7 Madison street, Roxbury, Ward 9;
Harry A. Webber, 455 Massachusetts avenue,
Boston, Ward 9; Abraham I. Weiss, 15 Johnston
road, Dorchester, Ward 14; John A. Wrapt;,
62 Shepton street, Dorchester, Ward 16; Frederick
J. Wright, 3 Rena street Brighton, Ward 22;
Louis Yacker, 1071 Blue Hill avenue, Dorchester,
Ward 14; Maurice Zeeman, 36 Callender street,
Dorchester, Ward 14; Max Zimmerman, 15 Brad-
shaw street, Dorchester, Ward 14.
Laid over for one week under the law and
referred to the Committee on Constables.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Paul Adolino, for compensation for damage
to property at 42 Pitts street, caused by fire
apparatus.
Fannie Apelgren, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 906 Cummins
Highway.
Anthony Brogna, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 95 Stamford street.
L. Cohen, for refund on refuse tckets.
Rebecca Darish, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Harrison avenue.
Dominic LaCentra, for refund on beer license.
N. W. Lyon, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Summer street.
James F. Mullen, for refund on beer license.
Victor L. Nickle, for refund on beer license.
Michael O'Rourke, for compensation for loss
of articles at fire at 710 Albany street.
John Riggs, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 71 Poplar street.
Virginia Robinson, for compensation for damage
to property at 9 Braddock park, caused by ash
team.
Dominick Spina, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 318 and 320 Dudley
street.
Delia M. Sullivan, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at Washington
and Madison streets.
Frank Teton, for compensation for damage to
car caused by an alleged defect at 245 Talbot
avenue.
John H. Timmons, for refund on druggist's
license.
John Legelis, for refund on beer license.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of
age to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
A. Marie Govone, Repertory Theatre, May 23.
Veronica R. Sheridan, Repertory Theatre,
June 15.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway to operate
motor vehicles between Central square, East
Boston, and Boston Airport; over Meridian
street, Maverick square, Sumner street, Orleans
street, Webster street, Sumner street, Jeffries
street and Maverick street to the Airport; return
over Maverick street, Jeffries street, Sumner
street, Maverick square, Chelsea street, Porter
street and Central square.
RAILWAY POLICE NO LONGER
REQUIRED.
Notice was received from the Boston Elevated
Railway that they no longer required services as
Btreet railway police of thirty-nine men named in
list dated April io, 1934. The lii
Placed on lih:.
list wa- attached.
SIDEWALK ASSESSMENTS.
Notices were received from the Commissioner
of Public Works, together with orders assessing
half cost of constructing artificial stone sidewalks
ai/aim-l owners of record of e-inie. bordering on
streets, viz.:
Half Co '
Washington street, Ward 17 $3,799 13
Arden street. Ward 22 ... 1 .320 74
Adams street. Ward 17 92 29
Readville street. Ward 18 2,077 05
Munroe street, Ward 12 1 ,142 64
The orders were passed under suspension of the
rule.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted the following:
1. ReporX on petition of Gordon Joyce (re-
ferred March 19) to be reimbursed for amount of
execution issued against him on account of his acts
as police officer of City of Boston, recommending
passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of fifteen dollars and
fifteen cents be allowed and paid to Gordon Joyce
in reimbursement for the amount of execution
issued against him on account of his acts as a
member of the Boston Police Department, said
sum to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; said order passed.
2. Report on petition of Ferdinand E. Breed
(referred July 10) to be reimbursed for amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as police officer of the City of Boston, recom-
mending passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of two hundred fifty
dollars be allowed and paid to Ferdinand E. Breed
in reimbursement for the amount of judgment
issued against him on account of his acts as a
member of the Boston Police Department, said
sum to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; said order passed.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
LANDS.
Coun. DONOVAN, for the Committee on Public
Lands, submitted report on message of Mayor
(referred December 4. 1933) recommending sale
of old Police Station 12 — recommending passage of
following order, viz.:
Ordered, That the Superintendent of Public
Buildings be hereby authorized to sell, at a duly
advertised public auction, the property on East
Fourth street, near K street, South Boston, for-
merly occupied for Police Station 12, at an upset
price of $5,000.
Report accepted; order given its first reading
and passage, yeas 16, nays 0.
FINANCIAL CONDITION OF BOSTON
ELEVATED RAILWAY COMPANY.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request the
Metropolitan Transit Commission to investigate
the newspaper accounts of the statistics compiled
by James T. Swan, a C. P. A., pertaining to the
financial condition of the Boston Elevated Railway
Company.
Referred to Executive Committee.
ROPING OFF CENTRE STREET.
Coun. MURRAY, ENGLERT, DOHERTY
and FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That Centre street, Jamaica Plain,
be roped off on Thursday morning, April 19, on the
occasion of the Michael J. O'Connell race, etc., the
expense to be charged to the appropriation for
City Council, Ropes and Stakes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APRIL 16, 1934.
136
McLEOD BILL.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council favors
the passage of the McLeod Bill, which provides
that the National Government shall take over the
assets of all closed banks which were Federal
Reserve System members, issue currency on these
assets, and repay the depositors in full at once.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. Presdent, speaking
briefly on this resolution, the matter referred to,
which is now pending before Congress in Washing-
ton, is, I understand, going to be voted upon one
week from today. It is a thing that will, in my
opinion, largely help a great number of people in
this city, whose money is now tied up in banks
that were connected with the Federal Reserve
System. The bill now pending in Washington
proposes to free both the liquid and frozen assets
of the banks concerned, so that the depositors may
have access to their money. I believe that the
residents of Boston whose money is tied up in these
various banks will, through this action, have an
opportunity to get it back, and the city in general
will be somewhat benefitted.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I am not
sure that I got the drift of this order, but I thought
it had something to do with the indorsement of a
measure before Congress, with which, of course,
the city government of Boston has nothing what-
ever to do. I believe we should at least see the
bill and study it before we pass any indorsement
of it. Therefore, I move that this resolution be
referred to the Executive Committee.
President DOWD — Objection being raised, the
Chair will refer the matter to the Committee on
Rules.
The order was referred to the Committee on
Rules.
RE-REGISTRATION OF WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Urdered, That the Public Welfare Department,
through his Honor the Mayor, order the immediate
re-registration of all recipients of public welfare
aid. Such re-registration to take place in the dis-
trict in which the recipient resides.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. President, it was interest-
ing last week to read in the Boston newspapers
that a recipient of public welfare was brought
before the bar of justice in our municipal court,
and I wish to read a part of what Judge Zottoli,
the presiding justice, said, in making his findings:
"This particular draining of the welfare funds
has been going on for some time, and where the
annual sum of $13,000,000 is spent as aid is in-
volved, there should be a more thorough investiga-
tion into the needs of welfare recipients."
At the present time, we read and hear a great
deal about the impending threatening financial
condition of the City of Boston. We also realize
that the Mayor of Boston in his sound wisdom
and judgment is endeavoring to strengthen the
financial structure of Boston, and has taken various
steps. While we may not entirely agree with
some of the things he has done, in the last analysis
we do believe that the financial structure of the
city is apparently toppling and that some action
is needed so that the finances of Boston will be
put back into such a condition that the discharge
and suspension of employees may not be necessary.
If there is a re-registration of recipients of welfare,
it will, in my opinion, relieve somewhat the burden
placed upon the taxpayers. This is, in my opinion,
a necessary and a very simple order. It calls
upon the Mayor to direct the Welfare Department
to order the immediate re-registration of all wel-
fare recipients. It simply means a little vision
and a little foresight applied to this problem. We
are soon to consider the budget of the city, and
when such of it as concerns the Welfare Depart-
ment is presented to us we should be prepared to
vote intelligently on the question of whether or
not the appropriation asked for by the departs
ment is warranted. I feel, as many other mem-
bers of the body feel, and as they have stated in
the past, that the Welfare Department of the city
is the largest spending department we now have.
I might liken the City of Boston and the Mayor
to a ship on a stormy sea, with a leaking bottom,
and the Mayor at the helm trying to bring the
vessel through safely. That is the position of
Boston, as it is presented to us today. To prop-
erly understand the budget of the Welfare Depart-
ment, we will have to obtain much more informa-
tion than we have today. We should first be
convinced that those receiving welfare are worthy
cases. I have said nothing in the order about
how the investigation should be conducted. I
have merely asked that re-registration take place
in the districts in which the recipients live. It is
obvious that there must be some means by which
those conducting the investigation may determine
whether the present recipients of welfare are
worthy or unworthy. I firmly believe that if the
suggested action is taken, and taken immediately,
before the budget is submitted to the Council, the
burden now upon the shoulders of the Mayor, the
City Council and the taxpayers will be somewhat
relieved. I believe this offers a solution for the
taxpayers, and that it will result in greatly bene-
fitting the financial structure of the City of Boston.
Therefore, I ask that the order be passed under
suspension of the rule.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
FEES FOR STORAGE OF GASOLENE, ETC.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to recommend establishment of graduated
fees, under authority of chapter 297 of the Acts
of 1931, for permits for storage of gasolene and
other fuel oils.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PERMIT OF COLEMAN DISPOSAL
COMPANY.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Health Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to cancel
the permit of the Coleman Disposal Company to
dump refuse and waste matter along the South
Boston waterfront as it constitutes a menace to
the health of residents of the district and, if allowed
to continue, will pollute the waters of the bathing
beaches in South Boston.
Coun. KERRIGAN— Mr. President, during a
recent period millions of dollars have been expended
to build up the Strandway, which extends for two
miles along the shores of Dorchester Bay, with
the result that today it is one of the beauty and
health-giving spots of the country. During the
summertime thousands upon thousands of men.
women and children visit this spot to enjoy God's
sunshine and a cool, refreshing dip It would be
a calamity if now anything should interfere to
stop this custom. I am, therefore, calling atten-
tion to the prevalent conditions of those waters
today. The Coleman Disposal Company has
docking facilities adjoining Dorchester Bay, with
the result that a lot of garbage, rubbish and refuse
matter that should go to the dump gets into the
water, causing pollution and contamination. An
ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and
so I am calling upon Doctor Mahoney to stop this
practice of the Coleman Company that is going
on at the present time. It semes an outrage that
the City of Boston should spend millions of dollars
to build up that section of South Boston into one
of the finest spots in the country, and to then allow
the Coleman Disposal Company or any other
company to^spoil it.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
INTEREST ON DELINQUENT TAXES.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Legislative Committee of the
Boston City Council petition for legislation reduc-
ing the amount of interest on delinquent taxes
from eight (8) per cent to five (5) per cent.
Coun. BRACKMAN — Mr. President, I have
introduced this order because I understand that the
Legislature has control of the question of what the
amount of interest to be paid on delinquent taxes
should be. I notice that this year there have been
two conferences in the Legislature, one giving the
cities and towns the right to settle the amount of
interest to be paid on their own delinquent taxes,
which was referred to the next annual session,
and the next to reduce the amount of interest to
2 per cent Personally, I believe that 2 per cent is
too low, and that 8 per cent is really confiscatory.
In some previous years when people were com-
pelled to pay a high rate of interest on their
137
CITY COUNCIL.
delinquent taxes, I think it might at times have
been fair to require them to do so, but we now
have thousands of cases where taxes are not
paid because I he people do not have the money with
which to pay them. Therefore, I say that 8 per
cent is an atrocious amount to charge those who
have not the money to pay their taxes. I hope,
therefore, that we will put ourselves on record and
in favor of payment of 5 per cent, as a compromise
measure, rather than 8 per cent.
Tin' order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
ABATEMENTS ON REAL PROPERTY.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to furnish
the City Council with the following information:
1. Total of abatements on real property,
January 1, 1933, to April 15, 1933, and number
of parcels involved.
2. Total of abatements on real property,
January 1, this year, to April 15, this year, and
number of parcels involved.
3. Total abatement on real property for entire
year 1933.
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to inform
the City Council, in writing, as follows:
1. Whether or not records of tax abatements,
current or otherwise, made by the Board of Asses-
sors, are matters of public record.
2. Whether or not such records are available
for inspection by members of the City Council or
individual taxpayers of the city, and if so, is there
any restriction on the time, place or manner of
such inspection?
3. Whether or not the original petitions for
abatements are open to public inspection by mem-
bers of the City Council or by individual taxpayers.
Ordered, That the Finance Commission be re-
quested to investigate all abatements made by
the assessors from January 1, 1934, to April 15,
1934, and report to the City Council concerning
the granting of such abatements on all properties
valued in excess of $20,000, and report also on
the names of the firms or individuals petitioning
for such abatements.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, the
main question with which these three orders are
concerned is the abatements that have been ap-
proved by the Assessing Board of the City of
Boston. There seems to be a question raised in
that Board as to the right of an individual tax-
payer or of a City Councilor in pursuance of his
duty to examine the records of abatement that
have been approved by the administration. I
have been interested to determine the amount of
abatements that have been allowed to this so-called
State street gang, because during the past month,
while these discharges of city employees have
taken place, the Mayor's justification for the dis-
charges has been that he had a particularly sym-
pathetic and compassionate feeling for the small
real estate owner. I had almost arrived at the
point where I believed that the Mayor was deter-
mined to relieve the small real estate owner by
giving to that particular group the attention that
has been denied to it in the past. Accordingly,
I went downstairs to the assessors'" office and
asked if I could examine the records, and Mr.
Kelly, the chairman of the Board, consented to
the examination. But I had not been on the
books for more than possibly seven or eight min-
utes when the secretary of the Board, Mr. Murphy,
in a very excited and hurried manner, came over
and virtually took the books away from me. He
said that that was none of my concern, that I
had no right to examine the records of abatements
that were approved by his department; that he
wanted to make sure in the matter, and asked
that I postpone the examination until such time
as the Corporation Counsel could render an
opinion as to my status. So I consented, and
waited. Several hours afterwards the Corpora-
tion Counsel called me up and said I had a right
to examine the records; so I immediately went
downstairs and started my examination again.
But Mr. Murphy once again took the books away
and said I had no business with them, that regard-
less of the opinion of the Corporation Counsel I
could not examine the records. But in the short
time that I did have the opportunity of examining
the records I was able to get information which
justified my suspicions regarding this sympathetic
feeling for the small real estate owner, because
I was astounded to learn that the majority, the
vast majority of the petitions pertaining to the
banking district were signed by the lirm of Warren,
Garfield, Whiteside &. Lamson. I think it would
be interesting to learn who these gentlemen are
who have been able since the first of January of
this year to receive hundreds of thousands of
dollars of abatements on property located in the
banking district of Boston. Bentley W. Warren
is the president of the Boston Municipal Research
League, an organization that apparently is the
organ and mouthpiece of this administration.
Mr. Warren is president of this league, and as
such is advocating and successfully putting into
effect in the City of Boston his economy meas-
ures, at the expense of the small real estate owners.
This is the gentleman who preaches one thing
and practices another. Next we come to the
name of Alexander Whiteside, who ex-Mayor
Curley has referred to as "Public Enemy No. 1,"
the greatest tax-dodging racketeer we have here
in Boston. These gentlemen are able to get these
large abatements of taxes under petitions that
have been presented in the years 1931, 1932 and
1933, and there were a number of these petitions
pending before the Board of Tax Appeals at the
State House, but before that body had an oppor-
tunity to pass on the merits of the appeals they
were withdrawn by this administration and settled.
The National Shawmut Bank received an abate-
ment on its assessment of 8750,000. The First
National Bank, together with the Old Colony
Trust Company, which is a subsidiary of the First
National Bank, received, as I discovered in the
short time that I was able to gather this informa-
tion, close to half a million dollars reduction of
its valuation. I venture to say that if it were
possible to examine every petition that has been
withdrawn and settled by the administration, we
would find that over $2,000,000 of assessments
have been handed over to this State street gang,
because this morning I examined the records at
the State House, in the office of the Board of Tax
Appeals, and found there on file at the present
time over eight hundred petitions covering parcels
of property in the City of Boston signed by the
firm of Warren, Garfield, Whiteside & Lamson.
I also found that the firm of Stone & Webster
received an abatement of close to $180,000.
Now, isn't it about time that we unmask these
men, especially those associated with the Municipal
Research League, Mr. Warren, and Alexander
Whiteside, Public Enemy No. 1? Who are paying
the expenses of the Municipal Research League?
It is claimed that Mr. Loeffler receives S6.000.
He is not in the nonpaid group. Someone must
be paying the expenses of these gentlemen, and
I would not be at all surprised if the Boston
Chamber of Commerce is behind the group and
is asking the Mayor to discharge city employees
and to lengthen the hours of the scrubwomen,
on the one hand, while they are getting hundreds
of thousands, yes, millions of tax abatements, that
will eventually have to be apportioned among
and paid by the small real estate owners, for whom
the Mayor has shown such sympathetic and
pathetic feeling. I heard him on numerous occa-
sions say that he was sorry for the plight of the
small real estate owners, and I say to him now,
is there any justification for your withdrawing
these petitions before the Tax Appeals Board
has had an opportunity to pass upon their merits?
So I hope these three orders will pass and that
we will have a determination of the question
whether members of this Council can go down-
stairs and examine these records in order to deter-
mine just who of this particular group are fortu-
nate in getting these large abatements, while the
poor widows and other poor home owners in this
community must pay every cent on the dollar.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I agree with
the councilor that the books of the Assessing De-
partment should be open to the members of the
Council. We never have been able to obtain
access to the Welfare accounts, either, although I
understand that members of City Councils in
other cities are able to look at such lists. But I
shall have to disagree with the councilor in the
matter of assessments in Boston. The law says
that if I own that building out there I shall be
assessed on the basis of the fair market value, and
a recent court decision is to the effect that I shall
be assessed on the basis of the cash value. The
building is either worth a quarter of a million
or it is not. That is the whole story. We must
give the devil his due. Out in my ward, a ward of
APRIL 16, 1934.
138
small home owners, 400 homes were sold last
December because the owners were unable to pay
the taxes. While I am no panegyrist or protag-
onist of the present Mayor of Boston, I under-
stand that he has given instructions to reduce
assessments in that district. I understand that
that is so through the Assessing Department.
Therefore, I am going to stand up here and make
that statement to his credit, if that represents the
position that he desires to have taken in this
matter. Our city is over-assessed and over-taxed,
Mr. President. The present administration has
been criticized for abating taxes. It must abate
taxes because real estate assessments have been
much too high in Boston. $200,000,000 to
§400,000,000 must be written off in assessed valua-
tions on Boston's real estate at once. In 1933
Boston valued its real estate for taxation purposes
at 51,651,972,800. I doubt if it is worth $1,200,-
000,000 today. The law states that our real
estate shall be assessed at its "fair market value."
Point out an office building or a home that can be
sold at the price it is assessed for in Boston today.
Cleveland with over one hundred thousand more
people than Boston, valued its realty at
$901, 028,431 for taxation purposes in 1933, a
valuation of $750,944,369 under that of Boston.
In St. Louis in 1933 the total real estate valuation
upon which taxes were levied up to 100 per cent
of the valuation amounted to $962,551,683.
Detroit, $1,884,016,460.' St. Louis has about
thirty thousand more people than Boston, while
Detroit has almost twice as many. The 87,000-
odd homes and dwellings in Boston, plus our 5,000
buildings and factories, are today higher assessed
and pay a higher adjusted tax rate than they
would pay in any other large American city. The
last month that ex-Mayor Curley was in office,
December, 1933, his Board of Assessors abated
8220,197.95 in taxes, and for the year 1933,
$34,319,900 was abated in assessed valuations.
As of February 7, 1933, for the year 1932, ex-Mayor
Curley's Board of Assessors abated $61,895,000 in
assessed valuations, while the State Board of Tax
Appeals for the year 1932 abated $7,868,500 from
Boston's assessed valuations. The State Board
of Tax Appeals up until November 30, 1933,
decided that real estate in Boston, in 322 cases,
assessed for $114,740,305 was over-valued by
$24,839,321.32, and allowed an abatement of
$805,090.19 in taxes. The State Board found
real estate in Boston to be over-assessed by more
than 20 per cent. The brilliant "John Bantry"
of the Boston Post has pointed out time ana again
that real estate in the downtown section of Boston
is in difficulty. On December 11, 1932, he stated:
"Look at all those vacant buildings hardly more
than a stone's throw from City Hall. See the
forest of 'To Let' signs on the once thriving
business streets. . . . Taxes on all this idle
property are higher than when every foot of it was
profitably rented. Take a look at the big office
buildings in the city and see if you can find any
one of them that is being operated at a reasonable
profit at the present time." The late Martin
Lomasney stated in the Boston Herald, December
4, 1932: "Walk down State street or through
the district where values are very high and you
will see conditions that demand remedy imme-
diately." Mr. Graham Aldis, an expert in realty
values, writing in "Current History" for February,
1934, informs us that Chicago has cut its assess-
ments by 45 per cent as compared with 1928.
Los Angeles has reduced assessments by 22 per
cent as compared with the peak. The Fall River
peak, in 1926, was $214,000,000. In 1934 it is
$112,000,000. Boston's peak year in real estate
valuations was 1930, when our realty was assessed
as being worth a total of $1,827,460,600. In 1933
this figure was reduced to $1,651,972,800. It is
not enough of a reduction. The Boston Finance
Commission in its report to the Legislature, dated
December 31, 1933, states:
"The real estate valuations (of Boston)
regardless of changed conditions, . . . re-
main at figures such that the taxes thereon amount
almost to confiscation."
Walter -R. Kuehule, chief assessor, Chicago,
states:
"If valuations are economically unsound,
. . . the tax structure . . . must in-
evitably collapse . . . those cities which
have as yet not reached this stage had better not
congratulate themselves too soon, they may be on
the way."
Mr. Aldis, in the article referred to above,
states:
"In Boston ... When the administra-
tion is advertising a new bond issue, proudly
points to a remarkably low percentage of de-
linquent levies, but without mentioning, what
every real estate man there is observing, the
number of the city assessors' valuations carried
for reduction to the Massachusetts Board of
Tax Appeals, . . . and the practical un-
animity with which the Board grants reductions
Boston's buildings and homes are tremendously
over-assessed today. When one dares to question
excessive valuations he should not be branded
as an "enemy of the people." A building or home
is either worth so much or it is not, the facts
can easily be ascertained. We must encourage
our Mayor to reduce the assessments on homes
and buildings in Boston. Come to my ward
and see the small homes that have been lost
because over-assessed and over-taxed.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I don't
want to inject myself into this discussion, be-
cause I think it is getting a little bit stale, but I
think, if I read the order introduced by the coun-
cilor from East Boston (Coun. Selvitella) aright,
it asks that there be made available to the mem-
bers of the City Council any and all records
pertaining to abatements given by the Board
of Assessors. If that is the spirit of the order I
think we should certainly favor it. I am glad
that in the order he said properties assessed for
more than $20,000, in order that we would not
have to parade the shortcomings of some of our
home owners in the suburbs who have been forced
to get abatements, and also home owners who
would not want it generally known that they
were in such financial stress. But may I say
to the members of the Council that a year ago
I made a radio address on the subject of abate-
ments on real estate and said that when a person
says "Reduce taxes," it strikes the same responsive
chord today in the hearts of all property owners
as it would if we said, "Feed the sick," or "Cloth
the poor." But I would again insert after those
two words "Reduce taxes" two more words,
"On homes," — "Reduce taxes on homes." When
the State Board of Tax Appeals was formed, it
was possible for those who owned large pieces of
property to employ the services of attorneys on a
contingent fee basis. In other words, if an at-
torney could save $1,000 in actual money,, he
would receive $500 as a fee. They were getting
50 per cent of what they saved. If he failed
to make a saving, there was no obligation on
the part of the home owner. Contrary to the
ethics of the business — and I had understood
that all attorneys were ethical — it has been
rumored that there are attorneys who solicit
this type, of business. Of course, not being an
attorney, I cannot believe that. But when it
seems that one attorney will have 400 such cases
and another 386, it would seem doubtful if the
clients all simply walked in the door and asked
them to do this business. It would seem that
through devious channels they contacted men,
saying to them, "Here you have nothing to
lose and everything to gain. We will take your
case and go before the State Board of Tax Appeals,
and if we are not successful it will not cost any-
thing except $2, but if we are successful you will
pay us 50 per cent of every dollar we get back
from the city." On this basis the Koppers Com-
pany, that owns the Boston Consolidated Gas
Company, was successful in getting its tax valua-
tion reduced' $3,000,000, and over $100,000 that
had been paid into the city by the Koppers Com-
pany had to be paid back. At the time I re-
marked that this meant that 3,000 homes in Bos-
ton must have their properties increased $1,000 in
valuation, or must be denied a decrease to that
amount. Mr. President, on the theory that
we must maintain a Hospital Department, a
Health Department, Fire Police, Sewer and School
Departments, there must be a certain amount
of money raised each year for the conduct of
our city business. Over 70 per cent of the amount
raised today comes out of real estate, and there
are two types of real estate, industrial and home
property. There are 95,683 homes, from the
smallest house to the largest apartment hotel in
Boston, and the lawyers who have obtained these
abatements are not much interested in most of
such property, because, say, if you get the valua-
tion of a $7,000 home reduced to $5,000, a re-
duction of $2,000, through the State Board of Tax
Appeals, that will simply mean a reduction of
about $70 in taxes, allowing $35 to the home
139
CITY COUNCIL.
owner and $35 to thfl lawyer, to Hay nothing
about local experts who might have to be em-
ployed to testify as to the valuation. Because
of that, there are few petitions presented by these
homo owners. But when you stop to think of
the effect that Huh additional assessment has on
the individual home owner, the $70 represents
over $5 a month, which, of course, has to be passed
along to the tenants; and that is a fact that
many tenants lose sight of when they say, "What
do I care? I don't own a home. I pay rent.
Why should I be interested in what the taxes
of the city are?" Let me ask every tenant in
(lie City of Boston, if a landlord has his taxes
increased, do you suppose he assumes the full
burden? Don't you suppose that that additional
$70, say on a two-family house, is passed along
to the two tenants in the form of additional
rental of $3 a month, or in the case of a three-
family house, $2 a month to each of the tenants?
I say to you that every rent payer in the City of
Boston contributes to these taxes. But, as I
say, there has been no incentive for attorneys to
take up the abatement of taxes on this home-
owned property on a contingent basis, because
there was not enough in it for them. So such
property has been discriminated against. I take
the ground, therefore, that when we say "Reduce
taxes,' we should first say "Reduce taxes on
homes," because homes have been discriminated
against. Depending on memory, I would say
that of SI.NOO.OOO.OOO of taxable property in the
entire city. $600,000,000 is down here in Ward 3,
but I would also say that in Ward 3 we have
had reductions to the extent of over $100,000,000,
not on home property but on business property.
We are apt to lose sight of the fact that such huge
reductions on business property re-act on the other
side in the home-owning ward of Boston. The
section that the gentleman from Ward 18 (Coun.
Norton) represents has perhaps more single and
two-family houses than any other ward in Boston,
more than 6,000. But with 70 per cent of all the
revenue of the city coming from the real estate of
the city, if the assessments on the industrial real
estate are very largely abated, the amount so
represented must be transferred to home real
estate, which will suffer accordingly. We should,
therefore, be particularly careful to favor home
real estate, which has been discriminated against
in the past. I hope that what the councilor from
Ward 18 says is true, that they are going to re-
duce the valuations of homes, but the inspectors
and the assessors with whom I have talked tell
me that they have been instructed to go out and
look at any piece of property, whether home or
industrial, and if they believe the assessment is
too high, reduce it, and if they believe it is too
low, increase it; and I do not look for any great
decrease in the valuations of home property in
my ward. I hope there will be. I have seen
people who have owned homes for twenty years
and have had them taken away in the last three
or four years. I am not going to place the respon-
sibility for that on the present administration or
on the past administration. There is this con-
dition that has been going on and getting worse
through the years. But I do know that homes
have been discriminated against, and that busi-
ness properties have been favored. It is all right
to say that you can determine the valuation of
property by the income for a given year. But
suppose that was the ground taken by the State
Board of Tax Appeals, that that was the only
basis for valuation, and that it was shown that
the property had been vacant for some time and
probably would be for some time to come? You
would not say in that case that the property was
absolutely valueless! It is only on the basis
of the normal year that we should assess property.
Take the case of Alonzo W. Perry, of Rockland.
I remember when Perry came to Boston. He
didn't have much money. But I saw him take
property which was at a very low ebb, renting,
say, on the basis of 25 cents a foot, build it up and
change it over until it rented on the basis of $5 a
foot, and still go on paying assessments on the
old basis, and I never heard him say, "My assess-
ments are low and should be increased." But
I did see him get back reductions of valuation of
$2,300,000 in 1931, when the rentals, which used
to be on the basis of 25 cents a foot and had gone
up to $5 a foot, had fallen to something like $3 a
foot. I know that some of the smartest, ablest
lawyers in Boston will give their services on a
contingent basis of 50-50 for what they get in the
way of abatements on properties that are big
enough to make it worth while; but, while there
is nothing to prevent the home owner also going
in before that Board and claiming an abatement,
not one person in one hundred of the home owners
knows that as the law now stands they have that
right. I have spoken to people in my ward.
people who are over-taxed, trying to get them to
go before the Board of Tax Appeals and receive
their fair share in the way of abatements. But
as a general rule the home-owning class do not
avail themselves of such right of appeal, while
the owners of business and industrial property
do. And there is another matter, in regard to
which I have spoken in the past, and upon which
I have been misquoted, which I wish to refer to
at this time. I made the statement awhile ago
that none of our tax-free property which is oc-
cupied for purposes other than those originally
intended, occupied for purposes from which it
is deriving an income, should be tax-free. The
present Mayor picked it up. He was a candidate
for Mayor and he rushed in and said that McGrath .
would tax churches and parochial schools. But
the City Record — and we will keep that record
forever — said, "Properties owned but not occupied
for the purposes intended." My statement was
plain, and it seemed to me the meaning of the
statement was plain, but although I sent the
record of my speech to him and asked him to
apologize, he has never yet had what we call the
intestinal fortitude to apologize. Now. sir, when
you think that there is $459,000,000 of non-
taxable property in Boston, totaling more than
the entire real estate in thirteen of the twenty-two
wards, you realize the importance of the thing.
In other words, every home, every store, every
business lot, in thirteen of Boston's twenty-two
wards, is offset by this $459,000,000 of non-taxable
property. Of course, you are not going to tax
a Catholic church or a Protestant church, nor a
synagogue. Only an insane man would advocate
that, and I hope that even after twenty years in
politics I am not to be classed as insane. I may
be slightly, but not completely insane. But oidy
an insane man would advocate taxing church or
charitable properties used for church or charitable
uses. When, however, we see such property as
the Exeter Street Theatre, which advertises in
every paper that it will show a picture running
from Monday to Saturday, listed as a religious
building and untaxed; when, going farther afield,
we see private schools charging as high as $1,000
tuition coming in as charitable institutions, and
when we see buildings held as charitable institu-
tions in which every foot is rented out for purely
commercial purposes and which are not taxed,
there must be something wrong. In other words,
I contend this, sir, that if in Raymond's store on
Washington street there are three buildings,
identically the same, one of them owned by John
Jones, who lives in Dorchester, another by Tom
Brown, who lives in West Roxbury, and the third
is owned by an institution, whether it be religious,
charitable or educational, if the rental is paid to
each of these three by the same concern for the
same purpose, the properties should be taxed on
the same basis. I say, sir, that unless the prop-
erty is used for the purpose intended — if religious,
used as a place of worship, if charitable, used in its
entirety for charitable purposes, if educational,
used in its entirety for educational purposes — it
should not be tax-exempt. And so I repeat, and
still have sufficient intestinal fortitude to say,
that when things have reached the point where
the real estate in thirteen wards of the twenty-
two in Boston is offset in its entirety by tax-
exempt property in this city, and when I know the
story behind the payment of taxes on hundreds
of homes, when I know that children have been
taken from school because the parents could not
afford to pay both the taxes and for the child's
education, when I know that many families have
been obliged to give up their homes because they
could not retain them, and when I know the
story that has been written on the pages of political
Boston in the last three years, I have the courage
to say to you that every building in Boston that
is not occupied for the purpose intended by law
should not be tax-exempt; that the time has
arrived when religious, charitable or educational
organizations should purge themselves of that
type of building, and should come forward and
pay their taxes if the property is used for com-
mercial purposes. I say that the order that
the gentleman from East Boston (Coun. Selvitella)
has introduced is a good one. I say that those
books should be opened. I make no criticism of
the men who do this business, and I assume that
they make no criticism of me when I am trying
APRIL 16, 1934.
14.0
to protect the hospitals, the Health Department
and Long Island, and find I cannot protect them
because this sort of thing to which I have referred
has been eating into the very vitals of our financial
structure. But I do say that these men should
appear in their true colors, and should not take
the position that they are worried about the
financial condition of the city when they are dip-
ping into the treasury. I hope that what the
gentleman from Ward 18 (Coun. Norton) has said
is true, that when the tax bills come out for Ward
13 — and I feel the same way about other wards
of home owners — the assessments will be reduced.
But I do feel that when these men interested in
industrial real estate are securing these huge abate-
ments there is only one other place in which that
loss can be made up, to which it can be transferred,
and that is to homes, and I believe that there will,
be little reduction in taxes in the fourteen or
fifteen home-owning wards of this city. Waiting
until next October, when the tax bills come out,
let us then see if we are to have reduced taxation
on homes. If we find that such is not the case, it
will be because _ of the fact that the gentleman
from East Boston (Coun. Selvitella) brings out
that we are favoring, as in the past, those who
have been making millions on real estate, and who
are the first to fight for abatements when the
pinch comes. Let us fight to reduce taxes, but
let us make it a fight to reduce taxes on homes, and
it will then be a popular contest.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, I know
of no man who can equal the previous speaker
when it comes to questions of real estate. I
know that he has been recognized as a real estate
expert for years, that he has testified in court,
and I know from personal experience, through my
association with him, that he knows real estate.
I agree that the books should be opened, but I
do not agree with the councilor from East Boston
(Coun. Selvitella) that this is a time to array class
against class. I venture to say that very few
people of this city knew that when 300 home
owners made their appeals to the State Tax
Appeals Board, the last administration put $10
against their S5 and held the thing up for two years.
I have the honor to represent the district on which
the attack has been made. I am not here to defend
the State street bankers, Mr. Whiteside or others.
But I do know the history of Ward 3, and I know
that other members of this Council know full
well that that has been the one ward where,
when money was wanted, they sent out word
to "soak them," and not only the property owners
in the banking section, but throughout the West
End, North End and South End. Everybody
knows that a raw deal has been given to those
people. If it wasn't for the old-time Yankee
people in this city, who developed all this down-
town property, where would we be today? I am
not speaking of Perry of Rockland, but I refer to
the old, honorable families who built these
buildings fifty, seventy-five and one hundred years
ago. Many of them are now feeling the pinch of
poverty, their purses are empty. They have
always been liberal to charitable funds, have
helped to build these hospitals, all these years
their activities have been of a charitable nature.
Yes, they even furnished money to build the
Catholic Cathedral on Franklin street. Their
property is no longer bringing in money, and
they find it hard to even pay the taxes. We have
all read Bantry's articles, and nobody knows the
situation better than he does. Houses that you
could not have bought some years ago for $25,000
or $30,000, you can purchase today practically for a
song. I know a piece of property that was built
within twelve years at a cost of $60,000, that was
assessed for $50,000, and that sold within a few
weeks for $12,000. The present Mayor of this
city owes it to himself and to the people to give
us a true assessment. The Assessing Department
has been absolutely to blame. I talked with one of
the local assessors in my district and he told me he
was given orders to reduce the assessment in the
section he had charge of. I don't know whether
he was giving me a gesture or not, but I served
notice on him that I was going to try to assure
every property owner in that section that they
had that recourse to the State Tax Appeals Board.
The trouble is this. We will never get reduced
taxes if we raise class against class. That is the
argument that is being put forward today. The
small property owner is told, "You are not getting
a fair deal because the large owner is getting it."
The only way is for the rich as well as the poor
property owner to join hands, and I certainly hope
class hatred will not be aroused, but that the truth
will simply be known. Everybody knows the
situation in regard to taxes last year. Nichols
was the first man who told the truth in his first
inaugural, stating cold-bloodedly that he had to
raise the tax rate $5. The situation is deplorable
here, Mr. President. But the Tax Appeals Board
simply decides cases that are brought before it.
I know of one case that I personally investigated,
where I know the city got a fair deal, and where
the thing couldn't go otherwise. And you can't
say that only certain men are taking up this tax
abatement business. There are a number coming
into it now. We have heard nothing said here
about a man who has been prominently identified
with the city for several years, who has occupied a
most prominent position in this city, and has now
gone into the business, and, connected with a great
law firm, he is looking for tax abatement practice.
Put him alongside of Whiteside and the rest of
them. This is a time when we cannot afford to
have people in this city arrayed against each other.
People are hungry, they are in a state of mind, and
they should not be worked upon to the point
where they are hostile to their neighbors. We
ought to join hands now for one common good.
Let us help save the city employees, let all of us
join hands to help the home owners, to help every-
body who needs help; let us find ways of putting
men at work, instead of raising a cry against
these men who own property. As far as property
owners are concerned, we all know men in this
'city who have been very prosperous in the past,
and who now could hardly sell the property they
own for a song. This Council was told by a former
Corporation Counsel that we only had a right to
investigate in connection with our budget functions.
I have always disagreed with that opinion. I be-
lieve that we have full power, that we have the
right to summon any head of a department. We
can summon them in here through the City Mes-
senger's Department, the same as they are sum-
moned in the State House through the sergeant-at-
arms. Heads of departments can be placed under
arrest and can be detained by order of the Council.
But we have been swayed from our duty. The
gentleman from East Boston (Coun. Selvitella) is
honest in his intentions, and I believe we have
the power for which he asks. Let us examine in
full into abatements of all assessments of the last
four years. Let us bring in books and papers.
We have the power, and let us go into the matter.
It has been a racket, and everybody knows it.
It is not merely a .question of Mr. Whiteside or
Mr. Garfield on the one side or Mr. Flaherty, Mr.
Fitzgerald or Mr. McGrath on the other, or any-
body else who may appear before that Board.
We all know of individuals, not always lawyers,
who stand outside of the City Hall Annex and
solicit business. When some of us have in-
terested ourselves disinterestedly for our con-
stituents in this matter, we have found some of
these outside persons getting in touch with them,
approaching them, and if they were able to do busi-
ness for them, dividing up with them whatever
abatement was received, taking half of it, while the
man in public life, who went there in the interest
of his constituency and of his ward, was given no
consideration. The gentleman from Ward 1
(Coun. Selvitella) owes it to himself to follow up
and demand an investigation. He is an attorney-
at-law. The former Corporation Counsel
would say that you had no right to look at these
books. But I believe Mr. Foley is an honest man
and he says, "Yes, you have a right to look at the
books." And I believe his Honor the Mayor will
not stop anybody from looking at the books,
because he owes it to himself not to do so. We all
owe it to ourselves to see that proper action is taken
in these matters. If there is a false tax rate,
if there are false assessments, have the thing cor-
rected, because people may not only suffer from an
increased tax rate but from an increased valuation
as well. Therefore, I sincerely hope and trust that
the order will pass. I believe in it, but I do not
believe in raising class against class.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I believe,
sir, that this body should have information on
any subject pertaining to the City of Boston
in which it is interested, and therefore I have no
objection to this order. I would prefer to have it
somewhat broader, to cover, as the gentleman
who just sat down said, a longer period of time
and the entire situation. I think, however, we
are dealing with the disease after it has taken
place rather than the remedy. The fact is that
the entire assessment situation in the City of
Boston should be reviewed. That has been a
need of many years. Values have changed.
141
CITY COUNCIL.
Of course, there 1ms been a settling of values
generally in the last few years. Some districts
nave gone down more than others, and a few
localities have gone up. The result is that assess-
ments were never more out of line with real values
than t.hey are today. I don't think we ought to
give out slanderous remarks about, persons who
have had no hearing, and on ex parte examina-
tion. Probably all of these reductions that
have been made were justified by actual values.
Certainly, in many cases it will probably be found
on investigation that the city has done much
better to settle than it would have done to go
before the Board of Appeals, that they would
have hewed much closer to the line than one
would do in settling, because, as a rule, anybody
presumably will settle for less than they might
get if they went into a long fight. Unless the
city is prepared to take the attitude of consider-
ing real values it is taking people's money to
which it is not entitled, and if they go to the bat
on the question the city will have to simply give
back illegally collected money in such cases.
Now the assessments are illegal in that no atten-
tion whatever is being paid to values, and the
law says that they shall pay attention to values.
Therefore, sir, I believe we will never have a
satisfactory solution of this question unless the
long agitated request for a general review of all
assessments in the City of Boston be met.
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, I shall ask
Councilor Selvitella to add to one of his orders
the words "that the assessments and abatements
for the entire year 1933 be included." I under-
stand that he kindly consents to that. The
reason why I make the suggestion is that the great
raiding that took place on abatements started the
latter part of November and continued to the
end of December, 1933, and if we use merely the
figures for January, February, March and April
of 1933, as compared with the late months of the
year, we will not have the real facts. By having
this proposed basis of comparison it will be dis-
closed whether his Honor the Mayor is correct
or whether the ex-Mayor is correct with regard
to that $188,000. Ex-Mayor James M. Curley
in his radio address stated that the $188,000 was
awarded by the Board of Tax Appeals, whereas
the fact was, as the Board of Assessors tell me,
that it was not awarded by the Board of Tax
Appeals, but that the abatement was obtained
directly from the Boston Board of Assessors.
So ex-Mayor James M. Curley deliberately lied
about that $188,000. I have also learned that
one of our former assistant Corporation Counsels,
working for the City of Boston, for five weeks,
secured in a short, limited time, $140,000 in cash,
commencing with November and ending Decem-
ber 27. There was one case of a restaurant
between School and Court streets where the
taxes on a small piece of property were $79,000,
and on December 27, 1934, exactly four days
before the new administration came into office,
there was an abatement for one year of $20,000
as a gift to a going restaurant. I find, looking
over the City Council records, that one of our
colleagues suggested that city assessments be
abated to the extent of $200,000,000. Comput-
ing that, I find that in that event the tax rate of
necessity would have to be $3 and some odd cents
additional. I have talked with the Mayor and
the Board of Assessors, and I can assure every
member of the Council that the tax assessments on
property, especially on small home owners, will
be less this year than in previous years. Secondly,
there will be a reassessment of every single home
owner, to the end that every single home owner
in his 1934 taxes will get a "break," in the parlance
of the street, to the extent of $35 to $100 on his
property; that this administration does recognize
the small home owner, as two of the other speakers
have said, and will give him a "break." I am
going to ask to have my amendment inserted in
Councilor Selvitella's order, so that we will get
the information for the entire year 1933, as well
as the information for the months he referred to.
President DOWD — Does the councilor accept
the amendment?
Coun. SELVITELLA— I do, Mr. President.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, the disability
under which the small home owner labors in this
matter of abatements and contingent fees has been
referred to. I represent the little man. I don't
want to see the taxes of the little man increased
but decreased; but for four long years millions
upon millions have been wasted in this city, on
rose gardens, Prados, pleasure undertakings of
one kind and another, using money that should
have been used to feed children, to take care of the
poor, in various philanthropic ways. All we
could think of in those four long years was building
streets, building sewers, spending immense sums
upon rose gardens, roads around Castle Island and
along by the mud flats of East Boston, and upon
a $500,000 Prado, with hundreds of families living
along by the Prado hungry and needing care and
attention, Still we must have a Prado, like
Havana, probably with statues and fountains
contemplated! There was no thought of the poor
home owner, no thought of reducing his burden. In
spite of the decision of the courts of the Common-
wealth that assessments should represent the fair
market value, property in Boston has been as-
sessed $200,000,000 to $400,000,000 too much;
, and the moment State street lawyers representing
their clients protested, they were considered
racketeers and public enemies. The moment
anybody has started to touch the pocket nerve of
municipal finance he has been considered a public
enemy. Well, now, Mr. President, that Water-
man Building across the street is either worth so
much or is not. If the State Board of Tax Abate-
ment says that it is worth only a certain amount,
why should the lawyers appearing in behalf of the
property be attacked as "the State street gang"?
Millions upon millions have been spent here dur-
ing these years for non-essentials, and now the day
of retribution is coming. You would think that
this is the first time we ever heard of abatements.
Here is a list of abatements in the last month of
the previous administration (holding up sheet).
I don't find any small home owners here. They
are all big property owners. Now, Mr. President,
I stood on the floor of the Council and drew atten-
tion to the Exeter Street Theatre. There was a
religious denomination owning this property and
advertising and running shows from which it was
deriving a profit, untaxed upon the property
because they were holding there occasionally a
religious ceremony. That is unfair, Mr. President.
If I had my way, we would tax the Harvard
University Stadium. In New Haven, Connecti-
cut, they are taxing the Yale Stadium, and I see
no reason why we should not do the same thing
here in Boston. I agree with the order intro-
duced by the councilor from East Boston (Coun.
Selvitella), every word of it. The only exception
I take is to the assumption that some of these
assessments that have been reduced should not
have been reduced There should be a square
deal in this whole matter, for high and low, not
only for the in-town section but for the suburban
wards. We must be fair in the matter. Last year
there were abatements in the City of Boston
amounting to $61,895,000 in assessed valuations
by the City of Boston's Board of Assessors; while
the State Board of Tax Appeals abated $7,868,500
from Boston's assessed valuation. At the same
time, in the city of Cleveland, a city with 100,000
more people than Boston, all their realty was
valued for taxation purposes at 8901,028,431, or a
valuation of $750,944,369 under that of Boston.
So Boston was taxing her real estate at over
double the amount that Cleveland taxed hers, to
run her city government. Of course, comparisons
are not always fair, and perhaps this one is not
fair but I merely propose the question: Should
not our leaders at least doubt the wisdom of some
of our municipal expenditures, when we see such
a tremendous difference between the cost of our
city government and the cost in other cities of
like size in the country?
Coun. GREEN — Mr. President, the question
under discussion seems to be the merit or demerit
of Councilor Selvitella's order. This is my first
appearance in the body in four weeks. I have no
axe to grind with the gentleman on the second
floor, but I think I would be remiss in my duty
to the former Mayor of Boston if I did not rise
in my place at this time to say a word in his behalf.
It seems to be one of the chief indoor sports to
draw his name through the muck and mire. This
is not the Curley administration, but that of
Fred Mansfield. I think, however, that it is our
duty, when we sit here and listen to and discuss
orders placed before the body, to consider them
on their merits, not merely attacking any adminis-
tration but trying to decide what will bring about
the greatest happiness, comfort and relief to those
on the city pay roll and to the citizens of Boston
in general. I do think, however, that it ill be-
hooves any member of the body, by innuendo or
otherwise, to cast aspersions on the former Mayor
of Boston. My mind is wide open and I am
APRIL 16, 1934.
142
willing to play ball with the Mayor of Boston, so
long as he plays ball with me. I do not know
what has happened in my district or in our fair
city in the last four weeks, but I rise at this time
in defence of a great Mayor, the former Mayor of
Boston. During his term of office as Mayor of
this great city, nobody was dropped from the City
of Boston's pay rolls in any department. It is
now our duty, under a new administration, to
rectify any wrongs that are going on in this great
city, whether through taxes or otherwise, and
just so long as the Mayor of Boston plays with
me I will play with him.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I just want
to add a last word. The thought that we should
at this time keep uppermost in our minds is that
it will take every single dollar of taxes raised on
$400,000,000 worth of Boston real estate to take
care of our Public Welfare Department for 1934.
For a few years I have been harping on public
welfare, and we now hear that, in this city, where
the real estate was assessed for 31,800,000,000, the
assessed value has been put down to $1,600,000,000.
But let us not forget that the taxes on one-quarter
of that $1,800,000,000, or $400,000,000 in taxes,
will go this year to recipients of public welfare.
It is not fair to suggest at this time that when
Springfield has just cut its public welfare in half,
when Worcester has cut its public welfare in half,
our public welfare for March, 1934, is a little
higher than it was in March, 1933; that apparently
no reduction is being made in our public welfare
expenditures, which take all the taxes raised from
$400,000,000 of assessable property, one-quarter
of our entire revenue going into the hands of
recipients of welfare, of many of whom Judge
Zottoli said, in sending a man to jail this last
week for improperly obtaining money from that
department, "The rolls of the city should be
purged"? Let us be game enough in all common
sense, to lessen that burden upon the taxpayers
I and home owners of this city. At the present
time the owner of a $10,000 home in Dorchester,
West Roxbury or Hyde Park, pays $70 this year
for just the welfare item. If it is a single home,
it is costing the tenant who rents it or the owner
$5 a month, if it is a two-family home $3, and if
it is a three-family house $2 a month more than
it should cost. Of course, we cannot and do not
wish to wipe out all that fund; we do not wish to
decrease it to the extent that there will not be a
proper amelioration of human suffering. But we
should purge those rolls of graft and corruption.
The gentleman who is now Mayor of Boston
started out courageously in favor of a one-man
head of Welfare, and he should certainly back up
any effort that may be made along that line
through the Legislature. There should be one
good, responsible head of Welfare, to protect the
entire welfare situation in this city, and to see
that the interest of the property owners, the tax-
payers, are not disregarded.
The orders were passed under suspension of the
rule.
NECESSITY FOR RELIEF OF REAL
ESTATE.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered, That the attention of his Honor the
Mayor be called to the following communications
to the President of the United States and to the
Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
relative to the need of relieving real estate from
excessive taxation, both by all possible economies
in local government expenditures and by making
available to local governments, including the
City of Boston, additional sources of revenue:
Boston, March 26, 1934.
Hon. Franklin D. Roosevelt,
Executive Mansion,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. President, — As a citizen of Boston
and member of the City Council, may I call
your attention to the plight of our cities and
towns. They are between the upper and the
nether millstone. On the one hand, welfare
expenses have enormously increased, and un-
wieldy debt structures are becoming more un-
wieldy through demands for more borrowing
to provide for P. W. A. projects and the like.
On the other hand, real estate taxes, which form
the principal source of municipal revenue, have
reached the point of diminishing returns. Econ-
omies have been made by cutting salaries and
wages, dropping employees from the pay roll,
leaving vacancies unfilled, deferring and other-
wise curtailing expenditures for maintenance,
supplies, etc., but these economies are offset,
or more than offset, by increased debt-service
charges and welfare expenditures.
Notwithstanding increased employment and
C. W. A. expenditures, there has been little
diminution in welfare expenditures. In Boston,
these reached their peak in November, 1933.
They sagged off a little in December and January,
but are now rising again, and have reached a
point near the November peak. They are run-
ning at about $1,100,000 a month, or about seven
times pre-depression figures.
It is true that some relief can be obtained through
new taxes created under state legislation or under
the very limited municipal authority to impose
license fees and the like, and there are some
unnecessary employees on the pay rolls who can
be dropped if- the political pressure is not too
great. But for the most part we are, as it were,
in a blind alley, from which there is no escape.
Our credit has reached the breaking-point, and
the Federal Government has absorbed most of
the large sources of taxation. It monopolizes
the import taxes. It takes the lion's share of
the possible revenue from important excise sources,
such as tobacco and liquor. It also takes the
Ion's share of what can be collected through
income taxation; and it takes a considerable part
of what may reasonably be collected from estate
and inheritance tax sources. It has invaded the
field of the gasolene sales tax, and has pretty
well pre-empted the most available forms of so-
called nuisance taxes. Furthermore, through its
control of gold and currency, and of the banking
system, the Federal Government can provide
itself with funds by printing money and by other
devices closely akin to that, a resource which our
local governments do not have.
In the reading of the communication Councilor
Shattuck interpolated the following: "I do
not mean to advocate such a measure but it is a
resource which the Federal Government has and
the state and local governments do not have "
The forces of deflation are still operating to
keep down real estate values, and a leading cause
is the mounting burden of taxation which, even on
fully rented and unencumbered property, absorbs
so much of the rent that there is little value left.
If this process is allowed to continue it will mean
ruin to many investors, including home owners,
and also to savings banks and insurance companies,
by reason of the large proportion of their port-
folios invested in mortgages and municipal bonds.
I believe that it is desirable that our states and
municipalities continue to carry on their custom-
ary functions. I do nor see how democracy can
survive if we are to center in far-off Washington
the control of those affairs which we have been
accustomed to regulate in town meeting and in
city and county council. If democracy is to sur-
vive, those functions of government which affect
the daily lives of the people must be kept near
to them. The unit must be small enough and
near enough to the home so that the ordinary
man can take part in and have influence upon the
discussions and decisions.
But day by day it is becoming clearer that our
states and municipalities cannot continue to carry
on their customary functions unless either (1)
there is a slackening of the Federal Government's
grip on the sources of taxation, — which would
doubtless require lower Federal expenditures, to
be secured by a reduction in veterans' benefits
and in other ways; or (2) credits or distributions
from the Federal income tax (and perhaps also
from other Federal taxes) are granted to the
states for their own use or for distribution to their
political subdivisions, such as are now made to a
limited extent under the Estate Tax Law. I
prefer the former alternative, since I deplore the
increasing dependence of local government on the
Federal Government. Nevertheless I think there
is much to be said for such sharing, in the case of
the income tax at least, by reason of the difficulty
of establishing effective state income tax systems
inherent in the competition between states and
the ease with which large taxpayers can change
their residence from state to state. For carrying
out any such plan, Federal legislation would be
required, and after that state legislation, and in
some cases state constitutional amendments in
order to take advantage of the credits. In the
interval, direct grants might be necessary. If
made, these should, so far as possible, be in such
form that they can be used only toward meeting
i4y
CITY COUNCIL.
budgets say not exceeding those of the previous
year so thai real relief will come to hard-pressed
real estate, and the money will not l>c used as so
much extra for an expanded program.
The Federal income tax is now very I i«I i ( in the
lower brackets. II extended so as to allow for
credits to the states, these lower brackets should
l>e substantially increased. Increases in the
higher brackets may also be required. In addition,
higher inheritance faxes may be necessary. If
higher income and inlierilance taxes are needed in
save the social fabric of which real estate, directly
or indirectly, forms so important a part, and to
rescue our local governmental units from their
dilemma, I am in favor pf I hem.
I am opposed to Federal grants in aid of educa-
tion and of other specific local government func-
tions. Such grants I believe tend to undermine
local government and to centralize all authority in
Washington.
Should any of these suggestions seem to you
worthy of consideration, perhaps you will refer
them to the Treasury Department or some other
appropriate agency.
Very truly yours,
Henry L. Shattuck.
Boston, April 4, 1934.
His Excellency Joseph B. Ely,
Governor of Commonwealth.
My dear Governor, — I am taking the liberty
of inclosing a copy of a letter which I recently
sent to the President. I believe that some of the
relief required by the cities and towns should
come through new revenues established by state
legislation. I should much prefer to have all the
relief come in that way and through economy in
municipal expenses, as I dislike very much get-
ting into the hands of Washington. Mayor
Mansfield is doing the best he can in paring the
expenses of Boston. For new revenues I speci-
fically suggest a supplement of 50 per cent for
two years on the corporate and individual income
taxes for distribution to the cities and towns.
I suggest two years because I doubt the wisdom
of so large a permanent increase, surrounded as
we are by states having lower rates or no income
tax at all. This would give substantial immediate
help, and would give time to explore the possi-
bility of obtaining credits from the Federal income
tax collections.
There is precedent for such temporary supple-
ments. In smaller percentage, such supplements
were adopted to help pay for the state soldiers'
bonus, and later to refund taxes illegally collected
from the banks.
I suggest income taxation because it seems to
me that the relief must come from those who have
the income. I believe that the estimated receipts
for this year from individual income taxes and
business corporations are about $25,490,760. A
50 per cent supplement would bring in $12,745,380
toward relief of cities and towns.
The present tax burden on real estate is so
serious that it is a real threat to our social system.
It seems to me, therefore, that large sacrifices
from those individuals and corporations that have
the income are in the public interest.
Yours very truly,
Henky L. Shattuck.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, this is an
important question. It involves some matters
we have been debating this afternoon, further
relief from real estate taxation both by economy
and by making available to the cities and towns,
including Boston, additional ' sources of revenue.
I believe that both are necessary in order to
bring about the required relief and, with your
leave, I shall read a copy of a letter on the subject
which I wrote to the President of the United
States and a copy of a letter which I sent to the
Governor, inclosing a copy of the letter to the
President.
Now, sir, I will give simply a brief summary of
this situation, which I believe is a very serious one.
1. Local government is being strangled by the
progressive encroachment of the Federal Govern-
ment on all major sources of revenue except that
from real estate.
2. Real estate is being subjected to a crushing
burden for the support of municipal and state
governments.
3. Municipal and state governments must
do their part toward solving their own problems,
by eliminating all waste and all unnecessary activi-
licK and by increasing departmental receipts, no
far as possible, for services rendered and from
icense fee, and I he I ik<-.
4. Wo should demand thai the Federal Govern-
ment practise economy in its own expenditures,
and loosen its strangle hold on the tax resources
of the nation.
5. In the meantime, as a temporary measure
to tide over the present emergency, I suggi I
supplement of 50 tier cent on the state corporation
and individual income tax for a period of two
years.
Coun. SEU ITELLA— Mr. President, if I
understand the contents of the letters made and
the remarks made by my colleague, this is merely
a criticism of the relief program of President
Roosevelt. I am going, therefore, to move that
the order be referred to the Executive Committee.
President DOWD — If there is no objection by
the Council, the Chair will refer the matter to the
Committee on Rules.
The matter was referred to the Committee on
Rules.
CITY SCRUBWOMEN.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of instructing
the Superintendent of Public Buildings to dis-
charge no scrubwomen at the present time or add
to their hours of work.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 4 p. m., on motion of
Coun. ROBERTS, to take a recess subject to the
call of the Chair. The members reassembled in
the Council Chamber and were called to order by
President DOWD at 5.25 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petition (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
A Marie Govone, Repertory Theatre, May 23;
Veronica R. Sheridian, Repertory Theatre, June
15. — recommending that leave be granted, under
usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted, under usual
conditions.
2. Report on order (referred today) asking the
Mayor to request Metropolitan District Council
to investigate newspaper accounts of statistics,
compiled by James T. Swan, recommending
passage of accompanying new draft, viz.:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Metropolitan Transit Council to investigate
the newspaper accounts of the statistics compiled
by James T. Swan, a C. P. A., pertaining to the
financial condition of the Boston Elevated Railway
Company.
Report accepted; said order passed.
3. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) rescinding loan and grant agree-
ment between City of Boston and United States
of America passed February 28 and order author-
izing Mayor to execute grant agreement between
City of Boston and United States of America
relating to projects of construction, reconstruction
and replacement of sewers and the covering of
open water courses, P. W. A., Docket No. 4193, —
recommending that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed, yeas 19,
nays 0.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers and
sailors and their families in City of Boston for
month of April.
Report accepted; said order passed.
APRIL 16, 1934.
144
ELECTION OF TWO STENOGRAPHER-
CLERKS.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Council now proceed to the
election of two stenographer-clerks in the Clerk of
Committees Department, to serve until otherwise
ordered by the City Council, at an annual salary of
$1,800 a year each, subject to the reduction of 15
per cent, established under chapter 121 of the
Acts of 1933.
The order was passed. The Clerk called the
roll and the members announced their choice as
follows:
For Frank W. Leavey and John L. Maloney —
Coun. Agnew, Doherty, Donovan, Dowd, Englert,
Finley, Fish, Fitzgerald, Gallagher, Goldman,
Green, Kerrigan, McGrath, Murray, Norton,
Roberts, Shattuck, Tobin, Wilson — 19.
PROPOSED CONFIRMATION OF MINOR
OFFICERS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz.:
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor April 9, 1934, of minor officers paid by
fees, as contained in City Document No. 47.
The question came on confirmation.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President. I understand
that Document 47 has not been published yet, is
not available. Therefore, we don't know whom
we are voting for.
On motion of Coun. FISH, the appointments
were assigned for one week.
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT.
Coun. GREEN, for the Committee on Finance'
submitted the following:
Report on messages of Mayor and orders
(referred April 9) rescinding authorization of
$1,000,000 for reconstruction and replacement of
Northern Avenue Bridge at estimated cost of
$1,000,000 and submitting order for approval of
repair of said bridge at estimated cost of $375,000
— recommending that same ought to pass.
Report accepted and the order was passed,
yeas 18, nays 0.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I rise to a
question of personal privilege, if there is no objec-
tion, on this last vote. I voted "yes" with a
reservation as to how I may vote two weeks from
today, with the understanding that before the final
vote is taken, I shall wish to go into the question of
whether or not the railroad which has passed more
than 28,000 freight cars over that bridge should
not bear some proportionate part of the burden.
Coun. McGRATH in the chair.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred April 9) appropriating $375,000 for re-
construction and repair of Northern Avenue
Bridge — recommending that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; order given its first reading and
passage, yeas 16, nays 0.
EXTENSION OF LIST OF ELIGIBLE
PATROLMEN.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Civil Service Commission,
through his Honor the Mayor, be and said com-
mission hereby is respectfully requested to extend
the present list for possible appointment of patrol-
men on the Police Force of the City of Boston for
one year.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WEL-
FARE.
Coun. GREEN— Mr. President, I would like to
find out for my own information when you are
going to have the first meeting of the Special Com-
mittee on Public Welfare, appointed in my absence?
Chairman McGRATH — It was agreed by the
members of the committee, Councilor Green, that
when the budget was submitted and we actually
had it under consideration, we would have more
power in that matter, and Councilor Tobin last
week introduced an order to have the budget of
the Welfare Department submitted earlier than
the regular budget. As soon as that comes in, I
think the committee will start its hearings.
Adjourned at 5.36 p. m., on motion of Coun.
MURRAY, to meet on Monday, April 23, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
145
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, April 23, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.,
President DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun.
Gleason.
VETO OF RESOLUTIONS FOR
REINSTATEMENT.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my
signature and with my disapproval the follow-
ing three resolutions adopted by your honorable
body:
Resolution in favor of legislation for the
reinstatement of Roland P. Green in the Police
Department.
Resolution in favor of legislation for the
reinstatement of John T. Flatley in the Police
Department.
Resolution in favor of legislation for the
reinstatement of Fulton P. Wesson in the
Police Department.
After several years of consideration of ap-
plications for special legislation for the benefit
of individuals who desired reinstatement in
the employment of cities and towns the Legis-
lature in 1933 enacted chapter 320, which pro-
vides a simple method of procedure applicable
to all cases, and I see no reason for approving
or seeking further special legislation. Accord-
ingly I am disapproving the resolutions.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
VETO OF SIDEWALK ON GAY HEAD
STREET.
The following was received :
Gity of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith with-
out my signature and with my disapproval the
order adopted April 9, 1934, that the Com-
missioner of Puiblic Works make a sidewalk
along the entire length and both sides of Gay
Head street. I am informed that at the
present time the sidewalks are of mixed con-
struction, part being of artificial stone, part
of brick and part of gravel, and that while
some parts are in poor condition the remainder
of the sidewalks are in fair or good condition.
I am further informed that the cost of install-
ing artificial stone sidewalks in accordance
with this order would entail an estimated ex-
pense of at least $2,200.
Under these conditions and in view of the
necessity of curtailing municipal expenses I
cannot approve this order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
STREET CONSTRUCTION IN WARDS
3, 6, 7, 10 AND 21.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative
to your orders of January 22, 1934, and April 9,
1934, concerning street construction in Wards
3, 6, 7, 10 and 21.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Puiblic Works Department, April 21, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor :
I return orders of the City Council relative
to street construction, and respectfully report
that the estimated cost of doing the work re-
quested is as follows :
Chiswick road, Ward 21, from Common-
wealth avenue to Chestnut Hill
avenue $12,300
Belden street, Ward 7, from Dudley
street to 528 feet north of Dudley
street 3,000
East Sixth street, Wards 6 and 7, from
K street to Farragut road 45,200
O street, Ward 6, from East First
street to Columbia road 63,200
Gay Head street, Ward 10, from Centre
street to Minden street 8,900
Nashua street, safety island between
Cotting and Minot streets 1,400
Sufficient funds are not available for com-
plying with the requests contained in these
Council orders.
Yours respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
MONTHLY REPORT OF PUBLIC WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Overseers of Public Welfare, relative
to your order of January 22, 1934, concerning
a regular monthly report to be submitted by
that department to the City Council of cases
being aided and total expenditures thereon.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
April 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear iSir, — Replying to the City Council
order dated January 22, 1934, requesting that
the Board of Overseers of the Puiblic Welfare
be requested to furnish the City Council
monthly, as soon as may be after the end of
each month beginning with the month of
January, certain statistical information, the
following statement is respectfully submitted.
1.
Case load at the end of March.
Answer.
Number of cases being aided at end of
March.
Dependent Aid 25,529
Mothers' Aid 1,507
Old Age Assistance 3,809
Total 30,845
2.
The number of recipients of aid dropped
from the rolls during the month.
Answer.
1,323.
3.
The number of recipients of aid added to
the rolls during the month.
Answer.
2,173.
in;
OITY COUNCIL.
4.
The expenditures for the month for (a) care
of dependents (b) mothers' aid and (c) old
age assistance.
Answer.
Expenditures for the month of March.
Dependent Aid $977,418.11
Mi. I hers' Aid 110,856.62
Old Arc Assistance 113,877.00
Total $1,202,152.63
Placed on file.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
PROGRESS OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
'Gentlemen, — On March nineteenth last an
order was adopted by your honorable body
that a special committee of five members be
appointed to investigate the Public Welfare
Department of the Oity of Boston and to re-
port to the City Council on or before the ninth
day of April, 1934. This order was passed
under suspension of the rule and the committee
of five councilors was appointed by the Presi-
dent of your honorable body.
May I venture to inquire what progress has
been made by this commitbtee ? I am intensely
interested in the Public Welfare Department
and would like to have whatever information
may have been obtained by the committee.
If I may have this information at the earliest
convenient time I will foe greatly obliged to
you.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Referred to the Committee on Public Welfare.
FORTY-HOUR WEEK, FERRY SERVICE.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Commissioner of Public Works, rel-
ative to your order of April 2, 1934, concern-
ing the reconsideration of the restoration of
a forty-hour week without reduction of pay
for all employees in the Ferry Service.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, April 16, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor.
I beg leave to acknowledge receipt of the
order of the City Council dated April 2 and
reading as follows :
"Ordered, That the Public Works Commis-
sioner be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to reconsider the restoration of a
forty-hour week without reduction of pay for
all employees in the Ferry Service."
The restoration of a forty-hour week in
the Ferry Service will either compel an in-
crease in the present personnel or a reduction
in the number of ferryboats operating daily
between the hours of six a. m. and ten p. m.
The budget allowance will not permit an in-
crease in the personnel and a reduction in
the number of ferryboats operating at the
present time is not considered advisable, keep-
ing in mind that the public is entitled to the
best possible service. Consequently until the
opening of the East Boston Tunnel a forty-
eight hour week for the Ferry crews will have
to l>e maintained. After the opening of the
tunnel it may be found that the number ot
boats necessary to operate can be reduend
■ imI al that time a reconsideration of the
restoration of the forty-hour week can be
determined.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carvbn,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENT OF CONSTABLES.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body, I hereby appoint the following-
named persons constables of the City of Bos-
ton for the term of one year, beginning with
the first day of May, 1934, without power
to serve civil process and to serve without
bond.
Since under the law all constables' terms
expire on April 30 of each year, the commis-
sions of all constables not named herein will
expire on April 30, 1934, and thereafter all
such persons will cease to be constables of
the City of Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Connected with Official Positions.
Kenneth W. Blennerhassett, 196 Dartmouth
street, Ward 4 ; George J. Brackman, 89
Waumbeck street, Ward 12 ; Frank Broderick,
9 Cypress street, Ward 20 ; William W. Brooks,
145 Belgrade avenue, Ward 20 ; William J.
Campbell, 19 Trull street, Ward 15 ; Felix
Carroll, 22 Cliff street, Ward 12; James D.
Collins, 157 Adams street, Ward 15 ; Timothy
J. Collins, 16 Fairbury street, Ward 13 ,- Pas-
quale delGrosso, 124 Bremen street, Ward 1 ;
Frank J. Desmond, 54 Parklawn road, Ward
20 ; Barney C. DeLuca, 72 Alexander street,
Ward 13 ; Andrew DiPietro, 286 Sumner street,
Ward 1 ; Charles E. Dowd, 102 Gainsboro
street, Ward 4 ; Arthur J. Driscoll, 60 H
street, Ward 6 ; Cornelius L. Dundon, 181
Princeton street. Ward 1 ; James E. Farrell,
29 Ramsey street, Ward 13 ; Joseph W. Ferris,
18 Westover street, Ward 20 ; Edmund B.
Flaherty, 70 Mayfield street, Ward 13 ; James
J. Garvey, 266 Dorchester street, Ward 7 ;
John L. Gleason, 29 Norfolk street, Ward 9 ;
Max Goldfarb, 31 Allen street, Ward 3; Harold
Goldstein, 25 Crawford street, Ward 12 ; Ga-
briel Grappocio, 62 Allen street. Ward 3 ;
Joseph A. Grover, 32 Circuit street, Ward 12 ;
George S. Halliday, 518 Sumner street, Ward
1 ; James V. Hartrey, 895 East Fourth street,
Ward 6 ; Harry A. Higgins, 1125 Common-
wealth avenue, Ward 21 ; Charles W. Kelley,
845 East Third street, Ward 6 ; William P.
Kelley, 716 Columbia road, Ward 7 ; William
A. Kelley, 11 Bullard street, Ward 14 ; Walter
P. Kirby, 8 Rowe street, Ward 19 ; Thomas
J. Lane, 51 Wheatland avenue, Ward 17;
Robert F. Leahy, 34 Forbes street, Ward 10 ;
Edward J. Leary, 90 Fenway, Ward 4 ; John
J. Linehan, 53 Hano street, Ward 22 ; Charles
H. McCue, 103 Dunster road, Ward 19 ; Joseph
F. McDonald, 1057 Saratoga street, Ward 1 ;
Thomas J. McDonough, 113 Havre street, Ward
1 ; Joseph M. McKenna, 472 East Third street,
Ward 6 ; Arthur R. Merritt, 411 Saratoga
street, Ward 1 ; Emory D. Morgan, 1 Perkins
place, Ward 9 ; Michael F. Murray, 151 Ter-
race street, Ward 10 ; James O'Hearn, 880
River street. Ward 18; Louis J. Polak, 708
Columbus avenue, Ward 9 ; Timothy F. Regan,
614 South street, Ward 19; Israel Resnik, 13
Ridgewood street, Ward 15 ; Edward M. Rich-
ardson, 1706 Commonwealth avenue, Ward 21 ;
William J. Ryan, 114 Moreland street, Ward 8;
Edward Sandler, 207 Woodrow avenue, Ward
14 ; Stephen J. Siney, 37 Woodcliff street,
Ward 13 ; John Skelly, 88 Dix street, Ward 16 ;
Hyman Slade, 28 Phillips street, Ward 5 ;
Thomas H. Staples, 224 South street, Ward 11 ;
APRIL 23, 3 934.
147
Raphael Sussman, 86 Bowdoin street, Ward 3 ;
William D. Sweeney, 34 Sackville street, Ward
2 ; Joseph Tedesco, 33 North Bennet street,
Ward 3 ; Joseph Thomas, 143 Tyler street,
Ward 3 ; Herbert Timson, 138 Beacon street,
Ward 5.
With Animal Rescue League.
William E. Brieham. 442 Walnut street,
Newtonville; Frederick O. Houghton, 363
Adams street, Milton ; Archibald C. McDonald,
710 East Sixth street, Ward 6.
With Mass. S. P. C. T. A.
Harry L. Allen, 180 Longwlood avenue, Ward 4.
Van Drivers, Appointed by the Court.
Patrick A. Gargan, 252 Chambers street,
Ward 3 ; Charles M. Shea, 100 Vernon street,
Ward 9.
The appointments were laid over for one
week under the law.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I move
that those appointments be sent to the Com-
mittee on Constables, that the committee fur-
nish the addresses where the men live and the
salaries, and information whether or not the
nominees are replacing: anybody on the pay
roll.
The motion to refer to the Committee on
Constables was carried.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
Mary E. Bagley, for refund on beer license.
Lillian Brooks, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect An Goodale road,
Mattapan.
George H. Bruce, for compensation for dam-
age to ear caused by an alleged defect in
Lowell street.
Gordon Bunshaft, for compensation for dam-
age to car by police wagon.
Maria Carlucci, for compensation for damage
to car by city truck.
Gladys Fishman, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Washing-
ton street, Dorchester.
Hasat Real Estate Corporation, Inc., for
refund on dnnholder's license.
Charles M. Hawkes, for compensation for
damage to property at 35 Paine street, caused
by water entering property.
R. S. Hoffman & Co., Inc., for compensation
for damage to property at 151 Milk street,
caused by bursting of water main.
Joseph F. Kirby, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city team.
Joseph Koch, for compensation for damage
to car by ash truck.
Anna M. Lafley, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Main
street, Charlestown.
Madeline Lamphier, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Massa-
chusetts avenue.
F. Ward Paine et al., for compensation for
damage to property at 120 Milk street, caused
by break in water main.
John Terrano-va, for refund on ibeer license.
Yee Hoey, for refund on ash tickets.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of
age to appear at places of public amusement,
viz. :
Lilla Viles Wyman, Repertory Theatre, May
12.
The Lyllion F. Rose School of Dancing,
Repertory Theatre, June 13.
Ruth M. Taylor, Eliot Hall, May 7, 12.
REINSTATEMENT OF DR. SIMON F.
CURRAN.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
School Committee, April 18, 1934.
Mr. Wilfred J. Doyle,
City Clerk.
Dear Sir, — Under the provisions of chapter
320 of the Acts of 1933, the School Committee
of the City of Boston respectfully asks the
Oity Council's approval of the reinstatement
of Dr. Simon F. Curran, supervising physician
in the Boston public schools.
Doctor Curran was absent on leave without
pay from January 25 to February 14, and on
leave with pay, on account of personal illness,
from February 15 to April 6.
Authority for Doctor Curran's reinstatement
has been given by the Commissioner of Civil
Service, subject to the approval of the City
Council.
Very truly yours,
Ellen M. Cronin.
Secretary.
Referred to Executive Committee.
TENEAN BEACH IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
erect a shelter at Tenean Beach, Dorchester.
Ordered, That the Park Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install drinking fountains at Tenean Beach,
Dorchester.
Ordered, That the Park Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
lay a cement walk to replace the present
board walk at Tenean Beach, Dorchester.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
RECREATION PIER, WARD 1.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commis-
sioner foe reuested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to arrange under the F. E. R. A.
for the building of a recreation pier at the
site of the North Ferry slip in Ward 1, East
Boston.
Coun. SELVITELLA submitted the follow-
ing statement in explanation of the order :
The proposed project is of a highly benefi-
cial nature to the welfare of the City of Boston.
It will in the first instance relieve the Welfare
Department of Boston to the extent of ap-
proximately $125,000. It will also supply the
needy with 150 cords of firewood, the value
of which is approximately at $2,000. The
congested area in the vicinity of Maverick
square, East Boston, is sorely in need of such
a spot. The relief these people would receive
during the hot summer months would be
immeasurable. The object of the proposed proj-
ect is to remove the present City Fuel Com-
pany buildings and one of the buildings main-
tained by the Bridge and Ferry Department
of the Public Works of Boston, and to re-
place the surface area occupied by buildings
with recreation grounds which would consist
of numerous benches, slides, swings, and sand
boxes, which can be built from the lumber to
be found on the site at present, and entirely
inclose the park with a 6-foot wire fence. The
exact details can be found on the prepared
plans. At the present date, a survey has
already been made as to the exact area, loca-
tion of buildings, etc., approximate total of
number of board feet on hand, what tools and
materials will be required, and all other in-
formation such as woxild be required for the
intelligent procedure of the work. The find-
ings of this survey are shown on the
148
OITY COUNCIL.
specifications and plans. As far as the
necessary tools are concerned to carry on
the work of this project, which is in reality
an extension of Project 0187-34, a large per-
centage of them are already on hand as equip-
ment for the projects being handled by this
division. Most of the material will be ob-
tained from the wreckage of the existing
structures. With the cooperation of the City
Fuel Company allowing the labor force to
tear down their structures and repair their
wharf, the use of waste lumber for firewood,
and allowing us to use the material derived
from this source, the City of Boston will be
obliged to pay only a very small amount com-
pared to the expenditure by the Government.
The estimates that you will note both on labor
and material have been arrived at after_ a
very careful survey was made of the location
and you will also see by the play and layout
that the figures are quite accui'ate in regard
to the ferry house there. The present project
now being carried on, allows only a very
cramped area to be used for the proposed proj-
ect. By this additional supplementary project
being accepted, it will allow ample room to
take care of the immediate neighborhood, which
without argument is very badly in need of a
place of this kind for the health and welfare
of the residents. Nearly twenty-five per cent
of the working personnel to build this struc-
ture consists of unskilled labor, all of which
could be drawn from the Welfare lists. Ap-
proximately another twenty-five per cent of
their personnel will be semi-skilled labor, prac-
tically all of whom could be drawn from the
Welfare. It is the specific idea of the Bridge
and Ferry Division to have supervisors and a
plannng board to carry on this work strictly
on a contract basis of procedure calling in
the working personnel as it is needed, and
using the same only as needed, so in listing
out the number of man hours required you
will notice that there is a difference in these
figures, namely, the workmen will vary as to
the number of hours required to finish their
respective duties on the project. It is figured
that it will take on the different classifications
of workmen approximately one hundred eighty-
six men, but all of these will not be working
on the project at the same time. With this
procedure the cost of the project will be much
more satisfactory to the government and also
will proceed in a much smoother and uniform
manner.
The order was passed under a suspension of
the rules.
LOCKER BUILDING, AMERICAN LEGION
PARK.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
arrange under the F. E. R. A. for the erection
of a suitable locker building and shower facili-
ties at American Legion Park, Ward 1, East
Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
JOHN H. L. NOYES PLAYGROUND.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following :
Ordered, That the Park Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayotr, be requested to
arrange under the F. E. R. A. plans to enlarge
the right field area of the John H. L. Noyes
Playground in Ward 1, East Boston, which has
been filled in and suitable for increasing the
playing surface of said field.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
AUTHORITY FOR CLOSING SMALLPOX
HOSPITAL.
Coun. MoGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor inform
the City Council by what authority he pro-
poses to abandon the smallpox hospital on
Southampton street or to transfer the said
hospital from the custody of the Health Com-
missioner without the consent of the City
Council, in view of the provisions of chapter
111, section 92, of the General Laws, and chap-
ter 16, section 3, of the Revised Ordinances of
1925.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I have in-
troduced this order, referring to the Ordinances
and to the General Laws, under which super-
vision of that building on Southampton street,
which is in an isolated section for the purpose
of handling cases of smallpox and leprosy that
arise in our city, is specifically placed under
the supervision of the Health Commissioner
rather than of the Hospital Trustees. We have
been told, sir, that there has been no case of
smallpox or of leprosy for a period of years,
but we find that in the last ten years there
have been fifteen cases of smallpox and five
cases of leprosy that were handled in that
smallpox hospital on Southampton street. Two
weeks ago, sir, when I took the floor in this
Council and said that the Mayor proposed
abandoning the smallpox hospital on South-
ampton street, it raised a storm of protest from
those who were friendly with the present ad-
ministration. They said that no man in his
wildest dreams would close that smallpox hos-
pital and put those poor unfortunate people
afflicted with that disease in the same South
Department "which is the only unit handling
cases of contagious diseases of children. They
said, "How far afield McGrath has gone in
order to criticize, when he will make such a
riduculous charge as that, that the Mayor was
proposing to close the smallpox hospital and
put people "with this dread malady in the
unit established for the care of the little
fevered bodies of children afflicted with con-
tagious diseases ! But last week we found the
Mayor using the term "abandon" — "I will
abandon the smallpox hospital on Southampton
street." My idea of the word ''abandon" is
that he proposed to close up, discontinue this
unit, and so I took issue with a policy of
economy that would save $6,000 a year by plac-
ing the lives of the little children in the South
Department in jeopardy. The next day the
Mayor said, "Where does McGrath get that
idea? Why, all I am doing is to take from
the supervision of the Health Department and
place under the supervision of the Hospital
Department that Southampton street smallpox
hospital." The greatest argument that can be
used in favor of continuing the smallpox hos-
pital is the very argument used against it
by the Mayor — that there are no cases of
smallpox or of leprosy, and therefore the hos-
pital is not needed. I take that very argument
as the reason why it should be continued.
You would not say to a man who has life
insurance, "Give up your life insurance, be-
cause you will never die." I say if there
was not in 1933 a fire in a certain area con-
taining a firehouse, you would not say, "Close
the firehouse," because there has not been a
fire in the neighborhood during 1933. But I
go farther than that, Mr. President. I say
that under the General Laws, and under the
Revised Ordinances controlled by this Council,
his Honor the Mayor has not the power to
take that hospital away from the Health Com-
missioner. On December 2, 1872, when small-
pox was rampant in this city, the old Board
of Aldermen and Common Council in their
wisdom erected and turned over to the Health
Department the control of an isolated institu-
tion for the treatment of smallpox and of
leprosy. The wisdom of the action then taken
is apparent today, when we can point to the
proud record that not since .1931 has there been
a case of leprosy or smallpox in Boston. But
surely it is mot economy, sir, surely it is not
wisdom, for his Honor the Mayor at this time,
merely to save $6,000, to close up that hos-
pital. It seems, however, that the Hospital
Department is the department that the Munic-
ipal Research Bureau has set their minds on
curtailing, a department that caters to the
APKIL 23, 1934.
149
welfare of the poor and the middle class people
of our city. We find that within the last
week forty-one men were let g4oi at the City
Hospital, men who will now he able to go
to the Welfare Department and get as much
money working three days a week as they
had been getting six days a week in the hos-
pital. I might say again, also, that if the
tax rate this year is $35 on a thousand, it will
take the income from $400,000,000 of real es-
tate to maintain the Welfare Department. So
why discharge those small paid employees,
whose only other recourse is to the fastest
growing roll of the city, that of the Welfare
Department? About ten days ago there was
great acclamation throughout the city when
his Honor the Mayor announced that he was
going to meet the present emergency by cur-
tailing the salaries of department heads, that
every man who was getting over $5,000 a
year would be reduced to $4,250. What hap-
pened ? There was no action whatever. But
that statement was given out to the general
public, and 90 per cent of the small taxpayers
of Boston today believe that the Mayor cut
his own salary by a greater amount than it
would cost to maintain this smallpox and lep-
rosy hospital, and they believed that every
head of a department had his salary cut to
$4,250. That, however, is not the fact. The
fact is that they have been protected and that
forty-one poor fellows working in the hospital,
working six days a week and getting only
what they would obtain for three days on the
Welfare rolls of the city, but still retaining
their pride and independence, are the ones who
have felt the axe. I say to you, Mr. President,
that after thirty-five years the superintendent
in charge of that smallpox unit is entitled to
protection, and I say to you that the woman
who for seventeen years has worked there for
$17 a week, and who during the last ten years
has submitted herself to contact with five pa-
tients with leprosy and fifteen patients sick
with smallpox, is entitled to some reward.
What incentive is there for any person in the
city to go into that smallpox hospital and
submit himself to contact with these maladies,
if as a reward he is simply to be summarily
discharged ? And his Honor the Mayor, who
not only is Mayor of this city but also an
attorney, certainly should know something about
the General Laws and about the ordinances
that govern this city. It is the province of
this City Council, if necessary, to take away
from the Health Commissioner and transfer
to the Hospital Department the authority over
that smallpox hospital. When they do that,
they are also discharging by that same vote
these faithful servants, one of seventeen years
and the other of thirty-five years service. His
Honor the Mayor, however, is powerless to act
in the matter without our concurrence. Ap-
parently, however, the Municipal Research
Bureau are provoked at the fact that there are
twenty-two men sitting in this body who will
not turn over their powers to that body. What
difference does law make, what difference do
regulations make, to them? They are in con-
trol in this city. They hold the Mayor in
their power and they are annoyed by this
Council. They wonder how twenty^two elected
officials should dare to place themselves on
the same level with them. What right have
the representatives of the people to speak?
I say, sir, that when they are going so far
as to _ take powers from this Council, powers
established under an ordinance enacted into
law by the City Council in the past, under
which the responsibility in this matter Was
definitely placed, the time has come to call
a halt. We twenty-two members here sit
with the combined votes of 112,000 people,
and the Mayor sits downstairs with the com-
bined votes of 70,000 people. We express the
voice and sentiment of 42,000 more voters,
collectively, than he does, and yet he apparently
shows a willingness to turn over the powers
given to us by a solemn mandate of the people
to this Bureau of Municipal Research. I say
that when they so far flaunt this Council, in
direct violation of the ordinances and the
laws on the statute books, in the matter of
that smallpox and leprosy hospital, saying,
"Abandon it and place those poor unfortunate
people in that hospital in contact with the
little fevered bodies of children with con-
tagious diseases," it is going pretty far. Let
us stand up in our shoes, Mr. President. Let
us show a little courage. Let us go forward
and make a fight for those people who can-
not fight for themselves. I am not against
economy, sir, I am not asainst reduction of
taxes, but if a reduction in taxes comes, let
it not be at the expense of the children and
poor people of our city. It is too much of a
price to pay. No economy is ever justified
when it is at the expense of the public health.
Let us lay the cards on the table and let us
find out what has happened to the proposed
reduction of the Mayor's own salary, what has
happened to the proposed reduction of salaries
of certain heads of departments, and why
forty-one underpaid employees were let go
in order to protect the heads of departments ?
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommend-
ing passage of order for payment of aid to
soldiers and sailors and their families in the
City of Boston for the month of April, 1934.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
TELEPHONE METERS.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Legislative Committee
be authorized to petition for legislation making
it necessary for telephone companies to install
meters with all telephones registering the num-
ber of telephone calls made by the subscriber,
without charge to the subscriber.
Coun. BRACKMAN — Mr. President, a recent
legal battle in New York City has disclosed
what has been done by the telephone companies
mulcting the public out of many hundreds of
thousands of dollars through charging them for
calls that were never made. I believe a similar
situation exists in Boston. You have noticed
on your personal telephone bills that you are
simply charged with so many calls, with noth-
ing itemized but the number of calls. It is
impossible under the present system for a man
to check up on the number of calls he makes
or to know whether he is being charged for
a considerable number more calls than he
makes. The system now in vogue in Massa-
chusetts, if you feel that you are being unjustly
billed, is too cumbersome for the ordinary
pei-son to resort to, because it necessitates an
appeal to the Public Utilities Commission and
from there to the courts. I don't believe many
men want to go to the courts to test out
eases of this sort. In the New York case, the
man proved that he had been charged in a
small period of time for many more calls than
he actually made. A recent editorial in one
of the Boston papers called for meters. And
why should there not be meters for measured
service of one kind and another? The City
of Boston has water meters to register the
number of gallons of water used by customers,
and there is no reason why the telephone com-
pany cannot install some sort of meter here
by which we can check up on the number
of telephone calls made. There are such
meters, Mr. President, which I understand can
be installed only at the cost of the subscriber.
I am asking here that the Legislature pass a
bill that will compel the telephone company
to install meters without charge to the sub-
scriber. I believe the subscribers are at least
entitled to that service.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I want to
congratulate the member for bringing this
matter up. For several years I have been
interested in attempting to reduce the rates
charged by public utilities in the Boston area,
150
CITY COUNCIL
particularly the special charges made. I am
glad that the gentlemen has introduced this
order, and I think he will be glad to know
that in several cases in the Boston municipal
courts decisions have been made in cases
against the utilities companies in favor of the
subscriber. It is important in all these matters
to arouse and centralize pulblie opinion. The
recent investigation in Washington has shown
something about the make-up of the telephone
company and how hard it is for each state
to get back of the holding companies to the
operating companies in establishing a proper
rate. While, of course, this is no business of
the Council, I do hope that the order will pass,
so as to help focus public attention on this
bad situation.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
MINOR OFFICERS PAID BY FEES.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz. :
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor April 9, 11934, of minor officers paid
by fees, as contained in City Document No. 47.
The question came on confirmation.
Coun. SELVITIELLA— Mr. President, I see
that there are close to four hundred of these
jobs here, minor officers to be paid by fees.
These names do not mean a thing to me.
There are no addresses listed alongside of the
names, and, for all I know, these men may
be non-residents of Boston. I think the
Council should have at least some statement
from the Mayor's office as to whether or not
the persons mentioned in this City Document
47 are residents of Boston.
President DOWD— The Chair will state that
the men named in Document 47 are paid by
coal dealers, hay dealers and others, and are
not in any case paid by the city. Under the
General Laws it is not necessary for them to
be residents of Boston, because the amounts
received by them are no burden upon the
Boston taxpayers. The Chair, however, awaits
any action that may be desired.
On motion of Coun. SELVITELLA, it was
voted that action on the matter be postponed
until after the meeting of the Executive Com-
mitee.
HOSPITAL CONDITIONS.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered, That the Health Commissioner is
hereby requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to inform the City Council whether it is
necessary in the interest of public health that
a separate building or special ward be main-
tained for cases of leprosy and smallpox.
Ordered, That the Trustees of the City
Hospital, through his Honor the Mayor, be
requested to inform the City Council as to
whether the persons whose services have re-
cently been dispensed with are necessary for
the operation of the hospital.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I have
offered these orders in order that we may get
the facts, that in debating the question of the
smallpox and leprosy hospital and of letting
people at the City Hospital go, we may know
whether this separate unit for smallpox and
leprosy cases is necessary for the public health,
and whether or not those people who have
gone are necessary or unnecessary to the op-
eration of the hospital. My impression is,
although I would like to have some medical
or expert testimony on that point, that it is
not necessary to the public health that we have
a separate building or separate unit for small-
pox and leprosy cases. Leprosy is a disease
about which there is a good deal of mis-
information. For example, I have been told
by doctors, and I believe it to be a fact, that
when recognized, it is not dangerous to other
people. To become dangerous to others, per-
sonal contact with the individual who has
leprosy is necessary ; and if the fact that it
is leprosy is known, such a case is just as
easily handled in a general hospital as in a
special building or hospital. I understand the
same thing to be true of smallpox and other
contagious diseases, such as scarlet fever,
that they can be and are handled in contagious
wards of large hospitals that also treat other
diseases and ailments. On .the matter of the
employees, if it is a fact that the number
of employees at the City Hospital is in excess
of the number required to carry out the work
of the hospital, we ought to know it. If such
is the fact, are we prepared to say that the
the City of Boston should continue to pay
persons who are unnecessary in carrying out
the services for which our city institutions
are established? If we are prepared to say
that the City of Boston is to employ persons
who are unnecessary to carry out those ser-
vices, we might as well say that the city is
prepared to take on anyone who needs a job,
and that the city is prepared to take and
keep on the Welfare rolls anyone who would
like to be on Welfare. In other words, we
might as well be prepared to say now that
we are prepared to spend the city's money
freely, even if it means going into bankruptcy,
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, although
this is not the same order that I introduced,
I might say that I was informed by those in
charge of the City Hospital that every man
employed there was necessary. The nature
of the work makes a constant change in per-
sonnel undesirable and unfortunate, and, while
it is perhaps not necessary to employ new
employees, it is necessary to employ others to
take the place of the faithful employees go-
ing off the rolls. The training of employees
in our hospital work takes time, and the
training they get there in the course of time
makes them valuable. This Council has pro-
vided the money for a surgical building that
will be erected perhaps a year or more in the
future. But it is a well-known fact that it
takes a couple of years for such an employee
to attain his full usefulness, and that we
will need in the next two years faithful em-
ployees for that work, if the plans now con-
templated are carried out. In the order I
introduced in favor of retaining the South-
ampton street building, I referred also to the
General Laws and to the ordinances, my point
being this, that this Council has certain
•powers ; that those powers are very well de-
fined ; that unfortunately they are very much
limited ; but in the matter of ordinances passed
by this Council we are all-powerful. The City
Council long ago passed an ordinance, sir, that
placed under the direct supervision of the Com-
missioner of Public Health the full control of
the smallpox hospital on Southampton street.
There is no power that can change that except
the vote of the majority of the members of
this Council. Those people served in the dark
days, at a time when there was leprosy and
when there was smallpox, one serving for
thirty-five and another for seventeen years. It
is a pretty poor reward, when they have
been successful in their fight in stamping
out these dread diseases, to now recognize
their services by discharging them. But an
even more underlying question than that is
the question I raised today when I referred
to the former ordinance by which full control
of the smallpox hospital was placed in the
hands of the Health Commissioner from which
control it cannot be transferred by Mr. Loef-
fler or by Mayor Mansfield, even under the
guise of economy, to the Hospital Trustees,
until a majority of this Council so vote. I
am sorry to have to say on the floor of this
Council that I believe the ordinances passed
by the City Council should be respected even
by the Municipal Research Bureau.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, even if
it is a fact that any change with respect to
this hospital must be made by a change in the
ordinances, it will certainly do no harm to
APRIL 23, 1934.
151
know whether the hospital is necessary. That
might help us in the vote we may have to
take on the question of change of ordinances.
So far as the people whose services have been
dispensed with are concerned, I believe we
should not stand first on one foot and say,
"We must not discharge them because they
need the money or do not have another job,"
and then stand on the other foot and say,
"We must not discharge them because they
are necessary." Let us know what the facts
are, and let us then decide whether we pro-
pose to keep them when they are not necessary,
because they need the job, or whether we
propose to keep them because the city needs
them. I believe that the answers to these
inquiries will give us some further facts
upon which we can deal more intelligently
with this question.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, having
in mind The wording of the order of my
colleague from Ward 5 (Coun. Shattuck), ask-
ing the Mayor whether or not those dis-
charges from the City Hospital are necessary,
I can conceive of but one answer. There
isn't any doubt in my mind that that answer
is going to be in the affirmative, because if
otherwise it would be inconsistent and would
not answer the cries of the number of men
and women who have been discharged from
the City Hospital. I am interested not only
in this week's City Record, but in the issue of
every week, where we find the changes that
have been made at the City Hospital. This
week's issue of the City Record contains
twenty names of new persons who have been
given employment at the City Hospital, and
in each week's issue of the City Record we
find a similar number, if not more, of new
employees at the City Hospital. That, to my
mind, means only one thing, — that the Munic-
ipal Employment Office is used by the Mayor
to send employees to the Boston City Hos-
pital, and I have also in mind a number of
people who have been given slips to go to
work at the City Hospital from the Mayor's
office. Now, it may be that there is no in-
consistency in this, where the Mayor dis-
charged forty-one City Hospital employees last
week and appoints twenty-two new persons,
according to this new issue of the City Record,
and others in other issues, when week after
week we find new employees appointed to
take the places of those who have been dis-
charged. We found in the Street Laying-
Out Department during Holy Week a whole-
sale discharge of inspectors, but it seems
that the Mayor found out that three of his
workers had been discharged, and within the
next few days after finding out his mistake,
those men were back on their old jobs. Now,
was that economy, or was it politics ? This
is a similar case of discharging certain em-
ployees and placing others in their place. So
I am going to ask that the Council have in
mind that this order will have but one effect —
that of discharging one day and then hiring
the next day.
' Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I think
the gentleman misunderstood the purport and
language of my order. I asked the question
not of but through his Honor the Mayor, as
I believe is necessary under our procedure. I
did not ask the question of the Mayor, but
of the Trustees of the Boston City Hospital.
They ought to know.
The orders were passed under suspension of
the rule.
ARC LIGHT AT CENTRAL AND CENTRE
STREETS.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install an arc light at the corner
of Centre and Central streets, Ward 20, with
a view to preventing further accidents to
pedestrians crossing the street ait this point.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
STREET PAVING.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to direct the Public Works Department
and the Park Department to take such steps
as may be necessary to insure fair and com-
petitive bidding for street paving contracts ;
and also to direct said departments to prepare
specifications for less expensive paving on
minor streets, as has been recommended by the
Boston Finance Commission.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
PAYMENT OF DELINQUENT TAXES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to inform the City Council as to the
progress of the committee, headed by William
Minot, Esq., which he appointed in April to
stimulate payment of delinquent taxes, said
information to include the actual work of the
committee to date, and the daily collection of
taxes since the appointment of said committee.
Coun. NORTON — Mt. President, I think the
City Council before passing on the budget this
year should have the benefit of the advice
of this committee of experts in regard to back
taxes.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
REOESS.
The Council, by direction of the Chair,
took a recess subject to the call of the Chair
at 2.58 p. m. The members reassembled in
the Council Chamber and were called to order
by President DOWD at 3.58 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Commit-
tee, submitted the following :
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear
at places of (public amusement, viz. :
Lilla Viles Wyman, Repertory Theatre, May
12 ; the LylHon F. Rose School of Dancing,
Repertory Theatre, June 13 : Ruth M. Taylor,
Eliot Hall, May 7, 12, recommending that
leave be granted on usual conditions.
Report accepted ; leave granted on usual
conditions.
2. Report on communication (referred
today) from School Committee requesting
reinstatement of Dr. Simon F. Curran as
supervising physician in public schools — re-
commending passage of the accompanying
order, viz. :
Ordered, That under the provisions of chap-
ter 320 of the Acts of 1933 the reinstatement
of Dr. Simon F. Curran as supervising physi-
cian in the public schools be, and hereby is,
approved.
Report accepted ; said order approved.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON
CONSTABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN, for the Committee on
Constables, submitted report recommending
confirmation of the following constables :
Authorized to Serve Civil Process upon Filing
Bonds.
William A. Amsie, Henry Atwood, Chester
A. Bailey, David Belson, Joseph L. Bennett,
152
CITY COUNCIL.
Carl Birger Berg. George A. Borofski, Thomas
P. Brett, George W. Brooker, Warren A.
Brown, Edgar P. Callahan, Thomas Canni/.-
zaro, James A. Canton, Daniel B. Carmody,
Thomas C. Carr, William K. Coburn, Sydney
Cohen, Samuel Coulter, Charles M. Daley,
.John J. Daunt, William Davis, Walter F.
Delaney, John J. Dillon, Joseph Dinubilc,
Walter A. Donlan, Daniel J. Donovan, Stephen
J. Dunleavy, Charles W. Duran, George H.
Evans, Thomas Freedman, Paul R. Gast,
Albert G. Gilbert, Louis Goldberg, Samuel
Goldkrand, Meyer Goldstein, Samuel Goldstein,
Solomon Gorfinkle, Edmund C. Grady, John S.
Grady, Sears H. Grant, George W. Green,
William C. Gregory, John F. Halligan, Richard
Hegarty, Joseph Herman, John H. Howard,
Jacob Isgur, Charles H. Jackson, Max Jacobs,
Harry Kahn, David Klayman, Charles C.
Knibbs, Bronis Kontrim, Mark H. Krafsur,
Nathan Kravitsky, Abraham Krinsky, Abraham
Landfield, Frank F. Lane, Albert A. Levine,
Maurice Levine, Frank J. Macchia, Isie Martin,
John A. May, John T. McGovern, William P.
Miles, John J. Miller, Harold C. Mitchell,
Bernard M. Mullen, Andrew W. Murphy, Pat-
rick H. Murphy, Nathan Neitlich, Fred K.
Nopolitaro, Elmer S. Nyman, Edward Ober,
Michael W. Ober, Bert Oippenheim, Louis H.
Oppenheim, Frederick Partridge, James G.
Peters, David I. Rattet, Abraham Rosenberg,
Maurice Rosenberg, William T. Rosengarten,
Samuel Shain, Frank Shaw, Sidney J. Shein-
feld, Isaac Shulman, Joseph Simansky, Henry
J. D. Small, John Sualich, Ulysses T. Sullivan,
Jerome Suvalle, George J. Swidler, Benjamin J.
Taekeff, David Tobey, Francis J. Tobin, Joseph
Todisco, Joseph M. Torr, John J. Walsh, Harry
A. Webber, John A. Wiragg, Frederick J.
Wright, Louis Yacker, Maurice Zeeman.
The question came on confirmation of the
list submitted by the committee.
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, might I
state that of the about one hundred thirty
names, we have 0. K.'d and recommended
the confirmation of some one hundred and
twelve, I believe, at this time. The O. K. is
alongside the names of those so recommended.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, with ref-
erence to this constable situation, upon which
we have had a more or less hectic session in
executive meeting, it was my honor or other-
wise to serve as chairman of the Committee on
Constables three or four years back, in the
happier days, and at that time it was the
custom to take the list of constables, contain-
ing many who had served in previous years,
for ten or fifteen years, and in some cases
thirty or forty years — when the list was sent
to the Council, and send out questionnaires
to those up for reappointment. They ap-
peared before the committee, and if there were
complaints against a man he was allowed to
tell his side of the story. That usually re-
sulted in clearing up cases where there might-
have been some vindictiveness shown or black-
mail attempted. It appears that this year
there has been some variation in the pro-
cedure, and that some names have not ap-
peared at all, while others have been held up.
As the names are read, I recognize many
familiar names on the old list of constables
and, having in mind the way that the list
has been held up and the way in which the
matter is being handled today, it occurs to
me that this whole constable situation in
the City of Boston is being turned into some-
thing of the nature of a football game. I
was never aware in previous years of the
fact that hearings or so-called hearings were
held in advance by the Mayor. Taking the
situation as it appears, taking the list as we
have it, and having in mind that some of the
men on the list today are constituents of mine,
competent and good men, presumably more
or less of them Mansfield men in the last
election, I am going to move that the list be
laid on the table, although I would be glad to
accede to a suggestion that we return it to
Executive Committee. I think, on the whole,
having in mind the way it has been handled,
and reserving the right to go back into ex-
ecutive and consider at greater length some
of the names, I will move that the entire list
be laid on the table today.
Coun. Wilson's motion to lay on the table
was declared lost by a rising vote, 10 to 11.
Coun. GREEN— Mr. President, I further
doubt the vote and ask for the yeas and nays.
Coun. Wilson's motion to lay on the table
was defeated by roll call, yeas 10, nays 11 :
Yeas — Coun. Donovan, Englert, Fish, Gal-
lagher, Green, McGrath, Murray, Norton, Sel-
vitella, Wilson — 10.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Dowd, Finley, Fitzgerald, Goldman, Kerrigan,
Roberts, Shattuck, Tobin — 11.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I now move
reference of the list back to the Executive
Committee, feeling that probably many of the
negative votes cast against laying on the table
were so cast due to a desire not to leave this
matter tied up until beyond the first of May.
I feel that there is no particular reason why
we should not send it back to the Executive
Committee. The Committee on Constables, I
assume, has full information in regard to the
various constables. Many of them, even be-
fore the last mayoralty campaign, had served
the City of Boston for years as constables,
and a limited number by wards perhaps
could be reported back thereby not leaving the
City of Boston without the doubtful value of
the services of many of these constables for
seven days. Feeling that the suggestion I
am now making is a fair one, I move reference
back to the Executive Committee.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I see
no advantage of sending these names back to
the Executive Committee. We have just spent
three-quarters of an hour going over the
situation, and I don't think the Council will
benefit by sending the names back. We have
no power except to confirm or not confirm
the names before us. In regard to names not
sent in, of course we have no power to do
anything, whether we like that situation or
not. There are still a great many vacancies
to be filled. If certain men have been un-
justly discriminated against, the matter can
be brought before the Mayor and he can send
other names in if he chooses to do so. Of
course, it is within the province of the Mayor
to act in that respect as he sees fit, and any
action taken by this body will not change his
mind on names that he refuses to send in. I
think by delaying we will simply be holding
up men appointed by the Mayor, who have
no records or complaints against them, and
who should be confirmed without further delay.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I had an
understanding when I was voting here that
these were paid constables of the city.
President DOWD— Unpaid.
Coun. NORTON — I have no objection to
passing them. The Mayor is acting in ac-
cordance with his prerogative in this matter,
the same as other Mayors. I suppose some
have been out four years, and now others will
be out for four years more. We should not
be selfish in this matter. He is entitled to his
constables, the same as other Mayors.
Coun. WILSON'S motion to refer to the
Executive Committee was lost, yeas 9, nays
12:
Yeas — Coun. Donovan, Englert, Fish, Gal-
lagher, Green, McGrath, Murray, Selvitella,
Wilson— 9.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Dowd, Finley, Fitzgerald, Goldman, Kerrigan,
Norton, Roberts, Shattuck, Tobin — 12.
The question then came on confirmation of
the names reported by the committee. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finley and Fitzgerald.
Coun MURRAY — Mr. President, I move that
the vote be taken on the names singly.
President DOWD — The motion is out of
order.
Coun. MURRAY — On what ground?
President DOWD — The tally is now being
made.
The appointments were confirmed, 13 to 7.
APRIL 23, 1934.
153
CONFIRMATION OF MINOR OFFICERS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz. :
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor April 9, 1934, of minor officers paid by
fees, as contained in City Document No. 47.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Selvitella and Norton. Whole
number of ballots 20, yeas 20, and the ap-
pointments were confirmed.
DECENTRALIZATION OF WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of request-
ing the Board of Public Welfare to decentralize
the work of the department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned at 4.35 p. m., on motion of Coun.
KERRIGAN, to meet on Monday, April 30,
1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
OITY COUNCIL.
1,54
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, April 30, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council held
in the Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.,
President DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun.
Gleason.
APPOINTMENTS OF WEIGHERS OF
GOODS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 27, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body, I have this day appointed the
following-named weighers of goods :
Edward E. Sheehy, 12 Playstead toad, Dor-
chester; Jeremiah J. P. O'Sullivan, 111 West
Sixth street, South Boston ; Herbert P. Barton,
24 Ward street, Roxbury ; Thomas R. Kelley,
372 Meridian street, East Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Laid over for one week under the law.
APPOINTMENT OF CONSTABLE JOHN A.
iO'BRIEN.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body, I hereby appoint John J.
O'Brien, 110 Elm street, Ward 2, constable of
the City of Boston for the term of one year,
beginning with the first day of May, 1934,
without power to serve civil process and to
serve without bond.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Laid over a week under the law.
WITHDRAWAL AND APPOINTMENT OF
CONSTABLES.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The following names are with-
drawn from the list of constables submitted by
me to your honorable body last week :
William J. Campbell, 19 Trull street, Ward
15 ; Pasquale delGrosso, 124 Bremen street.
Ward 1 ; Joseph W. Ferris, 18 Westover street,
Ward 20 ; William A. Kelley, 11 Bullard street,
Ward 14 ; Joseph F. McDonald, 1057 Saratoga
street, Ward 1; Arthur R. Merritt, 411 Sara-
toga street, Ward 1 ; Edward M. Richardson,
1706 Commonwealth avenue, Ward 21 ; Edward
Sandler, 207 Woodrow avenue, Ward 14 ;
Stephen J. Siney, 37 Woodcliff street, Ward 13 ;
Thomas H. Staples, 224 South street, Ward 11.
With further reference to the said list sub-
mitted by me and for your information I beg
to advise you that Edward J. Leary, Emory
D. Morgan and Timothy F. Regan were ap-
pointed constables because they held other of-
ficial positions which made dt desirable for
them to be constables as well, but they receive
no compensation from the city as constables.
The four constables named for service with
the Animal Rescue League and the Mass.
S. P. C. T. A., and the two van drivers ap-
pointed by the court also serve without com-
pensation from the city as constables.
I am informed by the Budget Commissioner
that thirty-eight is the minimum number of
constables actually required in all departments,
as follows :
Building, 1 ; Collecting, 8 ; Fire, 1 ; Health, 2 ;
Law, 8 ; Public Welfare, 1 ; Public Works,
Paving, 1 ; Public Works, Sanitary, 7 ; Public
Works, Sewer, 1 ; Registry, 1 ; Street Laying-
Out, 6 ; Penal Institutions, 1.
The difference between the thirty-eight listed
above and the forty-five contained in the list
now before the Council for approval are to
be assigned to the Collector's office, where for
the remainder 'of this year there will be an
intensive effort to collect taxes now due to
the city and where, I think, they can do good
service for the city.
I am also resubmitting the names of the
following persons, who if confirmed as con-
stables will be assigned to the Law Depart-
ment:
Joseph Leo Duffley, 15 Spencer street, Dor-
chester ; Sidney E. Sullivan, 7 Mt. Everett
street, Dorchester ; Archibald P. McNeil, 14
Blanche street, Dorchester ; Clarence A. Nado,
41 Old Morton street, Dorchester.
This makes a total of forty-nine paid con-
stables as against sixty last year.
If during the year it shall develop that the
services of any of these constables are not
needed they may be dropped.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Laid over fo," one week under the law.
IMPROVEMENTS AT TENEAN BEACH.
The following were received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Park Department, relative to your
order of April 23, 1934, concerning the erec-
tion of a shelter at Tenean Beach, Doi-chester.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, April 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commissioner
be requested to erect a shelter at Tenean
Beach, Dorchester.
'I regret exceedingly to inform you that the
Park Department has no funds available for
this purpose.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 2S, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Park Department, relative to your
order of April 23, 1934, concerning the laying
of a cement walk to replace the present board
walk at Tenean Beach, Dorchester.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, April 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commissioner
be requested to lay a cement walk to replace
the present board walk at Tenean Beach, Dor-
chester.
I regret exceedingly to inform you that the
Park Department has no funds available for
this purpose. I will be very pleased to repair
l r>r*
CITY COUNCIL.
the present board walk and put it in proper
condition for the summer bathing season.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Park Department, relative to your
order of April 23, 1934, concerning the in-
stallation of drinking fountains at Tenean
Beach, Dorchester.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, April 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commissioner
be requested to install drinking fountains at
Tenean Beach, Dorchester.
There are two drinking fountains at Tenean
Beach at the present time. If it is possible to
install another drinking fountain at no ex-
pense, outside of our regular maintenance, it
will be a pleasure to do so.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Severally placed on file.
RECREATION PIER, EAST BOSTON.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the MayoT, April 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commisioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of April 23, 1934, concerning the
building of a recreation pier at the site of
the North Ferry slip in Ward 1, East Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
April 27, 1934.
To the Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
I return order of City Council dated April
23, 1934, reading:
"To arrange under the F. E. R. A. for the
building of a recreation pier at the site of
the North Ferry slip in Ward 1, East Bos-
ton,"—
and to state that the Public Works Department
budget has no available money either to build
a recreation pier or to maintain said recreation
pier after its construction.
This type of project more properly should
come under the jurisdiction of the Park De-
partment as the Public Works Department
maintains no piers or pai'ks for recreation pur-
poses.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
JOHN H. L. NOYES PLAYGROUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Park Department, relative to your
order of April 23, 1934, concerning plans to
enlarge the right field area of the John H. L.
Noyes Playground in Ward 1, East Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, April 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commissioner
be requested to arrange under the F. E. R. A.
plans to enlarge the right field area of the
John H. L. Noyes Playground in Ward 1,
East Boston.
One of the projects now in operation is
the enlarging of this field. When the E. R. A.
goes into effect again, operations will be con-
tinued. The department will try to make a
first-class playground of this area out of
E. R. A. funds.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
LOCKER BUILDING, AMERICAN LEGION
PARK.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Park Department, relative to your
order of April 23, 1934, concerning the erection
of a suitable locker building and shower
facilities at* American Legion Park, Ward 1,
East Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, April 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commissioner
be requested to arrange under the F. E. R. A.
for the erection of a suitable locker building
and shower facilities at American Legion Park,
Ward 1, East Boston.
A suitable playground building would cost
approximately $25,000, of which at least
$14,000 ' "would be for material. Under the
E. R. A. the government will not allow any
money for materials.
The department has no money that can be
utilized for this purpose. I regret exceedingly
under the conditions that I cannot comply
with the order of the City Council.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
POLICE DEPARTMENT COMMUNICATIONS
SYSTEM.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 30, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I have received from the Fed-
eral Emergency Administration of Public
Works, with letter of transmittal dated April
27, 1934, forms of grant agreement between
the City of Boston and the United States of
America relating to the project of Police De-
partment communications system, P. W. A.
Docket No. 8200, one copy of which I submit
herewith.
I also submit herewith an order authorizing
me to execute and deliver to the United States
of America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston three counter-parts of said grant agree-
ment and approving said grant agreement.
I recommend prompt consideration and pass-
age by your honorable body of this order, be-
cause of the limited time available for the
execution and delivery of this agreement and
because of the desirability of commencing
work on this project without delay.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
APRIL 30, 1934.
156
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby
is, authorized to execute and deliver to the
United States of America for and in behalf
of the City of Boston three counter -parts
of the grant agreement between the City of
Boston and the United States of America re-
lating to the project of Police Department
communications system, P. W. A. Docket No.
8200, and providing for the grant to the City
of Boston by the United States of America of
certain funds upon the terms and conditions
in said grant agreement set forth, one copy
of which grant agreement has been submitted
to this meeting and is made a part of the
minutes hereof, and that said grant agree-
ment be, and the same hereby is, approved.
(Appended was the grant agreement re-
ferred to. )
Referred to Executive Committee.
APPOINTMENT OF EDWARD A. FAY.
The following was received :
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, April 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body, I have this day appointed
Edward A. Fay, 38 Dunreath street, Roxbury,
as a weigher of goods.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Laid over a week under the law.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
John Alexander, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 99 Falcon street, caused
by break in water pipe.
Americo Baldassare, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 6
Noyes place.
T. J. Edwards, for refund on refuse tickets.
John Glynn, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Appleton street.
Jenny B. and Mrs. Asa A. Goddard, for com-
pensation for injuries caused by an alleged
defect at 44 Mt. Vernon street.
Clarence Day Hornigan, for compensation
for damage to car by traffic sign.
Mary Littlefield, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Parker
street, Roxbury.
Charles B. McNuIty, to be reimbursed 'for
judgment issued against him on account of
his acts as an employee of the city.
Cathreen Morgan, for compensation for dam-
age to property by police car.
D. H. Pickering, for compensation for dam-
age to car caused by an alleged defect in
Carver street.
Theodore W. Robinson, for compensation for
injuries caused by negligent operation of ele-
vator in City Hall.
John J. Tierney, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Wash-
ington street.
Mabel A. Walsh, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 7 Cushing Hill road, caused
by lowering of street.
Rose Freedman, for compensation for injuries
caused by snow and ice at 82 Ellington street.
Frank A. Durgin, for compensation for in-
juries caused by defective shoe machine at
Deer Island.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years
of age to appear at places of public amuse-
ment, viz. :
Benjamin H. Russell, Jordan Hall, April 29.
Gertrude Westling, Repertory Theatre, May
2il.
Gertrude Goodman, Repertory Theatre, May
22.
Dorothy M. Oliver, Fields Corner Theatre,
May 3.
APPOINTMENT OF ELIOT WADSWORTH.
Notice was received from the Mayor of
appointment of Eliot Wadsworth of 180 Marl-
borough street, as Sinking Funds Commissioner
for term of three years beginning May 1, 1934.
Placed on file.
CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The bonds of the following-named constables,
having been duly approved by the City Treas-
urer, were received, viz. :
William A. Amsie, Henry Atwood, Thomas
F. Brett, Carl Birger Berg, George A. Borofski,
Warren A. Brown, Thomas Cannizarro,
Thomas C. Carr, William K. Coburn, Sydney
Cohen, Samuel Coulter, John J. Daunt, Charles
M. Daley, Walter A. Donlan, Stephen J. Dun-
leavy, Albert G. Gilbert, Louis Goldberg, Meyer
Goldstein. Edmund C. Grady, Sears H. Grant,
George W. Green, William C. Gregory, John
F. Halligan, Joseph Herman, John H. Howard,
Jacob Isgur, Max Jacobs, Charles C. Knibbs,
Mark H. Krafsur, Albert A. Levine, Isie
Martin, John T. McGovern, Harold C. Mitchell,
Nathan Neitlich, Louis H. Oppenheim, Wil-
liam T. Rosengarten, Samuel Shain, Frank
Shaw, Henry J. D. Small, Isaac Shulman, John
Sualich, Jerome Suvalle, Benjamin J. Tackeff,
David Tobey, Joseph M. Torr, Frederick J.
Wright, John A. Wragg, Louis Yacker.
The question came on approval of the bonds.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. President, there is one
name that I heard read there upon which at
the present time I object to the approval of
the bond.
President DOWD— What is the name?
Coun. AGNEW— The name is Joseph Her-
man.
The bond of Joseph Herman was excepted,
and all the others were approved.
DUMP PERMITS TO J. P. McCABE COM-
PANY.
Coun. FISH offered the following :
Ordered, That the Board of Health Com-
missioner be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to revoke the dump permits issued
to J. P. McCabe Company, at the following
locations :
Hallet street, Ward 16, Tenean Beach, Ward
16.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I have re-
ceived numerous complaints in regard to these
two dumps from people in my ward. There-
fore, I have introduced this order requesting
the revocation of the dumps at Tenean Beach
and Hallet street, Dorchester.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING OF WARD 10 STREETS.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Pries-
ing street, Ward 10.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Wal-
den street, Ward 10.
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
WARD 14 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Harvard road.
Ward 14, as a public highway.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works ibe requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Brad-
shaw street, Ward 14.
157
CITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, Thai the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Wool-
son street, Ward 14.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Floyd
street, Ward 14.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Floyd street,
from Blue Hill avenue to Lucerne street, Ward
14, in front of the estates bordering thereon ;
said sidewalk to be from 3 to 10 inches above
the gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet
in width, and to be built of granolithic, with
granite edgestones, under the provisions of
chapter 196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk, in front of property
at 23 Kingsdale street, Ward 14, in front of
the estates bordering thereon ; said sidewalk
to be from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter
adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in width,
and to be built of granolithic, with granite
edgestones, under the provisions of chapter
196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
WELFARE CASES IN WARD 1.
Coon. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be instructed, through his Honor the
Mayor, to advise the City Council forthwith
with reference to the 2,935 active cases as
of April 4, 1934, in Ward 1 :
a. How many of said oases were aliens ?
b. How many of said cases were registered
voters in the City of Boston ?
c. How many of said cases were last paid
by check ?
d. How many of said cases were last paid
in cash ?
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be instructed, through his Honor the
Mayor, to advise the City Council forthwith :
1. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 1 during De-
cember, 1933, together with the name of each
visitor. .
2. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 1 during April,
1934, together with the name of each visitor.
3. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 1 as of April 1,
1934, together with the name of each visitor.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be instructed, through his Honor the
Mayor, to obtain from every recipient of aid
in Ward 1, not later than May 10, 1934,
1. The signature of the recipient.
2. The present residence address of the
recipient.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be instructed, through his Honor the
Mayor, to advise the City Council forthwith
as to what most recent date all cases still
active on the Public Welfare lists as of April
1, 1934, in Ward 1, have been personally
visited or otherwise checked up by any
visitor of the Public Welfare Department.
Coun. SELVITELLA — Mr. President, I would
like to hear more on those orders from my
good friend from Ward 17 — why he has singled
out Ward 1?
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I am going
to talk on some other orders there later, with
regard to Public Welfare. As will probably
be explained by the chairman of the Special
Committee on Public Welfare, popular opinion
perhaps to the contrary, the committee have
not been in a state of coma, but have been
having hearings. It Meema entirely proper, in
starting in with a list of wards of the city,
that we should begin with Ward 1. This order
looks to the furnishing of further information
to the Special Committee on Investigation of
the Public Welfare Department, commencing
with Ward 1.
The orders were passed under suspension of
the rule.
INFORMATION FROM PUBLIC WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston
City Hospital be instructed, through his Honor
the Mayor, to advise the City Council forth-
with:
1. The total number of non-residents of
Boston who were patients at the Boston City
Hospital during
a. 1934. b. 1933. c. 1932. d. 1931. e. 1930.
2. The total number of the above non-
residents for care of whom at the Boston City
Hospital, in the year stated, the City of Boston
has been reimbursed by the proper city or
town of settlement.
3. The total amount recovered for each
year.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be instructed, through his Honor the
Mayor, to advise the City Council forthwith :
1. The number of recipients of aid from
that department still receiving aid as of April
1, 1934, who have not been residents of Boston
for five consecutive years prior thereto.
2. Exactly what efforts, if any, have been
made by the Public Welfare Department to
have the proper city or town of settlement
reimburse the City of Boston for any and all
payments made to such recipients during the
past five years.
3. What amount, if any, was collected dur-
ing 1933 from other cities and towns to re-
imburse the City of Boston for aid given.
4. What amount, if any, the City of Boston
paid during 1933 to reimburse other cities and
towns for welfare aid.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SALE OF CONVALESCENT HOSPITAL
PROPERTY.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston
City Hospital, through his Honor the Mayor,
be requested to provide for an early sale of
the so-called Convalescent Hospital property
on Dorchester avenue, consisting of over
600,000 square feet of land and no longer in
use by the city.
Passed under "suspension of the rule.
RESURFACING OF NIXON STREET.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Department,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested
to resurface Nixon street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SURVEY OF CITY-OWNED LAND.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, requested to have a survey made
of all city-owned land and buildings not now
occupied and used by any city department with
a view to a possible sale of the same.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APRIL 30, 1934.
158
LUCY STONE SCHOOL.
Coun. WILSON offered .the following:
Ordered, That the School Committee of the
City of Boston, through his Honor the Mayor,
be respectfully requested to comply at an early
date with the urgent need for permanent ad-
ditional quarters .properly to house pupils at
the Lucy Stone School in Dorchester.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, on that
particular order I would ask that there be
printed in the minutes the form of petition
presented to the Boston School Committee, and
also the letter from Miss Cronin of the School
Committee with regard to the present at-
titude of the School Board. I would like the
whole matter set forth as a matter of record,
having in mind that, when it is now proposed
to build the high schools in West Roxbury and
South Boston, as well as in other sections, it
is unfortunate that a school for the younger
children, like the Lucy Stone School, should
be crowded as it is in the present building.
Certainly, there should be something approach-
ing proper housing there.
(Appended are the petition and letter re-
ferred to.)
The School Committee of the City of Boston.
Gentlemen, — The Lucy Stone School, which
is one of the five "special class centers" in
the Boston school district and which is located
on Regina road, Dorchester, in the John
Marshall District, is in urgent need of perma-
nent additional quarters properly to house
even its present pupils.
Out of the present school membership of 150
there are 64 of these backward children housed
in old portables ; the remaining 86 are seated
daily in classrooms so small as to necessitate
the inadvisable close contact of double desk
arrangements, with narrow aisles, inadequate
space for necessary equipment and furniture
and a complete elimination from the school pro-
gram of those physical training exercises and
other activities so necessary for all growing
children but especially those already handicap-
ped in other respects.
Numerous pupils enrolled in the special
classes, although now eligible because of age
and achievement for promotion to other schools,
have been refused advancement because of
overcrowding and are thereby frequently ob-
liged to remain with much younger children in
special classes to the detriment of both.
The land on which a new and adequate
building should be erected adjacent to the
present school is already available as a result
of purchase made by the city sevei'al years ago
for the very purpose ; therefore unless back-
ward children, due to inadequate school facili-
ties, are in effect to be educationally abandoned
at the age of twelve, the undersigned urge the
prompt erection of a reasonably adequate
school building on said land already provided
for the purpose on Regina road.
City Councilor Robert Gardiner Wilson, Jr.,
and others.
City of Boston,
School Committee, April 26, 1934.
Mr. Robert Gardiner Wilson, Jr.,
57 Codman Hill Avenue, Dorchester.
Dear Sir, — The School Committee in con-
ference on Monday evening of this week re-
ceived your petition for the erection of a new
building to house the special class center now
located in the Lucy Stone School on vacant
land owned by the city on Regina road.
The School Committee has directed me to
say that the committee appreciates the need
for a larger and more suitable building for
this center and had hoped to be able to
transfer the center to the Henry L. Pierce
School building upon the opening of the Jere-
miah E. Burke High School. The committee
now finds, however, that it will be necessary
for another year to continue to use the Henry
L. Pierce building as an annex to the Dor-
chester High School. By September, 1935, it
is hoped that the building may be released by
the Dorchester High School.
Under the circumstances it seems to the
committee inadvisable to consider the erection
of a new building for the special class center,
particularly in view of the fact that there
will be but a very small sum available for
construction of school buildings this year.
The committee assures you that the need of
more suitable accommodations for the Lucy
Stone Center will be kept in mind by the com-
mittee, and the committee thanks you for
bringing the matter to its attention at thjs
time.
Very truly yours,
Ellen M. Cronin, Secretary.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
COMMUNISM AMONG SCHOOL CHILDREN.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners 'be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to withdraw permit for May Day
parade under the auspices of the United Front
May Day Conference, unless assured that no
children of grammar or high school age are
to participate.
Ordered, That the Boston School Committee,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
fully investigate in order to determine to what
extent the recent strikes and other conduct
by students in the Boston schools have been
caused or instigated by the activities of com-
munistic organizations, and further to take
proper action to eliminate the spreading of
radical propaganda in the schools of Boston.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I would ask
for the passage of those orders at this time,
because those who have followed for six or
eight years what has been going on among
the school children of Boston say that the
recent instances of lawlessness we have seen
in our schools are no sudden outbreak of these
communistic activities, but that at present, and
for some time, there have been efforts exerted
by the National Students League, of 114 East
Fourteenth street, New York City, to organize
radical student movements among the school
children of our nation, and that there are
continuous efforts of the organization to spread
radical propaganda in the schools of Boston,
as in other parts of the country. The events
of the past few months represent no spasmodic
or isolated outburst, for I remember as long-
ago as March, 1927, when an order was passed
by this body to stop the communistic circulariz-
ing of the Boston schools by the so-called
"Young Pioneers," who were particularly en-
deavoring to hold up to ridicule such patriotic
organizations as the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts
of America. There is also this paper called
"The Young Comrade," or some such name,
which has been widely distributed. I am well
aware of the fact that the Superintendent of
Schools has sent out orders forbidding school
children to absent themselves from classrooms
tomorrow to participate in the May Day
parade ; but I am also advised that it is
contemplated that the first two divisions of the
parade to start tomorrow at 11 a. m. at Han-
over and Prince streets, will be composed
wholly or primarily of school children. I in-
troduce the second order having in mind the
order recently introduced in the Massachusetts
Legislature, on March 31, demanding an in-
vestigation by the State Commissioner of Edu-
cation. While no doubt that was a praise-
worthy effort, I feel that any such house-
cleaning in Boston should he done mot by the
state but by our own Boston school authorities.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
OPINION OF CORPORATION COUNSEL IN
RE SMALLPOX HOSPITAL.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following :
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be
requested to furnish the City Council with an
159
CITY COUNCIL.
opinion as to whether or not his Honor the
Mayor has the authority to abandon the small-
pox hospital, so called, on 'Southampton street
or to transfer the care and control of said
hospital from the Health Department to the
Hospital Department without the consent of
the City Council, in view of the provisions
of chapter III, section 92, of the General Laws,
and chapter 16, section 3, of the Revised
Ordinances of 1926.
Passed under suspension of the irule.
INFORMATION FROM HEALTH COMMIS-
SIONER IN RE SMALLPOX.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Health Commissioner be
requested by his Honor the Mayor to advise
the City Council as to what facilities his de-
partment now has for handling any case of
smallpox or leprosy that may come to the
notice of that department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CHECK-UP OF ELEVATED FINANCES.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be
requested to give immediate attention to the
order recently introduced in the Council for
a check-up of the Boston Elevated finances
by the Metropolitan Transit Council.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, in con-
nection with that last order I would like to
file a copy of the last letter I received from
Mr. Swan, the public accountant, in regard
to this matter. I understand that a copy was
sent to every member of the Council.
The letter referred to was as follows :
James T. Swan Co.,
Certified Public Accountants,
68 Devonshire Street,
Boston, April 28, 1934.
To the President and Members, Boston City
Council.
Gentlemen, — Referring to a vote passed by
you on Monday, April 16, 1934, requesting his
Honor the Mayor to call a meeting of the
Metropolitan Transit Council to consider cer-
tain matters relating to the operating results
of the Boston Elevated Railway which were
bruoght to your attention, and which seriously
affect the finances of the City of Boston, and
having no information of any action yet taken
we call your attention to the fact that the
fiscal year of the Elevated Railway will close
on June 30, 1934, and under the acts of 1918
and 1931 the treasurer and receiver general
of the Commonwealth is obligated to there-
upon pay over to the company the amount of
any deficit reported by the Public Trustees
for the fiscal year. You can therefore realize
that any further delay by the Mayor will
jeopardize any possible chance to effect a
large saving in the proportion of the deficit
to be borne later by the City of Boston, that
proportion being approximately 65 per cent.
It will be remembered that at the meeting
of April 16, 1934, among other items, the
annual charge now made for depreciation
was called to your attention and from the
annual report of the company filed with the
Department of Public Utilities it appears that
from January 1, 1918, to December 31, 1933,
there has been charged to cost of operation
for depreciation more than $38,000,000 and
if an amount equal to the average for the
last five years is charged annually during the
balance of the term of public control this total
will be increased to more than $104,000,000,
or approximately four times the total amount
of the capital stock outstanding on December
31, 1933. Had the Public Trustees, when they
took over the public operation of the com-
pany, continued the rate of depreciation then
being charged to cost of operation by the
directors of the Elevated the total charge for
this account covering the entire period of pub-
lic control would have amounted to only about
$16,000,000 instead of $104,000,000, a differ-
ence of Soi;, ooo, ooo, the proportion of which
is borne by the ( Ziiv of l>o/U>n beiiiK about
$64,000,000, which i-: far in excess of the
entire city budget for a full year.
Respectfully submitted,
James T. Swan,
C. P. A.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
REOPENING OF CONVALESCENT HOS-
PITAL.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Trustees of the
Boston City Hospital reopen the Convalescent
Hospital located on Dorchester avenue.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECREATION PIER, WARD 1.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commissioner De
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
arrange under the F. E. R. A. for the building
of a recreation pier at the site of the North
Ferry slip in Ward 1, East Boston.
Coun. Selvitella was given unanimous con-
sent to file the following with the order:
The purpose of the proposed project is for
the extension of project which is now known
as 6187-34 in order to have the proper amount
of space non-encumbered by objectionable
buildings now on the location adjacent to the
area of the original project. A further pur-
pose is to be noted here that in carrying on
the extension of this project it will allow
employment of over two hundred men, 60
per cent of whom can be drawn from the im-
mediate area around the location described.
In accepting the proposed extension of this
original project it will give to this locality
a very much needed structure.
The new plans and specifications together
with the new application for this extension
of the original Project 2005 contains in detail
proper apparatus for children and improve-
ments toward health in general. It also in-
cludes other apparatus for grown-ups to enjoy
and receive very noticeable benefits from.
Furthermore it has been suggested in the
plans and specifications that the North Ferry
office building which is now idle and non-
productive as to income to the city be turned
into a concession building from which a
revenue can be received from two sources,
namely, from refreshments to be sold there
and a miniature municipal bath containing
showers from which a revenue may also be
obtained. In razing the buildings, as shown
on the plans, there will be furnished to the
Welfare Department for distribution approx-
imately one hundred and sixty cords of fine
quality firewood, this being a very con-
servative estimate and will save the Welfare
Department of the City of Boston a consider-
able amount of money.
There will be no real change in the pro-
cedure of the work to be carried on in the
new proposal as it is the same sort of work
except that the original idea is much smaller
and less desirable than the one now suggested.
In order to carry on the procedure of the new
proposed project it "will simply necessitate
larger crews of workmen and a small ex-
penditure of money by the City of Boston.
There will be produced on this project by
labor paid for by the United States Govern-
ment as stated above 160 big cords of fine
quality firewood coming from the structures
to be torn down. This will amount to ap-
proximately $2,000 in value and saving which
will directly benefit the Welfare Department.
From the welfare lists according to the
E. R. A. code of employment, there can be
furnished an amount of labor which will total
up to $36,000 in money. This also can be
deducted from the welfare expenses of the
City of Boston. However, taking into con-
sideration the cost to the City of Boston in
money this cannot be compared to the con-
tentment and ease and benefits that will be
APRIL 30, 1934.
160
derived from such an extended structure in
this locality, in which this project appears.
It is a project believed by many to have been
long sought for as well as badly needed and
will assist greatly toward the health and
contentment of East Boston. While the gov-
ernment is willing to expend approximately
$58,000 it would seem that the City of Boston
according to the savings shown in the above
paragraph should be willing to expend the
sum asked for in the application, including
material and tools that are necessary, which
sum amounts to approximately $6,000'. De-
tailed plans and specifications of this proposed
area have been completed and the cost and
estimates for this job have been carefully
figured, and it is the opinion of the writer
that these figures are correct.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
BROADCASTING OF BASEBALL GAMES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Parks,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested
to consider the advisability of broadcasting
baseball games from the Parkman Bandstand,
Boston Common.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, on Boston
Common we have a broadcasting outfit, which
I think may well be used to broadcast base-
ball games.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
POLICY IN MUNICIPAL EXPENSES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following :
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of adopt-
ing a broad, general policy of reducing munic-
ipal expenses.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I have in-
troduced an order here calling upon his Honor
the Mayor of Boston to formulate a broad
and general policy as to what his procedure
will be in reducing the general expenses of
the City of Boston. I claim that up to today
he has been drifting, not planning, pecking
and not surveying. The cost of government
in Boston for the year 1933 was $58,919,-
410.64, considerably more than the cost for
the city of Detroit, which, for the year ended
June 30, 1933 — a city with approximately
twice the population of Boston — operated its
city government for approximately $51,000,000.
In other words, we have here taxes double what
they would be, practically, in any other
American city, based on population. The latest
available comparative figures of the United
States Bureau of the Census show that the
cost of operating and maintaining the general
departments of Boston's municipal govern-
ment, during the year 1932 amounted to
$81.19 for every man woman and child in
Boston. In Detroit this charge amounted to
$42.51. Philadelphia, $40.66. Pittsburgh,
$51.63. Cleveland, $44.68. Baltimore, $42.72.
New York City, $67.77. From these figures
it would appear that the people of Boston
pay almost twice as much for their city
government as do the people in many other
large American cities. Comparisons are in
many ways unfair, but the fact that the cost
of operating Boston's city government is so
much greater than the cost of operating any
other large American municipality, that these
figures should at least create a presumption
that our costs are too high. Perhaps high
taxation is one reason why Boston has been
steadily going down as a business center and
has not been increasing as it should in popu-
lation. A small home, located in Boston, pays
higher taxes than it would in any other large
American city of half a million or more in
population. Perhaps this is one of the reasons
why Boston has the smallest percentage of
home owners of any large American city.
High taxes also mean high rents. The time
is now opportune for Boston's Mayor to
vigorously look into the matter of adopting
a broad general policy of retrenchment to
reduce Boston's tax burden. The editor of
one of the great Boston newspapers claims
that it costs $3 a week more to live in Boston
than to live in the adjacent town of Brookline.
I am asking the Mayor of Boston in this order
to stop drifting and to formulate a general
policy, to send it to this Council, and in that
way let it be known to the public. Let us
not have merely a continuance of what has
been going on, the Mayor announcing a policy
today and changing it tomorrow.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
CLEAN-UP CAMPAIGN.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to appoint a Temporary Committee,
consisting of the Public Works Commissioner,
Fire Commissioner, Health and Building Com-
missioners, to take charge of a so-called "Clean-
up Campaign" in Boston, giving proper pub-
licity to same.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, this is
the time of year when we notice the filth and
litter around in the residential sections. I
think if the Mayor will appoint this com-
mittee, including these heads of departments,
it would probably help to popularize the clean-
up campaign in Boston, seeing that the people
clean up rubbish and filth in their back yards
and around their homes, thereby improving
conditions here in Boston a lot. I hope the
order will pass.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
GARAGING OF CITY MOTOR VEHICLES.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to submit to the City Council a report
as to the amount of money now paid, each
month, by the City of Boston for motor
vehicles storaged in garages not owned by the
City of Boston, and the names and addresses
of said garages, together with the number of
motor vehicles stored in each garage.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.47 p. m., on motion
of Coun. FINLEY, to take a recess subject
to the call of the Chair. The members re-
assembled in the Council Chamber at 4.27
p. m. and were called to order by President
DOWD.
LOAN FOR NORTHERN AVENUE BRIDGE.
Coun. DONOVAN called up, under un-
finished business. No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in
amendment thereof or in addition thereto, the
sum of $375,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated,
to be expended under the direction of the
Commissioner of Public Works, for Recon-
struction and Repair of Northern Avenue
Bridge, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue,
from time to time, upon request of the Mayor,
bonds or certificates of indebtedness of the
city to said amount.
On April 16, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 18, nays 0.
The order was given its second and final
reading and passage, yeas 16, nays 5 :
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Finley, Fitzgerald, Gallagher,
Goldman, Green, Kerrigan, Norton, Roberts,
Selvitella, Shattuck, Tobin — 16.
Nays — Coun. Englert, Fish, McGrath, Mur-
ray, Wilson — 5.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORT.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Com-
mittee, submiitted the following :
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear
at places of public amusement, viz. :
161
CITY COUNCIL.
Benjamin H. Russell, Jordan Hall, April
2'.); Gertrude Westling, Repertory Theatre,
May 21 ; Gertrude Goodman, Repertory Theatre,
May 22 : Dorothy M. Oliver, Fields Corner
Theatre, May 8; — recommending that leave be
granted on usual conditions.
Report accepted ; leave granted on the usual
conditions.
SALE OF OLD POLICE STATION 12.
Ooun. KERRIGAN called up, under un-
finished business, No. 5 on the calendar, viz.:
5. Ordered, That the Superintendent of
Public Buildings be hereby authorized to sell,
at a duly advertised public auction, the prop-
erty on East Fourth street, near K street,
South Boston, formerly occupied for Police
Station 12, at an upset price of $5,000.
On April 16, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 16, nays 0.
The order was given its second and final
reading and passage, yeas 21, nays 0.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
WELARE.
Coun. McGRATH, for the Committee on
Public Welfare, submitted the following :
The Special Committee on Public Welfare,
in filing a partial report, wish to emphasize
the value of a complete re-check of every
recipient of dependent aid, whether classified
as unemployed or regular dependent aid re-
cipient, to be made not later than May 25,
1934, the method of this complete re-check to
be determined by the Public Welfare Depart-
ment, but in every instance, whether by visit
to the Welfare office or by a personal visit
to the home of the welfare recipient, together
with the address as of the exact date that the
contact is made.
The report was accepted.
REPORT ON CONSTABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN, for the Committee on
Constables, submitted the following:
Report of the second meeting of the Con-
stables' Committee with respect to the con-
stables appointed for the term of one year,
beginning May 1, 1934, authorized to serve
civil process upon filing of bonds. In other
words, the constables who work for themselves
and not as employees of the City of Boston.
The committee unanimously (reports that the
following eighteen ought to be confirmed :
Charles B. Broad, Joseph Caviello, Emory
Douglass, Maurice J. Glick, Jacob Goldberg,
St. Clair E. Hale, William R. Kenney, Thomas
H. King, Louis Levine, Leslie P. Mann, John
B. Howack, Emil Ober, Phillip S. Phillips,
Leonard M. Pike, Walter E. Bogan, Albert
H. Sacks, Aber Uckerman, Roman J. Vasil.
So far this body has confirmed 104 at its
meeting of April 23, 1934, and the eighteen
asked for by the within committee report
makes a total of 122.
By way of a committee report your chair-
man desires to report that his Honor the
Mayor submitted under date of April 16, 1934,
15-6 names as constables tx> serve civil process
upon filing bonds, of which I have already
explained that 104 were confirmed at the meet-
ing of April 23, 1934, and 18 requested today.
Four of the appointed constables have with-
drawn, requesting that they shall not be con-
firmed as they do not desire to be constables.
Two are being held by the committee for fur-
ther investigation, one a group of complaints
filed against and awaiting committee action
and twenty-six have failed to appear before the
committee. This indicates exactly what hap-
pened to the 156 submitted by the Mayor on
April 16, 1934.
Further hearings will be had at a later date.
I now ask that these constables be confirmed.
The report was accepted and the question
came on confirmation.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I voted
with the committee, of course, on these par-
ticular appointments. I now simply wish to
raise the question why many constables' names
have not been sent to the body, men who for
many years have been constables of the city.
I don't know whether it is because of political
reasons, or what the reasons are, because no
explanation was given to our committee. But
I have in mind particularly two constables, one
in my ward, a brother of a captain of Cam-
bridge police. This information has never
been brought before the committee or before
the Council as a -whole, and I now feel obliged
to make a public record of that fact.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Donovan and Agnew. Whole
number of ballots 21 ; yeas 21, and the ap-
pointments were confirmed.
President DOWD — A further report of the
Committee on Constables.
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, with
reference to the constables appointed by his
Honor the Mayor on April 23, in what is
commonly referred to as Document 55, con-
stables connected with official positions, I will
first report that nine of those are connected
with some department of the city and will
not receive any pay as constables, as such.
They are constables whose respective duties re-
quire their being constables in connection ■with
their regular appointment as city officials.
The names are as follows :
City Messenger Edward J. Leary, Emory D.
Morgan, Timothy F. Regan, connected with
the Animal Rescue League, William E. Brig-
ham, Frederick O. Houghton and Archibald D.
McDonald, ■with the Massachusetts Society for
the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Harry
L. Allen, van drivers, appointed by the court,
Patrick A. Gargan and Charles M. Shea. I
will ask that these constables be confirmed now.
The report was accepted and the question
came on the confirmation of the above nine
appointments. Committee, Coun. Gallagher and
Selvitella. Whole number of ballots 20 ; yeas
16, nays 4, and the appointments were con-
firmed.
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, for the
Committee on Constables, 1 will now report
on the constables connected with official posi-
tions, those who will ibe paid by the city of
Boston as constables. Your committee, by a
majority vote, recommend that the remaining
names in Document 55, except Hyman Slate,
and those withdrawn or already confirmed, be
approved.
The report was accepted.
Coun. McGRATH^Mr. President, I would
offer an amendment, that the names that I
have checked be confirmed.
Coun. McGrath's amendment included the
folluwing^named constables :
Kenneth W. Blennerhassett, George J. Brack-
man, Frank Broderick, William W. Brooks,
James D. Collins, Barney C. DeLuca, Charles E.
Dowd, James J. Garvey, John L. Gleason, Max
Goldfarb, Gabriel Grappocio, James V. Hart-
rey, Harry A. Higgins, William P. Kelley,
Robert F. Leahy, John J. Linehan, Charles H.
McCue, Joseph M. McKenna, Lewis J. Polak,
Peter E. Rasniek, William J. Ryan, Leovy Suss-
man.
The question came on the acceptance of
Coun. McGrath's amendment.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, I would
simply say this, that these are men who have
been holding over from last year and have
proved to be faithful employees of the city,
together with other men who have, to my
mind, been sufficiently recommended to be
known as qualified men to serve the City of
Boston.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, at this time
I would like to amend Councilor McGrath's
motion, so that we may vote separately on
the names of Barney C. DeLuca, Charles E.
Dowd, Max Goldfanb, Gabriel Grappocio, James
V. Hartrey, John J. Linehan and Charles H.
McCue. With regard to these seven men, may
I say that they are now in the employ of the
APRIL 30, 1934.
162
City of Boston, and are coming before this
body for reappointment. In the majority of
instances, these men have served the city
during one or two administrations and are now
working in their particular positions, and in
my opinion they should be immediately con-
firmed by the body. •
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I am now
going to vote for confirmation of these con-
stables who are now holding official positions in
the City of Boston. They have unquestionably
been performing their duties in a satisfactory
manner, should be confirmed, and I am going
to vote for them. I am going to vote against
all other constables, however. I certainly think
it would be wrong at this time, when we have
been handing notices to city employees that,
in the interest of economy, their services must
be dispensed with, to put on our list more
constables than are necessary. I have stood
on this floor for years and attempted to head
off the inevitable. It is a most sorrowful and
terrible thing to turn out into the street
hundreds of faithful city employees. If these
constables were necessary, I would vote for
them, but the constables are not necessary.
Here is what the Boston Finance Commission
said in its report dated April 30, 1928 :
"Included in the amended budget for the
current year are nine new positions for con-
stables."
Bear in mind that when this report was
written, in 1928, we had but fourteen con-
stables according to the report I have here.
The colleague tells me that the number was
twenty-five. We still have double the
number that we had when this report was
written. The Finance Commission said :
"Included in the amended budget for the
current year are nine new positions for con-
stables : Four in the Collecting Department,
three in the Street Laying-Out Department,
and two in the Sanitary Division of the Public
Works Department. Allowance for these
constables did not appear in the budget sheets
sent to the Finance Commisison but; was in-
serted later. They are unnecessary positions,
created for political purposes and for the
purpose of avoiding civil service regulations,
as these positions are not within the classified
service and consequently do not require civil
service certification. In the Street Laying-
Out Department the appointment of additional
constables is scandalous, as the present force
have no definite work to do and are free lances,
parading the city, ostensibly looking for signs
maintained in violation of law, but in reality
doing no effective work and making no detailed
reports."
Now if that was so when the city did not
have half the constables it now has, what is
the situation today when we are asked to load
all these men on the pay rolls ? If these were
ordinary times, Mr. President, there might be
some excuse, but here is the expert report
recommending that, on account of the condi-
tion of the city finances, Ave let the nurses
go, — nurses who have been -working in the
sore spot areas of Boston for ten, fifteen or
twenty years. Here is the report of the expert
commission stating that we cannot have nurses
enough today on account of having no money,
and that they can see no alternative in the
present emergency but to cut the personnel.
There are names on this list from my ward,
personal friends of mine, people who have
helped me, hat I have no right to come in and
ask that they be loaded on to the city pay roll
at this time when we are discharging people
who have worked for the city faithfully for
twenty, twenty-five and thirty years. Here is
a chance to practice economy. Nobody will be
hurt if men are not appointed to these un-
necessary positions. A very able writer in
one of our great Boston newspapers said
yesterday :
"To expect our politicians to reduce taxes is
out of the question. But in time, and im a
short time, too, this heavy taxation program
will collapse of its own weight. We will see
a wholesale repudiation of city, county and
state debts. We will see payless weeks for
city and town employees a general thing all
over the country. We will see home owners
confess their inability to pay up back taxes.
We will see the whole structure of city and
town finance disrupted. We have now reached
the point where the taxing power is actually
used for the purpose of destruction. Any
property owner knows that increasing taxa-
tion each year will finally rob him of his
property."
Certainly those who have an interest in
the welfare of our city employees, 20,000 or
more, now worrying about their jobs, must
have an interest in the question of whether the
city will collect enough taxes to meet the
pay roll. We started out to collect $58,-
919,000 in 1933, on September 15, and up to
date we have not collected $46,000,000. while
our pay roll of last year was over $38,000,000.
You don't have to be a graduate of a grammar
school to understand what that means. As the
brilliant editor of a Boston newspaper — and a
conservative editor — said yesterday, the crisis
is here ; we are in the midst of a terrible
cataclysm, the most terrible thing that ever
faced our city, with 150,000 men, women and
children asking for food, charity, and God
only knowing where the money is coming from
to feed them. And still we come into this
Council Chamber this afternoon and vote to
load the .tax roll with over $70,000 for un-
necessary positions that are to be given to
men not because they are worthy, not because
the positions are needed, but because through
the accident of political faith they have been
cast into the cauldron of success in the last
mayoralty campaign. Therefore, to pay po-
litical debts, to help political friends to get
on the municipal pay roll, we are doing this
sort of thing, in spite of the fact that within
a year, if we do not watch out, we will have
payless pay days. We are loading them on
to a city that cannot collect $50,000,000 a year,
and still it is proposed to put on to our pay
roll these unnecessary constables, to the tune
of $70,000. I am opposing all constables, for
the same reason that since I have come into
the body I have opposed all unnecessary ex-
penditures. I want to see no worthy city
employee fired, and I don't want to take action
that will accelerate the day when they will be
allowed to go because we cannot meet our
pay roll.
Coun. GREEN— Mr. President, if agreeable
to the gentleman from Ward 4 (Coun. Roberts)
I would like to take one ballot on these seven
names.
Coun. GOLDMAN — Mr. President, I want
to say a word about both amendments. I
am opposed to both. There is no need of
segregating the list under any set of circum-
stances. I understand that my colleague from
Ward 18 (Coun. Norton) will vote in favor
of these names, because these men were here
in the past. He forgets to tell you, however,
that _ from time immemorial the fruits of a
political campaign have been in patronage.
He forgets to tell you that in every single
year constables have been appointed again,
and if he looks at his own record he will
find that he has really voted for constables
in the last four years before Mayor Mansfield
was elected. Before bringing the names of
these constables before the body, each of them
has been carefully investigated. They are all
residents of Boston and they are all tabulated
here. In a good many instances they are
family men with five and six children. As
the Mayor has pointed out in Document 55,
by virtue of the law all these constables' terms
expire on April 30 of each year and thereafter
all such persons cease to be constables, their1
commissions expiring, if not acted upon. By
refusing to confirm these constables we will
virtually be doing what our colleague so much
criticizes and deplores, and what other mem-
bers have in the past been criticizing, firing
city employees. When the question of firing
second assistant assessors came up, we went
as a committee with our President to the
Mayor downstairs, and voiced our objection to
the firing of faithful employees. Again, when
the wire inspectors were discharged, and when
several of our colleagues raised a turmoil
168
UJLTY (J (J UNCI!.
concerning that, insisting tliat each of them,
appointees under the ex-Mayor of Boston, be
reinstated, we again protested. And now, be-
cause the Mayor wants to make some appoint-
ments here, they brine up the cry of poverty
as far as the City of Boston is concerned. It
seems to me in .this case that the fault is
not with the particular constables that the
Mayor appointed, but with the fact tbat the
Mayor himself appointed them, and I say it
would not make any difference what the Mayor
did you would find fault with him. When he
felt that he was forced in the name of economy
to cut down second assessors, you objected, on
the question of similar action on wire in-
spectors you objected, and now he is making
some appointments and you likewise object.
In other words, it seems to me tbat we are
becoming a fault-finding rather than a con-
structive body. In going over the list I find
that the Mayor appointed seven from Ward 1,
with one withdrawn, making six, one from
Ward 1, five from Ward 3, one from Ward
4, three from Ward 5, four from Ward 6, two
from Ward 7, one from Ward 8, two from
Ward 9, two from Ward 10, none from Ward
11, four from Ward 12, four from Ward 13,
one from Ward 14, two from Ward 15, one
from Ward 16, one from Ward IV, one from
Ward 18, two from Ward 19, three from Ward
20, one from Ward 21, and one from Ward 22.
The Mayor has been very fair, geographically.
We find also that about 54 per cent of them
are married, and that about 85 per cent have
dependents. In other words, instead of being
merely a fault-finding body, I suggest that
we stand with the Mayor in this matter, and
that we vote down both of these amendments.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I shall
vote for the amendment offered by the gentle-
man from Ward 4 (Coun. Roberts) which
covers seven constables who are reappoint-
ments, but I shall vote for no more, and
if the question is not separated I shall vote
against them all. In times past we have
not had any need of such a large number of
constables, in times when financial conditions
were much easier with the city than they are
at the present time. I have before me a table
of the number of constables employed by
the City of Boston from 1924 to date. I find
that in 1924 there were 29, in 1925, 31, in
1926, 33, in 1927 they got along with 12, in
1928, 11, in 1929, 15. Then the number began
to jump. In 1930 there were 39, in 1931, 45,
in 1932, 53, and in 1933, 60. And I believe
the number is now sixty-five, an even larger
number, at a time when the city is in the
least favorable position to meet the pay roll.
If we need additional men to serve notices
why not take them from the departments <in
which the work is done? For instance, the
Collector's Department already has twenty-two
or twenty-three deputy collectors ; why not
empower them as constables and let them do
the work, instead of appointing these new
men, and then perhaps turning around and
discharging people from the collector's office
because there are too many to do the work
that remains ? That certainly is not a logical
thing to do. Far better is it to keep,
so far as we can, the people who are
now employed, to whom the city certainly
owes a greater obligation than to those
who are picked up without any prior em-
ployment or any prior experience. If these
were persons of outstanding experience and
if they were necessary, it might be one thing,
but they are not persons of outstanding ex-
perience, and employees who might otherwise
be discharged can do the work. Therefore, sir,
I hope we shall adopt the first amendment
and then vote against all the others.
Coun. ROBERTS — Mr. President, because it
appears that the councilors are talking on
both amendments, I would like to say just a
word at this time. Several rvveeks ago there
were numerous conferences in the Mayor's
office with regard to the discharge of widowed
ladies in the employ of the Assessing Depart-
ment and later conferences, which you attended,
Mr. President, with reference to the scrub-
women in the City Hospital ; and I think we
can recall very bitterly today just what the
Mayor's answer was with regard to tin- \«> :i-
tion of those widowed women, that he .said,
"We cannot tell where the next dollar is to
come from, cannot tell how soon the time will
come when the Mayor and you members can-
not be paid." 1 accuse the Mayor of being
insincere with the employees and of being
insincere with the taxpayers. In every radio
address he has told the public that he must be
economical, he has told the labor men that
certain things could not be done because the
city taxes would not stand it, and now he
sends down in all sixty appointments to be
added to the pay roll, although a large number
of other employees have 'been thrown out of
work. I say to the Mayor of Boston that he
lias been insincere with both the city worker
and the taxpayers of the city, if we are to
really have economy in mind. I assume that
this body is going to vote against these ap-
pointments which are not reappointments and
are not necessary. Let me say another thing.
As a member of the Committee on Constables,
let me say that we called these gentlemen be-
fore us. While we have seen some comment
in the public press in regard to the qualifica-
tions or the record of some of the men, I say
this, that the Mayor sent the list to this body
with incorrect names and addresses, and it
appeared that he did not know anything about
the addresses of these men or about their
qualifications. As the councilor from Ward 5
(Coun. Shattuck) says, there must be men
already in the departments qualified to do this
work. Why not use them, instead of dis-
charging some of them? Why, instead of dis-
charging deputies or others in some of the
departments, why not give them a chance to
do the work contemplated here, if the work is
necessary, and thus save some real money for
the City of Boston ?
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, the col-
league from Ward 14 (Coun. Goldman) said
that in previous years I had voted for con-
firmation of constables, allowing it to appear
that my action at this time was the result of
personal feeling against the Mayor. I want
to clarify that situation with this statement,
because I feel that my activities of the last
few years have left more or less stripes on
me, so far as my attitude towards the Mayor
of Boston has been concerned, and I don't like
to start another three or four years' term by
continually quarreling with the present Mayor.
But I find no record among the official records
of the body showing that I have voted for
the confirmation of constables and I don't think
my worst enemy will accuse me of being
partial in this body to exJMayor Curley. Some
one once said that ''consistency is a virtue."
I think it is an art ! No man living can be
consistent, but we can at least try to be so.
I have never voted for the confirmation of
constables. I am proud to stand here today,
when we cannot find enough money for our
own pay rolls, and attempt to stop the im-
position of unnecessary employees on the al-
ready sinking pay rolls of the City of Boston.
Every other large city in America uses members
of the police force for the performance of this
constable work, and I understand from one
who has made a study of the subject that
nine-tenths of the work can be performed
through the medium of registered letter and
that most of the constables do nothing what-
ever. Now, in the name of common sense,
when you have allowed a valuable editorial
man upstairs to go, a man who has been in
the employ of the city for over thirty years
and who has furnished valuable information
to you whenever you desired it, because, as
we were told, in the interest of economy his
services must be dispensed with, and when
you have laid off an important man in your
Ferry Service, who had been there for many
years, a valuable man in the history of this
city as his father "was before him, and a
graduate of Harvard, simply stating to him,
"Your services are no longer needed, because
the finances of the City of Boston at this
time do not warrant your retention on the
APRIL 30, 1934.
164
pay roll," a man who was within six months
of a pension, how does that sort of thing fit
in with the appointment of these constables?
Where do you men stand on that question ?
You cannot be both ways. You must be
either for or against, and how in the name of
common sense can any man stand here today
and vote to load up the pay roll with un-
necessary political appointments ?
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, just a
word in answer to my colleague from "Ward 18
(Coun. Norton). Let me first remind him
that in looking through the City Council
records of the past, you will never find a
man's stand on the question of confirmation,
because it does not appear in the record by a
yea and nay or yes and no vote. And I am
simply referring to that fact, Councilor Norton,
when you say that you never voted to con-
firm constables. No one can say that our
President is friendly to the Mayor, and I
quote him when he says that he always votes
for the constables. In the matter of economy,
the Mayor, in his message of today with
reference to constables, says :
"I am informed by the Budget Commissioner
that thirty-eight is the minimum number of
constables actually required in all departments,
as follows, — Building, 1, Collecting, 8, Fire, 1,
Health, 2, Law, 8, Public Welfare, 1, Public
Works, Paving, 1, Public Works, Sanitary, 7,
Public Works, Sewer, 1, Registry, 1, Street
Laying-Out, 6, Penal Institutions, 1. The dif-
ference between the thirty-eight listed above
and the forty-five contained in the list now
before the Council for approval are to be as-
signed to the collector's office where, for the
remainder of this year, there will be an
intensive effort to collect taxes now due to
the city and where, I think, they can do good
service for the city."
So you can see that the difference is there
accounted for.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, one word in
answer to the statement of the colleague. The
records do not show, of course, the way I
voted last year, and it is not a question whether
the President is friendly or unfriendly with
the present or the past Mayor. I am not go-
ing to discuss his statements in regard to the
President's activities last year or this year.
But I will say, while the record does not show
how I voted, I don't think I have ever ducked
or side-stepped a vote, and I think if you
will refer to my colleagues here on the one
side or the other they will tell you that for
a number of years here, when the question of
confirmation of constables has been up, I have
opposed confirmation. I think my position in
this matter has been well known. And let
me reiterate that this is only loading the
pay roll with unnecessary political employees.
Coun. Roberts' amendment was adopted, and
the question came on confirmation of the seven
names. Committee, Coun. Gallagher and Selvi-
tel'la. Whole number of ballots 19 ; yeas 18,
nays 1, and the seven names were confirmed.
The question came on the motion offered by
Coum. McGrath, as amended, in reference to
the remaining fifteen names. The question
came on confirmation. Committee, Coun. Fin-
ley and Fitzgerald. Whole number of ballots
21, yeas 16, nays 5, and the appointments
were confirmed.
Coun. MeGRATH — I now move you, Mr.
President, that all the names that have not
been balloted upon be laid on the table.
Coun. McGrath's motion was declared carried.
Coun. ROBERTS doubted the vote, and asked
for the yeas and nays.
Coun. GREEN — Mr. President, I object to
any roll call on this motion.
President DOWD — The question is raised
about having a roll call on laying the matter
on the table but the matter has already been
laid on the table.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I rise to
a point of order. Is there any rule that re-
quires a motion to be put in a certain way in
this matter? Are we not entitled to a roll
call vote?
President DOWD — The Chair would rule that
you would ordinarily be entitled to a roll call,
but inasmuch as Councilor Green raised an
objection and the Chair recognized that the
Council had agreed to a voice vote he declared
the motion carried.
Coun. GREEN — Mr. President, I made that
objection because I believed that we were
carrying out a general agreement here. We
made an agreement in the back room, and I
do not intend to violate it. I never have, and
I will not now.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, the
gentleman refers to some agreement in the
back room. I don't know anything about any
agreement. I don't know what it was or who
made it.
President DOWD — The motion was made to
lay on the table, and the matter is now on the
table, and no further debate is in order.
HANDBALL COURTS, MOUNT IDA PLAY-
GROUND.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to pro-
vide for the erection of two handball courts
in the Mount Ida Playground, Dorchester.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
USE OF CHRISTOPHER J. LEE PLAY-
GROUND.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
allow the baseball team known as Kelly's All
Stars to use the Christopher J. Lee Play-
ground one evening a week.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SEWER IN PHILLIPS PLACE.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following :
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to construct a sewer in Phillips place,
Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAIRING OF NORTH MEAD STREET
STEPS.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to instruct the contractor who started
the work of repairing the North Mead street
steps last fall, and who suspended operations
during the severe winter weather, to proceed
with the completion of this work as soon as
possible.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
JUNE 17TH CELEBRATION.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to communicate with the members
of Congress from Massachusetts with a view
to having that part of the Pacific Coast fleet
which is coming East assigned to the Boston
Navy Yard to participate in the celebration of
Bunker Hill Day, June 17.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TAX TITLES TO PROPERTY.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston con-
sider the advisability of requesting the Cor-
poration Counsel to go into the Land Court
165
CITY COUNCIL.
and lake tax lilies to properly that now
owes the city over $2,500,000 in hack taxes
up to and including the year 1931, hut no
title to be taken on property where the City
Collector, after due investigation, decides that
the family occupying a home has faithfully
attempted to meet all tax obligations but has
been unable to do so because of unemployment
and the depression.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, the City
of Boston can collect $2,500,000 in back taxes
owed to and including the year 1931. It will
not need to sell homes that families Jive in
if it will take advantage of the prerogative
that the law gives to our city, going to the
Land Court and securing titles to some of these
large buildings, corporation property, where
taxes nave not been collected for years. There
is $2,500,000 right there.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
ESMOND STREET, WARD 14.
Conn. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Es-
mond street, Ward It.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DECENTRALIZATION OF PUBLIC WEL-
FARE DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor consider
the advisability of requesting the Board of
Public Welfare to decentralize the department
into various sections of Boston.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, this is the
thousandth order I have introduced to de-
centralize the Welfare Department of the City
of Boston. We can save money and take
better care of the people on Welfare by de-
centralizing the functions of that department
in every section of Boston, the same as is
being done today in the Ward 18 section.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
Adjourned at 5.15 p. m., on motion of Coun.
TOBIN, to meet on Monday, May 7, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
166
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, May 7, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., Presi-
dent DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun.
Gleason.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn under the law, Coun.
BRACKMAN presiding at the box in the
absence of his Honor the Mayor, as follows :
Thirty traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear May 9, 1934 :
Thomas J. Barrett, Ward 1 ; Louis Belli-
veau, Ward 1 ; Duncan Livingstone, Ward 1 ;
James A. Sheffield, Jr., Ward 1 ; John Brough-
ton, Ward 2 ; William P. Halley, Ward 2 ;
Paul Andolino, Ward 3 ; William Napolitano,
Ward 3 ; William N. Sweeney, Ward 3 ; Charles
E. O'Donnell. Ward 4 ; G. Stewart Sanders,
Ward 4 ; John R. Stevens, Ward 4 ; Clayton
W. Thomas, Ward 4 ; Michael Francis Kiley,
Ward 6 ; Michael F. Nihil], Ward 6 ; James P.
O'Brien, Ward 6 ; James A. Markas, Ward 7 ;
Archibald MacDonell, Ward 8 ; Percy A. Webb,
Ward 8 ; John McDonald, Ward 10 ; Bernard
M. McManus, Ward 10 ; Joseph W. Galligan,
Ward 11 ; James Rogan, Ward 12 ; Frank H.
Ryder, Ward 12 ; Thomas J. Kelley, Jr., Ward
14 ; Benjamin Snyder, Ward 15 ; Charles A.
Kennedy, Ward 17 ; John G. Freeh, Jr., Ward
19; Frank C. Withington, Ward 20; Chester
L. Beck, Ward 22.
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear June 4, 1934 :
John J. Corrigan, Ward 1 ; Charles D. Mc-
Phee, Ward 1 ; Frank Daly, Ward 2 ; Francis
A. Danahy, Ward 2 ; John J. Leydon, Ward 2 ;
Michael M. J. Lynch, Ward 3 ; Daniel J.
Anderson, Ward 8 ; 'Stephen Callahan, Ward 9 ;
John Malk, Ward 9 ; Cecil Clark, Ward 10 ;
Walter A. Sullivan, Ward '10; Francis X. W.
Doyle, Ward 13 : Samuel Kliman, Ward 13 ;
William M. Morison, Ward 14 ; Paul T. Bud-
row, Ward 15 ; Henry F.. Kehoe, Ward 17 ;
Joseph H. Boyd, Ward 18 ; Frederick W.
Adams, Ward 19 ; Frederick W. Perkins, Ward
21 ; John Doherty, Jr., Ward 22.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Third Session, to appear June 4, 1934 :
Henry E. Bradley, Ward 1 ; James H.
O'Brien, Ward 1 ; Charles W. McMintn, Ward
2 ; George W. Armstrong, Ward 4 ; John B.
Patterson, Ward 4 ; Stanley Anthony, Ward 5 ;
Luther P. Benedict, Ward 5 ; James E. Mc-
Nally, Ward 6 ; William F. Mulrean, Ward 10 ;
Augustus Welling, Ward 11 ; Philip L. Wolfe,
Ward 12 ; Harry J. Doyle, Ward 13 ; Louis
M. P. Goggin, Ward 13; Thomas E. Mullen,
Ward 13 ; William J. Carroll, Ward 14 ; Saul
Golden, Ward 14; John J. Watters, Ward 15;
Edmund Q. Brown, Ward 17 ; George H. E.
Hanlon, Ward 17 ; Bernard Porter, Ward 17 ;
Kenneth C. Gordon, Ward 18 ; John J. Cun-
ningham, Ward 19 ; Herman L. Brauer, Ward
20 ; Frederick O. Payson, Ward 20 ; Frank L.
Black, Ward 21 ; Frederick M. A. Moody,
Ward 21.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fourth Session, -to appear June 4,
1934:
Thomas F. Rush, Ward 1 ; Frank E. Baker,
Ward 2 ; Frank L. McNamara, Ward 2 ; Wil-
liam J. Redgate, Ward 2; John T. Ryder,
Ward 3; William E. Downey, Ward 4; Walter
G. Hall, Ward 4; George T. Mills, Ward 7;
Edward L. Bessey, Ward 8 ; William J. Geddis,
Ward 9; Edward T. Ryan, Ward 10; Joseph
H. Smith, Ward 11 ; Edward J. Marston, Ward
12 ; Benjamin White, Ward 12 ; Harry Gilder,
Ward 13 ; George E. Bissonette, Ward 14 ;
Roswell J. Tobin, Ward 16 ; Mathias Monahan,
Ward 17 ; Louis M. Bauer, Ward 18 ; William
E. Curley, Ward 18 ; William H. T. DeMerritt,
Ward 18 ; Joseph S. Lipford, Ward 18 ; Karl
A. Morlock, Ward 18 ; James F. Welch. Ward
18 ; Regnard E. Jensen, Ward 19 ; William
Ronan, Ward 19 ; James A. Armstrong, Ward
20 ; Edgar L. Kelley, Jr., Ward 20 ; Orick E.
Nickerson, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fifth Session, to appear June 4,
1934:
Louis R. Soldani, Ward 1 ; Albert J. Devime,
Ward 2 ; William F. McLaughlin, Ward 3 ,
William J. LaPierre, Ward 4 ; Bartholomew A.
O'Connor, Ward 5; Harold S. Donovan, Ward
7 ; Robert Gordon, Ward 9 ; James Collins,
Ward 10 ; Charles J. Enos, Ward 10 ; John M.
Therio, Ward 10 ; Martin F. Downey, Ward 11 ;
George G. Haughn, Ward 11 ; Herbert S.
Foster, Ward 12 ; Thomas N. Healy, Ward 12 ;
Walter A. Buckley, Ward 13 ; William P.
Cross, Ward 114 ; Frederick F. Jenness, Ward
14 ; Morris Karsh, Ward 14 ; Joseph Peracchi,
Ward 14 ; George E. O'Brien, Ward 16 ; Robert
S. Tobin, Ward 16 ; James H. Wells, Ward 16 ;
Guy H. Sargent, Ward 17 ; Guy W. Sherman,
Ward 17 ; Henry J. Kelsch, Ward 18 ; John
H. Tileston, Ward 18 ; Allen H. Wood, Ward
19 ; Frederick W. Burke, Ward 21 ; George
Weinfield, Ward 21.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, First Session, April Sitting, to appear
June 4, 1934:
William H. Stevens, Ward 1 ; Joseph P.
Goggin, Ward 1 ; Daniel J. O'Leary, Ward 2 ;
Gaetano Calabro, Ward 3 ; George A. Nelson,
Ward 4 ; John J. Murphy, Jr., Ward 6 ; Dan-
iel S. Santry, Jr., Ward 6 ; John P. Donaher,
Ward 8 ; Timothy A. Murphy, Jr., Ward 8 ;
William T. Frank, Ward 11 ; Patrick Bernard
Hanbury, Ward 11 ; Joseph Horgan, Ward 11 ;
Robert I. Stewart, Ward 12 ; George B. Bere,
Jr., Ward 13 ; Peter C. Lawson, Ward 13 ;
Dennis F. McKay, Ward 13 ; John F. Golden,
Ward 16 ; Daniel F. Smith, Ward 16 ; Clas E.
Carlson, Ward 17 ; Isaac Wilson, Ward 17 ;
Walter J. Lawlor, Ward 18 ; Nelson Curtis,
Jr., Ward 19 ; Charles E. Savell, Ward 19 ;
John E. Jacobson, Ward 20.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, April Sitting, to appear
June 4, 1S34:
.William J. Canty. Ward 2; Edward F.
Cronan, Ward 2; George McMahoo, Ward 4;
Edwin D. Griswold, Ward 5 ; Thomas King,
Ward 6 ; Michael Day, Ward 10 ; Wilson W. M.
Johnson, Ward 12 ; Patrick Mahoney, Ward
12 ; William S. Clement, Ward 13 ; Peter
Cronin, Ward 15 ; Edward J. McMorrow, Ward
15; Daniel F. Sullivan, Ward 15; Charles E.
Grover, Ward 16 ; John C. Hosmer, Ward 16 ;
Charles W. Sprague, Ward 16 ; William H.
Bridgham, Ward 17 ; Charles H. Hergt, Ward
19; John J. Fichter, Ward 20; Walter R.
Kirk, Ward 20 ; William O. B. Little, Ward 20 ;
Louis Schneider, Ward 20 ; Aubrey C. Trethe-
wey, Ward 20 ; William J. Houghton, Ward 21.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fourth Session, April Sitting, to appear
June 4, 1934:
Charles DeFrancesco, Ward 1 ; Guy Wilcox,
Ward 1 ; Joseph Hopkins, Ward 5 ; James T.
Collins, Ward 6; Henry P. Collins, Ward 7;
Vincent E. Hayes, Ward 7 ; Charles R. Tyner,
Ward 7 ; James P. Cullen, Ward 10 ; William
A. Moore, Ward 10 ; John Salmon, Ward 12 ;
Charles H. Stewart, Ward 12 ; Patrick H.
Cronin, Ward 14 ; William E. Dizel, Ward 14 ;
Michael King, Ward 14 ; George F. Mahoney,
Ward 16, William L. Johnson, Ward 17;
George A. Weeks, Ward 17; Harry H. Hall,
Ward 18 : Robert Mcllwrath, Ward 18 ; John
Selmer, Ward 19 ; Alexander W. Clark, Ward
20; Michael L. Daley, Ward 20; Richard F.
Bates, Ward 22.
1(37
CITY COUNCIL.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fifth Session, April Sitting, to appear
June 4, 1934:
Joseph M. Beaton, Ward 1 ; John D. Henry,
Ward 5 ; Patrick Kearney, Ward 7 ; George
E. Kittredge, Ward 7 ; John J. Daly, Ward 8
William R. Lavis, Ward 9 ; Christopher J
Brady, Ward 10 ; Joseph Kneeland, Ward 10
Walter W. Crawshaw, Ward 11; William F
Cullen, Ward 12 ; James J. Bacon, Ward 13
Warren E. Baxter, Ward 13 ; William F
Breen, Ward 18 ; William Richards, Ward 13
Kingdom R. Watt, Ward 13 ; Irving Cabitt
Ward 14 ; Michael Spinelli, Jr., Ward 14
Blasi J. DeFranc, Ward 15; James B. Robin
son. Ward 17 ; Charles F. Campbell, Ward 18
Peder H. Olsen, Ward 18 ; Frederic A. New
comb, Ward 20 ; Richard D. Young, Ward 20
James W. Anglin, Ward 21.
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Sixth Session, April Sitting, to appear June
4, 1934:
Michael T. Gibbons, Ward 1 ; John J. Fitz-
patrick. Ward 2 ; Frank H. Hudson, Ward 2 ;
John P. O'Gorman, Ward 3 ; Frederick A.
Lambert, Ward 4 ; Frank H. Hurley, Ward 7 ;
William H. Selby, Ward 9 ; Louis Shapiro,
Ward 9 ; George Egan, Ward 11 ; John Rosario
Lentine, Ward 11 ; John F. Donahue, Ward
12 ; Harry Newman, Ward 12 ; Arthur Karls-
berg. Ward 14 ; Charles F. Coyle, Ward 15 ;
John F. McKittrick, Ward 17 ; John J. Toland,
Ward 17 ; Wesley Day, Ward 19 ; William H.
Kohlus, Ward 20 ; Granville W. Seaverns,
Ward 20; Frederick G. Wicks, Ward 20.
Twenty-one traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Seventh Session, April Sitting, to appear
June 4, 1934:
Joseph H. Casey, Ward 2 ; Gerald J. Stuart,
Ward 4 ; Paul Sullivan, Ward 5 ; Joseph D.
Harrison, Ward 6 ; Patrick C. Kelley, Ward 7 ;
John J. Flynn, Ward 9 ; William H. Robin-
son, Ward 10 ; William A. Coleman, Ward 12 ;
Harold A. Lane, Ward 12 ; Patrick O'Neill,
Ward 13 ; Walter V. Riley, Ward 13 ; Joseph
F. Eaton, Ward 14; Ernest V. Brown, Ward
16 ; Paul R. Allen, Ward 18 ; Roy T. Mac-
Masters, Ward 19 ; Thomas S. Burns, Ward
20 ; Max Herbert Fischer, Ward 20 ; Michael
J. O'Rourke, Ward 20 ; Austin J. McAdam,
Ward 21; Harry J. Lionett, Ward 22.; Clinton
Smith, Ward 22.
APPOINTMENTS OF WEIGHERS OF
GOODS.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
following appointments were submitted by
the Mayor, viz. :
Weighers of Goods: Hugh P. McColgan, 36
Bailey road, Somerville ; Martin J. Finn, 4969
Washington street. West Roxbury.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
REPORT ON SMALLPOX HOSPITAL.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Health Commissioner relative to
your orders of April twenty-third and April
thirtieth, containing information as to th«
facilities of the Health Department for caring
for leprosy and smallpox cases.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield. Mayor.
City of Boston,
Health Department, May 2, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Pursuant to your instructions of
April 27, 1934, I am submitting herewith
my reply to the order of the City Council,
of April 23, 1934, reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Health Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, inform the City
Council whether it is necessary in the interest
of public health that a, separate building
or a special ward be maintained for cases of
leprosy and smallpox."
It is not necessary in the interest of public
health that a separate building be maintained
for cases of leprosy. For some reason, not
understood, no case of leprosy, so far as can
be discovered, has ever been contracted in
Massachusetts, not even by other members of
a family living for years with a case of
leprosy.
Although it be therefore not necessary in
the interest of public health that a Bpecial
ward be maintained for a case of leprosy, as
a concession to the popular attitude toward
leprosy, it is advisable to have a special ward
for a case, particularly if the case be so
advanced as to make the patient objectionable
to others, by reason of his appearance.
In my opinion, it is necessary in the interest
of public health that a special detached build-
ing be maintained for cases of smallpox. It
can doubtless be shown that cases of small-
pox have been treated like diphtheria or
scarlet fever in cubicles or other subdivisions
of a hospital designed for the care of mis-
cellaneous contagious diseases, without the
spread of smallpox having occurred. This pro-
cedure, however, cannot be advised, not even
if all persons presumably exposed to con-
tagion are vaccinated. Unlike diphtheria or
scarlet fever, for example, there is evidence
which cannot be ignored that the contagion
of smallpox may be carried some distance
through the air. At any rate, experience has
shown that the treatment of virulent cases
of smallpox other than in a detached isolated
building is likely to prove disastrous to per-
sons who were not supposed to be exposed.
In this connection, may I be permitted to
Observe that the successful handling of an
outbreak of smallpox and the suppression of
an epidemic in a large city calls for a readily
available suitable place where irresponsible
persons who have been exposed to discovered
cases of smallpox may be detained under sur-
veillance, more than for a special hospital
for treating the sick.
Also pursuant to your instructions, I am
submitting my reply to the order of the City
Council, of April 30, 1934, as follows :
"That the Health Commissioner be requested
by his Honor the Mayor to advise the City
Council as to what facilities his department
now has for handling any case of smallpox
or leprosy that may come to the notice of the
department."
I beg to state, in reply, that the present
Detention Hospital is available at a moment's
notice, to house and care for any such cases
as may come to our attention. The Detention
Hospital building has been closed, but both
the building and the grounds are under the
care of an employee of this department.
Yours respectfully,
F. X. Mahoney, M. D.,
Health Commissioner.
Placed on file.
REPORT ON DUMP PERMITS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 4, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Health Commissioner, relative to
your order of April 16, 1934, concerning the
proposed cancellation of the permit of the
Coleman Disposal Company to dump refuse
and waste matter along the South Boston
waterfront.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Health Department, May 4, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Pursuant to your instructions of
April 27, 1934, I am submitting this report
in answer to the order of the City Council
of April 16, reading as follows :
MAY 7, 1934.
168
"Ordered, That the Health Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
cancel the permit of the Coleman Disposal
Company to dump refuse and waste matter
along the South Boston waterfront as it con-
stitutes a menace to the health of residents of
the district and, if allowed to continue, will
pollute the waters of the bathing beaches in
South Boston.
In City Council, April 16, 1934. Passed.
Attest :
W. J. Doyle,
City Clerk."
The Coleman Disposal Company has stopped
all dumping of refuse anywhere in the south-
ern part of the city in proximity to the
shore where the material might possibly go
overboard and pollute the bathing beaches.
In view of the fact that some further clean
filling and placing of rip rap where the
so-called "Mile Road" dump approaches the
water is required by the conditions of the
Disposal Company's permit from the city,
as is also the covering with clean filling and
levelling of the territory back from the shore,
it would seem inadvisable to revoke the Dis-
posal Company's permit at the present time,
before the Disposal Company has had time to
complete the work above mentioned which the
company is expected to do before the locality
is permanently abandoned as a dump.
Respectfully submitted,
F. X. Mahoney, M. D.,
Health Commissioner.
Placed on file.
BIDDING FOR STREET PAVING.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith letters from
the Public Works Department and Park De-
partment, relative to your order of April 23,
1934, concerning fair and competitive bidding
for street paving and less expensive paving
on minor streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
April 30, 1934.
To the Honorable F. W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the order of the
Oity Council, dated April 23, reading:
"Concerning the insuring of fair and com-
petitive bidding for street paving contracts,
and preparation of specifications for less ex-
pensive paving on minor streets, as recom-
mended by the Boston Finance Commission", —
beg leave to state that all contracts for street
pavement are being advertised in the City
Record, thereby insuring open, fair and com-
petitive bidding.
Consideration is being given to adopting a
less expensive surface than street asphalt on
the minor streets which are under considera-
tion for improvement during the year.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Oity of Boston,
Park Department, May 1, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that your Honor direct the
Park Department to take such steps as may
be necessary to insure fair and competitive
bidding for street paving contracts ; and also
to prepare specifications for less expensive
paving on minor streets, as has been recom-
mended by the Boston Finance Commission.
I respectfully beg leave to state I have care-
fully^ read the report of the Boston Finance Com-
mission and cannot see where it mentions the
Park Department roads. It does mention
dead-end streets, etc., but as all the Park De-
partment roads are boulevard roads with
heavy traffic, we feel that the types of pave-
ment laid by the department under our specifi-
cations are the best for our conditions and
result in a saving for the city.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
APPROVAL BY STATE EMERGENCY
FINANCE BOARD.
Copies of votes of the State Emergency
Finance Board approving public works proj-
ects, under chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933,
for Reconstruction of Streets, Sewerage Works,
Hospital Buildings, School Buildings, BrookKne
Avenue Water Main, Police Communications
System and High Service Water Main, were
received and placed on file.
APPROPRIATIONS FOR PUBLIC WEL-
FARE DEPARTMENT.
The following was received :
Oity of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith two ap-
propriation orders for the Public Welfare De-
partment. One order provides for the ap-
propriation of amounts which it is estimated
will be required to cover the relief disburse-
ments of the department for the first five
months of the current year, that is to say,
from January 1st to June 1st. The other
order provides for the appropriation on the
basis of a full year of those amounts which
it is estimated will be required for the ad-
ministrative expenses of the department.
I am advised that at the close of today's
business the Public Welfare Department will
have expended an amount equal to one third
of the total appropriations of the department
for 1933, or, in other words, will have reached
the limit of expenditures which the department
is permitted to make under existing statute in
anticipation of the passage of the budget.
It is essential in order to avoid undue suffer-
ing among those who are dependent upon the
city for a mere existence that no suspension in
relief disbursements be permitted to occur.
While legislation is pending at the State House
increasing the limit which departments may
expend prior to the passage of the budget from
one third to one half of the previous year's
expenditures, there is no assurance that this
legislation will be enacted in time.
In order to remedy this situation I respect-
fully recommend that the first order previously
mentioned, namely, that providing for five
months, relief requirements, be given immediate
passage by your honorable body. Such action
will make available sufficient funds to provide
for the estimated needs of the department for
the balance of the current month. I assume
that with reference to the second order, namely,
that covering the administrative expenses of
the department, the Council will desire to con-
duct the usual hearings and investigations
connected with consideration of the annual
budget recommendations.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning
with the first day of January, 1934, for per-
forming the duties and exercising the powers
devolved by statute or ordinance, or by vote
of the City 'Council during the year upon the
City of Boston, or the departments or of-
ficers thereof, the respective sums of money
allowed in the table hereinafter set forth be,
and the same are hereby, appropriated, to
be expended for the objects and purposes
hereinafter stated, that the sums be raised
by taxation upon the polls and estates taxable
in the City of Boston, and that all orders
heretofore or subsequently passed by the City
Council relating to appropriations and taxes
and the interest thereon apply to the .taxes
herein provided for.
1()9
CITY COUNCIL.
Object of K\i'i;nj>iture.
1924
Expenditures.
1933
Expenditure*.
1934
Request.
Allowed by
Mayor, 1934.
Public. Welfare Department,
( Ylilnil ( Hliee:
F. Special Items;
9. ('are of Dependents
10. Mothers' Aid
$778,027 03
697,813 92
$6,495,307 08
1,090,307 47
1,185,109 IS
inhiiiinnii in,
1,190,01)0 09
1,200,000 00
$4,500,000 00
525,000 00
575 000 00
$1,470,440 95
* $8,770,723 73
$12,300,000 00
$5,000,000 00
* Exclusive of expenditures from Unemployment Relief Fund of $747,499.81 and the proceeds of bonds
issued in 1933, totaling $4,100,000.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning
with the' first day of January, 1934, for per-
forming the duties and exercising the powers
devolved 'by statute or ordinance, or by vote
of the City Council during the year upon the
City of Boston, or the departments or of-
ficers thereof, the respective sums of money
allowed in the table hereinafter set forth be,
and the same are hereby, appropriated, to
be expended for the objects and purposes
hereinafter stated, that the sums be raised
by taxation upon the polls and estates taxable
in the City of Boston, 'and that all orders
heretofore or subsequently passed by the City
Council relating to appropriations and taxes
and the interest thereon apply to the taxes
herein provided for.
Object of Expenditure.
1924
Expenditures.
1933
Expenditures.
1934
Request.
Allowed by
Mayor, 1934.
Public Welfare Department,
Central Office:
A. Personal Service:
1. Permanent Employees. . .
2. Temporary Employees. . .
$65,031 14
644 94
152 00
3,787 25
1,543 30
3,586 73
1,750 00
$148,637 30
239,831 64
29,497 36
14,506 88
44,960 21
$305,204 50
200,000 00
39,146 50
15,400 00
44,025 00
$204,707 00
200,000 00
B. Service Other than Personal. . . .
32,621 50
8,426 00
39,940 00
F. Special Items:
7. Pensions and Annuities...
$76,495 36
$477,433 39
$603,776 00
$485,694 50
Referred to Executive Committee.
POLICE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
GRANT.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 7, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — On April 30, 1934, I submitted
to your honorable body a form of grant agree-
ment between the City of Boston and the
United States of America relating to the
project of Police Department communications
system, P. W. A., Docket No. 8200, and an
order approving said grant agreement and
authorizing me to execute and deliver to the
United States of America for and in behalf
of the City of Boston three counterparts of
said grant agreement.
Several members of your honorable body
have suggested that said order of approval and
authorization include the amount of the grant
as set forth in said grant agreement, namely,
an amount not to exceed 30 per cent of the
cost of labor and materials employed upon
said project (other than the cost of any
labor or materials which may have been em-
ployed upon said project prior to April 26,
1934), and not to exceed $88,500.
I accordingly submit a new order of ap-
proval and authorization amd recommend
prompt passage thereof by your honorable
body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby
is, authorized to execute and deliver to the
United States of America for and in behalf
of the City of Boston three counterparts
of the grant agreement between the City
of Boston and the United States of
America relating to the project of Police
Department communications system, P. W. A.,
Docket No. 8200, and providing for the grant
to the City of Boston by the United States
of America of an amount not to exceed
30 per cent of the cost of the labor and
materials employed upon said project (other
than the cost of any labor or materials which
may have been employed upon said project
prior to April 26, 1934), and not to exceed
$88,500, upon the terms and conditions in
said grant agreement set forth, one copy of
which grant agreement has been submitted
to this meeting and is made a part of the
minutes hereof, and that said grant agree-
ment be, and the same hereby is, approved.
Referred to Executive Committee.
WATER MAIN CONSTRUCTION GRANT.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 7, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — On February 26, 1934, your
honorable body gave a second and final reading
and passage to, and on February 27, 1934, I
approved, an order appropriating the sum of
$700,000 for water main construction, under
the provisions of chapter 366 of the Acts of
1933, as amended. This order relates to
P. W. A., Docket No. 7223, for the installation
of a new 48-inch steel water main connecting
the Metropolitan Water District with the
Elm Hill district.
I have received from the Federal Emergency
Administration of Public Works, with letter
MAY 7, 1984.
170
of transmittal dated May 1, 1934, forms of
grant agreement between the City of Boston
and the United States of America relating to
said project and providing for a grant to the
City of Boston of an amount not to exceed
3.0 per cent of the cost of the labor and
materials employed upon said project, said
grant not to exceed $200,000. I submit here-
with one copy of said grant agreement.
I also submit herewith an order authorizing
me to execute and deliver to the United States
of America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston three counterparts of said grant agree-
ment and approving said grant agreement.
I recommend prompt consideration and pas-
sage by your honorable 'body of this order,
because of the limited time available for the
execution and delivery of this agreement and
because of the desirability of commencing
work on this project "without delay.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby
is, authorized to execute and deliver to the
United States of America for and in behalf
of the City of Boston three counterparts
of the grant agreement between the City
of Boston and the United States of
America relating to the project of water main
construction, P. W. A., Docket No. 7223, and
providing for the grant to the City of Boston
by the United States of America of an amount
not to exceed 30 per cent of the cost of the
labor and materials employed upon said project
and not to exceed $200,000, upon the terms
and conditions in said grant agreement set
forth, one co.py of which grant agreement
has been submitted to this meeting and is
made a part of the minutes hereof, and that
said grant agreement be, and the same hereby
is, approved.
Referred to Executive Committee.
RESCISSION OF P.UBLIC WORKS
PROJECTS ORDERS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 7, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Loan orders relating to the
following public works projects were given
their second and final reading and passage
by your honorable body and approved by the
Mayor on the dates hereinafter set forth.
No.
Project.
Amount.
Date,
Second Reading.
Date,
Approval.
1.
$1,000,000
1,000,000
350,000
2,000,000
2,000,000
1,000,000
1,000,000
700,000
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Dec.
Dec.
Dec.
27, 1933
27, 1933
27, 1933
27, 1933
27, 1933
11, 1933
11, 1933
11, 1933
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Dec.
Dec.
Dec.
29, 1933
2
29, 1933
3.
29, 1933
4.
5.
One new high school and one new intermediate
school.
29, 1933
29, 1933
6
12, 1933
7
12, 1933
8.
12, 1933
Because of the inclusion therein of the words
"outside the limit of indebtedness," I was ad-
vised that these orders were of doubtful
validity ; and I accordingly submitted new
orders which were passed by your honorable
body and approved by me. The original orders,
however, have not been rescinded and are
shown in the Monthly Exhibit issued by the
Auditing Department.
I submit herewith orders formally rescind-
ing the above described original loan orders
and respectfully recommend passage thereof
by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November
27, 1933, and approved by the Mayor on
November 29, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the
sum of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended, under the direction of
the Commissioner of Public Works, for
Reconstruction of Streets, and that to meet
said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates
of indebtedness of the city to said amount,
the same to be issued outside the limit of
indebtedness", —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November
27, 1933, and approved by the Mayor on
November 29. 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the
sum of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended, under the direction of
the Commissioner of Public Works, for
Construction, Reconstruction and Replacement
of Sewers, and the Covering of Open Water
Courses, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from
time to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds
or certificates of indebtedness of the city to
said amount, the same to be issued outside
the limit of indebtedness", —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November
27, 1933, and approved by the Mayor on
November 29, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933,
and chapter 324 of the Acts of 1914, the
sum of $350,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended, under the direction of
the Commissioner of Public Works, for
Replacement of Brookline Avenue Water
Main from the Brookline line to Beacon
street, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue,
from time to time, upon request of the Mayor,
bonds or certificates of indebtedness of the
city to said amount, the same to be issued
outside the limit of indebtedness", —
be, and the same hereby is, resoinded.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November
27, 1933, and approved by the Mayor on
November 29, 1933, to wit :
"Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the
sum of $2,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended, under the direction of
the School Committee, for one new High School
and one new Intermediate School, and that
■to meet said appropriation the City Treasurer
be authorized to issue, from time to time,
upon request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates
J71
CITY (JOUNWL.
<if indebtedness of the city to said amount,
the same to be issued outside the limit of
indebtedness", —
i)o, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November
27, 1933, and approved by the Mayor on
November 29, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 306 of the Acts of 1933 the
sum of $2,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended, under the direction of the
Hospital Trustees, for New Buildings and
Alterations and Equipment, and that to meet
said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates
of indebtedness of the city to said amount,
the same to Ibe issued outside the limit of
indebtedness", —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on December 11,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on December
12, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance ■with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the
sum of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended, under the direction of
the Commissioner of Public Works, for
Reconstruction of Streets, and that to meet
said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates
of indebtedness of the city to said amount,
the same to be issued outside the limit of
indebtedness", —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage o:n December 11,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on December
12, 1933, to wilt:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the
sum of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to ibe expended, under the direction of
the Commissioner of Public Works, for
Sewerage Works, and that to meet said appro-
priation the City Treasurer be authorized to
issue, from time to time, upon request of the
Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebtedness
of the city to said amount, the same to be
issued outside the limit of indebtedness", —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on December 11,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on December
12. 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance -with the pro-
visions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the
sum of $700,000 be, and hereby is, appropri-
ated, to be expended, under the direction of
the Commissioner of Public Works, for
Water Main Construction, and that to meet
said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates
of indebtedness of the city to said amount,
the same to be issued outside the limit of
indebtedness", —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Referred to Executive Committee.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
William Bagnall, for refund on victualer's
license.
Eva A. Baker, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Hollis street.
Joseph L. Clapp, for compensation for dam-
age to clothing by city car.
John A. Courakis, for refund on license.
Augusta Courtney, for compensation for
damage to property at 808 Tremont Btreet,
cau ed by break in water pipe.
Gordon A. Cumming, for compensation for
loss of overcoat by fire at Hancock Street
Yard.
Pearl I. Cummings, for compensation for
damage to car by fire engine.
Edmund Currie, to be reimbursed for execu-
tion issiued against him on account of his acts
as an employee of the Public Works Depart-
ment.
Olive DiNapoli, for compensation for dam-
age to clothing by paint on bench in Public
Garden.
Mrs. Daniel Howard, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at Centre
street and Greaton road.
Caroline Kelley, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 256
Warren street, Roxbury.
Morris Kesner, for refund on refuse tickets.
Grace O. Kimball, for compensation for in-
juries caused by city team.
Teresia M. Labbe, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Oak-
land street.
Michael Maffeo, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 8 and 9 Brigham street,
caused by water from street.
Thomas Mahon, for compensation for col-
lapse of water boiler, by water being shut off,
at 351 Geneva avenue, Dorchester.
Minevitz, Inc., for refund on victualer's
license.
Lavinia B. Nelson, for compensation for
damage to property at 344 Park street, Dor-
chester, caused by leak in water pipe.
N. E. Coal and Coke Company, for com-
pensation for damage to lighter due to being
grounded at Deer Island.
Hannah O'Connor, for compensation for
damage to property at 44 Clarendon street,
caused by water in cellar.
Angelo Rando, for refund on victualer's
license.
Evonne Rogers, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city truck.
Stanley W. Russell, for compensation for
damage 'to car by fire apparatus.
George Schwartz, for compensation for dam-
age to .truck by city truck.
Helen Solomon, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Tyler
Street Bath House.
Shirley Taylor, for compensation for dam-
age to clothing by paint on bench in Public
Garden.
Mrs. D. J. Welby, for compensation for dam-
age to garbage can by men of Sanitary Divi-
sion.
Lester M. West, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city truck.
Nunzio Masiello, for compensation for dam-
age to oar byi city wagon.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fiften years of
age to appear at places of public amusement,
viz. :
Freyda Pronsky, Repertory Theatre, June 19.
Gertrude Dolan, Repertory Theatre, June 20.
Ruth M. McShane, Municipal Building,
South Boston, June 7.
Delbert M. Staley, Repertory Theatre, May 9.
Alice Burke, Repertory Theatre, June 8.
Edna Stertz-Shirley Ruby School, Colonial
Theatre, May 28.
Mary V. Hayes, Repertory Theatre, June 1.
'Lucille Perry Hall, Repertory Theatre, May
2S.
Petition of Gaels of Boston, Inc., for license
for Sunday sports in Celtic Park, on Metro-
politan avenue, Hyde Park.
Petition of WiUiam R. Welch for license for
Sunday sports on premises on Gerard and
Island streets, Lincoln Park.
MAY 7, 1934.
172
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notices were received from the Mayor of the
following appointments :
Clifford P. "Warren, 26 Park street, West
Roxbury, member of Board of Overseers of
Public Welfare for term expiring May 1,
1936, to fill vacancy caused by resignation of
Morris Bronstein.
Laurence M. Lombard, 88 Chestnut street,
Boston, member of Board of Overseers of
Public Welfare for term expiring May 1, 1936,
to fill vacancy caused by resignation of Charles
J. Mahoney.
Louis E. Kirstein, 506 Commonwealth ave-
nue, to Board of Library Trustees for term
of five years beginning May 1, 1934.
Severally placed on file.
CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The bonds of the following-named constables,
having been duly approved by the City Treas-
urer, were received and approved, viz. :
Chester A. Bailey, David Belson, Joseph L.
Bennett, James A. Canton, Daniel B. Car-
mody, Joseph Covielio, Walter F. Delaney,
John J. Dillon, Paul R. Gast, Samuel Gold-
stein, Solomon Gorfinkle, Charles H. Jackson,
Harry Kahn, Thomas H. King, Abraham
Krinsky, Abraham Landfield, Frank F. Lane,
Leslie P. Mann, John J. Miller, Bernard M.
Mullen, Michael W. Ober, Frederick Partridge,
James G. Peters, Phillip S. Phillips, Leonard
M. Pike, David I. Rattet, Abraham Rosenberg,
Maurice Rosenberg, Albert M. Sacks, Sidney
J. Sheinfeld, Joseph Simansky, Roman J.
Vasil, Harry A. Webber, Maurice Zeeman.
The bonds were severally approved.
SIDEWALK ASSESSMENTS.
Communications were received from the Com-
missioner of Public Works together with orders
assessing half-cost of construction of side-
walks in front of estates on following streets,
viz. :
Half-Cost.
Field street, Ward 4 $404 71
South street, Ward 11 241 97
South street, Ward 11 104 40
Foster street, Ward 22 235 29
Sutherland road. Ward 21 56 16
Davis street. Ward 13 1,408 33
Burnett street, Ward 11 886 20
Dunreath street. Ward 12 86 40
Calumet street, Ward 10 52 25
Centre street, Ward 19 1,407 69
Cliff street. Ward 12 113 98
The orders were severally passed.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommend-
ing- passage of order for payment of aid to
soldiers and sailoirs and their families in the
City of Boston for month of May, 1934.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
CONFIRMATION OF CONSTABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business, Nos. 2 and 3 on the calendar, viz. :
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor April 23, 1934, of Constables connected
with official positions, without power to serve
civil process and to serve without bond, as
follows :
Felix Carroll, Timothy J. Collins, Francis
J. Desmond, Andrew DiPietro, Arthur J.
Driscoll, Cornelius J. Dundon, James F. Farrell,
Edmund B. Flaherty, Harold Goldstein, Joseph
A. Grover, George S. Halliday, Charles W.
Kelley, Walter P. Kirby, Thomas J. Lane,
Thomas J. McDonough, Michael F. Murray,
James . O'Hearn, John Skelly, Hyman Slate,
William D. Sweeney, Joseph Tedesco, Joseph
Thomas, Herbert Timson.
3. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor April 30, 1934, of Constables connected
with official positions, without power to serve
civil process and to serve without bonds, as
follows :
Joseph L. Duffly, Sidney E. Sullivan, Archi-
bald P. McNeil, Clarence A. Nado, John J.
O'Brien.
Coun. GOLDMAN moved that all the Con-
stables named in Nos. 2 and 3 be confirmed,
with the exception of Hyman Slate in No. 2.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I find on
looking at page 161 of the record, being the
record of the last meeting of the Council,
that the chairman of the Committee on Con-
stables, in making a report for the committee,
stated that "your committee by a majority
vote recommend that the remaining names in
Document 55, except Hyman Slate and those
withdrawn or already confirmed, be approved."
I observed also that the name of Hyman Slate,
one of the last names in No. 2 on the calendar,
was omitted when the list of those for whom
confirmation was recommended was just read
by the chairman of the committee. This special
exception of Mr. Slate is a matter upon which
I desire to ask for information. I have known
Mr. Slate for many years. He Is an honorable
and capable man, and I should like to ask
the committee why he alone of all these per-
sons was struck off the list?
President DOWD — Does the chairman of the
committee desire to explain ?
Coun. GOLDMAN— Yes, Mr. President. We
have that name still under investigation. We
have not yet completed our investigation of
Mr. Slate. When I have received further in-
formation, I shall be glad to give it.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, owing to the
fact that one of the constables whom the
chairman of the committee has just reported on
happens to be a resident of Braintree, I can-
not see my way clear to vote for the confirma-
tion of that gentleman. We have gone on
record as opposed to the Mayor's policy of
selecting nonresidents as commissioners of the
City of Boston, although we have no power
of action in that matter. We do, however,
have power to turn this gentleman down as
a nonresident of Boston.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I was glad
to hear the explanation of the chairman of the
Committee on Constables, that the reason for
holding out at least one name was because
of the fact that much care and discrimination
is being shown this year and that the ap-
pointments of those who have served under
former administrations have been gone over
with a fine-toothed comb. That assurance is
particularly gratifying in view of the explana-
tion we received from a minority member of
the committee last week that when this list
of sixty names came from the Mayor's office
the committee failed to find that even the
names were correct, and, in many instances,
the correct address was lacking. I submit to
the members of the Council, although words
of protest are in vain, that the members of
the City Council have something to answer for
in approving what will amount to a block
of sixty of these political appointments. We
are supposed to be in the midst or in the
throes of a reform administration. So far
this year, since January, we have seen scores
of men fired from numerous city departments,
and it must be most gratifying to those men
who lost their jobs, many of them after years
of faithful service, and who saw members of
the Council go down, on specially appointed
committees, ito weep in their behalf on the
Mayor's shoulder, to see what is now happen-
ing in this matter. Those employees were
dropped from the Assessing and various other
departments, when their jobs might have been
saved, even though it meant enforced vacations,
the installation of the stagger system or
reduced pay. We have seen those commit-
tees from this body go downstairs and weep
173
tJlTY COUNCIL.
inl'lly on the Mayor's shoulder in. reKard
to those particular office holders who had
been fired ; and how inconsistent it must
seem to those discharged employees, who saw
the tears Call, whether crocodile or otherwise,
to mow sec members of the City Council play-
ing with the Mayor to the extent of filling jobs
in the very departments 'from which men for
whom committees of the City Council have
none down to the Mayor's office and wept have
been ifired. Some of these constables, most of
them virgin constables as far as constable
service is concerned, will be placed iin the
very departments where other employees have
been on the firing end. I have looked at
City Document 47, containing the list of con-
stables for 1925, the last year of a Curley ad-
ministration— an administration which in the
past has had the finger of scorn pointed at
it as a spoils administration — and have seen
a grand, magnificent total of thirty-six con-
stables appointed to official positions to serve
without Ibomds, and then I have looked at
Document 49, in the initial year of the Nichols
administration. You would naturally expect,
if, as the chairman of the Constable Committee
assures us, the (fruits of a political campaign
are in patronage, that some of the really im-
portant places An which to put the faithful
are as constables of the Oity of Boston, and
you would inaturaily suppose, after Mayor
Nichols came in, following the terrible Curley
administration, so called, that the Curley con-
stables would have (been shot out the window,
and there would be a new deal ; and yet even
in that administration we find thirty-three of
the thirty-six Curley constables in the Nichols
list, only three being dropped, I don't know
whether as the result of death or otherwise.
But certainly, there was no demonstration of
the working of a spoils system. But when
the 1934 list comes in, we find recognition in
a reform administration of the principle that
"to the victors belong the spoils" in Boston,
even against the vociferous cries to the con-
trary of those who supported the reform ad-
ministration. And in the carrying out of
that principle, that "to the victors belong the
spoils," (I find, according to the list, that all
but seven of those who had held the positions
are wiped out. I understand that the chair-
man of the ICommittee on Constables has been
in fairly close touch with the Mayor on this
most important question of constables, and
I was informed last week that one constable
who had served in a department of the City
of Bostom for six or seven years efficiently
and well was not appointed, a constable living
in my district, in Dorchester, the reason being
that he had worked for Councilor Wilson in
the recent election, the -unfortunate part of
it being that I did not see the man on election
day or for two or three weeks before election,
and that, so far as I knew, he did not do
a stroke in supporting my election. That, of
course, is only a slide issue, but it simply
shows that even these $1,440 positions are
being filled as political plums by the present
Mayor and his supporters in the Council,
and that the men who have held the positions
are being fired for political reasons. Bearing
in mind the fact that many of the members
of this body are members of the bar, and that
all three on the committee are lawyers, which
is their good or bad fortune, and bearing in
mind the fact that we as lawyers feel that
one of the prime requisites naturally to be
considered in constables, whether they serve
■writs or work for the city, fils the faithful
and efficient discharge of their duty as
constables, 'it does seem strange that other
qualifications are being considered. It ap-
pears to me strange also that the custom
of past years has not been followed and
that those men in the oity departments,
who have been under past so-called political
administrations at least treated with courtesy
and consideration, are now to be treated as if
they had shady records. When it comes -to ap-
pointing men who are to go out on the high-
ways and byways of the city and drive in
poll taxes, it does seem — and I speak with
all due regard to many on the list who are
no doubt estimable gentlemen — that that is
one of the last places in which to put political
bums ; that when it comes to responsible po-
sitions like this in our city, men who are to
go out and collect poll taxes and who are
given considerable authority in dealing with
our citizens, the administration should at least
know enough about the men to know their
correct names and addresses, that at least
enough attention should be given to the matter
to find out that they live in the City of Bos-
ton. And so I say the members of this body
should think a long while before passing
favorably upon the balance of this list number-
ing over sixty in toto. We should think twice
before confirming these men, of whom we do
not even know the correct names and ad-
dresses, and we should also bear in mind the
fact that these men whom we are putting on
the street, friends of the Mayor and of certain
members of the Council, men who are to get
this $1,440 a year, are to be placed in de-
partments from which men have been fired,
men concerning whom members of this Coun-
cil have gone down to the Mayor's office, as
I have said before, and wept bitter tears.
So I say we should go slowly on the ratifi-
cation of the list as it stands, the remaining
names, and I move that the matter be allowed
to still remain on the calendar.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I am op-
posed to these constables, anyway, for the
reasons I explained last week — first, that they
are unnecessary : second, that there should
not be these additions to the city pay roll
at this time ; third, that there are police
officers who can do the work, the same as is
done in other large cities ; fourth, I under-
stand that most of the work can be done by
registered mail ; and, fifth, because, as pointed
out in a report of the Finance Commission,
the number' of constables which they at the
time thought was scandalous has already been
largely increased.
Coun. ROBERTS — Mr. President, I am
against taking these names off the table and
am against their confirmation, for substan-
tially the same reasons that I gave last week.
We were told awhile ago that a number of
discharges of men in city departments was in
the interest of economy. What a mockery
that now seems, in the face of these appoint-
ments. Widows, people depending upon the
city for a livelihood, who had always worked
satisfactorily and efficiently, were discharged
without notice, being simply told that their
services were not required in the interests of
economy. Of course, the Mayor "was not sin-
cere in his position at that time, and that
is all the more apparent in view of what we
have seen here since. He has now sent in
these names for confirmation, and all the
appointments are political in their nature. I
would like to answer, in closing, the councilor
from Ward 5 (Coun. Shattuck) in regard to
one constable. I don't know anything against
Slate. When I was present in the committee
I did not hear anything particularly against
him more than any other constable. But I
raiise the question that perhaps the position
taken in his case is because the gentleman
from Ward 5 was not going to vote for the
confirmation of these constables. I am not
one who has a constable on this list and if
I did have, I would still feel the same way,
that if economy is needed, according to the
Mayor, he should not have discharged widows
and others who were recently discharged from
the civil service, people who in a few months
will probably be on the Welfare Department,
and then take the position he is taking in re-
gard to these constables.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, the an-
swer of the chairman of the committee (Coun.
Goldman) seems to me hardly satisfying. I
find Mr. Slate's name, which is in the list
that appears on the calendar, the only name
omitted by him. The name has apparently
not been withdrawn by the Mayor, but ap-
parently is the only name that has been with-
drawn by the committee. I wonder what fur-
ther investigation they are making ? I won-
der whether Mr. Slate appeared before them,
MAY 7, 1934.
174
as the others did, and gave them the informa-
tion that was desired? Why is he alone, the
only person duly accredited to my district
out of the sixty, the one person omitted by
the action of the committee? I still maintain
that more names were put in than were
justified 'by the jobs, and I propose to stand
by that position ; but I do feel that, in justice
to an honorable man, I should know why he
alone in this list was omitted by the committee,
when he gave them all the information re-
quested.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I dislike
very much to add to anything I have already
said on this matter, but I think the councilor
from Ward 4 (Coun. Roberts) just told the
councilor from Ward 5 (Coun. Shattuck) in
so many words why this honorable man's name
was stricken from the list.
President DOWD — The question comes on
taking from the table. Those in favor will
say "yes" [a number responded], those op-
posed "no" [a number responded]. The Chair
is in doubt and will order a rising vote.
On motion of Coun. SELVITELLA, a roll
call was ordered.
The motion to take from the table pre-
vailed, yeas 12, nays 8 :
Yeas — Cbun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Finiey, Fitzgerald, Goldman,
Green, Kerrigan, Murray, Tobin — 12.
Nays — Coun. Englert, Fish, McGrath, Nor-
ton, Roberts, Selvitella, Shattuck, Wilson — 8.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finiey and Fitzgerald. Whole
number of ballots 19, yeas 12, nays 7, and the
appointments were confirmed.
CONFIRMATION OF WEIGHERS OF
GOODS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 4 on the calendar, viz. :
4. Action on appointments submitted by
the Mayor April 30, 1934, of Edward E.
Sheehy, Jeremiah J. P. O'Sullivan, Herbert
P. Barton, Thomas R. Kelley and Edward A.
Fay, to be Weighers of Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots 19, yeas 17, nays 2, and
the appointments were confirmed.
CONFIRMATION OF CIVIL PROCESS CON-
STABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN — Mr. President, with ref-
erence to constables authorized to serve civil
process, I now move that the following names
be taken from No. 1 on the calendar, under
unfinished business, and confirmed :
Louis Budd, Gilbert I. Favor, Abner Goul-
ston, Leon Small, Gustav Spanier, Frank J.
Staula and Abraham I. Weiss.
Coun. Goldman's motion was carried, and
the question came on confirmation of the
appointments named. Committee, Coun. Nor-
ton and Donovan. Whole number of ballots
19 ; yeas 17, nays 2, and the appointments
were confirmed.
BOND OF JOSEPH HERMAN APPROVED.
Coun. GOLDMAN moved that the bond of
Joseph Herman, which was presented at the
last meeting, be approved.
The motion was carried.
APPOINTMENTS INDEFINITELY POST-
PONED.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business, No. 5 on the calendar, viz. :
5. Action on appointments submitted by
the Mayor March 19, 1934, of the following-
named persons to be Constables, for the term
ending April 30, 1934, without authority to
serve civil process and to be connected with
official positions : Joseph Leo Duffly, Sidney
E. Sullivan, Archibald P. McNeil, Clarence A.
Nado.
The Council voted, on motion of Coun.
GOLDMAN, to indefinitely postpone action on
said appointments.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CON-
STABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN, for the Special Committee
on Constaoles, submitted the following pre-
liminary report:
Under the law the Mayor may appoint 175.
April 16, 156 submitted by Mayor.
April 23, 104 confirmed by Council.
April 30, 18 confirmed by Council.
April 30, 6 resigned.
April 30, 2 held for information (Michael
F. Simmons, Henry G. Dahlquist).
May 4, 7 approved by Constable Committee.
May 4, 1 held pending complaint adjustment
(William Tepper).
May 4, 18, no appearance before Constable
Committee.
Total, 156.
The Mayor has the right to appoint at this
time balance of nineteen plus six resigned,
(25), thus making 175.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurice M. Goldman,
Councilor, Chairman of Constable Committee.
The preliminary report was accepted.
STREET RAILWAY POLICE.
Notice was received of appointment by the
city of Cambridge of railway police to serve
on Boston Elevated Railway.
Placed on file.
TAXES ON SYMPHONY HALL AND
REPERTORY THEATRE.
Coun. MoGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
inform the City Council, if information given
is correct, as follows :
1. On what basis can Symphony Hall, as-
sessed for $800,000, and always having paid
taxes, be tax-exempt for the year 1934?
2. On what basis can the Repertory Theatre
be tax-exempt for the year 1934?
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 20 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. FINLEY offered the fallowing:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to widen Corey street, between Weld
street and the new boulevard, Ward 20.
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to widen Weld street, between Maple
and Corey streets, Ward 20.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to resurface Corey street, from Weld
street to the new boulevard, Ward 20.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to resurface Weld street, from Maple to
Corey streets, Ward 20.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Corey street,
from Weld street to the new boulevard, entire
length, both sides, Waird 20, in front of the
estates bordering thereon ; said sidewalk to be
fa*om 3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining,
to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be
built of granolithic, with granite edgestones,
under the provisions of chapter 196 of the
.Special Acts of 1917.
175
CITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Weill street,
from Maple to Corey streets, entire length,
both sides. Ward 20, in front of the estates
bordering thereon ; said sidewalk to be from
3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining, to
be n<. in 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be builit
of granolithic, with granite edg<*stones, under
the provisions of chapter 190 of the Special
Acts of 1917.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
REMOVAL OF TREE.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Department, through
his Honor the Mayor, be respectfully requested
to remove a tree at 43 Boylston street, Ward 19.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ARC LIGHT, CHISWICK ROAD.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install an arc light in front of the
premises Nos. 66-70 Chiswiek road, Ward 21.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNS, EMILY FIFIELD SCHOOL.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission,
through his Honor the Mayor, be respectfully
requested to install warning traffic signs ad-
jacent to the Emily Fifield School on Torrey
street, Dorchester.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FENCE, HENRY L. PIERCE SCHOOL.
iCoun. WILSON offered the following-
Ordered, That the Boston School Committee,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
make adequate repairs to the fence between
the Henry L. Pierce School and the private
property on Walton street, having in mind
not only the safety of the school children at
said location, tout also the reasonable rights
of the property owners adjacent.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION FROM MUNICIPAL
EMPLOYMENT BUREAU.
iCoun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Municipal Employment
Bureau, through his Honor the Mayor, advise
the City Council separately as to each month
from January 1, 1933, to May 1, 1934:
A — The number of men and the number of
women who filed new applications at the
Bureau for employment.
B — The number of jobs for men and the
number of jobs for women obtained toy the
Bureau each month.
C — The number of days of employment for
men and the number of days of employment
for women obtained by the Bureau each month.
D — The number of said jobs and the number
of said days of employment, consisting of
wtork at the Boston City Hospital.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAIRS TO NORTHERN AVENUE
BRIDGE.
'Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested, in the contemplated substantial re-
pairs to be made on the Northern Avenue
Bridge, to consider the advisability of requir-
ing a proportionate part of the expense to be
borne by the railroad company or railroad
companies holding track rights across said
bridge, having in mind that a very sub-
tantial part of the heavy traffic over the
bridge connists of railroad freight, as approxi-
mately 28,000 freight cars utilized said bridge
during the past year.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I have fa-
vored repairs on the Northern Avenue Bridge,
although I voted against the order last week,
having in mind that the estimate given the
Council even for repairs ranged all the way
from $75,000 to $375,000, and the order called
for the top figure. I voted against the order
last week, realizing that the only estimate we
had before us was an estimate that cost the
city $2,500, made by a bridge company in-
terested primarily in replacing and not repair-
ing the bridge, and that no estimate had
even been requested from another concern, the
members of which made the original bridge,
the reason probably being that it was felt
that that particular company was prejudiced
in the matter of repairs. I realize that proba-
bly every third opening on that Northern
Avenue Bridge is because of the scows of the
Coleman Disposal Company making progress
back and forth from their dump, and from
their unfortunately being located on the wrong
side of the bridge. But one of the chief rea-
sons for the wearing out of the bridge as soon
as it has, I am informed, is that 28,000 freight
oars with produce went across the bridge, the
Union Freight Railroad having a franchise
to use not only Atlantic avenue but also this
bridge. It occurs to me that, inasmuch aa
the heaviest freight and traffic, which causes
the most damage, is carried on by the Union
Freight Railway, as compensation for the fran-
chise they have they should at least bear a
part of the repair charges on the bridge.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
WORK ON NORTHERN AVENUE BRIDGE
BY TRANSIT DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, respectfully requested to direct
the Transit Department of the City of Boston
to make such repairs as are contemplated,
with reference to the Northern Avenue Bridge.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, this is an
order in reference to the same bridge, and I
urge the availability of the Transit Depart-
ment in this work. Having in mind the fact
that we are told that a number in that de-
partment are to be let go, and knowing the
experience they have had in construction work
in the City of Boston, I see no reason why that
experience should not be utilized in connec-
tion with the repairs to be made.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
EDITORIAL FROM BOSTON "TRAVELER."
Coun. WILSON offered the following :
Ordered, That the attached editorial from
the Boston Traveler be spread on the records.
Law and Order Laid on the Table.
Does the City Council think Police Com-
missioner Hultman is a grafter? Does the
City Council think it knows more about a
communications system than M. I. T. ?
Then what is the reason for the delay in
giving consent necessary to the already ap-
proved modernization of our police signal
system ? Dozens of little cities and towns
in the state are away ahead of Boston simply
because the City Council is frittering away
valuable time while criminals ply their trade,
armed with modern equipment which the police
are trying to combat with equipment that
dates back to 1887. In one month the police
had over two hundred failures of the signal-
box cable system.
MAY 7, L934.
176
Mayor Curley approved what Hultman asked.
Mayor Mansfield approved. The Council itself
approved. Then Hultman got a grant of
$88,500 from P. W. A. This is an outright
gift, a saving to the city. But P. W. A. wants
the Council's approval as well as that of the
Mayor. The Council "laid the matter on the
table."
And there it stays. Why? Has the Council
some particular equipment it would like the
commissioner to install? He has a contract
with General Electric, given after competitive
bidding open to every manufacturer in the
country capable of installing the necessary
equipment. What sort of equipment does the
Council want, and why? The Council's delay
is costing the city money. When the survey
was turned in, the price of copper was six
cents. Now it is eight. Every day's delay
may mean greater cost.
It might be a good idea, now that the public
knows what it is all about, or, rather, most
all of what it is about, for the Council to call
a meeting and approve the project.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, not being
aware how much the price of copper has
changed between last Monday, when this matter
was laid on the table, and today, I am de-
sirous that this editorial shall appear in our
record, not because of any literary merit,
but as a classic of its kind, an example of
how misunderstandings and misstatements in
regard to the action of this Council some-
times appear in the public press. In connec-
tion with this editorial in our records, I also
desire to have certain other facts appear. On
February 5 of this year the Mayor's loan
order of $350,000 for a modern police com-
munications system, to be established under
chapter 306 of the Acts of 1933, came into
the Council for the first time this year. On
the 12th of February the order was given a
first reading, even prior to any real considera-
tion by the Committee on Finance, to save time
should the committee report be favorable.
On the 19th of February the Mayor sent
through various loan agreements, but nothing
in reference to this particular police order,
and the Council requested of the Corpora-
tion Counsel an opinion as to the emergency
powers of the Police Commissioner in view
of his reported closing of the contract for
the communications system. On February 26
a second reading was given to various other
projects and a motion of one of the councilors
to lay the police order on the table was
defeated by a vote of 7 to 13, and the order
was given its second reading by a vote of
19 to 1. Accordingly, within a period of
sixteen days, or but two days over the mini-
mum required by law, the order was given its
second and final reading and passage by a
vote of 19 to 1, and that was done prior to
receiving from the Corporation Counsel the
opinion the Council had asked for. On April
9 the Mayor asked for the rescission of the
various loan grants upon which we had acted,
four of them, not including this particular
order. On April 16 the Council finally re-
ceived the opinion that was asked for from
the Corporation Counsel as to the power of
the Police Commissioner, in the month follow-
ing the month in which the original order
had received its second reading and passage :
and the Mayor then asked for the rescission
of this fifth loan and grant agreement passed
February 28, and the passage of the agree-
ment in a new form, merely changing the
record in that way. But there was nothing
accompanying the order that changed the
figures. The money was merely to be divided
between the City and the Federal Government.
On those facts the Council quite properly
allowed the order to lie over for one week,
so that we should obtain some information,
and with such good reason that the Mayor
today brought in a new order, giving us the
information to which we were entitled, so
that we could properly pass upon the matter.
I am very sorry, Mr. President, to take so
much time, but it does seem to me that the
papers of Boston should be falir, as they
usually are, in their criticisms. I merely wish
to have this editorial, with the facts I have
stated, appear upon our records, as a classic
example of incomplete and erroneous informa-
tion, as shown by the facts I have stated.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
STAMPS USED BY WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Welfare Depart-
ment, through his Honor the Mayor, advise
the City Council forthwith :
A — The total number of stamps for use on
Public Welfare "work cards ordered and re-
ceived by the department.
B — The name of the present custodian of
each stamp, together with the official number
of the stamp in the possession of each person.
C — The total .number of official welfare
stamps now outstanding, for the stamping of
so-called Work Cards, of men assigned to
some form of work for the city by the Wel-
fare Department.
D — The total number of such authorized
stamps outstanding as of January 1, 1934.
E — The name of each and every city official
or employee having possession on April 1,
1934, of an authorized stamp for the stamping
of Welfare Work Cards.
F — The official raiting or city position held
by each of said persons so named as having
possession of a Welfare Department stamp
as of April 1, 1934.
G — The official number of the stamp in each
case.
H — Reporting with reference to each stamp
by number, state for each of the four weeks
during April, 1934, how many separate cards
bearing each of the beforemerntioned numbers,
were presented .to the Welfare Department,
and payment made.
I — The numbers of any and ail stamps re-
ported lost or stolen, missing or replaced,
since January 1, 1933.
J — The name of the person employed by the
city reporting the loss, or requesting a replace-
ment or duplicate stamp, in the cases of
such city stamps as have been lost or re-
ported missing.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, respectfully requested to as-
certain for and advise the City Council forth-
with as to each of the four weeks in April,
1934:
A — What city departments had Public Wel-
fare workers assigned or working for them.
B — The number of Public Welfare recipients
working in each department so specified.
C — The official numbers of the various Wel-
fare worker stamps in the possession of each
department so named.
D — The number of Welfare workers actually
reporting for work each week in each de-
partment, according to the records of each
department.
E — Where more than one division or branch
of any of said departments has a record of
Welfare workers, then state the official number
of any and all Welfare stamps in the posses-
sion of each of said divisions or branches.
F — Where more than one division or branch
of any said departments has a record of
Welfare 'workers, then state the number of
Welfare workers actually reporting for work
each week in each of said divisions or branches,
as per the records of said department.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, I simply
wish to say that I congratulate the councilor
from Dorchester for the courage he shows in
even asking the Welfare Department for in-
formation. It may he a long story, and it
may be an old story, but for some two years
I have carried on an intensive campaign in
an endeavor to ascertain from the Welfare
Department something about the expenditures
of the department, and because of that I have
been accused of baiting that Board and of
177
CITY COUNCIL.
attempting ito take from the poor widow the
crust <>r bread that was rightfully hers, and
so forth, and I have 'been told on every oc-
casion that there was no such thing known
in this city as a fraudulent recipient of public
welfare. From the very first speech I ever
made upon the matter up to my last utterance,
I have always taken the ground that it was
primarily the God-given duty of a city to
properly provide for its poor, and that I know
of no more despicable thief than the man who
steals from hungry children. Where a table
is set for such children, or for a hungry
family, with barely food enough to feed those
under-nourished ones, I claim that there is no
more despicable character than the man who
would walk into the Welfare Department, a
man employed and receiving a salary, pull
his chair up to the table and reach out and
take most of the food from .the plates of
those hungry ones. I can imagine no more
despicable person than the man who would
reach in and take from those hungry children
and starving people that which they need to
keep body and soul together. But when either
McGrath or Wilson objects to abuses in that
department, when we object to assistance 'be-
ing improperly expended to those who are
simply grafting on the department, we are
toid that we are baiting the recipients of
public welfare. There lis mo .member of the
twenty-two in this Council, as I have said
before, who wants to harm a hair of the
honest recipient of welfare ; there is no man
in the Council who is not more than glad to
give every dollar necessary to properly house
and feed them. But you know, Mr. President,
we all know, the Mayor knows, and those
connected with the charitable societies all
through the -community know, the situation in
this city in the matter of distribution of
relief. We know that the societies who are
engaged in this eharitaible 'work have during
the last three or four years broken down and
have transferred their recipients in toto to
the shoulders of the small taxpayer ; and when
you or I, in the interest of that taxpayer,
fight against graft and corruption in this
distribution of public welfare, when we try
to deal with this matter in a square and
honest way, in the interest of the deserving
recipients, you and I must expect that we
will be pictured in a dishonest light, when we
have the courage to stand up and battle for
the honest poor who are trying to keep their
homes together ; these poor people who, having
a little real estate which has really become a
burden to them, are told that they cannot
therefore obtain relief, the little property which
they have and which they cannot eat becoming
a drawback to them. The taxes obtained from
$-100,000,000 of real estate out of a total of
$1,600,000,000 of taxable real estate in this
city, Mr. President, will go this year to re-
cipients of welfare alone. In other words,
every cent raised upon every single piece of
taxable real estate, business or residential, in
twelve Boston rwards, starting with Ward 7
in South Boston and ending with Ward 18,
will go for this one purpose; every single
cent raised on every piece of that taxable
real estate, with all the pathos, tragedy and
bitter tears suffered by those home owners who
pay it, will go in its entirety to recipients o£
welfare. Hasn't the time arrived for men to
have courage enough, even in face of having
their position improperly -represented to the
public, to stand up and say for the home
owners in those twelve wards out of the
twenty-two, "We will make a fight for you?"
You know that conditions down there are
rotten, sir; but every time that a man asks
an honest question, every time he rises to
honestly criticize, he is condemned in certain
quarters. -I say that the tide is rising so
rapidly that there can be no honest reduction
in the taxes of the City of Boston until you
get rid of the fraudulent recipients of welfare ;
that there will be a further wholesale cut in
the salaries and wages of city employees, there
will be further curtailment in such vital and
necessary departments of the city as Long
Island, the Hospital Department, the Sana-
torium, the Health Department, in all of these
services so necessary and valuable to our
people. We will see playgrounds closed and
health units closed unless those in charge of
this city— and I do not blame it on this ad-
ministration— have courage enough to stand
up and tell the truth, even if their utterances
are purposely misconstrued when they make an
honest -fight. Those who are fighting to pro-
tect the city against applicants for welfare
who do not belong there must expect certain
interested ones to yell, "Look at him, attempt-
ing to take the bread off the. table of hungry
families !" In spite of that, however, let us
have courage enough to continue in this fight
to protect the homes of honest and God-
fearing Boston citizens. 'Therefore, I want
to congratulate the councilor from Ward 17,
who is wise enough to know what the opposi-
tion means, who is wise enough to know how
far they will go in order to bring disgrace on
his head, as they have -attempted so often
to bring it on mine, going to the extent of
charging me with wanting to tax Catholic
churches, parochial schools, Protestant churches
and synagogues. I -was Itold to stop my at-
tacks, or they would chase me into political
oblivion. The councilor will hear, or no doubt
has already heard, the same thing. But let
us be red-blooded. We know that we are
fighting for the homes of Boston citizens,
homes in twelve wards, where every hard-
earned dollar paid upon real estate goes to
welfare. So let us stand uip and fight until
we have on the run every fakir and crook who
is getting from the city what he is not prop-
erly entitled to. Let us have the intestinal
fortitude, now that we have started and are
getting them on the run, to go through to the
very end, sir.
The order -was passed under suspension of
the rule.
IOLA STREET, WARD 14.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Iola street,
Ward 14, as a public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALK ON DUNCAN STREET.
Coum. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Duncan street,
entire length, both sides, Ward 15, in front of
the estates bordering thereon ; said sidewalk
to be from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter
adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in width,
and -to be built of granolithic, -with granite
edgestones, under the provisions of chapter 196
of the Special Acts of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DECENTRALIZATION OF WELFARE DE-
PARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of request-
ing the Board of Public Welfare to decentralize
the work of the department.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, the col-
leagues here smile at that order, but until
the Welfare Department of this city is de-
centralized in twenty-two wards in Boston,
as it is in my ward, you are bound to have
chaos and waste. Out in your ward a man
or a woman across the street from you is in
need. You and the people out there know the
circumstances. In my ward what does such
a person have -to do? He simply goes to the
place in the ward where that relief is given.
In your ward, what does such a person have
MAY 7, 1934.
178
to do ? Go down to that house of horrors
on Hawkins street and report, and then has
to go back again. In my ward, as I say, he
goes into the municipal building, sits in a
comfortable seat, tells his story, and within
eight hours there is a report. What are you
men in wards where that arrangement is not
made going to do about it ? How long are
you going to stand for the present condition ?
You can do something about it when the bud-
get comes in. We will then be the bosses in
this town. We appropriate the money. When
are you going to act ?
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
REPORT OF SURVEY COMMITTEE ON
HEALTH DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of furnish-
ing the Council with the Report of the Survey
Committee on the Boston Health Department
and report to the Council what has been done
to date regarding the carrying out of any or
all of the recommendations of this committee.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REAL ESTATE TAXES IN VARIOUS
CITIES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of having
a study made as to the reasons why the real
estate of Boston, our buildings, homes and
land, for the fiscal year 1933, was taxed a
total of $54,221,680, while Cleveland's real
estate, a city with over 100,000 more in
population than Boston, was taxed a total
of $26,940,750.09, less that half that of
Boston. Detroit, with almost double the pop-
ulation of Boston, for the year 1933, taxed
its real estate for a total of $45,385,956.60.
Philadelphia, with almost three times the popu-
lation of Boston, taxed its real estate a total
of $89,085,936. Chicago is collecting this year,
1934, on its real estate, a total of $118,149,742.
Perhaps this study will show why Boston has
the smallest percentage of home owners of
any large American cities, and losing our in-
dustries because of the highest adjustable
tax rate of anv large American cities.
Coun. NORTON^Mr. President, what I am
saying in that order is this, that that build-
ing across the street pays double the taxes
to the City of Boston that it would pay to any
other large American city in which it might
be located. In my ward 400 small homes are
being sold this year because of inability to pay
the taxes. That is the best thing that Bos-
ton has done in the last few years — grab
the homes where the owners have been unable
to pay the taxes, the homes of the poor !
That is the best thing we have done, grab
those little homes, selling them for taxes and
making it doubly hard for the owners to get
them back ! I am simply giving figures here
which I challenge anybody to dispute. I want
to know why Boston for the fiscal year 1933
was taxed a total of $54,000,000 on its real
estate, while Cleveland, a city with over 100,000
more population than Boston, was taxed on
its real estate a total of $26,900,000, or less
than half the amount of the tax in Boston.
And I "want to know why the same relative
situation prevails in other large American
cities, as compared with Boston.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, I hesitate
to offer information to my colleague from
Ward 18, but I wouJd say this, that Boston
is practically a city of 2,000,000 people, but a
large proportion of that 2,000,000, while work-
ing in and depending upon the City of Bos-
ton for a livelihood, have their homes and
their communities outside the city. We were
told by our friends of the Municipal Research
Bureau a few months ago, through Mr. Loeffler,
that the people of Boston have a home owner-
ship of a far smaller percentage than other
large cities in this country, that the percentage
of home ownership here is but 25, while in
Buffalo, for example, it is 59 per cent ;
by which Mr. Loeffler would seek to prove
that Boston is not a fit city to live in, as
shown by the fact that 59 per cent of
the people of Buffalo own their own homes
as against 25 per cent in the City of Boston.
Well, anybody who knows Buffalo knows how
spread out it is, how it goes from Tonawanda
over to Niagara Falls, how you travel along
for twenty miles in the wilderness along the
great shore boulevard there, still in Buffalo,
before you run into a location sizable enough
to warrant high priced real estate. The rea-
son why Boston has only 25 per cent of
home ownership is because of the bedrooms
of the people in the outside cities and towns —
Brookline, Newton, Quincy, and all the others.
We must also take into consideration the
fact that 4,000 of our own city employees do
not live in the City of Boston, including
1,868 of those in the School Department. Then,
look at those in the Library Department, who
not only do not live in the City of Boston, but
who own their own homes in towns outside of
Boston. Of course, some of those who object
when we say that city employees should live
in this city, shout "Provincialism! Why not
build a Chinese wall around the City of Bos-
ton ? Why invite anybody to trade here, if
you don't want them here?" Well, there was
a concern recently that made a survey in
Dorchester, and got together a few statistics.
There are in the Dorchester wards, as the
survey awhile ago showed, 468 habitable places,
from the smallest tenement to the largest single
house, unoccupied. That certainly made it
harder for those 468 to pay their taxes, and
perhaps if it were checked up you would
find that. they did not pay ithem. And yet if
some of these employees of the School De-
partment who live outside of Boston would
occupy these 468 apartments or houses, there
would not be that unused and unremunerative
vacant property in those five wards and we
would perhaps not be forced into a drive in
order to collect $18,000,000 or $19,000,000 of
outstanding taxes. It is fair to assume that
if all city employees moved back to' the City
of Boston, our tax problem would be a simple
one. But we know that when we built the
Dorchester Rapid Transit System, it not only
resulted in bringing people into the downtown
area from Milton and other places within
twenty minutes, but also resulted in people
moving from Boston farther out. We know
that every such move in the Legislature in
the last fifteen or twenty years has been along
that line, to carry people quickly and easily
outside of the City of Boston. When we hear
of these rapid transit schemes and the de-
velopment of fine roads, it means largely get-
ting people to and from Newton more quickly,
or to and from some other outlying city or
town. Our Dorchester .rapid transit carries
people to the town of Milton and beyond, and
we are making it easier for people to get to
and from Brookline and other outlying suburbs,
where they. join the improvement associations
and rail about poor government in the City
of Boston. If one half the people who work
in this city and do not live here made their
homes here, our financial condition and our
general condition would be much better than
it is. 'Our downtown real estate -would not
be suffering as it is today ; Boston would be
a better city to live in. So there is a simple
answer to all this criticism about Boston mot
being a city of home owners. Boston is the
center, the business community. It is really
a city of 2,000,000 ipeople, 'but when you are
figuring on home ownership, while it is prac-
tically a city of 2,000,000 people, a large part
of the population lives and sleeps outside of
the city, and Boston alone must meet its bills.
And Boston has other burdens to bear in
connection with these suburban communities.
When the city of Cambridge built a twelve-
story buildiing in Central square, the sugges-
tion was made that there should be a new
fire station to house an 85-foot ladder in case
179
CITY COUNCIL.
Of a Are in Midi :i building. Hut they .said,
"Why should we <lo that? At any time when
liri' apparatus is needed, we send to Boston,
and ait any time when there is a riot we call
on the Boston police." Also, we are keeping
a hospital which is used largely by those com-
ing from other places, and our Welfare De-
partment serves surrounding communities.
Therefore, we must Ikeep the Boston Police
Department right at the peak, must keep our
Fire Department ait the peak, to meet the
needs ol' these other cities and towns in case
of a riot or a conflagration. The wealthy cities
anil towns around our borders depend upon us.
There are certain fire boxes in Milton and
Brookline that bring the Boston apparatus ;
and these communities sit quietly by, knowing
that they can depend upon the City of Boston
in emergencies, and then condemn the City
of Boston where, they say, 65 cents of every
dollar goes for waste, graft and corruption,
and only 35 cents represents honest expenditure.
And so we continue, 7'50,000 people spending
money for 2,000,000 people in police and fire
protection and other activities, while we con-
tinue to be the football of those outside, who
have nothing but criticism for us after they
have enjoyed the hearty meal.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I hesitate
to answer the colleague on his real estate
statistics, but I have no hesitation in answer-
ing his argument, the only one that has been
used in the past, as to why Boston's cost of
government has been so tremendously high.
There are two and one quarter million people
in the 450 square miles covered by the forty-
three cities and towns of what is known as
Boston metropolitan area, an area somewhat
analogous to the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.
When you take into account in those 450 square
miles the hospitals, fire stations and police
stations in Brookline, Cambridge, Somerville,
everyone of these adjacent towns and cities,
you will iind in those 450 square miles of the
metropolitan area more money spent on
government than is spent on any other two
and one quarter million people in the world.
Let me ask the colleague, Does he realize that
the city of Cleveland, which took but $27,000,-
000 out of its real estate last year as against
the $54,000,000 taken by Boston, although
Cleveland had 100,000 more population than
Boston, also has its county district, school
district, other such expenses to meet? And
1 ask the gentleman how he answers this.
In the borough of Manhattan alone, where at
the corner of Forty-Second street and Broad-
way you have the busiest corner in this hemi-
sphere, and taking in forty-three square miles,
the same as Boston, I challenge him to show
where in that biggest, most thickly populated
area in this hemisphere there is as large a
proportionate cost of government as we have
here in Boston. "Waste and extravagance
throughout the years have robbed this city
of its industry, have destroyed incentive to
home ownership. But every time when we
show the indubitable fact there is only one
argument that they can draw upon, and that
is the stereotyped argument that Boston is
different from other cities. I challenge them
to show wherein it is different. We have here
forty-three square miles, a very small city
in area. If you want to reduce expenditures,
certainly you should be able to do it in a
place that is so consolidated, so built up.
But here you have the figures. Cleveland, with
three times our area and a larger population,
raises half the amount we raise from real es-
tate ; Detroit, with three times our area and
almost double our population, last year taxed
its real estate for a total of $45,000,000 against
our $54,000,000. Los Angeles is as large as
our whole metropolitan area put together,
450 square miles, and yet the amount of taxes
that it raises from its real estate is far less
than the amount we raise. Pittsburgh has
an area analogous to Boston, but its taxpayers
do not suffer as ours do. How in the name of
common sense does the fact that people live
out in Brookline, riding to Boston and then
:■■• home in a car, increase our expenditure?
How in the world, outside of hospitalization,
does that increase the expenses of Boston ?
And some time I would like to answer that
on.- hospitalization argument that they have
1 have devoted four years to collecting data
upon that argument, and 1 claim that it is a
fallacious one. I wonder how the colleague
can explain this. At the Bellevue Hospital,
with 2,200 ward patients, the co. i •>(' food was
not as lance as it was at our City Hospital,
with 1,300 ward patients. The City of Boston
different? The American Health Association
claims that the food in both hospitals is Al.
No, Mr. President, the arguments used by
the gentleman do not explain away the waste
and extravagance through the years in Boston,
the cost of which is placed upon the shoulders
of every man, woman and child in Boston.
Municipal government in Boston costs every
man, woman and child over $80 per year,
while the expense of governing New York
City costs every man, woman and child there
but $67 a year, while in Detroit, Cleveland,
St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Philadelphia,
the per capita cost is $42 to $43 per year.
How can what business we have stay here
under those conditions? How can you expect
a man or woman to own a home with such
a handicap ? And you simply say that Bos-
ton is different ! You say that more people
come into the forty-three square miles of
Boston than into any other large city. My
answer is that real estate assessments in
Boston, because of the cost of municipal
government, are far, far beyond what they
should be ; and I will take an area — Manhattan,
New York — with double the number coming
in, and show that our costs of government
per capita for our forty-three square miles is
greater than it is in Manhattan. This is the
result of long years of waste and extravagance.
Why should we in my ward pay more than
double what is paid in Cleveland, Detroit or
New York ? But they say "We are different."
How? No, Mr. President, this talk about the
metropolitan district here simply is to throw
dust in our eyes. We are not different. There
are other cities that have the same problems
that we have. But why has Boston been able
to stand this waste and extravagance? Simply
because, as an inheritance from the past, we
have been the most stable city in America,
due to geographical and other reasons. Our
old American families here were thrifty, ac-
cumulated wealth, were conservative, es-
tablished solid banking and other institutions.
They have hung on to their property. There
has not been the continual change from one
kind of building to another. In Philadelphia,
if they felt that a certain building would
not pay, over it would go. There has not been
here the velocity in the turnover of real
estate that you find in other large American
centers twice as large as Boston. Our old
families have prided themselves in holding on
to their old buildings, have been prudent and
conservative in handling their affairs and
Boston has thereby benefitted financially. But
I deny the contention that because people
come into Boston from Brookline, Milton,
Dedham and other places, that is the reason
why we have these tremendous costs. My
answer is that the other communities about
us in the metropolitan district have their fire
departments, their police departments, their
hospital service, taking care of their own
needs. The colleague speaks of boxes on the
Milton line Where our fire engines can be
called into Milton in an emergency, running
up the street half a mile into Milton. What
does that cost ? In other words, my conten-
tion is that instead of our situation costing
us more money, it should cost us less, because
we have only forty-three square miles, with
788,000-odd people, in the smallest area of
any large American city. With such con-
centration of course costs should be less. What
would it cost us if we had to run water mains
to Lexington, if we had to run them away
out into the country as they have to do in
Los Angeles, if we had to build hospitals in
Arlington and had to run fire engines out
to Somerville right along ? This is simply
MAY 7, 1934.
180
an answer to the contention that, on account
of Boston having: the smallest area and the
largest number of people emptying into the
city, we are charged double the cost of these
other American cities on real estate.
Ooun. McGRATH — Mr. President, not wish-
ing to prolong this debate, let me simply say
this, that I think the mistake made when
they talk about reducing the taxable value of
property in Boston is that they forget that if
the $1,600,000,000 of property were cut in half,
the chances are that the tax rate 'would go,
say, from $32.50 to $65 per thousand. We
must maintain hospitals, we must maintain a
police force, we must maintain water, sewer
and other services that are very vital. And
over 70 per cent of those costs must come
from real estate, even though the figures are
cut to the bone. And the claims that have
been made from year to year that great re-
ductions could be made here or there in the
expenses of Boston have always been extremely
problematical, to say the least. We have seen
a reform group in operation here since the
first of January — in fact, since the first part
of November, when they were preparirlg to
come into control. I quoted awhile ago from
a speech of the Mayor showing that this
group were firmly convinced that every mem-
ber of the Council who had voted in 1932 or
1933 for the budget as submitted had done
something that resulted in waste, graft and
corruption to the extent of 65 per cent. We
heard the Good Government Association — I
trust that I will be pardoned for using that
name, an association that has now been dis-
placed by the Municipal Research Bureau — say
to the man who was their candidate, "You
go out into every ward of Boston, raise your
right hand, and make this statement: 'I am
am honest man. The man now in City Hall is
a grafter, is corrupt. The budget passed by
the City Council and put into effect by his
Honor the Mayor for 1933 contained 65 cents
on every dollar that went for waste, graft
and corruption, and,' using his own words,
'went into the hands of political pirates'."
Men and women who had voted for me for
years stopped me on the street in my home
district and said, "We cannot vote for you
this year, Mr. McGrath, because by your vote
you condoned the extravagant and wasteful
expenditure, of 65 cents in every dollar. In
other words, of every dollar we paid in taxes
on our little home, 65 cents, through the action
of the Mayor and the Council of which you
were President, went into the hands of po-
litical pirates, because we heard Mr. Mansfield,
who is an honest man, as we believe," — and
I do not criticize him, as far as I know, he
is an honest and reputable citizen, — "say that
that was the case." There is no doubt that
he did sell the idea in my ward and in other
wards of the city that the moment he took
office he would cut 65 cents out of every dollar
of taxes, because it went for waste, graft
and corruption. But as soon as they took
over office, they found that they were in error,
and so the Good Government Association dis-
banded, so that when anybody wanted to hold
them up to their statement that 65 cents in
every dollar represented waste, graft and cor-
ruption and was going to political pirates,
their address would be unknown. But the
Munlidipal Research Bureau took over the
function of the Good Government Association
and said, "Now, we will make good." And
they have cut the budget for 1934 by 3 per
cent ! Four weeks ago I introduced an order
into the Council asking the Mayor certain ques-
tions, based on statements made by him in the
Boston Herald in October of last year, to the
effect that 65 per cent of every dollar paid
by the people of the city for taxes in the
last twelve years had been stolen by politi-
cal pirates ; that the budget of 1933 was
$36,750,000 as against the budget submitted
by Mayor Mansfield for ,1934 of $35,474,000,
a decrease of slightly over 3 per cent ; and
asked him if, in view of the fact, his charge
that 65 per cent went to political pirates
was unwarranted and false, or whether, in his
present opinion, 6& per cent of the budget of
1934 represented waste, graft and corruption.
It is one thing or the other, sir. So, when
we hear this talk about cutting expenses, and
about eliminating waste, graft and corruption,
let us now look at the figures of the Municipal
Research Bureau, which have been worked
out in book form, in their relation with every
large city an the country. And in seeking a
man to pass upon Boston affairs they went
very far afield, when they could have obtained
in Boston men very much more familiar with
the situation and whose statements would be
very much more to be trusted. The man whom
they picked, however, is the one responsible
for the statement that Boston has only a
25 per cent home ownership, and who has
pointed out how much more it costs here for
government than it costs in certain other of
these cities. But, Mr. President, we are the
only big city in the country that pays the
county expenses in their entirety. We pay
for the courts in Chelsea ; we pay for the
entire Chelsea police work, as far as the
courts are concerned, and when in the year
1925 Chelsea collected $16,000 and expenses,
that went into Chelsea's treasury. In other
cities they not only do not take care of county
expenses, but the counties take care of such
things as hospitals. In New York City the
borough takes care of the hospitals. In Boston
we take care of the city and the county
expenses in their entirety. The other day in
the Legislature, when a new park building on
Metropolitan waterworks land in Somerville
was under discussion, a member said, "Why
worry about it, because the city of Somerville
will have to pay only 40 per cent and Boston
will pay 60 per cent?" Until those charges
levied on Boston by the state are taken into
consideration, presenting a situation different
from that which appears in any other city
in the country, comparisons with these other
cities are not fair. They are different from
Boston, and that difference must be taken into
consideration. We bear the entire load, and
therefore the percentage figures issued by the
Municipal Research Bureau are absolutely un-
fair to the City of Boston. And the hypocrisy
which has led to these unfair statements and
unfair figures has been very harmful to our
city. Our people should know that the figures
presented are unfair. Boston is a good city
to live in. Those dissatisfied, of course, can
always move out of it. But we have got
along for a great many years without the as-
sistance of outside men from Detroit, St. Louis
and other places, who have come here and
tried to tell us about our horrible management.
We have the brains centered around Boston
that are available for any emergency, for the
study of any problem confronting us, and they
can be called on. This Council has been
fortunate in the past in having outstanding
men, men who would have made far more
excellent mayors of Boston than men who
have served in the [Mayor's office, men who
have certainly measured up to the mayors of
Chicago, New York, Cleveland or any other
oity. Let us start to boost old Boston. It
is not a bad town to live in. Of course, at
times, as in any other city, there are things
that are wrong. But we don't need to have
Mr. Loeffler, the man from Detroit, come over
here and hurl unfair charges against Boston.
We are proud of our city, Mr. Loeffler and
Mayor [Mansfield. It has got along pretty
well and must have been a pretty good city
to stand ithe kicking that the reform
administration has given it. Now that you
are in control, we will see what you will do.
On motion of Coun. iSHATTUCK, the pre-
vious question was ordered, and the order
was passed under suspension of the rule.
LONG ISLAND HOSPITAL NURSES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Institutions Commissioner
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
not to discharge from the employ of the city
1H1
CITY COUNCIL.
any nurses now in the Training School at
Long Island Hospital until they at least get
their diplomas.
Conn. NORTON — Mr. President, wo have
scon something of the waving of the American
flag ami hollering that Boston is a good town
to live in. That is the argument of those who
have wasted the city's money. The colleague
says that this is a county city. I want him
bo answer this. The city of Cleveland, located
in Cuyahoga county, pays the expenses of the
city, and also pays its pro rata expense of
Cuyahoga county and Wayne county ; and Los
Angeles is located in Los Angeles county and
most of the city and county functions are
carried on and paid for out of the Los Angeles
budget. Now, do I represent Loeffler ? Do
I represent the Municipal Research Bureau?
Does any member of this 'body think, since I
have been here, that I have represented any
organization ? Do I represent Loeffler in pre-
senting figures? Do you know how many
hours it takes to get this data? From listening
to some of the things that have been said here,
you might think that this material came from
Mr. Loeffler's research bureau. I have to
take the opportunity to answer some of these
things. The statement has been made that
in New York State the boroughs run the
hospitals. The boroughs run the hospitals?
That is wrong, they do not. They are run
by Mr. S. S. Goldwater, Commissioner of
Hospitals in the city of New York. Borough
functions dealing with certain things are run
by the boroughs, hospital functions are run
in New York City by Dr. S. S. Goldwater,
Commissioner of Hospitals in the city of New
York. As you know, I have stated that, as
a result of waste and extravagance, the cost
of city government in Boston is double that of
any other large city that comes in the same
category. The moment I make that statement
I am attacked as an emissary of the Municipal
Research Bureau. It has been said that I have
represented the Good Government Association
here on this floor. Mr. President, since I have
been a member of the body, neither the Munic-
ipal Research Bureau nor the Good Government
Association has ever asked me to do one thing,
right or wrong ; but because I have obtained
and have produced figures here, which took
long hours of research to compile and in-
volved months of inquiry, the insinuation has
been made that I have obtained these figures,
not on my own account, but from the Boston
Municipal Research Bureau. I can say to you,
colleagues, that while I have made a number of
statements here on this floor, I have made
them in my own individual capacity, from my
own research, and that I have not been as-
sisted in my study by Mr. Loeffler, the Munic-
ipal Research Bureau, or the Good Govern-
ment Association. When I say that the cost
of government in Boston is double that of any
other large American city, and that it is
getting to a point where it will destroy
our resources and be a menace to our homes,
I do not put out that statement as represent-
ing the gentleman from Detroit. No, Mr.
President. We have wasted money in this
city. There has been an excessive expenditure
on 300 school buildings in Boston, costing
$68,000,000. There has been $56,000,000 spent
on 375 miles of Boston streets from 1925 to
19i33, inclusive, and yet many of those streets
today are mud holes. We have spent ex-
travagantly three and one quarter million
dollars on 170 pieces of fire apparatus, and
yet our fire loss is the highest per capita of
any city in America, larger than those of
Cleveland, Baltimore and Detroit put together.
You know, my colleagues, that I am not
representing the Municipal Research Bureau
when I stand here making these statements,
but rfchat I am giving to you figures I have
collected myself. I stand here representing a
ward with 333 streets, many of them mud
holes and in such condition that children
cannot go to school. There has been graft,
waste and extravagance in this city. It costs
$140,000 a square mile to police Boston, the
only large city outside of New York where it
costs over $100,000. We have had seven and
one quarter million dollars land damages in
connection with the East Boston vehicular
tunnel to dale. We have been paying on our
streets in Boston, on the average, $2.25 to
$2.50 a square yard, whereas in practically
every other American city the CO ' is $1. They
have been putting in six inches of concrete,
two or three inches of filler, and a surface on
top of that, where the whole business could
have been taken care of with six inchc
of crushed stone, with hot asphalt placed
on top of that, as has been done on the
American Legion Highway and which can
be done at $1 or less a square yard. Mr.
President, we cannot get anywhere in Boston
until we recognize the facte. I represent the
Municipal Research Bureau and the gentleman
from Detroit, Mr. Loeffler? Mr. President, I
wear no man's collar, and I simply repeat
that I represent myself, and I have never
bowed to the man downstairs. I intend to
be fair to him and to call the balls as I see
them from the outfield. Let it go at that.
I am merely continuing the fight that I started
years ago, getting my own figures, my own
statistics, compiling them myself, and not
acting a3 the mouthpiece of the Municipal
Research Bureau or of any other organization
on the floor of this Council.
Coun. GREEN— Mr. President, I would ask
the councilor from Hyde Park (Coun. Norton)
if he would be satisfied to have this order he
has introduced referred to the executive ses-
sion? I think some of the gentlemen here
would like to talk to the doctor, also.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, the order
has to do with nurses down at Long Island. I
understand that we pay the nurses $600 a year.
I understand that, as a result of the economy
program, they are closing the nurses' school.
I am perfectly willing to have the school
closed, but I think it is a little unfair to a
girl who has been going along there for two
years and who expects to graduate next year
to close the school at this time.
Coun. GREEN— Mr. President, I think it
would expedite the matter to have this referred
to the Executive Committee, so that we can
take it up with Doctor Wash-up or Washburn.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 4.20 p. m., on motion
of Coun. KERRIGAN, to take a recess subject
to the call of the Chaiir. The members re-
assembled in the Council Chamber at 6.12
p. m., President DOWD presiding.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Com-
mittee, submitted the following :
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) that Mayor be authorized to
execute and deliver to United States of Amer-
ica in behalf of City of Boston three counter-
parts of grant agreement between city and
United States relating to project of water
main construction, P. W. A., Docket No. 7223,
providing for grant to the city of amount
not to exceed 30 per cent of cost of labor and
materials and not to exceed $200,000 — recom-
mending passage of said order.
Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) that Mayor be authorized to
execute agreement between city and United
States for Police Department communications
system, P. W. A., Docket No. 8200 — recom-
mending passage of said order.
Reports accepted ; said orders passed, yeas
16, nays 0.
2. Report on message of Mayor (referred
today) asking formal rescission of eight loan
orders on Public Works projects passed in
November and December, 1933 — that same
ought to pass.
Report accepted, and the several rescission
orders were read once and passed, yeas 16,
nays 0.
]MAY 7, 1984.
182
3. Report on message of Mayor and two
orders (referred today) for appropriations
for Welfare Department — recommending as
follows :
On order appropriating $485,694.50 for Per-
sonal Service, Service Other than Persona],
Equipment, Supplies, Special Items, Pensions
and Annuities — recommending that same be
referred to Committee on Appropriations.
Report accepted ; said order referred to Com-
mittee on Appropriations.
Report on order appropriating $5,600,000 for
Care of Dependents, Mothers' Aid, Old Age
Assistance — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted ; said order passed, yeas 16,
nays 0.
4. Report on order (referred today) re-
questing Institutions Commissioner not to dis-
charge nurses now in the Training School at
Long Island Hospital — recommending passage
of accompanying new draft, viz. :
Ordered, That the Institutions Commissioner
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
not to discharge from the employ of the city
nurses now in the Training School at Long
Island Hospital until they at least get a chance
to take the examination for their diplomas
or are accepted in training at the Boston City
Hospital, and that in no instance shall pre-
vious education be a requisite to taking such
examinations by the present students.
The report was accepted.
The order was amended by Coun. GOLD-
MAN by inserting the words "and determina-
tion be made in respect to unsatisfactory serv-
ice," and, as amended, was passed.
5. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear
at places of public amusement, viz. :
Freyda Pronsky, Repertory Theatre, June
19 ; Gertrude Dolan, Repertory Theatre, June
20 ; Ruth M. McShane, Municipal Building,
South Boston, June 7 ; Delbert M. Staley, Rep-
ertory Theatre, May 9 ; Alice Burke, Repertory
Theatre, June 8 ; Edna Stertz-Shirley Ruby
School, Colonial Theatre, May 28 ; Mary V.
Hayes, Repertory Theatre, June 1 ; Lucille
Perry Hall, Repertory Theatre, May 28 —
recommending that leave be granted, on usual
conditions.
Report accepted ; leave granted on usual
conditions.
6. Petition of Gaels of Boston, Inc., for
license for Sunday sports in Celtic Park, on
Metropolitan avenue, Hyde Park, — recommend-
ing that same be granted.
Report accepted ; license granted under usual
conditions.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
LANDS.
Coun. McGRATH, for the Committee on
Public Lands, submitted the following :
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred April 2) for release of restrictions
on land at Harrison avenue and East Newton
street — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted ; said order passed, yeas
15, nays 0.
FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF CARDINAL
O'CONNELL ORDINATION.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the City of Boston, through
his Honor the Mayor and the Council, take
part in the ceremonies for the Fiftieth An-
niversary of the Ordination of Cardinal
O'Connell.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CEREMONIES FOR "OLD IRONSIDES."
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the City of Boston, through
his Honor the Mayor, take part in the welcome
ceremonies for the "Old Ironsides" Sunday,
May 13.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
OBSERVANCE OF DORCHESTER DAY.
Coun. TOBIN, FISH, WILSON, McGRATH,
GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re^-
quested to provide sufficient funds for the
proper observance of Dorchester Day.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALK ON ADAMS STREET.
Coun. TOBIN, for Coun. Fish and Wilson,
offered the following :
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Adams street,
both sides, from Gallivan Boulevard to Pierce
square, Wards 16 and 17, in front of the
estates bordering thereon ; said sidewalk to
be from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter ad-
joining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in width,
and to be built of artificial stone, with granite
edgestones, under the provisions of chapter
196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALK ON FREDERICK STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Frederick street,
entire length, both sides, Ward 7, in front
of the estates bordering thereon ; said side-
walk to be fi-om 3 to 10' inches above th.2
gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in
width, and to be built of granolithic, with
granite edgestones, under the provisions of
chapter 196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FIRST-AID KITS, L STREET BATHS.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through bis Honor the Mayor, to
equip the L Street Bath Houses with first-aid
kits.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HOT WATER FOR SHOWER BATHS.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to fur-
nish hot water for the summer for shower-
baths on all Charlestown playgrounds.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SMALL PARKS.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to take up with the E. R. A. officials
the matter of taking over all vacant land in
congested sections of Boston for the purpose
of turning same into small parks or mothers'
rests for children of school age and mothers,
inclosing same with wire fences and installing
sand boxes, etc., which will provide labor
and create a new project.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ELIMINATION OF PUTTEES.
Coun. GREEN and Coun. SELVITELLA
offered the following :
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
eliminate puttees as part of the police uniform
during summer as they are unsanitary and
handicap the officers in the pursuit of law
violators.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
183
CITY COUNCIL.
ADDITIONAL
CONFIRMATION OK
ST \ ISLES.
CON-
Coun. GOLDMAN moved to take up, Under
No. 1 on the calendar, constables authorized
to serve civil process, the names of Sherman
H. Oalderwood and Anthony J. Testa.
The Council voted to take up the two names
referred to, and the question came on con-
firmation. Committee, Coun. Finley and Kerri-
gan. Whole number of ballots 15; yeas 9,
nays 6, and the appointments were confirmed.
THE NEXT MEETING.
It was voted, on motion of Coun. McGRATH,
that when the Council adjourns, it be to meet
on Monday, May 21, 1934, at 2 p. m.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. McGRATH,
art 6.25 p. m., to meet on Monday, May 21,
1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
184
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council-
Monday, May 21, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in the Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President DOWD
in the chair. Absent, Coun. Gallagher.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments, viz.:
Weigher of Goods: Frank W. Roberts, 10 Gloria
road, West Roxbury.
Weighers of Coal: Sandford H. Belyea, 403
Highland avenue, West Somerville; Charles M.
Wilson, 69 Putnam avenue, Cambridge.
Weigher of Coal and Measurer of Wood: Harry
W. Dienst, 103 Colby road, North Quincy.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
SUFFOLK COUNTY BUDGET.
The following was received:
Office of the Mayor,
Boston, May 21, 19.34.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith my budget
recommendations for the County of Suffolk for
the fiscal year 1934 in full segregated form in
substitution for the lump sum recommendations
submitted on January 29, 1934.
The allowances as recommended total $3,316,-
333.34. This total represents a reduction of
$217,236.20 in the departmental estimates as
originally submitted by county officials and is
$158,407.62 less than the total appropriations
made for county purposes in 1933. The following
table indicates in comparative form the main
points of difference between last years' appro-
priations and my budget recommendations for
the current year.
Two-Year Summary of Budget Appropriations by Groups.
Groups.
Personal Service
Service Other than Personal
Equipment
Supplies
Materials
Special Items
Miscellaneous
Emergency Relief Projects. .
Special Appropriations
Debt Requirements
1933.
$2,017,S76 10
841,152 30
70,699 25
257,377 00
38,195 00
82,040 81
8,435 00
1,000 00
$3,316,775 46
157,965 50
1934.
$1,917,673 22
756,126 80
73,202 55
284,911 08
37,160 00
75,974 52
7,910 00
10,000 00
1,000 00
,163,958 17
152,375 17
474,740 96 ' $3,316,333 34
Reduction.
$100,202 88
85,025 50
* 2,503 30
* 27,534 08
1,035 00
6,066 29
525 00
* 10,000 00
$152,817 29
5,590 33
$158,407 62
* Increase.
The following explanations are offered in con-
nection with the changes indicated in the fore-
going table within the various budget groups:
Personal Service.
Appropriations for pay roll purposes in the
various departments and divisions of the county
service are approximately $100,000 less than
similar appropriations in 1933. The distribution
of this reduction under the three items in this
group is shown in the following table:
Permanent employees $94,755 89
Temporary employees 5,440 49
Unassigned 6 50
$100,202 88
An analysis of the decrease shown under the
item permanent employees indicates the following
distribution of the total reduction indicated:
Salary decreases $86,906 90
Positions allowed to remain vacant. . 14,065 36
Classification Plan savings 1,806 63
$102,778 89
Overlay $5,743 00
Transfers from A-2 2,280 00
8,023 00
$94,755 89
The reductions ranging from 5 per cent to 15
per cent in the salaries and wages of county
employees, which were put into effect on April 21
of last year, were continued by executive order for
the entire fiscal year of 1934. Being effective,
therefore, for a full year in 1934 as against approxi-
mately two-thirds of the year 1933, additional
savings are naturally reflected in the 1934 appro-
priations for permanent pay roll requirements in
the various county departments. The total of
these additional savings as reflected in the fore-
going table is approximately $87,000. Through
the cooperative action of the heads of several
county departments, positions which became
vacant since the adoption of the 1933 budget have
been allowed to remain unfilled, thus permitting
reductions totaling approximately $14,000 in the
pay roll appropriations of these departments.
Under the provisions of the County Classification
and Compensation Plan, whereby sliding scales
have been established for various classes of posi-
tions, it is necessary when appointments are made
to fill vacancies that the new appointees start at
the minimum salary fixed for the particular class
of position rather than at the rate received by
the original incumbent of the position. It is
estimated that the application of this rule has
resulted in a reduction of pay roll appropriations
in the budget of the current year of approximately
$1,800. The savings which it is estimated have
been secured under the three items just discussed
total approximately $102,800. This total saving
has been offset partially by an item of overlay,
185
CITY COUNCIL.
estimated at approximately $5,700, and transfers
to the A-l item of positions totaling $2,280, which
were formerly charged against the A-2 item. The
item of overlay represents the additional cost
which it is necessary to provide for in the 1934
budget as a result of personnel changes made dur-
ing the course of the year 1933. Since these
changes were effective for only a portion of last
year, it is only natural that on a full year basis
increased appropriations are required. The posi-
tions transferred from item A-2 are positions of
a permanent character, and, therefore, are proper
charges against the item for permanent employees.
The reduction indicated at the beginning of this
section in the appropriations for temporary em-
ployees has been occasioned, first, by the transfer
of charges totaling .$2,280 to item A-l, and savings
of $3,160.49 resulting from the fact that salary
reductions during 1934 are effective for a full year
as against only a portion of the year 1933.
Service Other Than Personal.
Appropriations to compensate firms, corpora-
tions and individuals, outside of the regular county
personnel, for services rendered to county depart-
ments show a decrease of approximately $85,000
from similar appropriations in 1933.
The following item changes are responsible in
the main for this reduction. In the early part of
May last year, a law reducing the compensation of
jurors was enacted by the Legislature. The sav-
ings resulting from this legislation were effective
for approximately two-thirds of_ the year 1933.
It is estimated that the additional one-third
saving which will be available this yeir, owing
to the fact that the reduced rates will be in effect
for a full calendar year, will result in a reduction
of at least $30,000 in payments by the city to
jurors. In addition, due to the cooperation of the
officials of the Superior Court, in keeping the
number of venires at the lowest possible figure,
further savings of $25,000 are estimated, making
a total reduction in the item of $55,000. On the
basis of the expenditures of last year, a reduction
of approximately $27,000 has been made in the
estimates of various county departments for the
payments of fees. General plant repairs show a
reduction of $8,500 over last year, due mainly to
the fact that it has been possible under C. W. A.
projects to take care of certain repairs and im-
provements which would ordinarily be charged
against this item. Appropriations for electrical
current consumed in the lighting of county offices
show a reduction of approximately $1,400 because
of the cooperative efforts on the part of county
officials to keep electric light bills down to a
reasonable minimum. As an offset to these reduc-
tions, appropriations for the printing and binding
of county forms and records show an increase of
approximately $11,100 over the appropriations of
1933. This increase is occasioned by the fact
that last year appropriations under this item were
refused several county departments by your honor-
able body. Because of this refusal it was neces-
sary, at the close of 1933, to provide for the ex-
penditures of these county offices in this respect
by transfer from available balances. There can
be no question but what the printing of forms
and records is a necessary county expense, and
since it appears the city is powerless to require
that such printing shall be done exclusively in the
City Printing Plant, there is no course open but
to make available the appropriations required
under this item.
Equipment.
Allowances for the purchase of necessary equip-
ment in county departments show an. increase of
approximately $2,500 over similar allowances in
1933. At the Jail and House of Correction, ap-
proximately $5,000 additional has been allowed
this year for new machinery in order to permit,
at the first institution, the purchase of a new
washing machine to replace one obsolete and
worn out; and at the latter institution, the pur-
chase of a concrete mixer and road machinery in
order to put the roads at Deer Island in proper
condition. Because of the issuance of a new
edition of the "Massachusetts Digest," it has
been necessary this -year to increase the library
appropriations at the several courts by approxi-
mately $750. At the House of Correction, because
of increased population and an increase in the cost
of clothing, it has been necessary to provide an
increase of $2,000 in the item for wearing apparel.
In several of the courts it has been necessary to
provide additional appropriations of approximately
$900 to cover the replacement of typewriters and
office machines which have become obsolete. As
i partial' offset to these increases, there is found a
flu' hon of approximately $1,500 in the appro-
priations for electrical equipment at the Court
House, Jail arid House of Correction. A reduction
of approximately $1,100 has been made in various
departmental allowances for tools and instruments
Appropriations for furniture and fittings, prin-
cipally at the Court House, show a reduction of
close to $1,000. Smaller reductions, totaling in
the aggregate $2,300, have been made in the motor
vehicle, marine, medical and live stock items.
Supplies.
Appropriations for the purchase of supplies
required in the maintenance and operation of
county departments are approximately $27,500
in excess of similar appropriations for the previous
year. This increase may be attributed to two
factors: first, the rise in commodity prices which
has taken place in recent months, and secondly,
the fact that last year your honorable body did
not see fit to make appropriations in four county
departments for office supplies, because the heads
of these departments would not agree to purchase
such supplies from the City Printing Plant. It
is evident, however, from the experience of 1933
that, without legislation, the city is powerless to
insist that the facilities of the City Printing Plant
be completely utilized by county officials. Since
it would appear that the purchase of office forms
and supplies is necessary for the proper functioning
of the courts and county offices, there is no alter-
native but to provide the necessary appropria-
tions for this purpose.
Materlals.
The slight reduction indicated in this group may
be attributed to the fact that work on C. W. A.
projects has lessened the necessity for the purchase
of repair parts and materials.
Special Items.
The reduction of approximately $6,000 indicated
in this group has been made possible largely by
the fact that the demise of several retired county
employees has resulted in the removal of their
names from the pension rolls of the county.
Emergency Relief Projects.
Since the 15th of February it has been necessary
under all Federal Emergency Relief projects for
the city to provide for all expenditures other than
those for pay rolls. The appropriation which is
indicated under this group has been allocated to
the Public Buildings Department, and will be
used for the purchase of materials and supplies
and the liquidation of miscellaneous expenses
arising from various repair projects carried forward
in the county buildings which come under the
control of this department.
Debt Requirements.
The fact that no debt has been issued in recent
years for county purposes results in a natural
reduction in the appropriations which must be
made during the current year for the redemption
of, and interest payments on, outstanding issues
of county debt.
Conclusion.
In accordance with a Council order adopted on
March 26 of this year, there is submitted with the
budget recommendations a tabulation showing for
all county departments 1924 expenditures, 19.33
expenditures, 1934 requests, and 1934 recommenda-
tions. In addition, a table showing a comparison
of expenditures by items in 1924 and 1933 with
item allowances for the current year, and another
table showing the titles of positions, number and
rates in the various county departments, are also
submitted. It is believed that this statistical
material will be of assistance to the Council in its
consideration of county budget recommendations
for the year 1934. In conclusion, I respectfully
recommend adoption of the accompanying appro-
priation orders by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
MAY 21, 1934.
186
County Departmental Allowances Recom-
mended by Mayor for 1934.
Allowances.
Suffolk County Courthouse, Cus-
todian $245,163 17
County Buildings 96,915 00
Jail 212,936 75
Supreme Judicial Court 52,964 50
Superior Court, Civil Session,
General Expenses 452,953 50
Superior Court, Civil Session,
Clerk's Office 148,667 60
Superior Court, Criminal Session. . 466,085 26
Probate Court 25,158 33
Municipal Court, City of Boston. . 369,818 20
Municipal Court, Charlestown Dis-
trict 27,013 11
East Boston District Court 28,256 42
Municipal Court, South Boston
District 26,172 49
Municipal Court, Dorchester Dis-
trict 34,290 03
Municipal Court, Roxbury Dis-
trict 81,915 30
Municiapl Court, West Roxburv
District 29,449 10
Municipal Court, Brighton Dis-
trict 17.S62 05
Boston Juvenile Court 24,294 70
District Court of Chelsea 33,376 82
Registry of Deeds 153,832 03
Index Commissioners 19,628 90
Insanity Cases 32,105 00
Land Court 5,030 00
Medical Examiner Service, North-
ern Division 21,370 00
Medical Examiner Service, South-
ern Division 14,445 00
Associate Medical Examiner Ser-
vice, Northern Division 1.85S 50
Associate Medical Examiner Ser-
vice, Southern Division 1,733 00
Miscellaneous Expenses:
Auditing Department 798 00
Budget Department 1,255 00
Collecting Department 1,190 00
Sheriff 3,650 00
Treasury Department 5,049 96
Granite Avenue Bridge 8,618 91
Social Law Library 1,000 00
Penal Institutions Department:
Office Expenses 32,860 00
House of Correction 430,350 66
Steamer "Michael J. Perkins". . 55,890 2S
$3,163,958 17
County Debt Requirements 152,375 17
$3,316,333 34
Appended were the detailed figures.
Referred to Committee on Appropriations.
VETOES OF SIDEWALK ORDERS.
The following were received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my sig-
nature and with my disapproval the order adopted
by your honorable body on May 7, 1934, for the
making of a sidewalk along Duncan street in
Ward 15.
According to the report of the Commissioner of
Public Works which is submitted herewith, there
are at the present time gravel sidewalks on both
sides with a granite block hip gutter and I am in-
formed that these sidewalks are in good condition.
In addition to that the cost of constructing artifi-
cial stone sidewalks with granite edgestones would
cost approximately $4,500 for which there is no
appropriation this year.
In view of these facts and the financial condition
of the city at the present time I must disapprove
of this order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 12, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to return sidewalk con-
struction (lien order) for granolithic sidewalks with
granite edgestone on Duncan street, entire length,
both sides, and to state that Duncan street, at the
present time, has gravel sidewalks on both sides
with a granite block hip gutter. To construct
artificial stone sidewalks with granite edgestone
will cost approximately $4,500.
There is no appropriation this year to permit
the construction of any granolithic sidewalks.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my sig-
nature and with my disapproval the order adopted
by your honorable body on May 7, 1934, for the
making of a granolithic sidewalk with granite
edgestones on Frederick street.
The report of the Commissioner of Public Works
which is submitted herewith, shows that Frederick
street is not a through street and that there is now
a four-foot brick sidewalk with a granite edgestone.
The brick sidewalk will be relaid by the depart-
ment and when this is done the sidewalk will be
adequate.
As there is no appropriation this year for work
of this kind which would cost about $800 and in
view of the financial condition of the city, I dis-
approve of this order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 12, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to return sidewalk con-
struction (lien order) for granolithic sidewalks
with granite edgestone on Frederick street, entire
length, both sides, and to state that Frederick
street is a dead-end street about 239 feet in length,
with a granite edgestone and a four-foot brick
sidewalk. The brick sidewalk needs relaying and
the department will relay the present brick side-
walk using the same or new bricks.
Considering that this street is very little traveled
and then only by the occupants of ten or twelve
houses on the street it is inadvisable to consider
constructing artificial stone sidewalks. The esti-
mated cost will be about $600.
There is no appropriation this year to permit
the construction of any granolithic sidewalks.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my sig-
nature and with my disapproval the order adopted
by your honorable body on May 7, 1934, for the
making of a granolithic sidewalk along Corey
street, from Weld street to the new boulevard.
The report of the Commissioner of Public Works
which is submitted herewith, shows that there is
a gravel sidewalk now on one side of Corey street
with no sidewalk on the other side, and that new
artificial stone walks with granite edgestones
would cost approximately $6,400.
There is no appropriation for such work this
year and in view of the financial condition of the
city I am compelled to disapprove of this order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 12, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to return sidewalk
construction (lien order) for granolithic sidewalks
with granite edgestone on Corey street, from Weld
street to the new boulevard, entire length, both
sides, and to state that there is at the present time
a gravel sidewalk on one side of Corey street, and
no sidewalk on the other side.
To construct new artificial stone walks with
granite edgestone will cost approximately $6,400.
There is no appropriation this year to permit the
construction of any granolithic sidewalks.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
187
CITY COUNCIL.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen,— I return herewith without my
signature unci with my disapproval the order
adopted by your honorable body on May 7, 1934,
for the making of a granolithic sidewalk on Weld
street, from Maple to Corey street, on. both Bides.
The report of the Commissioner of Public Works,
which is submitted herewith, shows there is a
gravel sidewalk on both sides of Weld sfreel a part
of the distance and that for the remainder pedes-
trians are compelled to walk in the roadway. It
also appears that sidewalks with granite edgestones
would cost approximately $0,700, for which there
is no appropriation.
In view of the financial condition of the city and
of this report I am compelled to disapprove of
this order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 12, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to return sidewalk
construction (lien order) for granolithic sidewalks
with granite edgestone on Weld street, from Maple
street to Corey street, entire length, both sides,
and to state that at the present time there is a
gravel sidewalk on both sides of Weld street,
between Ruskin street and Maple street. Between
Ruskin and Corey streets there is no sidewalk and
pedestrians are compelled to walk in the roadway.
The construction of sidewalks with granite edge-
stone, as requested, will cost approximately $6,700.
There is no appropriation this year to permit
the construction of any granolithic sidewalks.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 10, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith without
my signature and with my disapproval an order
adopted by your honorable body on April 30,
requiring the Commissioner of Public Works to
make a sidewalk in front of property at 23 Kings-
dale street, Ward 14.
It appears from the report of the Commissioner
of Public Works, copy of which I also transmit
herewith, that there is sufficient artificial stone
sidewalk in front of this property, the condition of
which is good, and that there is no money available
in the Public Works appropriation to cover the
cost of this construction. Under these conditions
I am compelled to disapprove the order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 7, 1934.
John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — Reporting on the order of the City
Council dated April 23, sidewalk construction
(lien order) in front of property at 23 Kingsdale
street, Ward 14, beg leave to state that at the
present time there is a single slab artificial stone
sidewalk in front of this property for a length of
about eighty feet, but there is no edgestone. The
condition of the sidewalk is good.
If a curb is put in it will be necessary to relay
the present walk, due to the fact that ordinarily
the grade of the edgestone does not conform to the
existing artificial stone walk. The cost of furnish-
ing and laying the edgestone will be about $1.25 a
linear foot, that together with the laying of a new
sidewalk will make a total of approximately $230.
There is no money available in the public works
appropriation for the artificial stone sidewalk
construction.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor May 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith without
my signature and with my disapproval an order
adopted by your honorable body on April thirtieth
requiring the Commissioner of Public Works to
make a sidewalk along Floyd street, from Blue
Hill avenue to Lucerne street,
ll appears, from the report of the Commis-
sioner pi Public Works, a copy of which I also
transmit herewith, that the reconstruction of this
sidewalk would CO'sl $1,200, and ili.it there are no
funds available at the present time in the Public
Works Department budget for the work.
ll also appears from this report that Floyd
street is already supplied with artificial stone
sidewalks on both sides with the exception of about
120 linear feet on the southeasterly corner of
Floyd street and Blue Hill avenue and that this
short length is supplied with a gravel sidewalk.
It also appears that the sidewalk is in good condi-
tion. Under theBe conditions I cannot approve
this order.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 3, 1934.
Hon. F. W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Beg leave to acknowledge receipt of
an order of the City Council dated April 23, 1934,
reading:
"Sidewalk construction (lien order), Floyd
street, from Blue Hill avenue to Lucerne street,
Ward 14."
The length of Floyd street is 1,700 linear feet
long with artificial stone sidewalks on both sides
with the exception of a length of 120 linear feet on
the southeasterly corner of Floyd street and
Blue Hill avenue, this short length being a gravel
sidewalk. With the exception of six or seven
blocks the present granolithic sidewalks are in
good condition. To reconstruct the present side-
walk as requested would cost $1,200, and there
are no funds available at the present time for
this construction in the Public Works Department
budget.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The report of the Public Wrorks
Commissioner upon the order adopted by your
honorable body on May 7, 1934, calling for the
construction of an artificial stone sidewalk on
Adams street, from Gallivan Boulevard to Pierce
square, which I submit herewith, shows that
this street is included in the list of streets to be
constructed under the loan obtained from the
Federal Government and that the construction
will go forward this year.
For this reason I am returning the order of
the Council without my signature and with my
disapproval.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 12, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to return sidewalk con-
struction (lien order) for artificial stone side-
walks with granite edgestone on Adams street,
both sides, between Gallivan Boulevard to Pierce
square, and to state that Adams street is in-
cluded in the list of ten streets to be constructed
under the $1 .000,000 loan of the Federal Emergency
Administration of Public Works, and that this
construction will go forward this year.
One of the items of the project calls for 49,000
square feet of artificial stone sidewalk, which
will cover the request of the City Council.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Severally placed on file.
HARVARD ROAD, WARD 14.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 18, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
MAY 21, 1934.
188
your order of April 30, 1934, concerning the
acceptance and laying out of Harvard road, Ward
14, as a public highway.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
May 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Inclosed please find copy of order
passed by the City Council on April 30, 1934,
requesting the acceptance and laying out of
Harvard road, Ward 14, as a public highway.
Councilor Goldman has been informed that this
matter must take its place along with many other
similar requests and petitions awaiting a decision
on just how much new street construction may be
undertaken during 1934. When that question is
settled the acceptance and laying out of Harvard
road will receive consideration.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
IOLA STREET, WARD 14.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May IS, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners relative to
your order of May 7, 1934, concerning the accept-
ance and laying out of Iola street, Ward 14, as a
public highway.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
May 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am returning inclosed a copy of an
order passed by the City Council on May 7, 1934,
requesting the acceptance and laying out of Iola
street as a public highway.
There is a petition pending in this department
for the laying out of this street, but as yet no plans
have been made by the Engineering Division.
This is one of many such matters now pending
before the Board which must stand in abeyance
until the amount of money available for new street
construction is determined.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
COREY STREET, WARD 20.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 18, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of May 7, 1934, concerning the widen-
ing of Corey street, between Weld street and the
new boulevard, Ward 20.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
May 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am returning herewith a copy of an
order passed by the City Council on May 7, 1934,
requesting the widening of Corey street, between
Weld street and the new boulevard, Ward 20.
After investigation into this matter it is my
opinion that Corey street is of sufficient width at
the present time, and that this department could
not justify the added expense involved in the sug-
gested project.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
WELD STREET, WARD 20.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 18, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of May 7, 1934, concerning the widen-
ing of Weld street, between Maple and Corey
streets, Ward 20.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
May 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am returning herewith a copy of
an order passed by the City Council on May 7,
1934, requesting the widening of Weld street,
between Maple and Corey streets. Ward 20.
After investigation of this matter I find that
this proposed widening has already been con-
sidered by this department and plans are in the
making but not as yet completed. Whether or
not this project will reach its completion in the
near future will require further consideration
by the present Board of Street Commissioners,
and will depend upon the amount of money made
available for new street construction during the
current year.
Respectfully
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
RECREATION PIER.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 18, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
April 30, 1934, concerning an arrangement under
the F. E. R. A. for the building of a recreation pier
at the site of the North Ferry slip in Ward 1,
East Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, May 17, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council that the Park Commissioner be
requested to arrange under the F. E. R. A. for the
building of a recreation pier at the site of the North
Ferry slip in Ward 1 , East Boston.
Under the F. E. R. A. no land can be taken or
purchased for any purpose. In order to develop a
recreation pier and small playground on the site of
the North Ferry slip, it would be necessary to
acquire approximately 31,600 feet of land from
the coal company adjoining. This is only a portion
of the 127,925 square feet owned by this company.
The land in question is not being used at the
present time.
I am respectfully submitting the following
report on the approximate cost of building a
recreation spot as requested in the Council Order:
31,600 square feet of land. . $33,100
Valuation of buildings on this land which
would have to be taken down 42,500
New decking for coal company and city
ferry wharf area 20,000
Shelters, swings, seats 2,500
Repairs to ferry house 3,000
Fences, railings, etc 2,000
$103,100
These figures are based on the assessed valuation
of the land and the approximate assessed valuation
of the buildings. The cost of the construction is
based on the cost of the materials and the labor
to be furnished by the F. E. R. A.
It would be necessary to get a portion of the
coal company's property as it has a frontage on
Border street, said street would then be abandoned
between Sumner street and the ferry slip. After
completion, the city would have about 60,600
square feet of land which could be used for recrea-
tion purposes.
IHV
OITY OOUNOIL.
The present buildings on iho coal company's
properly mid on the city's property are of third-
class wooden construction and very old, and in
thoir present condition and isolated location
arc a distinct (iro menace, Out plans call for the
demolition of most of the coal company's build-
ings, coal pockets, sheds, etc., as (licy would have
no value for recreation purposes. Tlie ferry
building would remain as a recreation building,
but would have to be altered for recreation pur-
poses- even then il would lie necessary lo keep
a twenty-four hour watch on it to prevcnl some
one from setting it alire.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman
Placed on file.
LAND FOR WEST ROXBURY HIGH
SCHOOL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Lender date of February 26, 1934,
your honorable body approved the issuance of a
loan of $2,000,000 for the construction of a new
high school in the West Roxbury district and a
new intermediate school in the South Boston
district, said construction to be a part of the
program of public works to be undertaken by the
city in connection with the P. W. A. program of
the Federal Government. In recent weeks a
comprehensive survey has been made in the
West Roxbury district to determine the most
desirable location upon which to construct the
new high school. Because of existing economic
conditions all parties concerned in this survey
have reached the conclusion that a tract of land,
now owned by the city and forming a portion of
the Fallon Field Playground, is ideally suited as
a location for the new high school.
This tract, containing approximately two and
one-quarter acres of land, is centrally located
between Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury and
is accessible by three street car lines and one bus
line. I am informed by the chairman of the
Park Commissioners that the land in question is
no longer needed for playground purposes, since
the enlarging of the baseball field and the pro-
viding of adequate seating capacity at Fallon
Field have been accomplished.
Under existing statute approval of the Legisla-
ture must be secured before land purchased for
park purposes may be used for any other purpose.
Because of this fact I am submitting herewith an
order requesting the Corporation Counsel to pre-
pare and submit to the General Court the neces-
sary legislation. Since the regular time for filing
legislation has expired it will be necessary to
request the Committee on Rules at the State
House to admit the city's petition under suspension
of the rules.
The West Roxbury district is today one of the
most important residential sections of the city.
Because there are no secondary school accommo-
dations available at the present time in the dis-
trict children of high school age residing therein
are forced to attend either the Jamaica Plain or
one of the central high schools. There can be
no question but what the construction of a high
school in the West Roxbury district constitutes
a most necessary and desirable public improve-
ment. The fact that city owned land is not only
available but suitable as a location for the new
school means a lessening in the cost, of construc-
tion to be borne by the city. Furthermore,
utilization of this land in the manner proposed
will in no way curtail or interfere with playground
activities at Fallon Field. There is, in fact, every
reason to believe that the erection of the school
on the proposed site will greatly increase the use
of the facilities of this playground.
In order that there may be no undue delay in
proceeding with the construction of this worth-
while public improvement, I respectfully recom-
mend prompt consideration of and action on the
accompanying order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor'
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel, through
his Honor the Mayor, be authorized to prepare
and submit to the General Court a petition, with
:tn accompanying bill, authorizing the transfer
iron, the Park Department of a portion, approxi-
mately two and one quarter acres, of land known
■ah Fallon Field and now used for park and play-
ground purposes, to the School Committee, to Be
used for school and schoolyard purposes, upon
such terms as shall be agreed upon by the Park
Commissioners and the School Con
Referred to Executive Committee. Latei in
the session the following was received:
City of Boston,
Office Of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of further infor-
mation from Park Commissioner Long relative to
(lie transfer of part of Fallon Field from the
Park Department to the School Department
which makes it advisable for me to withdraw the
order which I submitted to your honorable body.
Willi your permission I wish to withdraw the
order and I will communicate with you about it
at a later time.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
MONTHLY REPORT WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 17, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of Public Welfare, relative to your
order of January 22, 1934, concerning a monthly
report of certain statistical information.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
May 15, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
dated January 22, 1934, requesting that the
Board of Overseers of the Public Welfare be re-
quested to furnish the City Council monthly, as
soon as may be after the end of each month,
beginning with the month of January, certain
statistical information, the following statement is
respectfully submitted.
1.
Case load at the end of the month of April.
Answer.
Number of cases being aided at end of April:
Dependent aid 26,167
Mothers' aid 1,492
Old age assistance 3,830
Total 31,489
2.
The number of recipients of aid dropped from
the rolls during the month of April.
Answer.
1,442
3.
The number of recipients of aid added to the
rolls during the month of April.
Answer.
2,086
4.
The expenditure for the month for (<z) care of
dependents, (6) mothers' aid, and (c) old age
assistance.
Answer.
Expenditures for the month of April:
Dependent aid $831,010 00
Mothers' aid 92,827 77
Old age assistance 107,302 77
Total $1,031,140 54
Placed on file.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
MAY 21, 1934.
190
DUMP PERMITS, WARD 16.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 17, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Health Commissioner, relative to your order
of April 30, 1934, concerning the revocation of
dump permits on Hallet street and at Tenean
Beach, Ward 16.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Health Department, May 15, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, —
Subject: City Council's request that Health
Commissioner "revoke the dump permits issued to
J. P. McC'abe Company."
The J. P. McCabe Company holds no permit
for a dump or for anything else from the Health
Department. This company has a contract with
the City of Boston for the removal of certain
household wastes in the Dorchester district. The
contract was made by the Commissioner of Public
Works with the approval of the Mayor and Council.
The Health Department issues "dump permits"
only to private owners of land. The owner of
the land only is responsible for the observance of
conditions of the permit, one of which is that the
dump shall be kept in a "cleanly condition."
The Health Department has issued a permit to
John P. Riley as owner of vacant land at Hallet
street, Ward 16, to " dump ashes and house refuse ' '
there. This is presumably the location referred to
in the Council's order. Any arrangement which
the McCabe Company or other persons may have
to dump material there are made by them with the
owners of the land.
The condition of this land has been receiving the
attention of the Health Department ever since
the permit to dump there was issued, and recently
the owners were warned that unless there was a
more consistent observance of the conditions of
their permit it would be revoked without further
notice. As the result of our insistence conditions
at this location are being steadily improved and
for this reason a revocation of the permit at the
present time is deemed inadvisable.
In this connection it is to be observed that the
granting of a permit for a dump is not to be
regarded merely as a concession to an owner of
vacant land who wants to improve it. Until
expensive incineration plants are constructed, the
City of Boston must rely on the present methods
of disposing of the refuse of its 800,000 people and
it is becoming more and more difficult to find
vacant areas within the city or its vicinity on
which to dispose of refuse. It is either dumps or
incineration for Boston. Both have objectionable
features which at the best cannot be eliminated.
Those of an incineration plant continue indefinitely.
An incineration plant is of no local benefit. A
dump after two or three years of local annoyance
increases the value of all the land in the vicinity
besides eliminating the mosquito and other
perennial nuisances incident to low land where
water may collect. Some of the most valuable
land in Boston was once> a dump.
In the disposal of the refuse of a large city
there are bound to be offensive features which
cannot be avoided and which may be expected
to give rise to complaint. This fact has recently
been recognized by the Federal Courts in dis-
missing suits for damages brought by property
owners in New Jersey against the City of New
York because of disagreeable odors carried high in
the air from incineration plants in Manhattan.
The dump at Tenean Beach is on city land
under the jurisdiction of the Park Department.
The Park Department has no permit from the
Health Department to dump any material there.
Our supervisor in that district, Mr. Berrigan,
reports that the McCabe Company has dumped
no rubbish at Tenean Beach since May 3, 1934.
Respectfully,
F. X. Mahoney,
Health Commissioner.
Placed on file.
CITY HOSPITAL EMPLOYEES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 14, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I inclose herewith the reply of the
President of the Board of Trustees of the Boston
City Hospital giving certain information requested
by your honorable body relative to whether or not
the services of certain employees were necessary
to the hospital.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, May 4, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — At a meeting of the Board of
Trustees held today, an order of the City Council
was presented whereby the trustees are requested,
through his Honor the Mayor, to inform the City
Council as to whether the persons whose services
have recently been dispensed with are necessary
for the operation of the hospital.
On the recommendation of the various heads of
departments, the trustees were informed that the
services of the temporary people recently placed
on furlough were not necessary, particularly the
large group in the Plant Superintendent's Depart-
ment, because of the work performed by the
C. W. A. and E. R. A.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
Placed on file.
REMOVAL OF TREE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 11, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
May 7, 1934, concerning the removal of a tree at
43 Boylston street, Ward 19.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Citv of Boston,
Park Department, May 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council, that the Park Commission be re-
quested to remove a tree at 43 Boylston street,
Ward 19.
The tree in question is a live tree, with the ex-
ception of a few branches which will be removed.
The tree is in good condition.
Under the Special Acts of 1915, live trees on
city streets cannot be removed except where it
interferes with the growth of another tree, or
when it endangers the lives of the public.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
HANDBALL COURTS, MT. IDA
PLAYGROUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 11, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
April 30, 1934, concerning provisions for the erec-
tion of two handball courts at Mt. Ida Playground,
Dorchester.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, May 9, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir. — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commission be
requested to provide for the erection of two hand-
ball courts at Mt. Ida Playground, Dorchester.
I regret exceedingly to inform you that the
Board of Park Commissioners feel it is very
11)1
CITY COUNCIL.
inadvisable bo build outside handball courts on
account of sanitary reasons, in the pn ent
instance the cosl would be in the vicinity of $1,000
and the department has nol the available funds.
Placed on file
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman,
SHOWBK BATHS, CHARLESTOWN
PLAYGROUNDS.
Tlic following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 11, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
May 7, 1934, concerning the furnishing of hot
water for the summer for shower baths on all
Charlestown playgrounds.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, May 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council requesting that the Park Com-
mission furnish hot water for the summer for
shower baths on all Charlestown playgrounds.
I wish to assure you that every consideration
will be given this Council order.
Very respectfully yours,
Willlam P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
BELDEN STREET, WARD 7.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 14, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of April 2, 1934, concerning making Belden
street, Ward 7, a one-way thoroughfare, from
Dudley to Holden streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, May 14, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated April 2, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to make
Belden street, Ward 7, a one-way thoroughfare,
from Dudley to Holden streets.
^ On advice of the Traffic Commission, Councilor
Kerrigan, on May 10, made another request in
place of the above Council order, which will be
considered at the next meeting of the Traffic
Commission.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
USE OF CHRISTOPHER J.
PLAYGROUND.
LEE
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 11, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
April 30, 1934, concerning allowing Kelly's All
Stars baseball team the use of the Christopher J.
Lee Playground one evening a week.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, May 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council requesting that the Park Commission
allow the baseball team known as Kelly's All Stars
to use the Christopher J. Lee Playground one
evening a week.
The Boston Pari Department Vssociation of
Baseball Leagues has 14,000 boys connected
ii. In the South Boston district we have ten local
uniformed teams in a club district league they
play on the Christopher .1 Lee Playground on
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
nights.
We also ha vi a Mi i cant ill Leagui connected
with the department and this team ptaj on I i d .
night. Tin- Mercantile League team in the .1. .1.
Coyle Trucking Company ol South Boston,
i rider the conditions, there ii- no pot ible chance
of setting aside one evening for any other team.
II Mi Kelly wishes to apply for the use of the held
on Saturdays and Sundays, he will be given every
consider.!" ion.
Very respectfully yours.
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on tile.
APPROPRIATION FROM PARKMAN 1 I)
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 10, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — In the compilation of the budget
of the current year an amount equivalent to the
estimated income to be received during the year
from the George F. Parkman Fund was deducted
from the budget allowance of the Park Department.
This deduction was made in anticipation of the
appropriation of the income from this fund for the
maintenance expenses of the department. There
is now available in the fund income to the amount
of $87,000. I submit herewith an appropriation
order and respectfully recommend its immediate
passage by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the sum of $87,000 be, and hereby
is, appropriated, from the income of the George F.
Parkman Fund, to be expended, under the direc-
tion of the Park Commissioners, for the mainte-
nance and improvement of the Common and parks
in existence on January 12, 1887, as follows:
Common and parks in existence on January 12,
1887, maintenance and improvement of, $87,000.
Referred to Committee on Parkman Fund.
ELIMINATION OF PUTTEES. •
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor May 15, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Police Commissioner, relative to your order of
May 7, 1934, concerning the elimination of puttees
as part of the police uniform in summer.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor,
City of Boston,
Police Department, May 11, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of your communica-
tion of May 10 inclosing an order of the City
Council requesting that puttees be eliminated as
part of the police uniform during the summer, and
would advise you that I am in receipt of a report
from the superintendent stating that he has re-
ceived but very few complaints from officers of any
harmful effects as a result of wearing puttees,
and that the few complaints called to his attention
were due solely to the manner in which the officers
wore them. After officers were instructed with
regard to the proper manner of wearing puttees,
there was no further cause for complaint.
Numerous complimentary letters have been re-
ceived by me commenting on the improved appear-
ance of officers since puttees have become a part
of the regulation uniform of a police officer of this
department, and in view of the fact that puttees
are now standard equipment in practically every
police department in the state, including the State
Police, and having in mind the report of the super-
intendent, I am reluctant to effect any modifications
in this respect.
Very truly yours,
E. C. Hultman,
Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
MAY 21, 1934.
192
FIRST-AID KITS.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 11, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
May 7, 1934, concerning the equipping of the
L Street Bath House with first-aid kits.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, May 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an or.der from the
City Council requesting that the Park Commis-
sion equip the L Street Bath Houses with first-
aid kits.
Please be assured that all city bath houses are
equipped at all times to take care of ordinary
injuries.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
ACTION OF LAND COURT ON TAX TITLES.
The following was received,
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 12, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Corporation Counsel, relative to your order
of April 30, 1934, concerning action in the Land
Court on tax titles to property that now owes
the city over $2,500,000 in back taxes up to and
including the year 1931.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, May 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — Your letter of May 7, 1934
has been received, together with a copy of the
following order passed by the City Council on
April 30, 1934:
"Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston consider
the advisability of requesting the Corporation
Counsel to go into the Land Court and take tax
titles to property that now owes the city over
$2,500,000 in back taxes up to and including the
year 1931, but no titles to be taken on property
where the City Collector, after due investigation,
decides that the family occupying a home has
faithfully attempted to meet all tax obligations
but has been unable to do so because of unemploy-
ment and the depression."
The City of Boston acquires so-called "tax
titles" by purchase at sales held by the City
Collector for nonpayment of taxes. I assume,
therefore, that the above quoted order refers to
the foreclosure of the right to redeem land pur-
chased by the city at such sales.
Section 50 of chapter 60 of the General Laws,
as amended by section 6 of chapter 325 of the
Acts of 1933, provides as follows:
"If the town becomes the purchaser, the deed
to it, in addition to the statements required by
section forty-five, shall set forth the fact that no
sufficient bid was made at the sale or that the
purchaser failed to pay the amount bid, as the
case may be, and shall confer upon such town
the rights and duties of an individual purchaser.
Every such deed and every instrument of taking
described in section fifty-four shall be in the
custody of the town treasurer, and there shall be
set up on the books od the town, whether kept
by the treasurer or otherwise, a separate account
of each parcel of land covered by any such deed
or instrument, to which shall be charged the
amount stated in the deed or instrument, the
cost of recording the same, and, upon certification
in accordance with section sixty-one, all uncol-
lected taxes assessed to such parcel for any year
subsequent to that for the taxes for which such
parcel was purchased or taken, with all legal costs
and charges, until redemption or foreclosure.
The town treasurer shall institute proceedings for
foreclosures as soon as such proceedings are
authorized by sections sixty-two and sixty-five.
The commissioner may at his discretion institute
proceedings in the name of the treasurer in the
event that such proceedings are not instituted by
the treasurer. Any expense incurred by the
commissioner hereunder shall be assessed against
the city or town and collected in the same manner
as expenses for auditing municipal accounts under
the provisions of section forty-one of chapter
forty-four."
The word "town" as used in said section
includes "city." (See General Laws (Ter. Ed.)
chapter 4, section 7, clause thirty-fourth.)
The above-quoted provision with reference to
the institution of foreclosure proceedings by the
treasurer is mandatory and not permissive. In
effect it places a duty upon the treasurer of the
City of Boston to foreclose, at the time pre-
scribed therein, the right to redeem land sold to
the city for nonpayment of taxes.
In view of this statutory mandate this office,
on behalf of the City Treasurer, is engaged in the
institution and prosecution of foreclosure pro-
ceedings as directed by the statute and it is my
understanding that such has been the practice
of this office for some years past. It is, however,
the policy of this office to give owners and parties
in interest reasonable opportunity to pay before
completion of foreclosure. Letters are ordinarily
sent out before petitions for foreclosure are filed,
and in case of home owners, continuances are
frequently consented to where the interest of the
home owner seems to require it and the interests
of the city will not be prejudiced, parties are
referred in some instances to the Home Loan
Bank and are gven advice and assistance cal-
culated to help them in their difficulties.
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
REPORT OF MUNICIPAL EMPLOYMENT
BUREAU.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the director of the Municipal Employment Bureau,
relative to your order of May 7, 1934, concerning
number of applications and placements at the
Bureau.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Employment Bureau, May 15, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — In compliance with the
order of the City Council, dated May 7, 1934, I
am inclosing a report of the activities of this
Bureau.
In answer to Question C, asking the number of
days of employment for men and women each
month I do not keep a record marking these
positions either temporary or permanent.
Very truly yours,
Samuel W. Warren,
Director of Employment.
Report of the Municipal Employment Bureau,
January 10, 1934, to May 4, 1934.
Registered. Help Wanted. Placed.
January:
Male 246 21 13
Female 214 76 61
Total 460 97 74
February:
Male 744 668 571
Female 269 69 58
Total 1,013 737 629
March:
Male 449 229 184
Female 284 69 48
Total 733 298 232
April:
Male 254 115 100
Female 225 88 64
Total 479 203 170
193
CITY COUNCIL.
City Hospital:
Male 26 20
Female 23 23
Total 4!) 49
Grand total, 2,685 1,335 1,105
According to our records, 654 of the above
placements, including hospital work, are temporary
and 451 are permanent.
FSamuel W. Warren,
Director of Employment.
Placed on file.
FENCE, HENRY L. PIERCE SCHOOL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 21, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council. ,
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Department of School Buildings, relative to
your order of May 7, 1934, concerning repairs re-
quired on the fence between the Henry L. Pierce
School and the private property on Walton street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Department of School Buildings,
May 18, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — Answering your form communication
of May 10 regarding the fence between the Henry
L. Pierce School and private property, I am ad-
vised by my inspector in that district that repairs
are needed, and you will please be advised that
repairs will be made. Thank you for bringing
the matter to my attention.
This is in connection with the City Council
order to His Honor the Mayor, Monday, May 7,
a copy of which you inclosed from Mr. Doyle, the
City Clerk.
Very truly yours,
Wm. W. Drummey,
Superintendent of Construction.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to the committees named, viz.;
Claims.
Adella B. Aldrich, for refund on victualer's
license.
Alice G. Bell, for refund on liquor license.
Samuel Bell, for compensation for damage to
car by city team.
Percie C. Bowker, for refund on milk license.
Broadway Stationery Company, to be paid for
typewriters which were not returned by Soldiers'
Relief Department.
Jesse H. Brown, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in State street.
Edith Champa, for compensation for damage to
clothing on ferry.
Alfred Dotoli, for refund on tavern liquor
license.
Jacob Esterman, for refund on Sunday license.
Rose Forman, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Wyoming street.
Joseph Freda, for refund on refuse tickets.
Guthro & Harding, Inc., for refund on liquor
license.
John W. Hutchinson, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Dover
Street Bath House.
Charles H. Justin, for compensation for damage
to property at 67 Walworth street, Roslindale,
caused by blasting for sewer.
Mrs. Catherine Kane, for compensation for
damage to property at 12 Bronx road, caused by
blasting for sewer.
Bridget A. McDermott, for refund on employ-
ment bureau license.
Irene R. Murphy, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Cambridge street,
Allston.
Amelia Napolitano, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 109 Endicott street, caused by
negligent operation of sewer.
Gervant Nahabedian, for refund on milk license.
Mary O'Flaherty, for refund on milk license.
Rosario Puccio, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
Joseph Santarpio, for refund on tavern license.
Emma Schramm, for compensation for damage
to property at 2261 Centre street, caused by
blasting for sewer.
I'yman Shapiro, for refund on victualer's
license.
Everett M. Treworgy, for loss of ash cans taken
by ashmen.
Hortense Verrochi, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 5018 Washington street, caused
by water being shut off.
William L. Walker, for refund on Sunday
license.
A. Weinstein, for refund on ash tickets.
Nanna Goolsky, for refund on part of money
paid for dog license.
Special Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway to operate
motor vehicles between junction of Massachusetts
avenue and Boylston street and junction of Queens-
berry and Jersey streets; over Massachusetts
avenue, Newbury street, Massachusetts Station,
Boylston street, Ipswich street, Boylston street.
Kilmarnock street and Queensberry street; return
over Jersey street, Boylston street, Ipswich street,
Boylston street, Massachusetts Station, Newbury
street and Massachusetts avenue.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway to operate
motor vehicles between Brookline-Boston line on
Brookline avenue and Kenmore square, over
Brookline avenue and Kenmore square (Boston
section of a route between junction of Cypress and
High streets, Brookline, and Kenmore square,
Boston).
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
Katherine G. O'Gorman, Shubert Theatre,
May 25.
Layinia A. Hogan, Repertory Theatre, May 24.
Children's Welfare Association of East Boston,
East Boston High School, June 2, 4, 1934.
Ruth Hawes, Municipal Hall, June 12.
Ella Karabelnick, Repertory Theatre, June 11.
Mary E. Ring, Brighthelmstone Hall, June 8.
M. Theresa Connell, Peabody Playhouse, June 4.
Anne Marie Casey, Gate of Heaven Hall, June 4.
Josephine Leonard, Repertory Theatre, June 2.
Mary G. Donovan, Dorchester High School for
Boys, May 28.
Rev. Father William Gross, Grover Cleveland
School, May 27.
Anna M. Greene, Current Events Hall, May 26.
FINANCE COMMISSION REPORT ON
BOSTON CITY HOSPITAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Finance Commission, May 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the Mayor and City Council.
Gentlemen, — For more than a year the Finance
Commission has been conducting an examination
into the administration of the Boston City Hospital.
The results of this examination were incorporated
in a painstaking and detailed report submitted
to the commission by the accountant on the com-
mission's staff in charge of the field work and by
the staff assigned to him for the purpose. The
commission, after examination of this report,
determined to submit the same to the trustees of
the Boston City Hospital for their comments.
This was done, and thereafter, in the late summer
of 1933, a conference was had between the com-
mission and the trustees. Many of the criticisms
appearing in the report to the commission were
discussed and the great majority of the recom-
mendations for the improvement of the detail of
the conditions disclosed in the report were accepted
by the trustees who agreed to put them into
operation.
The purpose of this report is to invite your
Honor's attention to the effect upon the develop-
ment of the hospital of three of its major policies.
It is purposed in subsequent reports to take up
other policies, various improvements in adminis-
trative detail and certain changes in the executive
and administrative branches which, if made,
would, in the opinion of the commission, result in
increased efficiency at less cost.
MAY 21, 1934.
194
The Legal Status of the City Hospital.
The purpose for which the City Hospital was
founded and the control thereof by the trustees
are set out in the enabling statutes. In order
properly to appreciate this purpose and this con-
trol, a review of these enabling statutes is necessary.
The City Hospital was established by chapter 1 13
of the Special Laws of 1858. The act reads as
follows:
"Section 1. The city of Boston is hereby
authorized to erect, establish and maintain a
hospital for the reception of persons who by mis-
fortune or poverty may require relief during
temporary sickness.
"Section 2. The city council of said city shall
have power to make such ordinances, rules and
regulations as they may deem expedient, for the
appointment of trustees and all other necessary
officers, agents and servants for managing the
said hospital.
"Section 3. Said hospital shall not be erected
or located within three hundred feet of any school-
house or church now built.
"Section 4. This act shall take effect from and
after its passage. — March 27, 1853."
The hospital was opened in 1864.
In 1880 it was incorporated by chapter 174 of the
Special Acts of that year and given authority to
take and hold real and personal estate not exceed-
ing $1,000,000. By section 3 of that act a body
of seven trustees was provided to serve without
pecuniary compensation, two to be chosen by the
concurrent vote of the Board of Aldermen and
the City Council, one from each body, and five
to be appointed by the Mayor. The mayoral
appointees must be citizens of Boston, not members
of the bodies aforesaid.
By section 5 the trustees, subject to the direction
of the City Council by ordinance or otherwise, are
given charge of the general care and control of the
City Hospital, together with the buildings, fix-
tures, furniture, etc., and of the expenditures of
money appropriated therefor.
By section 6 the trustees are given power to
appoint a superintendent with such assistants and
subordinate officers as they may think necessary
or expedient, and may remove the same and fix
their compensation.
By section 7 the City Council is given power
"to pass such ordinances not inconsistent here-
with or repugnant to other laws of the Common-
wealth as to the duties and authority of said
board as they may from time to time deem ex-
pedient."
In 1885 an alteration in the procedure for the
appointment of the trustees of the hospital was
effected by chapter 266 of the Acts of that year.
This act in general terms transferred to the Mayor
of the city the power of appointment of "all
officers and boards now elected by the City Council
or Board of Aldermen." This act was construed
to eliminate the trustees appointed from the
Council and from the Board of Aldermen, so that
thereafter the Hospital Board was held to consist
of five trustees instead of seven, all of whom were
appointed by the Mayor.
By the provisions of this act also, the power
previously given to the City Council to make such
rules and regulations for the management of the
City Hospital was revoked, and thereafter the
management of the hospital was vested in the
trustees free of future control by the Council.
This interpretation of the act has been repeatedly
given by the Law Department of the city, the
most recent occasion being the opinion of Frank S.
Deland, Corporation Counsel, dated October 29,
1922. He then held:
"By the provisions of c. 266 of the acts of 1885
all heads of departments are given the direction
and control of all executive and administrative
business of the City, and by the provisions of sec.
5 of c. 486 of the acts of 1909 (Amended City
Charter) the organization, powers and duties of
the executive department of the City remain as
constituted prior to the enactment of the Amended
City Charter.
"By the provisions of the 1885 act, sec. 12,
neither the City Council nor any committee
thereof is permitted directly or indirectly to take
part in the conduct of any of the executive or
administrative business of the City. This provi-
sion of law was carried into the Amended City
Charter (sec. 8 of c. 486 of the acts of 1909). By
virtue of this provision of law neither the City
Council nor any member or committee thereof
has any legal right to interfere with executive or
administrative business of the City, or to interfere
with department heads required by law to carry
on the executive or administrative business of the
various departments and boards of the City."
By chapter 91 of the Acts of 1893 the present
name of the hospital "The Boston City Hospital"
was established.
Subsequent legislation with the exception of the
provisions of the charter made in 1909 relates to
transfers of particular pieces of land and needs no
notice here.
It is obvious from the foregoing legislation that
the Board of Trustees is intended to be made
primarily responsible for the management of the
hospital. The trustees are given the right to
appoint a superintendent, assistant superin-
tendents and subordinate officers, the right to
delegate to these officers such duties as the trustees
shall determine, the power of removal of all officers
and the right to fix their salaries. The trustees
are broadly given the general care and control of
the hospital and of the expenditures of the money
appropriated therefor. It follows, therefore, in
the opinion of the Finance Commission, that dis-
cretion' and responsibility for matters connected
with the hospital rest squarely on the shoulders of
the trustees.
1. The Treatment of Chronic Cases.
The statute of 1858 authorized the city to erect
"a hospital for the reception of persons who, by
misfortune or poverty, may require relief during
temporary sickness."
In spite of the foregoing statutory limitation,
the trustees of the City Hospital have permitted
many cases to enter and to remain in the hospital
which fall within the classification of chronic
cases — a classification clearly outside of any
proper or reasonable interpretations of the govern-
ing statute.
The City Hospital authorities do not keep
records to show specifically the number of chronic
cases in relation to the total number of cases.
To determine the actual number of the former, it
is necessary at any time to study the individual
case records. Such a study was made fairly re-
cently and it was found that there were 255 cases
of chronic ailment receiving treatment at one
time. This was approximately 18 per cent of the
total number of cases in the hospital at the time.
In one particular medical service or unit, two of
every three beds were occupied by persons being
treated for chronic ailments. The physicians who
made the study claimed only nineteen of the 255
were suitable for care in such a hospital as the
Boston City Hospital. This situation is aggra-
vated by the fact that only 78 per cent of this
total of chronic cases were distinctly Boston cases.
The Finance Commission's Conclusion on
Chronic Cases.
If the City Hospital is to duplicate the already
overdeveloped facilities of Long Island, proper
authority should be secured to permit it. If not,
steps should be taken by the trustees to see to it
that they "maintain a hospital for the reception
of persons who, by misfortune or poverty, may
require relief during temporary sickness" only.
The Finance Commission is of opinion that the
City Hospital should be relieved of the burden of
caring for chronic cases.
2. The Treatment of Paying Patients.
The statute of 1858 attempts to describe the
persons who may be admitted to the hospital.
They are, "persons who by misfortune or poverty
may require relief." Consideration of this phrase
brings out the fact that the word "poverty^' is
one of clear meaning, and the word "misfortune"
one of meaning far from clear. A person suffering
from "poverty" who "may require relief" means
a person who cannot provide hospital facilities
from his own resources. A person suffering from
"misfortune" who "may require relief" might be
interpreted broadly to include any person who
becomes ill, sickness being generally considered
as a misfortune. This interpretation, however,
would logically lead to a conclusion that anybody
who was ill was entitled to treatment at the City
Hospital, irrespective of wealth or position. It
would seem obvious that such an interpretation
is far too broad. A more reasonable interpreta-
tion and one which apparently was adopted in the
early years of the City Hospital construes "mis-
fortune" to mean a sudden illness or accident
whereby a person requires immediate relief be-
cause the illness or accident so disables him that
he cannot himself make provision for hospital
treatment.
195
CITY COUNCIL.
It is obvious that when the hospital was first
opened questions of policy had to be decided at
once. The words of the statute controlled then
as now, and those in charge of the institution had
the benefit of the knowledge then current of what
the proponents of the legislation for the hospital
had advocated when the grant of authority to
establish it was first made. At that time, as is
stated elsewhere in this report, the Overseers of
the Public Welfare immediately began to examine
into the rights of persons admitted to the hospital
to be treated there. At that time the practice
was begun of having the Overseers' representatives
attempt collection for hospital treatment as soon
as it was discovered that the person treated was
able to pay for it, and in eases where inability
to pay established the patient in the "poverty''
class, further inquiry was made to ascertain
whether or not his town of settlement could be
made to pay, or in the event that there was none,
whether the state could be compelled to pay.
Thus the conduct of the hospital was early tied
in with the work of the Overseers.
Nevertheless in every service unit of the City
Hospital at all times may be found patients
receiving treatment who enter with the under-
standing that they will pay for it in whole or in
part. The method by which this is permitted is
interesting and deserves explanation.
In the first place, a division in authority is
made between patients who are admitted to the
wards for general care and patients who request
special care. The hospital authorities assume
complete responsibility only when a request for
a special nurse or for a private room is made and
granted. In such cases the hospital authorities
collect for the special nurse in advance and charges
for the private room are entered on the hospital
cashier's ledgers. The hospital cashier is charged
with the duty of making collection of these
accounts.
However, in the case of an ordinary admission,
the practice has always been to pass the ultimate
responsibility to the Department of Public Wel-
fare. This arrangement has been in effect almost
from the inception of the institution. Apparently,
it was based upon an interpretation of the original
enabling statute whereby it was agreed that the
facilities of the hospital were open to the poor
and unfortunate sick of the City of Boston on the
ground that it was the intention of the Legisla-
ture to establish the hospital as an extension, to
include medical and surgical relief, of the sub-
sistence relief given by the Overseers of the Public
Welfare. From this interpretation of the statute,
it was concluded that the matter of hospitaliza-
tion for the poor of the city was in a class no
different from the matter of subsistence relief and
that as the Overseers were charged with the
responsibility of determining when the one should
be furnished they should assume a similar duty
in regard to the other. In admissions, therefore,
the duty of determining whether a patient was
properly admitted was, under this interpretation
of the statute, turned over to the Overseers of
the Public Welfare. Similarly the duty of col-
lecting when the Overseers determined that the
case was one which should not properly be treated
without payment was likewise given to the Over-
seers. With certain modifications, this policy has
been pursued to the presnt date.
From this early decision has resulted the present
situation. The development has been by a slow
process. Presumably in the early life of the
institution the Overseers' representatives found
that persons were securing admission for any one
of the follwoing reasons: An emergency, as, for
instance, accidental injury or unforeseen acute
illness, or through influence, either medical or
political, or through an erroneous assumption that
they had a right to enter the hospital. In the
first of these cases, it is obvious that admission
would have to be immediate and inquiry made
subsequently, and a like policy developed in regard
to the other classes. With the passage of time
and the growth of the hospital, the work of deter-
mining whether a person could pay and the work
of collecting from the patient if it was determined
that he could pay steadily increased. Investiga-
tion became superficial, and attempts to make
collections perfunctory. More and more persons
sought admission, who were on or over the border-
line, and the work of the Overseers' representa-
tives became steadily greater and less successful.
As a result of these factors tempered by sporadic
attempts at correction, the present situation has
developed'
Routine of Admissions. — Admissions to the
hospital, inclusive of accident, emergency or con-
tagious cases, are supposedly on the order of the
executive officer. The officer in charge is sup-
posed to have interviewed the patients or their
sponsors and satisfied himself that they are
legally entitled to admission as having a Boston
settlement and unable to pay for hospital treat-
ment elsewhere, or that they have given satis-
factory guarantees of ability to pay for services.
The hospital, therefore, now assumes an initial
obligation to weed out applicants; but having
done this, it thereafter takea no further responsi-
bility. Furthermore, because of the various kinds
and degrees of influence used to obtain admission
for patients, sometimes from medical and surgical
staff members, sometimes from outside organiza-
tions, sometimes from nonpolitical or influential
citizens, and very often from active politicians,
the actual number of persons applying for treat-
ment who are rejected by the hospital authorities
is very small and the number who make financial
arrangement to pay is negligible.
Routine of Collection. — There is no real attempt
made to force collection in the case of an ordinary
admission. The hospital authorities claim the
statutes prevent billing by the hospital, and leave
the question of collection to the Overseers. This
responsibility is assumed in part only by the
Overseers. Their representative actually takes
on the responsibility of determining the question
of settlement, but to a limited extent only the ques-
tion of ability to pay. He sends out bills and
handles money received against them, but dis-
claims any further responsibility as to collection.
In the instance of the South Department cases,
which are contagious cases, the Overseers' repre-
sentative bills the charges as the agant of the
City Health Department, through the collector's
office. As the total of over 8400,000 of uncol-
lected bills on May 1, 1934, eloquently shows,
this system does not work.
Thus the Hospital Department escapes respon-
sibility for failure to collect by recognizing the
restriction set out in the statute originally author-
izing the hospital, but at all other times in the
conduct of the hospital disregards this restriction;
and the Public Welfare Department assumes the
responsibility of billing (and in certain cases
receiving payment, if made) for service rendered
by the City Hospital, but refuses to become the
collection agency for the hospital.
The size of the staff on whom devolved the
routine of establishing the fact of ability to pay
has never kept pace with the growth of the work.
Naturally, therefore, this staff is usually far behind
the treatment of patients at the hospital and
very frequently the patients have been discharged
or are heavily indebted before the required work of
establishing ability to pay is completed. Just
how far behind may be gleaned from the record
of one day, May 1, 1932. There were on that
day, according to the records, 5,000 active cases,
though there were only 1,600 beds in the entire
hospital. Of these 5,000 cases only 1,700 were in
process of being looked up for settlement; of these
1,700, 400 had been checked up and histories
obtained. No history had yet been obtained in
the other 1,300 cases. In many cases of records
examined it was very apparent that because of an
insufficiency of information in regard to patients
who had been treated and already discharged,
there was no possibility of making collection.
At the present time, May 1, 1934, the books of
the Collecting Department show approximately
$165,000 is owed the city on account of treatment
given at the South Department by persons with
settlements in other cities and towns. In addition,
the Welfare Department books show that approxi-
mately $270,000 more is owed the hospital because
of treatment given in the hospital proper to
persons with state settlements, or With settlements
in other cities and towns. Of this total of $435,000
owed the city on account of treatment given
to persons without Boston settlement, approxi-
mately $135,000 will be collected in due time,
but the balance of $300,000 is not expected ever
to reach the City Treasury. It should be kept in
mind that this total of outstanding accounts
includes nothing on account of treatment given
to persons who have a Boston settlement who
might not necessarily be able to establish a right
to treatment because not of the class for whom
the hospital was intended. The claim by such
persons that they cannot pay being accepted
without investigation, the cost of service is not
entered in the books as a collectible charge.
MAY 21, 1934.
196
The Finance Commission's Conclusion on Paying
Patients.
It is obvious from the strictly legal point of
view that the trustees should cause careful inquiry
to be made before admitting patients as to whether
or not they fall within the category of persons
for whom they are authorized to care.
Wholly apart from the governing words of the
statute, the conclusion remains the same. As
previously pointed out, the taxpayers ot the City
of Boston are supporting substantially the whole
cost of the hospital. It is obviously in their
interest that the expenses of the hospital be cur-
tailed as much as possible. On the other hand,
it is equally obvious that the policy of over sixty
years cannot be overturned, and the poor and
unfortunate left without a hospital to receive them
"during temporary sickness." The obligation to
care for them is clear. But after provision is
made for them, a question arises as to how much
further the trustees are either obliged or permitted
to go. The dictates of charity on the one hand
are ranged against the demands of economy on
the other.
In the opinion ot the Finance Commission the
trustees are not justified in spending the tax-
payers' money for the care of those persons who
are able to care for themselves. Municipal obli-
gation has not yet reached the point of furnishing
free hospitalization for all. Obviously the tax-
payers of Boston should not be compelled to fur-
nish free facilities to care for the fortunate and
wealthy. The trustees are limited, in the opinion
of the Finance Commission, to care only for those
who are not in a financial position to be cared
for elsewhere.
Any other decision is open to further objections
of another kind. Private hospitals are established
and endowed, and personnel employed to care for
the hospitalization needs of the community.
They must be supported, in part at least, by pay-
ing patients. It is unfair for the Boston City
Hospital supported by taxpayers' money to com-
pete with private and semi-private hospitals
which have no such advantage.
3. The Treatment of Nonresidents.
A third phase of the expansion of the hospital
beyond the scope properly assigned to it should
next be noted. The use of the hospital for chronic
cases, and for the care of others than the poor
and needy, has been described. In both cases the
commission questions the legality of expenditures
for such a purpose. Consideration must now be
given to the question of the expenditure of money
to care for a needy person who "during tempo-
rary sickness" seeks the shelter of the City Hos-
pital, but who is not a resident of Boston. The
City Hospitil is caring for many such persons.
Money furnished by Boston taxpayers is being
expended in large amounts for this purpose. The
exact number of nonresidents in the hospital at
any one time is not easy to find out.. Frequently
they get in because they give a Boston address.
Proper investigation should disclose such a subter-
fuge. Frequently they get in because they are
recommended to staff men by other doctors, or
because they are the patients of staff men. In
many such cases the hospital records will lack the
important detail of how they got in, and no em-
ployee has been charged with the duty of find-
ing out and passing upon the propriety of their
admission.
Many get in because of the supposition that
inasmuch as the City Hospital is the workshop for
certain medical schools which contribute to the
expense of the hospital, it is proper to take in cases
which interest the staff men for one reason or
another. It is well to bear in mind, however, that
the contribution of the medical schools is not
necessarily a continuing one, does not cover any
part of the capital cost of buildings or ordinary
equipment, and does not cover the maintenance
cost of facilities that are necessary because such
cases are taken in for treatment. A recent survey
report by physicians contained the statement that
at all times 23 to 25 per cent of the patients at
the City Hospital are nonresidents.
?he Finance Commission's Conclusion on Non-
Residents.
It is claimed by some authorities that the statute
fcjnits this because the Statute of 1858 does not
c{tain the restriction that Boston residents only
s'Md be received for treatment. This claim is
un,ind because obviously the Legislature in
enacting this law was legislating for the benefit
of the people of Boston, and it is too far-fetched
to believe that the state, which has authorized
and maintained hospitals for those cities and towns
unable to establish their own, should require or
expect one city to carry the burdens of the other
municipalities. Assuming, therefore, that the
state was simply creating a board of trustees to
operate a hospital for the benefit of the people of
Boston, it must be apparent that the Board of
Trustees of the City Hospital has gone beyond
its authority when it has adopted the policy of
receiving patients from other municipalities and
from other states and even from Canada. Treating
residents of other municipalities and states for
temporary illness suffered while temporarily
residing in Boston may be excusable, but admitting
other than emergency nonresident cases or trans-
ferring nonresidents from other hospitals and
municipalities because Boston City Hospital
facilities and service are better, is unfair to the
Boston taxpayers and inconsistent with any
reasonable interpretation of tiie enabling statute.
Summary.
The annual cost of the City Hospital to the tax-
payers of Boston has risen to a very high figure.
The annual expenditure from taxes for maintenance
purposes in the period from 1923 to 1933 has been
as follows:
1923-24 $1,475,681 88
1924-25 1 ,686.737 04
1925 (eleven-month year) 1,661,8S8 45
1926 1,900,866 41
1927 2,049,075 25
1928 ' 2,185,628 51
1929 2,612,369 44
1930 2,898,362 15
1931 3,157,641 82
1932 2,931,998 26
1933 2,829,302 79
$25,389,552 00
In the same period the city has spent from the
proceeds of loans, $7,979,196.94 for new construc-
tion as follows:
1923-24 $483,956 59
1924-25 153,527 65
1925 (eleven-month year) 201 813 79
1926 489,609 96
1927 876,725 67
1928 995,714 78
1929 1,416,204 61
1930 : 861,426 43
1931 531,042 11
1932 1,086,772 43
1933 9 882,402 92
$7,979,196 94
The contributions of the medical schools which
use the hospital as a workshop have been less than
$100,000 a year, but the exact amount has varied
from year to year and is not easily ascertainable
and does not appear in the City Hospital records.
In approximately the period referred to above
the number of persons treated in the Out-Patient
Department has been as follows.
Number of
Year. Patients
Treated.
19221 37,419
1923 38 690
19242 45,095
19253 44,750
1926' 45,994
1927 49,059
1928 52,610
1929 82,483
1930 98,154
1931 116,346
1932 135,293
1933 136.368
1 Until 1925 the annual period extended from
February 1 to January 31.
" New Out-Patient Department Building opened
late in October, 1924.
3 An eleven-months' period only.
* From 1926 the calendar year applies.
197
CITY COUNCIL.
In the other divisions of the hospital the ex-
perience has been as follows:
Patients Admitted for Treatment at Boston City
Hospital Includes South Department (Con-
tagious Cases).
(Exclusive of Out-Patient Department.)
Number of
Year. Patients
Treated.
1020 16,406
1921 18,844
1922 22,174
1923 23,181
1924 23,646
1925 , 30,349
1926 21,460
1927 24,280
1928 24,462
1929 25,843
1930 29,647
1931 33,822
1932 39,646
1933 41,915
It has already been pointed out that approxi-
mately 18 per cent of the cases in the hospital
are chronic cases; also, that approximately "23
per cent are nonresident cases. This gives a
total of 41 per cent of the cases in the units, except-
ing the Out-Patient Department, that are not
legally there, if the contention is well founded
that the hospital is legally for "the poor and
unfortunate sick" of Boston "during temporary
illness."
This, of course, does not take into account the
number treated who were able to pay, all of whom,
except those brought in on account of accident, or
acute attack, were, in the opinion of the Finance
Commission, illegally treated.
It is not unreasonable, therefore, to conclude
that from 40 to 50 per cent of the cost of the
City Hospital is on account of cases which strictly
do not belong there.
Ab the service of the hospital has improved and
its fame spread, the demand for treatment has
steadily increased. The Boston City Hospital
is regarded by medical authorities as among the
half dozen best in the country. The general pub-
lic is becoming aware of this reputation and the
steadily increasing demands for its service are
partly based on this.
The general public is also aware of the fact that
it is not very difficult to get admitted to the City
Hospital without having to pay, and that once
in there is very little chance, as a practical matter,
of ever having to pay. And this generalization is
applicable not only to the people of Boston but
to those living in the surrounding towns and
cities, and even in New England generally.
Health Department statistics and insurance
company health surveys have pointed to a steadily
improving general condition of the health of the
people. Yet, the number of persons treated at
the Out-Patient Department of the City Hospital
has increased from 37,419 in 1922 to 136,368 in
1933. The increase has been substantially uni-
form in all the units of the City Hospital.
Since the increase in the demand for treatment
at the City Hospital has not been due to increased
sickness and since population has not materially
increased, it naturally follows that the City
Hospital year by year is taking more and more
business from private hospitals, and its Out-
Patient Department is year by year taking more
and more business away from practising physicians.
It is well known that private hospitals have been
seriously affected. Less patients for them has
meant less income, and as a result many such fine
institutions are known to be in financial straits.
It is also known that many physicians who have
spent much time and money in study and ex-
perience to equip themselves for reliable practice
are having a hard time to eke out a fair living;
and it is no secret that the taxpayers of Boston
have been finding it difficult to pay the taxes that
support the hospital and all other services.
If these trends are not halted, if the afore-
mentioned policies are not altered, it is natural
to suppose that demands for service will increase
and increased costs will follow. The hospital
authorities concede that there is a limit to the
physical size of a hospital beyond which it is not
advisable to go. A hospital of 2,000 bed capacity
is this limit.
The demand for hospital accommodation for
this number is now at hand. If the trustees con-
tinue to make the facilities available to paying
patients and nonresidents and to those requiring
treatment for chronic ailments, the time is not
far distant when some of the "poor and unfortu-
nate sick" of Boston may be denied admission
"during temporary sickness" because there will be
no room for them.
Respectfully submitted,
Joseph J. Leonard, Chairman,
Joseph A. Sheehan,
Joseph Joyce Donahue,
Charles M. Storey,
The Finance Commission.
Placed on file.
ABANDONMENT OF SMALLPOX
HOSPITAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Law Department, May 21, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised that on April 30,
1934, your honorable body passed the following
order:
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be re-
quested to furnish the City Council with an
opinion as to whether or not his Honor the Mayor
has the authority to abandon the smallpox hospital,
so called, on Southampton street, or to transfer
the care and control of said hospital from the
Health Department to the Hospital Department,
without the consent of the City Council, in view of
the provisions of chapter 111, section 92, of the
General Laws, and chapter 16, section 3, of the
Revised Ordinances of 1925.
I have been informed by the Health Commis-
sioner that until recently there were three persons
employed at the hospital in question, one of whom
has resigned, another of whom has been retired, and
the other of whom, a caretaker, is still employed
and performing his duties. I have been further
informed that the Health Commissioner does not
propose at the present time to fill the vacancies
now existing since he is, of the opinion that the
hospital in question may be more economically
and efficiently conducted by an arrangement
made by him with the trustees of the Boston City
Hospital whereby, as the need requires, the trustees
will furnish medical and nursing care at the
Southampton street hospital. Apparently, there-
fore, there has been no abandonment of this
hospital.
I find nothing in the plan of action adopted by
the Health Commissioner with reference to the
Southampton street hospital which is not consistent
with the provisions of section 92 of chapter 111 of
the General Laws (Ter. Ed.), or of section 3 of
chapter 16 of the Revised Ordinances of 1925.
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
Later in the session Coun. McGRATH offered
the following:
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be
requested to inform the City Council in explana-
tion of his opinion of May 21 to the City Council
relative to the smallpox hospital, whether or not
it is required by law that the said hospital be
retained under the control of the Health
Commissioner.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notices were received from the Mayor of the
following appointments:
John C. MacDonald, 48 Stockton street, Dor-
chester, to be member of Board of Appeal to take
place of James H. Fitzpatrick.
Leo J. Dunn, 11 Primrose street, Boston, to b<
director of Workingmen's Loan Association in plac
of Hyman Manevitch.
Alfred Ellis, 54 Ivy street, Boston, member .
Board of Zoning Adjustment, to take place'
Patrick H. Jennings.
Robert P. Bellows, 8 Park street, Boston,-?'
Commissioner, to take place of Charles^-
Maginnis.
Severally placed on file.
MAY 21, 1934.
198
CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The bonds of the following-named constables,
having been duly approved by the City Treasurer,
were received and approved, viz.: Charles B.
Broad, George W. Brooker, Edgar F. Callahan,
George H. Evans, Maurice J. Glick, John S. Grady,
St. Clair E. Hale, Bronis Kontrim, Nathan Kravit-
sky, Maurice Levine, John A. May, William P.
Miles, Patrick H. Murphy, Edward Ober, Emit
Ober, Walter W. Regan, George J. Swidler, Frank
J. Staula, John J. Walsh.
MINORS' LICENSES.
Petitions were received from eighty-seven news-
boys and nine bootblacks for minors' licenses.
Licenses granted under usual conditions.
RESCISSION OF LOAN ORDERS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, Nos. 5 to 12, inclusive, on the calendar,
viz.:
5. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November 27,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on November
29. 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the sum
of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to
be expended, under the direction of the Commis-
sioner of Public Works, for Reconstruction of
Streets, and that to meet said appropriations the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time
to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount, the same to be issued outside the limit of
indebtedness," —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
6. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November 27,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on November
29, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance witli the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the sum
of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to
be expended, under the direction of the Commis-
sioner of Public Works, for Construction, Recon-
struction and Replacement of Sewers, and the
Covering of Open Water Courses, and that to
meet said appropriation the City Treasurer be
authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates of in-
debtedness of the city to said amount, the same
to be issued outside the limit of indebtedness," —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
7. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November 27,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on November
29, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and
chapter 324 of the Acts of 1914, the sum of $350,000
be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be expended,
under the direction of the Commissioner of Public-
Works, for Replacement of Brookline Avenue
Water Main, from the Brookline line to Beacon
street, and that to meet said appropriations the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue,- from time
to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount, the same to be issued outside the limit of
indebtedness," —
be, and the same hereby, is rescinded.
8. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November 27,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on November
29, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the sum
of $2 000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to
be expended, under the direction of the School
Committee, for one new High School and one new
Intermediate School, and that to meet said appro-
priation the City Treasurer be authorized to issue
from time to time, upon request of the Mayor,
bonds or certificates of indebtedness of the city to
said amount, the same to be issued outside the
limit of indebtedness," —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
9. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on November 27,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on November
29, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the sum
of $2,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to
be expended, under the direction of the Hospital
Trustees, for New Buildings and Alterations and
Equipment, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from
time to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds
or certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount, the same to be issued outside the limit of
indebtedness." —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
10. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on December 11,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on December
12, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the sum of
$1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended, under the direction of the Commis-
sioner of Public Works, for Reconstruction of
Streets, and that to meet said appropriation the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time
to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount, the same to be issued outside the limit
of indebtedness." —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
11. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on December 11,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on December 12,
'1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the' Acts of 1933 the sum
of $1,000,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to
be expended, under the direction of the Commis-
sioner of Public Works, for Sewerage Works, and
that to meet said appropriation the City Treasurer
be authorized to issue, from time to time, upon
request of the Mayor, bonds or certificates of
indebtedness of the city to said amount, the same
to be issued outside the limit of indebtedness,"—
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
12. Ordered, That the order given its second
and final reading and passage on December 11,
1933, and approved by the Mayor on December
12, 1933, to wit:
"Ordered, That in accordance with the provi-
sions of chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933 the sum
of $700,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended, under the direction of the Commis-
sioner of Public Works, for Water Main Con-
struction, and that to meet said appropriation the
City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time
to time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city to said
amount, the same to be issued outside the limit
of indebtedness," —
be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
On May 7, 1934, the foregoing orders were
read once and passed, yeas 16, nays 0.
The orders were given their second and final
reading and passage, yeas 18, nays 0.
MASSACHUSETTS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL-
RESTRICTIONS RELEASED.
President DOWD called up under unfinished
business No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Whereas, The City of Boston by deed
dated January 18, 1873, and recorded with Suffolk
Deeds, Book 1144, page 33, conveyed a certain
parcel of land now numbered 748 Harrison avenue
and conveyed the said land subject to certain
conditions or restrictions, two of said restrictions
being numbered 4 and 5 and in the following
words, namely:
"4. No dwelling house or other building except
necessary out buildings shall he erected or placed
on the rear of said lot."
"5. No building which may be erected on said
lot shall be less than three stories in height, exclu-
sive of basement and attic, nor have an ell of more
than two stories in height, nor shall said building
or said ell have exterior walls of any other material
than brick, stone or iron, nor shall be used or
occupied for any other purpose or in any other
way than as a dwelling house or a dwelling house
and apothecary, dry goods, provision, grocery or
hardware shop."
and
Whereas, The City of Boston by deed dated
August 24, 1871, and recorded with Suffolk Deeds.
Book 1066, page 13, conveyed a certain parcel of
land now numbered 744 Harrison avenue and 55
199
CITY COUNCIL.
Easl Newton atreet, in said Oily of Boston, sub-
ject to certain conditions or restrictions, two of
said restrictions being numbered I and 7 and in
the following words, namely:
"4. No dwelling house or ol her building e; cept
necessary out buildings shall be erected or p] iced
on i he rear of said lot."
"7. The building which may be erected 013
said lol shall not be placed nearer the line of New
ton street than six feet but buy windows and an
open porch may be constructed on said building
and Maid bay windows project inn to a line nol
nearer the said line of said Newton street than
three feet therefrom and said porch projecting to
a line not nearer the said line of Newton street than
two feet therefrom."
and
Whereas, The Massachusetts Memorial Hos-
pital, formerly the Massachusetts Homeopathic
Hospital, a Massachusetts corporation, is the
present owner of both of the above mentioned
parcels and is desirous of using the said parcels
for new hospital buildings to be built upon the
said premises; now, therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized, in the name and behalf of
the City of Boston, by a written instrument in
form satisfactory to the Law Department of the
City of Boston, to release, in so far as the City of
Boston legally can, the said land from said restric-
tions without interfering with the legal or equitable
rights of others.
On May 7, 1934, the foregoing order was read
once and passed, yeas 15, nays 0.
The order was given its second and final read-
ing and passage, yeas 16, nays 0.
CONFIRMATION OF WEIGHERS OF
GOODS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Action on appointments submitted by
the Mayor May 7, 1934, of Hugh P. McColgan
and Martin J. Finn, to be Weighers of Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Selvitella. Whole num-
ber of ballots 18, yeas 18, and the appointments
were confirmed.
CONFIRMATION OF CONSTABLE.
On motion of Coun. SHATTUCK, No. 2 on the
calendar was taken from the table, viz.:
2. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor April 23, 1934. of Hyman S. Slate to be a
Constable connected with official position, without
power to serve civil process and to serve without
bond.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finley and Green. Whole num-
ber of ballots 17; yeas 11, nays 6, and the appoint-
ment was confirmed.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers
and sailors and their families in the City of Boston
for month of May, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
TRAIN STOP AT FOREST HILLS.
Coun MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to take up with the officials of the New York,
New Haven & Hartford Railroad the advisability
of having all New York trains stop at the Forest
Hills Station of said road.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAIRING OF G STREET, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement G street.
Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PLEDGE "l ALLEGIANCE TO FLAG.
( loun. VVJI.so \ o thi tolloi tig
Ordered, That the Boston School Committee,
through hie Honor the Mayor, be, and hereby •
respectfully requested to require, an a public
school regulation, thai a pledge of allegiance to
tin: American Flag be repeated by the Boston
school children in classrooms or assembly halls
at least once each week during the school year
and that teachers in the various grades be required
to part ieipate in the same.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PUBLIC WELFARE ORDERS
Coun, WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
hereby is, requested to direct and require the
Overseers of Public Welfare to forward promptly
each week to the Statistics Department notice of
any and all changes in the status of public
welfare recipients.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be directed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
require hereafter that any and all recipients of
dependent aid payments shall receipt for each
payment in person, except in eases where pay-
ment is made by check, in which case the endorse-
ment on the check shall be sufficient receipt.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
check from the records of the Massachusetts
Registry of Motor Vehicles, either directly or
through the Statstics Department, the names of
all present recipients of welfare aid who hold a
license to operate motor vehicles for 1934.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
check and verify such names of any and all holders
of pedler's licenses in the City of Boston .as also
appear on the records of the Public Welfare
Department as recipients of aid.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council as to the disposition, by
said department, of cases of recipients who are
found to have given incorrect statements on their
applications, and recipients who have been found
to have had improper stamping of work cards, and
such recipients as are known to be habitual drunk
cases.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
provide that, in the case of the proposed general
re-registration and in the case of all new regis-
trations, the statements by each applicant for aid
shall be signed in person by said applicant and
sworn to as true and correct before a notary-
public or justice of the peace in the employ of
the Public Welfare Department.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
hereby is, respectfully requested to require the
Public Welfare Department, in its anticipated re-
registration of all public welfare cases, to obtain
with other necessary information:
a. A statement of whether or not the recipient
is a citizen.
b. Whether the recipient is a registered voter
and, if so, from what address.
c. The address of the registrant as of the date
of obtaining the statement.
d. The recipient's address on April 1, 1930'
1931, 1932 and 1933.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
provide that on the identification card of all re-
cipients of public welfare there shall appear the
signature and also a photograph of the recipient,
and that the identification card, with such picture
MAY 21, 1934.
200
affixed, shall in every ease be presented before any
payment in cash to any recipient shall be made.
Referred to the Executive Committee, on motion
of Coun. TOBIN.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council forthwith with reference
to the active cases as of April 4, 1934, in Ward 9:
a. How many of said cases were aliens?
b. How many of said cases were registered
voters in the City of Boston?
c. How many of said cases were last paid by
check?
d. How many of said cases were last paid in
cash?
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council forthwith:
1. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 9 during December,
1933, together with the name of each visitor.
2. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 9 during April, 1934,
together with the name of each visitor.
3. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 9 as of April 1, 1934,
together with the name of each visitor.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, -to
advise the City Council forthwith as to what most
recent date all cases still active on the Public
Welfare lists as of April 1, 1934, in Ward 9, have
been personally visited or otherwise checked up
by any visitor of the Public Welfare Department.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, last night I
was somewhat gratified to learn — although I did
not have the privilege myself of hearing it over
the radio — that Mr. McCarthy was reported as
being highly incensed at my actions as a member
of the special committee of the Council on the
investigation of his particular department, and
that he is very much aggrieved at the reflections
cast on the employees of his department who, I
gather from his statement, are 100 per cent honest
and efficient. It is gratifying to me, as I know
it must be to other members of the committee,
and to the Council generally, to see that the
special committee on this investigation is ap-
parently getting in close enough to the root of
the trouble, and closing in sufficiently on Mr.
McCarthy himself for him to show evidences of
heat, and my belief is that before we get done
his temperature will rise four or five degrees
higher. No member of this body for one moment
claims or believes — certainly, I do not, myself —
that the 285 visitors in the Public Welfare De-
partment in 1932 or the 463 visitors in 1933 are
all dishonest or inefficient. But I do charge that
there is both inefficiency and dishonesty in the
department, and Mr. McCarthy cannot duck
the issue by attempting to hide behind the honest
majority in the department over which he has
been the head now for some years. Mr. Mc-
Carthy says that I have introduced a number
of "juvenile orders" in the City Council in a
desire for notoriety, and for publicity purposes.
In that statement he is partly correct. If he
means by "juvenile orders" that it is mere child's
play to put the finger on inefficiency and dis-
honesty in his reeking administration of this
$14,000,000 city luxury which has been in his
charge, he is correct. If he thinks I have been
aiming to let the light into the devious work-
ings of the Public Welfare Department while
its expenditures have jumped from around
82,000,000 in 1928 to over $13,000,000 in 1933,
he is 100 per cent correct. Councilor Shattuck,
back in December of last year, found out how
much information he could get from Mr. Mc-
Carthy's department by a courteous letter of
inquiry. I understand that he waited some time
without getting any response whatever. But we
are fortunately in a position by which we can
force answers from that department and from
Mr. McCarthy through orders in this City Council.
I believe, further, that a certain degree of publicity
relating to convictions in court for fraud, and
relating to the progress and the results of our
own investigation, will drive many hundreds
of fraudulent cases from the rolls. The success
of this investigation will be finally measured not
by the number of men sent to jail, but by the
number of fraudulent recipients and nonexistent
cases purged from the welfare rolls. If, with all
the publicity there has been and in spite of the
new re-registration originally requested on April 16
by Councilor Agnew, and insistence on real
identification slips, a re-check by the police,
the trial of some fraud cases in court, and the
use of outside detectives in the department,
fraudulent conditions shall still be found to exist
in the department, it will be on their heads.
But when Mr. McCarthy asks me or the com-
mittee to give him names and numbers at this
stage of the picture, he is braying at the moon.
We have had our experience with McCarthy,
and expecting him to clean up the department
is like trying to bail out a bathtub with a sieve.
I believe we are going to get cooperation from the
new Board of Overseers. Unlike the former Board ,
I do not believe the new Overseers feel that their
duty is to serve as so much window dressing. I
gather the impression, and I hope correctly, that
the present Board feel that they are not placed
there in any such capacity. I think that our
committee is making real progress. I feel that
we are getting close enough to the throne to
irritate his Majesty on Hawkins street. The
results of the investigation so far, the things
that have happened since it started, are more or
less enlightening as a matter of record. On
March 19 Councilor Fitzgerald introduced his
order asking that a special committee of five
members of the City Council be appointed
to investigate the expenditures, distributions,
conduct and management of the Public Welfare
Department of the City of Boston and to report
to the City Council on or before the ninth day
of April, 1934. Within two weeks of the intro-
duction of that order, the man upon whom we
chiefly relied, for obvious reasons, to point out
the irregularities of the department, was fired,
despite the fact that the records show that Mr.
Balfe, whose resignation was demanded by the
Mayor, had served as the competent head of the
Statistics Department for many years; and I
now reiterate the charge made at that time, that
Mr. McCarthy got in his work and that Mr.
Balfe fell, lost his head, as a martyr to the cause.
We see the first and immediate result of Councilor
Fitzgerald's order introduced into the City Council
in the removal of Mr. Balfe, who had stated to
us within two weeks, in response to an order, that
the work of his department in the matter would
be completed by April 22. And then Mr. Balfe's
head fell. I made the charge two weeks ago
that, since he was an appointive official like Mr.
Balfe, and not elected, like members of the City
Council, he would soon go after Assistant Cor-
poration Counsel Frank Whelton, who, acting
ably and energetically, obtained seven convic-
tions out of eight trials of people who had been
fraudulently receiving aid; and I again predict
that he will get Whelton's head, the man who
successfully conducted those prosecutions, as
I myself observed, sitting in the courtroom for
part of two days. So 1 repeat the prediction
that Mr. Whelton will be fired from%the office
of the Corporation Counsel inside of thirty days.
If Mr. McCarthy wants some facts and figures,
there are plenty that are accessible and that he
can easily obtain. In fact, names can be given
if, as he claims, he wants information. While
he is seeking facts from this committee, I sug-
gest that he go over some of the facts and figures
that have been brought out since last autumn,
that he look up the facts in connection with the
court cases, that he read over the affidavit of
December 15, a copy of which I saw in the East
Boston police station, giving the names of at
least three fraudulent recipients of money, and
giving the name and address of at least one holder
of a fraudulent stamp. I suggest that before Mr.
McCarthy accuses the members of the Council
of being notoriety seekers he examine into some
of the facts and figures that he has had since
Christmas of last year, in affidavit form. Last
week, when this special committee met, having
heard Mr. McCarthy's suggestion that a trip to
East Boston was in the nature of fighting wind-
mills,— although I do not believe he used that
exact simile, — we were given to understand
that the addresses must have been wrong, although
members of the committee called at addresses
of supposed welfare recipients, who had not
been police listed in 1932, 1933, or as recently
as the first of April of 1934, although the records
we got from the Statistics Department supposedly
carried the situation down to the fourth of April.
Last week we were told by the representative
•2()1
CITY COUNCIL.
cif Hie Statistics Department of the difficulties
they line] been having in keeping their records,
supposedly accurate records, 60 far as the Wel-
fare Department was concerned. There had
been great difficulty and delay in obtaining them,
and when they did conic through, dealing with
cases upon which the Welfare Department had
been ordered months ago to send through the
Statistics, all sorts of changes in addresses and
misleading things were found. When they
knew that we were looking into Ward 1, per-
haps the heaviest welfare ward, and another
ol I be heavy welfare wards. Ward 9, strangely
enough there came through from the Statistics
Department last, week 2, POO changes, on reports
from the Welfare Department, ranging all the
way from September of last year to May 16
of this year. So I think it is fair for the com-
mittee of the City Council to assume and draw
the legitimate conclusion that some of the cases
that came through last week out of a clear sky,
in a hurry, were intended to cover up the situa-
tion in Wards 1 and 0. Presumably this informa-
tion should be up to date, and we hope that
the information we now have will at least help
to clear the situation up — particularly when we
have found in looking up so-called residences
that they have been in markets, stores, locked
up places, tobacco shops and impossible locations.
That is the situation that has been going on for
many months. We have never been able to get
any real information from Mr. McCarthy in
answer to requests that have been made time
and time again. So I hope now that the com-
mittee will receive some support, some help,
in getting the information it is after. The sug-
gestion has been made that this is merely an
effort to cut out the poor fraudulent slob who
has been inveigled into trying to get $12 or $15
from the city, but it is more than that. It is
an effort to get at the thieving that is being done
right in the department. We are trying, by
working with a detective agency, to get at the
real situation outside and inside; and I say to
Mr. McCarthy, if this effort on the part of the
committee is to be successful, when it comes
to knowing the names and identities of the detec-
tives who go into the department, you should
be the last man in the world to know who the
operatives are and what they are doing. And
you can draw your own conclusions as to what
I mean by that statement.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I don't
want to appear as one who says "I told you so,"
but a few weeks ago I told my brother that if he
were to be too critical of the Welfare Depart-
ment he might find himself a victim similar to the
victim I have been in the last two years. I had
the temerity to go to the State House this year
and talk for a bill that would put the Welfare
Department under one head, with two paid
deputies, and a representative of Mr. McCarthy
appeared before the Legislature to oppose the bill.
He singled out the gentleman from Ward 3 (Coun.
Fitzgerald) and abused him until certain members
of the committee resented it. He then turned
his attention to the gentleman from Ward 18
(Coun. Norton) and what a job he did on him!
But when my name was brought up, Oh, what a
handsome job he did! I have a stenographic
copy of the report of that meeting, and let me
say that it is a corker! I will keep it because
I certainly feel that we must have scored in order
to bring forth this wrath and resentment of Mr.
McCarthy's representatives before that com-
mittee. There was certainly plenty of abuse
of the members of this City Council who felt that
they wrere doing their duty when they went there.
Let the councilor from Ward 17 (Coun. Wilson)
realize that this is but the start of the abuse that
will be heaped on his head. He is going ahead in
this campaign in the belief, which we all have,
that the most despicable thief in the city is the
petty thief who steals bread and milk from a
hungry child. He knows in his ward, as I know
in mine, hundreds of decent mothers who have
been cut down in their supplies to the point where
it hurts, whose children have been denied that ■
which they should have, because of improper
use of the aid which has been given; that owners
of automobiles have been granted money on many
occasions which has simply been used for their
own pleasure and not for the care of their families;
that many who have received aid have simply
used it for drink, instead of for the care of those
dependent on them. And because some of us
have had the courage to stand on this floor and
fight for those deserving recipients of welfare
we have been reviled and besmirched. H<||, i,,
deserving recipients of welfare, as 1 have often
said, is a Cod-given duty and a privilege. God
taught me that we must propi rlj provide for the
poor; God taught the gentleman from Ward 17
Com,, Wilson} whose hand is ever in his pocket
to help those in need, silently and quietly, thai
he must do what he can to properly provide for
the worthy poor. But what about the miserabli
parasite who walks into this hall and says, "< .
you take me down to the Welfare without 'her'
knowing anything about it?" Who is "her?"
The woman, the wife. Where is she? At home,
with her several kiddies. "I don't want her to
get the money!" There he is, a drunkard, trying
In lake away from his wife and those little children
their food and sustenance, spending on himself the
money that should be spent, on his family. And
he is supposed to be a "game" fellow! Oh, yeB,
he is a good fellow around the corner. He buys
a pint of alky and invites the bums on the corner
to have a drink, and he is a great fellow. Who are
high-hat Wilson or high-hat McGrath to try to
say anything to him? Doesn't he buy alky for
the gang? Sure he does, and at the expense of
those little hungry ones, his own flesh and blood.
If it takes courage to stand on the floor of this
Council and fight for the mothers of children
who are trying to put food into the stomachs
of their little ones, instead of the poison that is
put in the stomachs of the fathers, the councilor
from Ward 17 possesses that courage, and I feel
that I possess some of that same courage. I had
my experience during my election, in the past
year. Signs appeared in every place opposing me
and favoring my opponent, with the name
"DeMarco" on the sign. DeMarco, a visitor in
the Public Welfare Department, had evidently
been sent out to defeat me, at the direction of
Walter McCarthy; and the Mayor of Boston
had to send for Peter DeMarco and say, "You
will spend more time down there at your job,
aiding the poor, and not enter into political
contests." And that has been the result with
every decent, honorable and courageous fellow
who ever sat in this Council and who made a
fight for the city employees whose salaries have
been cut in order to meet that S14,000,000 ex-
penditure for public welfare. It means all these
additional taxes for the already-overburdened
man, paying taxes on his little home, who has
a very hard time nowadays to save money
enough to pay his taxes. And so this is a matter
that every deserving person in this city is inter-
ested in, parents who have to feed their little
families and who have to pay taxes on their
little homes, and whose allotment of wages in
many cases has been cut down because the
drunkard and the other useless chap is guilty
of petty larcency, theft, taking money that should
have gone for the maintenance of wives and
children to buy alcohol or to get gasolene to run
an automobile. And still those of us who have
made the fight in the interest of these poor and
deserving people have been accused of baiting
the recipients of welfare! There is not a man in
this Council who should be afraid of an honest
investigation of the Public Welfare Department;
there is not a man in the Council who should take
a back step simply because he is accused of baiting
the recipients of welfare. I say to you, gentle-
men, that we have had that board reorganized.
Formerly at the head of it was one of the most
philanthropic men, one of the finest men in this
city, and in the good days few gave as much
money to the poor of Boston as Simon Hecht.
In his quiet, affable, gentlemanly way, he be-
lieved there was no harm in anyone, and he allowed
himself to come under the domination of Walter
McCarthy. Every time when a question was
asked here of Mr. Hecht, it was answered by
McCarthy. But, thank God, we now have at
the head of that department James McMurry,
and McCarthy cannot block or fool McMurry.
We have had more cooperation in the last two
weeks, through the efforts of McMurry, than we
have had for two years before. They are wise
to McCarthy, and McCarthy has not been sent
for by the committee. For years we would ask
him questions here and would get the same old
answers that meant nothing. I used to say to
the committee before we would open the door
for the entrance of Mr. McCarthy, "I will ask
seven questions and I can give you absolutely
the seven answers I will get;" and I would ask
the questions and I would get those very answers.
" Where is the most relief given?" "From
East Boston to the Dedham line." "What as a
MAY 21, 1934.
202
rule is the amount expended for welfare? " "Well,
you see, it varies, some days more, and others
less!" And so on, and so on, with inconclusive
and uncertain replies to your questions. But
now we have Jim McMurry, a courageous man,
a smart man, a man wise to curved ball pitching,
and of course it hurts these fellows. And so the
thing has been traveling on, with these hearings
and so forth, for a month, and Mr. McCarthy
has never even been invited, because he cannot
now start in and dominate this committee, giving
a lot of foolish answers. We are working along
with the Board of Overseers, under this new
departure in which McCarthy does not fit. Let
him mind his own business, and the committee
will mind theirs. That committee proposes to
function, with such valuable members as the
gentleman from Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald), the
gentleman from Ward 5 (Coun. Shattuck), the
gentleman from Ward 15 (Coun. Tobin) and the
gentleman from Ward 17 (Coun. Wilson), all of
whom have attended every meeting; and I can
promise the citizens of Boston that we are making
rapid headway. We are keeping our mouths shut,
but when the time comes for us to "put up or
shut up" we will "put up," and those who have
been putting it over on the citizens of Boston for
a long time will shut up.
On motion of Coun. GLEASON, the orders
relating to Ward 9 were declared referred to the
Executive Committee.
EAST BOSTON BRANCH OF WELFARE
WORK.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of requesting
the Board of Public Welfare to decentralize and
establish a branch in East Boston, to carry on the
work of the department in that section.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NAMING OF EAST BOSTON TUNNEL FOR
MARTIN LOMASNEY.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Whereas, The late Martin M. Lomasney was a
powerful factor as a member of the Great and
General Court in securing legislation authorizing
the construction of the vehicular tunnel between
the city proper and East Boston;
Whereas, The late Martin M. Lomasney as a
member of the city government of Boston, as a
member of the Legislature of the Commonwealth,
and as a member of the Constitutional Conven-
tion, was outstanding in his advocacy of measures
for the general welfare;
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
approves the suggestion that vehicular tunnel be
named, "The Martin M. Lomasney Tunnel."
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be
sent to his Excellency the Governor of the Com-
monwealth, to the Honorable the Senate of the
Commonwealth, and to the Honorable the House
of Representatives of the Commonwealth.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
COST OF BROADCASTS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor of Boston
furnish the City Council the total cost of his
broadcasts over Station WNAC on the evening
of April 5, 1934, and on Station WBZ on May 16,
1934, and whether or not these costs are chargeable
and to be paid bv the City of Boston.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, on that
last order, regarding the cost of broadcasting, I
realize that the amount involved in the broadcast
of April 5 is only $250; but I am not concerned so
much with the amount of that particular broad-
cast as with the fact that this broadcasting that the
Mayor has been doing and is contemplating is
charged to the taxpayers of Boston. While we
have no control over the matter, while he is weep-
ing and whining on the radio, using the money
of the taxpayers of the City of Boston to spread
certain of his statements, I think it advisable that
the Mayor, when he is explaining these various
acts and trying to justify his attitude to the people
of Boston, ought to go into details. I would like
to have the Mayor of Boston explain, for example,
why on May 3 of this year he gave a $10,000 con-
tract without any bidding or without calling for
bids for the rebuilding of a coal pocket at Deer
Island. This contract was given to a Mr. M.
Loonie, who I understand was a heavy political
contributor to the Mayor's campaign. Mr.
Loonie, up until the time when this contract was
awarded to him, did not even have a builder's
license. There are also estimates on file in the
Building Department showing the probable cost
of rebuilding that coal pocket at Deer Island for
$5,000. Yet the Mayor of Boston has again
broken one of the campaign pledges he made
during the last campaign, when he said he would
not give out a single contract without calling for
public bids. He has in this case taken $10,000 out
of the taxpayers of Boston, without even asking
a reputable builder to give him an estimate, in
order to reward one of his chief campaign con-
tributors. While he is explaining over the radio,
I would also like to ask him why on May 11 he
set up a Tax Appeals Board, in reality making this
Board its own judge and jury to settle tax cases
here in the City of Boston. I am going to read,
with your permission, an article that appeared in
the Boston Post of the morning of May 12, and
this article will be my answer to him, when a few
days ago he said, "There is no foundation what-
soever for a statement which recently appeared in
the press to the effect that Alexander Whiteside
and certain lawyers from his office were con-
stituted as a board to settle tax cases now before
the appeal board." My answer now is this,
quoting the statement that appeared subsequently
in the Post, setting forth what had been done.
"In a new drive to settle tax abatement cases on
Boston real estate valued at more than $600,000,-
000, Mayor Mansfield conferred for more than
three hours yesterday afternoon at City Hall with
prominent bankers, attorneys and real estate
experts. Instead of forcing the property owners
to try their cases before the State Board of Tax
Appeals, the Mayor has ordered the city assessors
to sit in with his special committee to settle the
cases and adjust their difference in order to start
off on a new deal in the matter of tax assessments.
It is the purpose of the Mayor to clear the docket
of the State Board of Tax Appeals of the hundreds
of Boston cases involving downtown real estate
which have been pending for the past two or three
years. His committee, at the close of the con-
ference last night, was prepared to confer with
lawyers representing all the tax appeal cases now
pending before the State Board 'in order to arrive
at a reasonable method of adjusting these cases,'
the Mayor said. This committee includes John C.
Kiley, prominent downtown real estate expert;
former Corporation Counsel Alexander Whiteside,
who served the city under former Mayor Peters;
Howard Stockton, prominent banker, and Scott
D. Ferguson, tax abatement counsel."
This man Kiley has been engaged, hired, by
the firm of Warren & Whiteside, on their cases.
And here is former Corporation Counsel Alexander
Whiteside, a member of that committee, a man
who at the present time has more than a thousand
cases pending before the Tax Appeals Board.
Serving on that committee also, we find the
name of Howard Stockton, son of Philip Stockton,
president of the First National Bank, and a
member of the firm of Warren & Whiteside.
This committee on May 11 was appointed by the
Mayor to settle these cases. They are going to
be the judge and jury, although they have at the
present time over a thousand cases pending, and
this Board, composed of these men who are inter-
ested, is going to settle the cases. In reality
they are going to meet themselves and are going
to come in with recommendations asking the
City of Boston to allow them at least 40 per cent
abatement, where the State Board of Tax Appeals
since January 1st has taken a broad attitude on
these abatements and has allowed an average of
10 or 15 per cent. But this committee that the
Mayor has appointed were not satisfied with the
decisions of the State Board of Tax Appeals, became
frantic and persuaded the Mayor to form this
committee to settle these cases. And we are all
familiar with the Mayor's announcement of
May 18, when he entirely switched, when the
searchlight was thrown upon him and he found
his mistake in taking the advice of these men
and permitting them to name their own commit-
tee. And, while he is on the radio I would like
to remind him, again, of a pledge he made on
October 31st, when he said that all bonding of
203
CITY COUNCIL.
the City of Bunion wur going to men who wore
in Hie business, and not going to one individual,
iih vviih done under the previous administration.
I would like to ask the Mayor why his brother-
in-law, Louis Roe, has been able to receive 75
per cent of the bonding thai has been given out
liy the City of Boston. In other words, his
brolhcr-iii-law :il I lie present time is receiving l.ln;
I ml k .if the bonds of the city; and Huh is another
campaign pledge that has gone to the winds.
I suppose we may continue to hear periodically
these weepings and winnings, but ii in not fair
that the taxpayers of Boston should be obliged
to pay for his broadcasts in order to disseminate
wrong information to the people of Boston.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, J cannol
allow this to go unanswered. I am not here
defending his Honor the Mayor, but I say to
the gentleman that he has passed beyond the
line of fair criticism and has allowed a lot of
things to get in the record that are not so. He
knows perfectly well, when he mentions the name
of John C. Kiley and Alexander Whiteside, with
the implication that they themselves were to
settle cases in which they were interested, that
he lies. Why not state the thing fairly? These
men were called into the Mayor's office. They
represented clients, the same as you represent
clients, and I don't think you would hestitate for
one moment, if any of these big men in Boston
real estate hired you, to try to get their taxes
abated. I am quite sure that you would not
refuse. But the truth of the matter is that the
Mayor sent for John C. Kiley as a well-known
real estate expert of this city, an expert whose
services have been continually sought by the City
of Boston, with the idea that these matters might
be taken up and some compromise arrived at.
There are millions of back taxes being held up
in the City of Boston in connection with these tax
appeals. One moment you are crying out on
behalf of the poor city employees who are having
their salaries cut. One of the reasons why those
salaries have been cut is because of the difficulty
of getting in taxes. Many men who own prop-
erty in this city feel that they have been im-
properly treated by the Board of Assessors, and
they employ lawyers and real estate experts to
represent them in trying to get those taxes abated.
Mr. Kiley is a well-known real estate expert.
There is but one man in this body whom I con-
sider to be the equal of Mr. Kiley as a real estate
expert on city property, and no doubt if that
councilor were not a member of the body he could
make thousands and thousands of dollars as a
real estate expert. That is the mistake that
many men in politics make, to indulge in attacks
of this kind. It is absolutely unfair. I am not
a defender of Mr. Whiteside or of Mr. Kiley in
this matter, if they are wrong. But it is unfair,
without any facts to support the assertion, to
assail them in this way and say that what they
are doing is wrong. They have the same right
to represent these taxpayers that they would have
to represent you or me. And so I say that this
attack is absolutely unfair, and I cannot let it
go by without an answer. It is so with the
broadcasts. The Mayor of Boston has a right to
bring his case before the public. That is one
means that is recognized by the people of bring-
ing to their attention certain situations and
certain facts. He, as the chief executive of this
city, I believe has a right to do that. I am not
here defending him, but. I am speaking in the
interest of fair play. I do not believe in wasting
the time of this body in petty matters. You
have some good stuff. If there is something
wrong about the bonding that is being done by
the city, it is all right to bring it out, but to simply
indulge in cheap publicity, trying to make it
appear without any substantiating fact that
these men are trying to rob the city is unfair.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I cannot
let this matter go without answering my colleague
from Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald). He knows, as
I know and as every man in the Council knows,
that what I have said here is based entirely upon
what was released to the press, as it appeared in
the papers of May 12. I will read it again, as
follows:
"Instead of forcing the property owners to try
their cases before the State Board of Tax Appeals,
the Mayor has ordered the city assessors to sit in
with his special committee."
Who are the members of this special committee?
I will name them again ■ — Alexander Whiteside.
Howard Stockton and John C. Kiley. Mr. Kiley
has been engaged, hired by Alexander Whiteside
and by Mr. Stockton in cases of this kind; and this
special c nittee is going to sit in with the
sorsand fry to settle its own cases before thi
Tax Appeal Boi i d, Whyshouldn'l other lawyers
be called in? There must be hundreds of them.
Why not call in those men and make them a part
of the special committee? But no, it is the State
street bankers who are to be treated in this way.
And ho I will continue to make Ihese charges,
because it is evident thai the .Mayor ol Boston is
not doing this sort of thing for tin- small property
owner, such people as I represent or as the majority
ol the councilors here represent, bill for these large
property owners. I know that in my district
there are plenty of small property owners, home
owners, who have not been able to pay their taxes
since 1931, and who are not getting abatements,
and these big people are now going to receive at
least 40 per cent in the way of abatements. Is it
fair that the small properly owner shall be com-
pelled since 1931 to pay liis or her taxes, the per-
son who has to borrow money in many cases to
pay his taxes, while these big corporations and
bankers appeal their cases and have them pending
for three years before that board, and now when
they find that the Appeal Board is simply going
to allow them 10 or 15 per cent to have this
so-called special committee organized?
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I saw in
the paper, I think, within two or three days, a
statement which purported to come from the
Mayor to the effect that he had appointed a com-
mittee consisting entirely of officials of the City of
Boston — I think the Corporation Counsel, the
Budget Commissioner, and one or two others,
exclusively officials of the City of Boston — to sit
in with the assessors and consider these assess-
ment questions. That seems to be quite at
variance with what the gentleman has just been
talking about, and it would seem to me to be a
most proper way to handle the matter.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, I would
say for the benefit of the gentleman from Ward 1
(Coun. Selvitella) , that I know of over four hun-
dred cases of small property owners in the ward I
represent whose requests for abatements have
been rejected by the Board of Assessors; but I
wish to say, if you will look over the records, you
will find a statement by the councilor from Ward 18
(Coun. Norton) to the effect that the former ad-
ministration went to the Board of Appeal and put
S5 down in the case of each small property owner,
in order to tie the thing up for the next two years.
I reiterate that the councilor has taken an unfair
advantage of the men named, who went there
unsolicited. The article does not give the name
of William J. Flaherty there. Several lawyers
were called in. The papers do not always give a
full account of things. But several lawyers were
named — and I am only sorry that you were not
there.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
HOT WATER FOP. SHOWERS.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to furnish
hot water for the summer for shower baths on all
playgrounds in Ward 10.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF CONSTABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN — Mr. Chairman, on behalf
of the Committee on Constables, I move to call up
the names of Charles A. Bancroft and Michael F.
Simmons, whose names appear in No. 1 on the
calendar, under unfinished business.
The names of Charles A. Bancroft and Michael
F. Simmons, appointed as constables authorized to
serve civil process, were submitted by the Mayor
on April 16, 1934. The Council voted to take the
names up, and the question came on confirmation
of the appointment of the constables referred to.
Committee, Coun. Finley and Fitzgerald. Whole
number of ballots, 19; yeas 14, nays 5, and the
appointments were confirmed.
MAY 21, 1934.
204
COSTIGAN-WAGNER BILL.
Coun. BRACKMAN, GLEASON and
ROBERTS offered the following resolution:
Whereas, The Congress of the United States has
before it for consideration the Costigan-Wagner
bill termed and so-ealled anti-lynch bill; and
Whereas, The bill has received the approval of
legions of citizens both in the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts and in our own City of Boston; be it
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston favors
the proposed legislation and urges the Congress of
the United States to enact the same into law;
and it is further
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be
forwarded to the presiding officers of both houses
of Congress, to the Massachusetts Senators and
Representatives therein, and to Senators Costigan
and Wagner.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
USE OF RADIO AT LONG ISLAND.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Institutions Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to allow
patients at Long Island the use of the radio on
every evening until 8 o'clock.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DECENTRALIZATION OF PUBLIC
WELFARE DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of requesting the
Overseers of the Public Welfare Department to
decentralize the work of the department into the
various sections of the city.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LOCATION OF VOTING BOOTHS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston consider the
advisability of requesting the Election Com-
missioners to have a study made of the location of
voting booths in the City of Boston.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I understand
that there is one ward of Charlestown where, with-
in 400 yards, there are something like twelve or
more voting booths. I am not objecting to that,
but, owing to the fact that in Ward 18 there is one
section in the Cleary square area where voters have
to walk a mile to deposit their ballots, I think it
might be well to make a study of this question.
I trust, therefore, that there will be a study made of
the location of voting booths throughout the city.
The order was passed, under suspension of the
rule.
MATERNITY CASES AT CITY HOSPITAL.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston consider
the advisability of requesting the Trustees of the
Boston City Hospital to admit all maternity cases,
regardless of the question of payment, where the
patient is a resident of Boston.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I certainly
think this is a matter well worthy of consideration.
I understand that there were 16,239 births in
Boston in 1933; that 962 of these babies died in the
first year and 104 mothers died in childbirth.
Believing that this record can be cut down by
proper pre and post natal care, together with
efficient maternity hospitalization, I have intro-
duced this order. I understand that the United
States leads the world in the number of deaths in
childbirth, and that a larger number of the forty-
four babies being born every day in Boston can be
saved, as well as the mothers.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
RESIGNATION OF SECRETARY
Walter v. McCarthy.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Public Welfare,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to con-
sider the advisability of requesting the resignation
of Secretary Walter V. McCarthy.
Referred to Executive Committee.
BRIDGE OVER BLAKEMORE STREET,
ROSLINDALE.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of requesting the city
and Federal authorities engaged in rebuilding the
bridge over the New York, New Haven &
Hartford Railroad tracks, on Blakemore street,
Roslindale, to take steps to expedite the completion
of this work.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. Chairman, that happens
to be a matter that affects my section, and I would
like the councilor to understand that I have taken
steps towards having the bridge reopened.
Coun. NORTON— Well, Mr. President, the
bridge happens to start on one side, in my ward,
and then goes over to his. The section particularly
affected happens to be the Mt. Hope section,
which happens to be in my ward. I shall certainly
be glad to see the work on the bridge expedited, as
the existing condition is more or less a disgrace to
the section.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, I happened
to be looking after this matter while the gentleman
was traveling all over the country getting statistics.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
SIDEWALK ON ASHMONT STREET.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Ashmont street in
front of Nos. 250 and 256, between Nos. 276 and
296, in front of No. 298, between Nos. 302 and 328,
inclusive, in front of No. 332 and from No. 340
to Adams street, Ward 16, in front of the estates
bordering thereon ; said sidewalk to be from 3 to 10
inches above the gutter adj oining, to be from 5 to 12
feet in width, and to be built of artificial stone,
with granite edgestones, under the provisions of
chapter 196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 3.37 p. m.,on motion of
Coun. GOLDMAN, to take a recess subject to the
call of the Chair. The members reassembled in
the Council Chamber, and were called to order by
President DOWD at 4.56 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
Katherine G. O'Gorman, Shubert Theatre,
May 25; Lavinia A. Hogan, Repertory Theatre,
May 24; Children's Welfare Association of East
Boston, East Boston High School, June 2,4, 1934;
Ruth Hawes, Municipal Hall, June 12; Ella
Karabelnick, Repertory Theatre, June 11; Mary E.
Ring, Brightelmstone Hall, June 8; M. Theresa
Connell, Peabody Playhouse, June 4; Anne Marie
Casey, Gate of Heaven Hall, June 4; Josephine
Leonard, Repertory Theatre, June 2; Mary G.
Donovan, Dorchester High School for Boys,
May 28; Rev. Father William Gross, Grover
Cleveland School, May 27; Anna M. Greene,
Current Events Hall, May 26, recommending
that leave be granted on usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted on usual con-
ditions.
2. Report on petition (referred May 7) of
William R. Welch for license for outdoor sports on
Sabbath Day on premises on Gerard and Island
streets — recommending that permit be granted.
Report accepted; leave granted on usual con-
ditions.
3. Report on resolve (referred today) that
East Boston vehicular tunnel be named for late
Martin M. Lomasney — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
'205
CITY COUNCIL.
4. Report on order (referred today) requesting
certain information from the Public Welfare
Department concerning visitors in Ward !i reo-
ommending passage of accompanying new draft,
viz.:
Ordered) Thai, the Overseers of Public Welfare
be instructed, through his Honor Clio Mayor, to
advise the City Council forthwith:
1. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Wards 9 and 13 during
I >ecernber, 1933, together with the name of eacii
visitor.
2. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Wards 9 and 13 during
April, 1934, together with the name of each
visitor.
3. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Wards 9 and 13 as of
April 1, 1934, together with the name of each
visitor.
Report accepted; said order passed.
5. Report on order (referred today) with
reference to payments to public welfare recipients
— recommending passage of accompanying new
draft, viz.:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through Ids Honor the Mayor, to
provide that on the identification card of all
recipients of public welfare there shall appear the
signature, and such other identification as the
Overseers of Public Welfare may consider ad-
visable, and that the identification card shall in
every case be presented before any payment in
cash to any recipient shall be made.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the report of the Executive Com-
mittee be amended by inserting after the word
Identification in line 4 the words "provided such
other identification does not include a photograph
of the applicant."
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, under the order
as originally introduced today the Welfare Depart-
ment was requested to have the applicant for aid
have his picture on his identification card. That
idea was sponsored and set forth in the newspapers
of the city during the past week. It appears to me,
in a matter of this kind, where we are at present
engaged in an investigation of the Welfare Depart-
ment, and where the department itself is more or
less shifting or uncertain in reference to the best
policy to be pursued, the City Council should not
be placed in the position of passing orders or reso-
lutions suggesting "such other identification"
upon which the Overseers may later seize as a
means of using the photographic idea, then saying
that the matter was suggested by the City Council.
I think we ought to be more definite than we are
in the language of the order we have reported, and
for the further reason that this very subject was
taken up by the chairman of the Board of Overseers
at a meeting of the committee investigating the
Public Welfare Department. I think I may say
also in passing that this whole matter being in the
hands of the committee we would do well, until
there are further findings of fact by that body, to
leave these questions in the hands of the com-
mittee until the final report is submitted to the
body.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, on some
measures of policy the point raised by the gentleman
from Ward 15 (Coun. Tobin) might be well taken;
but we must bear in mind the fact that the present
welfare expense of the City of Boston is in excess
of $14,000,000 a year, or $250,000 a week, and
$30,000 a day, and that this enormous expenditure
for public welfare, as the chairman of the com-
mittee stated before the recess, is almost the sole
reason for the 15 per cent cut in the remuneration
of city employees. Having that in mind, and
having in mind Coun. Agnew's idea of complete
re-registration of recipients throughout the city,
something which is already in process, it does seem
as though this is a matter that should be attended
to now, while the re-registration is going on, and
that the entire purpose of these orders looking to
the safeguarding of the city's expenditures in this
direction will be practically almost entirely nega-
tived if we wait a month or two. Let us bear in
mind the fact that the sooner we can take action
which will result in cutting down this expenditure
of $30,000 a day, the better. It would be well if
it could be reduced, under the present circum-
stances, within twenty-four or forty-eight hours.
The reason why the wards represented by the
gentlemen from Ward 1 and Ward 9 are chiefly con-
cerned at the present time is due to the fact that
the committee has been investigating conditions,
il p I c, date, in those I WO largest welfare '•'. irds of the
city, and up to date — we trust that the situation
will improve in that respect — we have been unable
to get replies from Mr. McCarthy in answer to
i in- ordinary communications that go through
tin- mail. I assume that other members of the
Committee — and this certainly is my position
would prefer to obtain accurate information from
Ward 9 and from Ward 1 without the ni'i-ny
of spending lime going over there. It is for the
nasi. us that have been stated, and because I
don't believe this matter should wait, having in
mind the constantly rising expense I have referred
to. that I believe we should act at this time
Coun. Tobin's amendment was declared re-
jected. Coun. Selvitella doubted the vote and
asked for a show of hands. The amendment was
adopted, 12 to 5.
The report was accepted, and the order as
■amended by Coun. TOBIN was passed.
6. Report on orders (referred today) requesting
certain information from Overseers of Public
Welfare concerning public welfare cases in Ward 9.
recommending passage of accompanying new
draft.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council forthwith as to what
most recent date all cases still active on the Public
Welfare lists as of April 1, 1934, in Wards 9 and
13, have been personally visited or otherwise
checked up by any visitor of the Public Welfare
Department.
Report accepted; order passed.
7. _ Report on order (referred today) requesting
certain information from the Overseers of Public
Welfare concerning public welfare cases in Ward 9,
recommending passage of the accompanying new
draft, viz.:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council forthwith with reference
to the active cases'as of April 4, 1934, in Wards 9
and 13.
a. How many of said cases were aliens?
b. How many of said eases were registered
voters in the City of Boston?
c. How many of said cases were last paid by
check?
d. How many of said cases were last paid in
cash?
Report accepted; order passed.
WELFARE BRANCH IN WARD 15.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
establish a branch office in Ward 15 when the
work of that department is decentralized.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
COST OF P. W. A. PROJECTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Law Department, May 21, 1934.
John E. Baldwin, Esq.,
Clerk, Executive Committee, City Council.
Dear Sir,— Re P. W. A. Docket No. 4205, Re-
construction of Ten Major Streets; P. W. A.
Docket No. 4207, Surgical Building at City Hos-
pital; P. W. A. Docket No. 4214, Replacing Brook-
line Avenue Water Main; P. W. A. Docket No.
4217, One New High School and One New Inter-
mediate School; P. W. A. Docket No. 4193, Con-
struction and Reconstruction of Sewers; P. W. A.
Docket No. 7223, Elm Hill Water Main; P. W. A.
Docket No. 8200, Police Department Communica-
tions System.
On May 7 the members of the Executive Com-
mittee of the City Council requested that I fur-
nish them with information relating to the total
estimated cost of P. W. A. projects of the City of
Boston, the amount of grant for each project
under the original Loan and Grant Agreements
and the amount of grant for each project under
the new Grant Agreements.
In the table hereinafter set forth, Column I
represents the P. W. A. project number; Column
II, a brief description of the project; Column III,
the total estimated cost of the project; Column
IV, the maximum amount of grant payments as
set forth in. the original Loan and Grant Agree-
ments; and Column V, the maximum amount of
grant payments as set forth in the new Grant
Agreements.
MAY 21, 1934.
206
I.
P. W. A.
Docket
Number.
II.
Project.
III.
Total
Estimated
Cost.
IV.
Grant: * t
Loan and Grant
Agreement.
V.
Grant: *
Grant Agree-
ment.
4205
$1,000,000
1,500,000
350,000
2,000,000
1,000,000
700,000
350,000
$191,000
294,000
67,000
392,000
182,000
+
t
$275,400
4207
422,400
4214
4217
Brookline Avenue Main
97,000
564,400
4193
262,000
7223
Elm Hill Main. ..
200,000
S200
Police Communications System. .
88,500
The amended project of reconstructing the Northern Avenue Bridge at a total estimated cost of $375,000
has not yet been approved by the State or Federal authorities.
Very truly yours,
Henby E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
* In the original Loan and Grant Agreements (now rescinded) and also in the new Grant Agreements
the grant for each project is "an amount not to exceed 30 per centum of the cost of labor and materials em-
ployed upon the project."
t Provision was made in the original Loan and Grant Agreements to cancel bonds so that the amount
set forth in Column IV above, plus the amount of bonds cancelled would equal 30 per cent of the cost of
labor and materials employed upon the project.
J No Loan and Grant Agreements were ever received from the Government in connection with the Elm
Hill District Water Main and the Police Communications System Projects and the city was enabled to
secure Grant Agreements through the release of funds resulting from the rescission of the Loan and Grant
Agreements.
Placed on file.
OPERATION OF BUSSES IN DORCHESTER.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Trustees of the
Boston Elevated Railway be requested to take the
necessary steps to discontinue the operation of
busses on Milton street and Lenoxdale avenue,
Dorchester, for the reason that the permit does
not include the right to operate over these streets,
and for the further reason that said operation
endangers the lives of children in this district.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING OF VERMONT STREET.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Vermont street,
from Corey to Baker street, Ward 20.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned at 5.08 p. m., on motion of Coun.
ENGLERT, to meet on Monday, May 28, 1934,
• at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
207
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, May 28, 1934.
Regular meeting of City Council in Council
Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., Coun. FINLEY
presiding in the absence of President DOWD.
Absent, Coun. Dowd, Gallagher, Roberts and
Shattuck.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments, viz.:
Weighers of Coal: John K. Holland, 62 Ship
street, Medford; Fred M. Cameron, 135 Washing-
ton street, Winchester.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
NORTH MEAD STREET STEPS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of April 30, 1934, concerning the
completion of the repairing of North Mead street
steps.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 22, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge order of
City Council, dated April 30, 1934, reading:
"To instruct contractor repairing North Mead
street steps to proceed with the completion of the
work as soon as possible."
On May 2, instructions were issued to the
contractor to immediately proceed to complete the
contract of repairing the North Mead street
steps, etc.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
RESURFACING OF NIXON STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 25, 1934.
j To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of April 30, 1934, concerning the
resurfacing of Nixon street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
May 14, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Beg leave to acknowledge receipt of
City Council order dated April 30, reading:
"Ordered, That the Public Works Department,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
resurface Nixon street."
This street is about 650 feet in length and the
cost of resurfacing will be approximately $3,000.
At the end of the winter season this street was out
of condition. Since then it has been patched and
repaired and an oil treatment will probably carry
it along for some time to come.
The special appropriation of Reconstruction of
Streets will not permit of any extensive resurfacing.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC SIGNS NEAR EMILY FIFIELD
SCHOOL.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 25, 1934.
To the Honorable City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of May 7, 1934, concerning the placing of
warning traffic signs adjacent to the Emily Fifield
School on Torrey street, Dorchester.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, May 11, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated May 7, 1934, which
reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission, through
his Honor the Mayor, be respectfully requested to
install warning traffic signs adjacent to the Emily
Fifield School on Torrey street, Dorchester."
In accordance with a request received in this
office on May 5, 1934, from Councilor Robert G.
Wilson, orders were issued on May 8, 1934, to
erect two school zone warning signs in Torrey
street in the vicinity of the rear entrance to the
Emily Fifield School.
These signs will be in position within a few
days.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
PRESENCE OF FLEET IN BOSTON.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the order adopted
April 30, 1934, wherein the Mayor is requested
to communicate with the members of Congress
from Massachusetts with a view to having that
part of the Pacific Coast Fleet, which is coming
East, assigned to Boston Navy Yard to partici-
pate in the celebration of Bunker Hill Day, June
17. I have transmitted your request to the
members of Congress from this Commonwealth,
and have received replies from several congress-
men inclosing copies of the following form letter,
which they received from the Navy Department:
Department of the Navy,
Office of the Secretary,
Washington, D. C, May 19, 1934.
My dear Congressman, — Receipt is acknowl-
edged of your letter of May 12 by which you
indorse the request of the Hon. Frederick W.
W. Mansfield, Mayor of Boston, to have part of
the Fleet at Boston on June 17 to participate in
the celebration of Bunker Hill Day.
The Fleet as a whole is scheduled to be in New
York from May 31 until June 18. This stay of
the Fleet in New York is a matter of approved
policy and on that basis the Fleet is definitely
committed to an official program at New York
which cannot be altered.
I therefore regret that it is not practicable to
comply, in this instance, with your wishes. I am
glad to assure you, however, that units of the
Fleet ,will have opportunity to visit Boston at
various times during the summer.
Sincerely yours,
William D. Leahy, Acting.
I also sent a telegram to President Roosevelt,
a copy of which I am furnishing you herewith,
together with replies from the secretary to the
President and the Navy Department:
Boston, Mass., May 22, 1934.
Hon. Franklin D. Roosevelt, President,
White House, Washington, D. C.
Is it not possible to have at least two of the
vessels maneuvering in New York Harbor de-
tached on June Seventeenth to be in Boston on
June eighteenth for Bunker Hill Day celebration?
For many years Fleet has been near Boston but
have been unable to get attendance of any vessels
on that day. The celebration is in Charlestown
208
CITY COUNCIL.
where Navy Yard is located and after June eight-
eenth vessels could immediately rejoin Fleet al
New York. Earnestly urge this.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
The White House,
Washington, May 22, 1934.
My dear Mr. Mayor. — The President lias asked
me to acknowledge the receipt of your telegram
of May twenty-second. He is at once referring
it to the Secretary of the Navy.
Very sincerely yours,
Louis McH. Howe,
Secretary to the President.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
First Naval District, Navy Yard, Boston,
Received Dispatch.
Washington, D. C, May 24, 1934.
Mayor Frederick W. Mansfield, Boston.
Your telegram of twenty-second to the Presi-
dent has been referred to Navy Department for
reply. I very much regret to continue to dis-
appoint you but the stay of the Fleet at New
York from May thirty-first to June eighteenth
was planned, approved and announced months ago
and cannot be changed.
Secretary of the Navy.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
NONRESIDENT PATIENTS AT CITY
HOSPITAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Trustees of the Boston City Hos-
pital, relative to your order of April 30, 1934,
concerning the number of nonresident patients at
the hospital over a given period (1930 to 1934,
inclusive), and also concerning amounts recovered
by way of reimbursement therefor.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, May 24, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — I am inclosing herewith the
information requested by an order of the City
Council on April 30, 1934, whereby the trustees
are instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council:
1. The total number of nonresidents of Boston
who were patients at the Boston City Hospital
during 1934, 1933, 1932, 1931 and 1930.
2. The total number of the above nonresidents
for care of whom at the Boston City Hospital, in
the year stated, the City of Boston has been
reimbursed by the proper city or town of settle-
ment.
3. The total amount recovered for each year.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, May 16, 1934.
Answers to Questions "Ordered by City Council on
April 30, 1934."
Question 1. — The total number of nonresidents
of Boston who were patients at the Boston City
Hospital during:
a. 1934 b. 1933 c. 1932 d. 1931 e. 1930
Answer: Number of nonresidents admitted:
To April 30, 1934.
425 1,363 1,351 1,446 1,252
Question 2. — The total number of the above
nonresidents for care of whom at the Boston City
Hospital, in the year stated, the City of Boston
has been reimbursed by the proper city or town
settlement.
Answer: Number of cases collected from cities
and towns:
To date,
a. 1934 b. 1933 c. 1932 d. 1931 e. 1930
None 210 266 262 279
Number of cases collected from State:
'1 o date.
a. 1934, b. 1933 c. 1932 -l. 1931 e. 1930
None 1,482 1,098 912 967
Nonresidents as listed in Question 1 .-ire noi
necessarily settled in the city or town of residence!
I hey may be Boston settled, state cases, or
settled in other city or town or in city or town of
residence. Also these cases collected from stat!
and from cities and towns include cases of residence
in Boston. With regard to cases determined to he
settled in a city or town by the Department of
Public Welfare settlement office here, the settle-
ment clerk here giveB thiB information to the
downtown office of the Department of Public
Welfare who gives legal notice to the city or town
and from then on handles the collection of the
account, notifying us of items collected when
sending us their check for a number of cases.
Question 3. — The total amount recovered for
each year.
Answer:
Amounts
Collected
From
Cities
and
Towns.
State.
1934 to date
None
$12,664 87
18,580 53
21,415 61
20,745 48
$44,512 24
29,081 02
25,145 50
1931
1930
27,304 95
Placed on file.
TRANSFER OF PART OF FALLON FIELD.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The order relative to the transfer
of part of Fallon Field to the School Committee
which was withdrawn from your honorable body
on May 21, 1934, is herewith resubmitted and
your attention directed to the letter of May 21,
1934, which was submitted with the original order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to prepare and
submit to the General Court a petition, with an
accompanying bill, authorizing the transfer from
the Park Department of a portion, approximately
two and one-quarter acres of land known as Fallon
Field and now used for playground purposes, to
the School Committee to be used for school
purposes.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
APPROPRIATION FOR PUBLIC WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under date of the 7th instant
your honorable body approved, upon my recom-
mendation, appropriations for relief disbursements
by the Public Welfare Department totaling
$5,600,000. In recommending the appropriation
of this amount, I stated that it was intended to
cover the relief requirements of the department
for the first five months of the current year, that
is to say, from January 1 to June 1.
At the present moment plans are under way for
an extensive reorganization of the Public Welfare
Department. It is my sincere hope that through
the contemplated reorganization a material lessen-
ing in the burden of taxation resulting from wel-
fare appropriations may be secured. In order
that there may be no suspension of relief pay-
ments during the period the new organization is
getting under way, I submit herewith an order
providing for an additional appropriation of
$1,000,000 in the relief items of the department.
I am advised that with -this appropriation the
department will have sufficient funds to cover
relief payments until the second week in July,
MAY 28, 1934.
209
when in all probability it will be possible to esti-
mate accurately the relief requirements of the
department for the balance of the year.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the
accompanying order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, for performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City Coun-
cil during the year, upon the City of Boston, or
the departments or officers thereof, the respective
sums of money specified in the table hereinafter
set forth be, and the same are, hereby appropriated,
to be expended for the objects and purposes here-
inafter stated, that the sums be raised by taxation
upon the polls and estates taxable in the City of
Boston, and that all orders heretofore or subse-
quently passed by the City Council relating to
the appropriations, taxes, and the interest thereon,
apply to the taxes herein provided for.
Public Welfafe Department (Central Office).
F. Special Items $1,000,000
9. Dependent Aid $750,000
10. Mothers' Aid 125,000
14. Old Age Assistance. . 125,000
Referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
ANNUAL BUDGET RECOMMENDATIONS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — In compliance with section 3 of
the City Charter I submit herewith, in segregated
form and in substitution for the lump sum recom-
mendations submitted on January 29, 1934, my
budget recommendations for the fiscal year 1934,
covering three main appropriation divisions,
namely:
1. City department allotments within the
tax limit.
2. City debt requirements.
3. Revenue department allotments.
The appropriations recommended for the first
two divisions total $36,691,217.53 and will be
included in the computation of the tax rate by
the Board of Assessors, while the allotments for
the third division totaling $1,905,045.05 will be
met from the income received by the several
revenue departments of the city. The allotments
recommended for all purposes in this budget
total $38,596,262.58.
City Maintenance Appropriations.
The allowances recommended for city depart-
ments within the tax limit total $25,636,007.25.
This total is exclusive of appropriations totaling
$6,350,000, which have already been authorized
by your honorable body for public welfare and
snow removal and additional appropriations for
the Public Welfare Department totaling $1,485,-
694.50, now awaiting action by your honorable
body. The total of the approved and pending
appropriations when combined with the total of
departmental allowances herein recommended
still leaves the sum of $2,582,361.55 available for
appropriation within the tax limit fixed by the
Legislature.
The total of departmental allowances recom-
mended for appropriation for city maintenance
requirements represents a reduction of $5,000,-
813.50 from the estimates submitted by depart-
mental officials and is $1,910,602.75 less than the
total of similar appropriation recommendations
submitted in 1933. The following table indicates,
by groups, the distribution of this latter reduction:
1933.
1934.
Reduction.
Personal Service
Other Service
Equipment
Supplies
Materials
Special Items
Miscellaneous
Relief Projects
Special Appropriations.
$18,058,499 65
3,837,731 00
703,930 10
2,008,456 00
382,445 00
1,838,548 25
63,000 00
654,000 00
$16,517,690 69
3,446,000 50
724,545 50
2,044,031 00
351,445 00
1,665,789 56
54,405 00
267,100 00
565,000 00
S1,540,S08 96
391,730 50
* 20,615 40
* 35,575 00
31,000 00
172,758 69
8,595 00
* 267,100 00
89,000 00
$27,546,610 00 ' $25,636,007 25 $1,910,602 75
* Increase.
The following explanations are offered in con-
nection with the changes indicated in the fore-
going table within the various budget groups:
Personal Service.
Appropriations for pay roll purposes in the
various departments and divisions of the city are
approximately $1,541,000 less than similar appro-
priations in 1933. The major portion of this
reduction is to be found in the allotments for
pay roll payments to permanent employees where
a reduction of $1,539,398.65 is reflected. An
analysis of this particular reduction is presented
in the following table:
Savings resulting from statutory
salary decreases $716,357 21
Other personnel savings 945,230 62
Gross pay roll savings $1,661,587 83
Overlay $80,437 39
New positions 22,424 77
Transfers from A-2 19,327 02
$122,189 18
Net pay roll savings. $1,539,398 65
The item for statutory salary decreases repre-
sents the savings which have been realized this
year through the continuance of the five, ten and
fifteen per cent reductions in salaries and wages
of city employees. Since these reductions will be
in effect for the entire current year as against only
approximately two-thirds of last year, additional
savings are naturally reflected in the 1934 depart-
mental appropriations for permanent pay roll
requirements. Other personnel savings have been
secured, first, by a policy of allowing positions
becoming vacant through death, retirement or
resignation, to remain unfilled, and second, by
following a stagger system of employment in
2L<>
CITY COUNCIL.
certain oity departments. In tin- main, the service
and work demands upon these departments have
been considerably lessened owing to existing
economic conditions, therefore a stagger m ■ 1 1 < f 1 1 1 1 ■ ■
of employment may be arranged without seriously
impairing the ordinary functions of the depart-
ments. The item of overlay indicated in the
foregoing table represents the additional cost
which it in necessary to provide for in the budget
of the current, year as a result of personnel changes
made during the course of the year 1933. Since
these changes were effective for onl.s a portion of
last year it is only natural that on a full year basis
increased appropriations are required. Appro-
priations for additional employees have been made
in the following city departments. In the City
Council the services of an additional police officer
have been provided to take care of the large
number of persons who since the first of the year
have been visiting the rooms and gallery of the
City Council. In the Hospital Department
additional clerks have been provided in order that
the clerical work incidental to the billing of hospital
patients may be properly carried out. At Long
Island Hospital, in connection with the general
reorganization which is being made at that insti-
tution, several supervisory positions have been
established in order to coordinate and assure
proper supervision and direction of the several
divisions of the institution. In the Law Depart-
ment an additional assistant corporation counsel
has been provided because of the increased amount
of legislative and legal work facing the department.
In the Licensing Board it has been necessary to
establish several new clerical positions in order
that the increased volume of business resulting
from repeal of prohibition might be properly
handled. In the Police Department three new
positions have been provided at the request of the
Police Commissioner. In the Supply Department
the position of assistant to the Superintendent of
Supplies has been established in order that the
latter official may have expert assistance and
advice in the matter of reorganizing the purchasing
methods of the city. The positions transferred
from Item A-2 are positions of a permanent
character and therefore appear to be proper
charges against the item for permanent employees.
While there is apparently little reduction in this
year's appropriation for temporary employees as
compared with the appropriation of last year it
must be remembered that two additional election
functions will be conducted during 1934 thus
necessitating additional pay roll appropriations
for wardens, clerks and inspectors of approximately
$25,000 for each function, or a total additional
expense of $50,000.
Service Other Than Personal.
Appropriations for service rendered to the city
by corporations, firms and individuals outside of
the regular personnel of the city, show a decrease
of approximately $400,000 from similar appro-
priations in 1933. The major item reductions
entering into this saving are as follows:
In view of the large amount of repair work
carried on in city departments under C. W. A. and
E. R. A. projects, it has been possible to make
reductions in three items, totaling approximately
$285,000. The largest item saving in this respect
has been under General Plant where a saving of
approximately $19(i,000 has been made from the
total allowance of last year for the repair of
departmental structures and property by outside
contractors. This reduction has naturally reduced
the necessity for city departments advertising
contracts to be awarded, with a resultant saving of
approximately $5,300. Again in the Assessing and
Registry Departments the development of block
plans and the consolidation of indexes which, in
former years, have been performed by outside
agencies, are now being carried forward as emer-
gency relief projects, with a resulting saving to the
city of close to $82,000. Other anticipated savings
in addition to the three items already discussed are
$45,000 in lighting costs; $22,000 in motor vehicle
repair expenses; $18,000 in catch-basin cleaning
contracts; $15,000 in removal of waste contracts;
and $9,500 for the employment of outside steno-
graphic service. In addition, in the Health
Department, it is anticipated^ that because of
improved methods of determining settlements of
persons admitted to state hospitals and sanatoria,
that a reduction of $24,000 in the payments to the
state by the city for the care of such cases, will be
secured. As a partial offset to these savings
increases totaling approximate!] $27,600 arc
reflected in three items in this group. Because of
additional election functions, appropriations for
Hi' printing of voting lists and the cartage of
election equipment and paraphernalia show an
increase of approximately $3,200 over last year's
appropriations. The rental of Young's Hotel as
the local headquarters for C. W. A. and E. It. A.
administration forces has necessitated an increase
in rental appropriations of approximately $24,000.
Equipment.
Allowances for the purchase of necessary equip-
ment in city departments show an increase of
approximately $20,600 over similar allowances in
1933. The principal items responsible for this
increase are as follows:
In the Public Works Department the city is
faced with the necessity of gradually replacing the
fleet of seven-ton motor trucks purchased approxi-
mately seven years ago for biiow removal and
waste collection. These trucks, because of their
age, require constant repair and care. To replace
them all at one time would necessitate a larger
appropriation than it is possible, under existing
economic conditions, for the city to make. An
additional appropriation of approximately $40,000
has been allowed in this year's budget in order to
commence a gradual program of replacement.
At the Long Island and City Hospitals, increased
appropriations of approximately $12,300 have
been provided for the purchase of necessary
laboratory and surgical equipment. In the
opinion of the authorities at these two institutions
such equipment is required in order that proper
service may be rendered to those citizens of the
community who, through misfortune or ill health,
are in need of medical and surgical treatment.
The heavy storms of last winter have made neces-
sary an increased appropriation of $3,600 in the
Sanitary Division of the Public Works Depart-
ment to permit the replacement of broken and
damaged snow ploughs. These three increases
have been offset in part by the following savings.
The approval of a loan for the establishment of
a modern communications system in the Police
Department has made possible reductions of
approximately $20,000 in the budget of this
department for the purchase of cable and electrical
equipment. Again in this department a saving of
$13,000 has been made in the allowance for uni-
forms owing to the fact that the policy of allowing
vacancies in the uniformed forces of the depart-
ment to remain unfilled, naturally lessens uniform
requirements. In the Fire Department a saving
of approximately $5,500 has been secured by elim-
inating certain electrical equipment, the pur-
chase of which, in the opinion of the Fire Commis-
sioner, may be deferred.
Supplies.
Allowances for supplies in the current budget
reflect an increase of approximately $35,500 over
similar allowances of last year. In the main this
increase may be attributed to increased prices of
commodities. The total increase in this group
would have been considerably larger if it were
not for the fact that general reductions have been
made in departmental allowances for stationery,
postage and office supplies. It is estimated that
savings under this item will total in excess of
$28,000.
Materials.
A reduction of $31,000 is reflected in allowances
under this item when compared with allowances
for 1933. This saving would undoubtedly have
been considerably larger if it were not for the fact
prices of materials have increased sharply since
last year.
Special Items.
A reduction of approximately $173,000 is
reflected in the appropriations recommended
under this group. The principal item responsible
for this saving is that for Soldiers' Relief where an
allowance of $200,000 less than that provided in
1933 is recommended. This reduction is pre-
dicted on the assumption that the continuance of
E. R. A. projects and the commencement of work
on P. W. A. construction projects should result in
a lessening of the number of cases now being
carried on the relief rolls of the department. This
saving has been offset to the extent of approxi-
mately S3 1,600 by increased pension requirements
in the Police and Fire Departments. At the time
MAY 28, 1934.
211
salary reductions were ordered, last year, a large
number of members of the uniformed forces of
these two departments applied for retirement.
The fact that such pensions will be in effect for a
full year in 1934 as against a portion of the year
1933, naturally results in increased pension appro-
priations in these two departments.
Miscellaneous.
Because of decreases in investigational allow-
ances for the Port Authority and Planning Board
and for incidental expenses in the Mayor's office,
budget savings totaling approximately $S,600 are
reflected in this group.
Emergency Relief Projects.
Since the 15th of February it has been necessary
under the Federal Emergency Relief Program, for
the city to provide for all project expenditures
other than those for pay rolls. The total appro-
priation of $267,100 indicated under this group
has been allocated to the various city departments
for the purchase of materials and supplies and the
liquidation of miscellaneous expenses arising from
the various C. W. A. and E. R. A. projects which
have been or are being carried on.
Special Appropriations.
A net reduction of $89,000 is reflected in this
group. This saving has been secured in the fol-
lowing manner. The appropriation for Reserve
Fund has been reduced $100,000; that for Park-
ways and Roadways, $25,000; for Public Cele-
brations, $24,000; and for Conventions, $10,000.
These reductions have been offset by the necessity
for providing an increased appropriation of $50,000
for Bridge Repairs and $20,000 additional for
Ferry Improvements.
City Debt Requirements.
The appropriations recommended under this
group reflect an increase of $1,821,000 over similar
appropriations in 1933 and are intended to cover
the estimated debt requirements of the city for
the current year with the exception of interest
payments on loans issued in anticipation of taxes
and for P. W. A. construction projects. Because
of the uncertainty as to the amounts of such
loans to be issued as well as the interest rates
which the city will be required to pay on its
temporary loans, it is deemed advisable to defer
the determination of appropriations of this char-
acter till later on in the year, when a more accurate
and specific estimation may be made. The total
increase which is reflected in this group may be
said to be the direct result of the issuance in 1933
of loans for relief requirements in the Public Wel-
fate Department totaling $4,100,000 and a loan of
$3,500,000 utilized for the reduction of the 1933
tax rate. These loans total $7,000,000 and were
issued for a term of five years. It is necessary,
therefore, to include in the Serial Fund appropria-
tions for the current year, one fifth of this total,
and in the Interest appropriations, an amount
equal to approximately 4^ per cent of the total.
Revenue Departments.
Despite the fact that there are included in this
division for the first time appropriations for the
operation and maintenance of the East Boston
Traffic Tunnel totaling $99,600, the budget total
recommended for departments supported by their
own revenue is $78,129.85 less than the amount
recommended in 1933. In short, exclusive of the
amounts recommended for tunnel operation costs,
the 1934 budget of the revenue departments
reflects a reduction of $177,729.85 from last year's
allowances. An analysis of the various revenue
department budgets indicates that the same
factors described previously in detail in connection
with city department appropriations are present
in the budgets of the income departments, namely,
reduced pay roll appropriations resulting from
salary reductions and personnel savings, and
increased equipment, supply, and material appro-
priations, caused by rising prices. In the case of
the East Boston Traffic Tunnel, appropriations
have been provided on the assumption that this
latest improvement will be ready for operation on
July 1. Aside from personnel appropriations, the
important items to be found in the Tunnel Budget
are electric current and power required for the
lighting of the tunnel and operation of the venti-
lating and air-conditioning apparatus; motor
trucks to be used in the cleaning of the tunnel and
the rendering of aid and assistance to vehicles
which may break down while traveling through
the tunnel; furniture and office equipment for the
administration office and uniforms for the col-
lectors and guards to be stationed at the two
entrances. No appropriation is recommended at
this time for the interest requirements on bonds
issued for the construction of the tunnel and its
approaches. At a later date when an accurate
and definite estimate can be made covering these
requirements, I will forward the necessary recom-
mendation to your honorable body.
Conclusion.
Under date of March 26 an order was passed by
your honorable body requesting that a certain
form of tabulation be followed in the preparation
of this year's budget recommendations, and that
an analysis of the 1933 tax rate and the probable
rates for 1934, with supporting schedules, be
submitted. An examination of the exhibits
submitted with my budget recommendations will
indicate that the first of these two requests has
been complied with. In connection with the
second request, I regret that it is impossible at this
time to present the desired analysis. At least
seventeen items enter into the determination of
Boston's tax rate. The majority of these items
are outside the control of the Mayor of the city,
and originate or are determined outside of City
Hall. Because of this fact I prefer not to make at
this time any estimate of the amount which it will
be necessary to provide in the tax levy for these
items. I present, however, for your information
and consideration the following table in which a
two-year comparison of budget recommendations,
originating with the Mayor and submitted to your
honorable body, is shown:
Item.
1933.
1934.
City Maintenance Requirements
City Debt Requirements *
County Maintenance Requirements . . ,
County Debt Requirements
Estimated City and County Revenues
Net Budget Requirements
$36,750,000 00
9,233,944 25
3,316,775 46
157,965 50
$49,458,685 21
$3,875,000 00
i,5.s:;,6S5 21
$35,600,000 00
11,055,210 28
3,163,958 17
152,375 17
$49,971,543 62
$4,710,400 00
$45,261,143 62
Exclusive of interest on temporary loans.
It will be noted from the foregoing table that
despite a material increase in debt requirements
for the current year the estimated net budget
requirements for those divisions of the tax rate
determined under the direction of the Mayor
' indicate at the present moment a reduction in
excess of $300,000 from similar requirements at
this time last year. It should be clearly under-
stood, however, that the foregoing table includes
only five of the items or elements which will enter
212
CITV COUNCIL..
into ihis year's tax rule Lacking definite in-
formation at the present momenl concerning thi
State Tax, Metropolitan Assessments, School
Requirements, and Assessed Valuations, it would
be unwiHts to assign to the foregoing table anj
value, except as a current summary of the Mayor's
budget recommendations.
Following this message you will find my budget
recommendations presented in fcheform oi taj and
appropriation orders. I respectfully recommend
adoption of these orders by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Manhi'Ield, Mayor.
City op Boston Appropriations and Tax
Orders pop. the Financial, Year 1934.
Ordered, That to meet the currenl. expenses pay-
able during the financial year beginning wild
the first day of January, 1934, for performing
the duties and exercising the powers devolved
by statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City
Council during the year, upon the City of Boston,
or the departments or officers thereof, and to
meet, the obligations for interest on debt, sinking
fund requirements and maturing debt not pro-
vided for by sinking fund, the respective sums
of money specified in the tables and schedules
hereinafter set out be, and the same are, hereby
appropriated for the several departments and for
the objects and purposes hereinafter stated.
Ordered, That the appropriations for Water
Service, current expenses, and the payment to
the state under the provisions of chapter 488 of
the Acts of 1895, and acts in addition or amend-
ment thereto, and for the interest and debt re-
quirements or for loans issued for water purposes
be met by the income of said works and any
excess over income from taxes; that the appro-
priation for East Boston Traffic Tunnel be met
by the income from tunnel tolls and any excess
over income from taxes; that the appropriation for
Printing Department be met by the department
income and any excess over income from taxes;
and the appropriation for City Record be met by
the income of said publication and any excess
over income from taxes; that the other appro-
priations hereinafter specified be met out of the
income of the financial year beginning January 1,
1934, and the balance from taxes to be assessed
on the polls and estates of the City of Boston.
Ordered, That all sums of money which form no
part of the income of the city but shall be paid
for services rendered or work done by any depart-
ment or division for any other department or
division, or for any person or corporation other
than the City of Boston, be paid into the general
treasury, and that all contributions made to any
appropriation be expended for the objects and
purposes directed by the several contributors
thereof.
Ordered, That all taxes raised to meet the
appropriations of the city and county and all
taxes assessed for meeting the city's proportion
of the state tax for the year 1934 be due and
payable on the fifteenth day of September, 1934;
that interest shall be charged on all taxes remain-
ing unpaid after the second day of October, 1934,
in accordance with the provisions of chapter 59,
section 57, of the General Laws, until paid, except
the taxes assessed upon shares of national banks,
which shall bear interest at the rate of 12 per
cent per annum from the fifteenth day of Sep-
tember, 1934, until paid; and that all interest
which shall have become due on taxes shall be
added to and be part of such taxes.
Ordered, That except as the appropriation for
any purpose or item shall be increased by addi-
tional appropriations or transfers lawfully made*
no money shall be expended by any department
for any of the purposes or items designated in the
tables and schedules hereinafter set out in excess
of the amount set down as appropriated for such
specific purpose or item.
City Departmental Allowances Recom-
mended by Mayor for 1934.
Department. Allowances.
Art Department $1,610 00
Assessing Department 277,835 75
Auditing Department 68,361 50
Boston Port Authority 34,333 60
Boston Retirement Board 28,850 00
Boston Traffic Commission 119,953 00
Budget Department $9,945 00
Building Department. . . 160,095 00
Board of Appeal 13,194 75
Hoard of Examiners 4,416 00
City Clerk Department 37,180 00
Cjty Council 70,561 22
' il Council Proceedings 10,462 60
Cit; Documents 25,000 00
1 '' Planning 19,170 00
Collecting Department 164,863 60
Election Department 281,716
Finance Commission 49,250 00
Fire Department 3,732,344 58
Wire Division ' 75,170 00
Health Department 821,910 00
Hospital Department 2,918,971 15
.Sanatorium Division 645,850 00
Institutions Department:
Central Office 40,930 10
Child Welfare Division 303,390 si
Long Island Hospital 685,253 42
Steamers "Hibbard" and
"O'Meara" 44,120 38
Law Department 113,266 00
Library Department 1,050,265 00
Licensing Board 40,015 00
Market Department 13,141 29
Mayor's Office M ,860 17
Public Celebrations 15,000 00
Conventions, etc 5,000 00
Park Department 1,123,810 00
Cemetery Division 105,659 50
Police Department 5,008,500 00
Public Buildings Department 459,409 00
Public Welfare Department:
Temporary Home 12,840 00
Wayfarers' Lodge 20,355 00
Public Works Department:
Central Office 70,347 00
Bridge Service 364,886 00
Bridges, Repairs, etc 75,000 00
Ferry Service 308,908 00
Ferry Improvements, etc 20,000 00
Lighting Service 964,172 00
Paving Service 908,450 00
Sanitary Service 2,156,179 00
Sewer Service 479,860 00
Registry Department 53,885 28
Reserve Fund 450,000 00
Sinking Funds Department 2,515 00
Soldiers' Relief Department 876,765 00
Statistics Department 6,921 76
Street Laying-Out Department . . . 151,025 00
Supply Department 49,166 12
Treasury Department 72,676 59
Weightsand Measures Department, 41,390 00
Total departmental allowances, $25,636,007 25
Amount previously appropriated
for snow removal $750,000 00
Amount previously appropriated
for Public Welfare Depart-
ment 5,600,000 00
Amounts pending in City Council
for Public Welfare Depart-
ment 1,485,694 50
Amount remaining available for
appropriation 2,582,361 55
Amount available for appropria-
tion inside tax limit $36,054,063 30
City Debt Requirements $11,055,210 28
Printing Department $412,130 00
City Record, publication of $31,886 80
Public Works Department:
Water Service $992,500 00
Water Income Division 232,500 00
Collecting Department:
Water Division 72,700 00
Water Service, Debt Requirements, 63,728 25
Public Works Department:
East Boston Traffic Tunnel.
$1,381,428 25
899,600 00
MAY -28, 1934.
213
Recapitulation of Mayor's Recommendations.
From Taxes:
City Maintenance Requirements $25,636,007 25
City Debt Requirements 11,055,210 28
$36,691,217 53
From Revenue:
Printing Department $412,130 00
City Record, publication of 31,886 80
Water Service 1,361,428 25
East Boston Traffic Tunnel . ' , ' 99^600 00
1,905,045 05
Grand total $38,596,262 58
Basis of Estimates, 1934.
Average valuation, $1,843,744,900.
$17 on the thousand brings. . .
Estimated ways and means. . . .
31,343,683 30
4,710,400 00
Amount available for appropria-
tion inside tax limit $36,054,063 30
Ways and Means Other than Taxes for 1934.
An estimate of the ways and means, other than
taxes, of meeting expenditures of the City of
Boston and County of Suffolk, for the year ending
December 31, 1934.
Building Department $30,000 00
City Clerk Department 27,000 00
Collecting Department 47,000 00
Fire Department 60,000 00
Health Department 24,000 00
Hospital Department 300,000 00
Institutions Department 8,900 00
Interest 650,000 00
Library 23,000 00
Licensing Department 45,000 00
Liquor Licenses 1,000,000 00
Market Department 92,000 00
Mayor 58,000 00
Park Department 85,000 00
Pedlers' Licenses 4,000 00
Police Department 58,000 00
Public Buildings Department 18,000 00
Public Welfare Department 1,600,000 00
Public Works Department 160,000 00
Registry Department 21,000 00
Soldiers' Relief Department 95,000 00
Street Laying-Out Department . . . 40,000 00
Weights and Measures Depart-
ment 14,500 00
County of Suffolk 250,000 00
$4,710,400 00
Referred to Committee on Appropriations.
PETITIONS RECEIVED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Edward C. Brady, for compensation for injuries
caused by city truck.
Mario Brambilla and Charles A. Colantuono, for
refund on tavern license.
John J. Byrne, for compensation for damage to
car by tip cart. , ,
Helen Cataldo, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Court square, Boston.
M. F. Duncan, for compensation for collapse of
water boiler at 927 East Fourth street, caused by
water being shut off.
Domenico Giannino, for refund on beer license.
Gulf Refining Company, for compensation for
damage to truck by city truck.
Gulf Refining Company, for compensation for
damage to pump by city car.
Mrs. Agnes Hope, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Washington street,
South End.
Margaret and Mary Leonard, for compensation
for damage to property at 17 Union avenue, Jamaica
Plain, caused by city truck.
A. Leuthy Company, for compensation for
damage to property at 18 Pinedale road, caused by
leak in water pipe.
Mrs. B. Libbv, for refund on ash tickets. _
Daniel F. McCarthy, for refund on liquor license.
Thomas L. McCormack, for compensation for
damage to car by ball thrown from playground at
Albany and Randolph streets.
Earl P. Rand, for compensation for damage to
property at 188 West Springfield street, caused
by city cart.
John Sherburne, Jr., for compensation for
damage to car by fire apparatus.
Executive.
Petitions of children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
Kathryn I. Brymer, American Legion Building,
June 15.
Phyllis G. Warden, Elliot Hall, May 31.
Josette P. Curran, Roslindale Municipal Build-
ing, May 26.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Notices were received from the Mayor of the
following appointments:
Frederic H. Fay, 227 Savin Hill avenue, to be
a member of the City Planning Board for term of
five years beginning May 1, 1934, and designated
as Chairman.
William P. Long, 44 Tower street, Jamaica
Plain, Park Commissioner for term of three
years from May 1, 1934, and designated as Chair-
man of the Board of Park Commissioners.
William J. Casey, 402 Columbia road, Dor-
chester, to be Superintendent of Printing in
Printing Department for term of four years
beginning May 1, 1934.
Charles J. Fox, 3 Carmel street, Roxbury,
to be City Auditor for term of four years ending
April 30, 1938, the appointment to commence
June 1, 1934.
David B. Shaw, 101 Nottinghill road, Brighton,
to be a member of Board of Election Commis-
sioners, to take the place of Helen A. Macdonald,
for term ending March 31, 1938, said appointment
to become effective June 1, 1934, and designated
as Chairman of Board of Election Commissioners.
David B. Shaw, 101 Nottinghill road, Brighton,
to be Acting Principal Assessor to fill vacancy
caused by his resignation as Principal Assessor,
the appointment to become effective on June 1,
1934.
Severally placed on file.
NOTICES FROM SECRETARY OF
COMMONWEALTH.
Notices were received from the Secretary of the
Commonwealth of record of persons duly appointed
and qualified, and serving on following boards,
with dates of appointments and expiration, viz.:
Licensing Board, Finance Commission, Board of
Boston Port Authority, Police Commissioner,
Medical Examiners, Suffolk County, Trustees,
Boston Metropolitan District.
Severally placed on file.
EMERGENCY FINANCE BOARD
APPROVAL.
Notices were received from the Emergency
Finance Board of approval of Public Works
Project for $700,000 for water mains and $350,000
for Police Communications System.
Severally placed on file.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The bonds of the following-named constables,
having been duly approved by the City Treas-
urer, were received and approved viz.: Charles
'214
CITY CO UNCI!,.
A. Bancroft, Aimer GoulBton, Bamuel Qoldkrand,
Richard Hegarty, Frank J. Macchia, Fred K
Napolitano, Bert Oppenheim, Joseph Todisco,
Leon Small, Aber Uckerman, Abraham I. Weiss.
BOND FOR CELTIC ASSOCIATION
SUNDAY SPORTS.
Bond of London and Lancashire Indemnity
Company of America was submitted covering use
by Celtic Association of premises on Metropolitan
avenue, between Thatcher street and Hyde Park
avenue, Hyde Park, for Sunday sports.
The bond was approved.
CONFIRMATION OF CONSTABLES.
Chairman FINLEY called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz.:
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor May 21, 1934, of Sandford II. Belyea and
Charles M. Wison, to be Weighers of Coal;
Harry W. Dieust, to be a Weigher of Coal and
Measurer of Wood and Bark, and Frank W.
Roberts, to be a Weigher of Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Selvitella and Agnew. Whole
number of ballots 12, yeas 12, and the appoint-
ments were confirmed.
CITY PRINTING.
Coun. FISH and MURRAY offered the
following:
Ordered, That all printing paid for by the city
for city or county purposes be printed in the
City of Boston Printing Plant.
Coun. FISH — Mr. Chairman, I recall that
last year we had quite an argument in regard to
the county printing, which we all felt should be
done in the City of Boston Printing Plant, inas-
much as the whole thing is paid for by the city.
Therefore, I introduce this order and trust that
some action may be taken as suggested.
Referred to Committee on Appropriations.
PROPOSED FIVE-CENT FARE FOR
F. E. R. A. EMPLOYEES.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following: .
Resolved, That the Boston City Council be
recorded in favor of a proposed five-cent fare to
F. E. R. A. employees and that copies of this
resolution be sent to the Trustees of the Boston
Elevated Railway Company.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.26 p. m., on motion of
Coun. ENGLERT, to take a recess subject to the
call of the Chair. The members reassembled in
the Council Chamber and were called to order by
Chairman FINLEY at 2.43 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
Kathryn I. Brymer, American Legion Building,
June 15.
Phyllis G. Warden, Elliot Hall, May 31.
Josette P. Curren, Roslindale Municipal Build-
ing, May 26, —
recommending that leave be granted under
usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted, under usual
conditions.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) authorizing Corporation Counsel
to submit to General Court a petition for transfer
from Park Department of a portion of land known
as Fallon Field to School Commiftec lo be used for
school purposes, that the order ought to pass.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, for very good
reasons I hesitate to raise my voice in the negative
against a measure in your ward, because I appre-
ciate that you are much more familiar than I am
with the necessities and requirements out I here.
But I do feel, from what I know of the nature
of the situation out there — while not attempting
to point out to you what is necessary in your ward
— that, as I understand it, the people of West
Roxbury have had to put up a long and courageous
fight for this particular high school, and there
seems to be some dissension out there as to where
it should be located. While people in one section
might not insist that it be placed in their section,
as against the other, there seem to be many who
feel that it might be on the line, as well as a feeling
that Fallon Field is a long ways distant from some
of the outlying sections of West Roxbury. While
I appreciate the fact that the city is going to save
money by placing the high school on a playground.
I am not willing to take an attitude which would
seem to encourage the idea that such buildings
should be placed on playgrounds for which mem-
bers of the Council have had to fight in the past.
I don't know that I personally entirely agree
with the idea of placing the high school building
on Fallon Field, a playground upon which the
Council voted to spend more than 8100,000 some
three years ago. There is a serious question in
my mind, therefore, whether the foundations for
the proposed new high school should be dug out
there until we really decide that this is real economy
in the highest sense. I wish, therefore, to be
recorded against the passage of this particular
order.
The order was passed.
SURVEYS OF PUBLIC WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, respectfully requested to furnish the
City Council with a copy of the reports made by
Miss Katherine Hardwick on surveys of the
Public Welfare Department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RESURFACING OF WELLES AVENUE.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be, and he hereby is, requested, through
his Honor the Mayor, to provide for the resurfacing
of Welles avenue, Dorchester, between Washington
street and Talbot avenue.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC CONDITIONS, WASHINGTON
AND TREMONT STREETS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission and the
Police Commissioner, through his Honor the
Mayor, be, and hereby are, respectfully requested
to make a check-up and survey for possible im-
provement of traffic conditions on Washington
street and on Tremont street, especially during
the hours from 9 a. m. to 11 a. m. and from 4 p. m.
to 6 p. m.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, with reference
to that order, let me say that I have in mind the
manner in which the traffic lights on Washington
and Tremont streets, upon which we spent so
many thousand dollars, have been working out.
Let me refer to what I have personally seen happen,
coming in Washington street, for example, at
Stuart street, and what I have also seen on Tremont
street. Traffic coming down through Washington
street is frequently held up, for example, at Stuart
street, and traffic is frequently held up the same
way going out Tremont street, drivers waiting
until the traffic lights have changed from red to
yellow and green and back again three times,
because of the delay in traffic there and in some
of the side streets. A car will come in from a side
street, and then the light will change and it will
be hung up across traffic, possibly, and blocks in
the main line of travel will occur, with the result
that the lights will go on and off, on and off,
MAY 28, 1934.
215
several times before drivers^awaitingTa^chance
to get through can do so. I don't know whether
the chief trouble is from trucks and horse-drawn
vehicles, which should perhaps be kept from those
rapid through routes, or whether some other plan
could be devised to facilitate the through traffic on
Washington and Tremont streets; whether police
officers might allow traffic to pass along at times
even when the lights might be against it, or when
the light changed. I do know, however, that
something is wrong, and I do wish that a survey
of some nature might be made by the Traffic
Commissioner and Police Commissioner, those in
charge of the Boston traffic situation; because it
certainly seems with the present set-up, after all
the expense we have been to to provide those
lights and put them in operation, that there should
be some real system worked out which would
facilitate traffic, that the lights should not be, as
they seem now largely to be, simply for decorative
purposes.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
RE-REGISTRATION OF WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council whether the immediate
re-registration of all recipients of Public Welfare,
requested by City Council order of April 16, has
been completed and, if so, as of what date; also
the total number of active cases on the rolls of said
department as of said date.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, this particular
order is offered at this time in no spirit of criticism,
but with a desire to ascertain the present status of
this highly important re-registration, which original-
ly was requested in an order introduced by Council-
or Agnew, I believe, as long ago as April 26 or 26.
In common with other members of the City Council,
I read with interest this morning the latest devel-
opments in the Welfare Department. It might
be more or less unbecoming to rejoice in Mr.
McCarthy's demotion and transfer, but I do feel
that it is not unfair to suggest that Mr. McCarthy's
own remarks, reported over the radio last week,
are their own best evidence as to the reason he
himself ascribes for what has now occurred.
Since he himself places responsibility for the
alleged disadvantages of our investigation, I feel
that we have the right to assume some credit for
the benefits attained. I feel that the members of
the new Board of Trustees of the Welfare Depart-
ment are deserving of the highest commendation
for the way in which they have taken charge under
most adverse and discouraging conditions. They
have gone in like a new pitcher with three on base
and nobody out! Another run or two may
score, but at least they seem to be able to find
the plate, which is more than their predecessors
have done in the last three or four years, and they
show a realization that in recent years the only
rubber stamps in the department have not been
those used on work cards. I trust that the news-
paper accounts as to Mr. McCarthy's demotion
and transfer are correct. We have read the name
of Mr. McCarthy's successor in that particular
job. Of course, the job of executive secretary of
the Public Welfare Department is just now a good
spot for a former member of the Finance Com-
mission; and, while I have not at all times been in
favor of things he has done in the past, I believe
Mr. Dowling's record shows that when he goes
hunting he is just as willing to shoot at buffalo as
at field mice.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
COMPLETION OF E. R. A. PROJECTS.
Coun. TOBIN and SELVITELLA offered the
following:
Whereas, Certain E. R. A. projects of the Bridge
and Ferry Service have not been completed and it
is contemplated to discontinue these projects on
June 1st; and
Whereas, Petitions have been received con-
taining the signatures of over 2,500 persons
affected by these projects; therefore be it
Resolved, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to appeal to Federal Administrator Joseph
P. Carney and Local Administrator Roswell G.
Hall in an effort to have these men continued at
work until such time as these projects have been
totally completed.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, Coun-
cilor Tobin and myself are in receipt of over
2,500 signatures to a petition to the Mayor to
continue the city E. R. A. projects that the Bridge
and Ferry Division have been working on for the
last three or four months. Many of these projects
are now nearing completion, and in the case of
paving and repairing of the bridges are at a point
where they would have to be completed by some
other means. If left in an uncompleted state,
they will endanger public lives and continue to be
a source of possible litigation to the City of Boston.
Furthermore, materials have been purchased and
delivered at their respective places to finish the
work started. Also, by continuance of these
projects, the City of Boston would be relieved of
the necessity of supporting men who, if they were
suddenly left without employment, would of
necessity have to return to the rolls of the Welfare
or Soldiers' Relief, and the saving to the city in
keeping the men employed as at present would be
tremendous. I don't know just what plans the
Boston administration may have or may con-
template in regard to the uncompleted projects,
but it would seem economical for the Bridge and
Ferry Division to continue the projects, if per-
mitted to do so, rather than have them discon-
tinued and have everything left haphazard, with,
as I have suggested, the possibility of litigation.
I trust that the Mayor of Boston will, in his
judgment, instruct the department to complete this
work, thereby preventing a wholesale discharge of
hundreds of men who have been working for the
last three months.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
CLEANING OF BEACHES.
Coun. DONOVAN and KERRIGAN offered the
following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to clean
up the beach and remove all stones from same,
between L Street Bath and the Boston Yacht
Club, and also along Farragut Beach.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
EXTENSION OF WALTER R. WHITE
SQUARE.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the square at the intersection of
Richfield street and Columbia road, named in
honor of Walter R. White, late veteran of the
World War, by an order approved by the Mayor
August 1, 1933, be further extended in its bound-
aries by including the portion of land at Hamilton
street and Columbia road.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LAND FOR JOHN MARSHALL SCHOOL.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the School Committee be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to take
additional land adjacent to the John Marshall
School, Dorchester, for play space for the children
attending same.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BOSTON PLACE, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Boston place,
Ward 7, as a public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HOLIDAY ON MAY 30.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to instruct all department heads of the city to
grant leave of absence, without loss of pay, to all
employees of said city on Memorial Day, May 30.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
216
CITY COUNCIL.
IK W'TK : I. Kill l',S (I n COMMONtt IOAI/1 II
AVENUE.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through liiB Honor the Mayor, to make a
study of the traffic lights along Commonwealth
avenue with a view to speeding up traffic along
this artery.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I think that
in some instances traffic lights at certain inter-
sections, instead of accelerating traffic, really
retard it. I have in mind, for instance, Com-
monwealth avenue, between Arlington street and
Massachusetts avenue. It may be interesting to
some members of the Council to know that in
various American cities a very careful study is
made of the traffic light situation, and much valu-
able information may be obtained by taking
advantage of the studies and the results in other
cities. It is only by comparison that men emerge
from the mud hole. So I trust that there will be a
study made of the Commonwealth avenue traffic
lights, from Arlington street out to Massachusetts
avenue. I think it might be possible to work out
a system whereby traffic on the main avenue would
not be delayed by the police officer where there is
no traffic coming from side streets.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
BUS STOPS, DORCHESTER.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston Ele-
vated Railway Company be requested, through
his Honor the Mayor, to restore the bus stops
which were recently discontinued on Dorchester
avenue, between Fields Corner and Savin Hill
avenue.
Passed under suspension of the. rule.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. GLEASON, at
3 p. m., to meet on Monday, June 4, 19.34, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
217
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, June 4,- 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.,
President DOWD in the chair and all the
members present.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn under the law, Coun.
SHATTUCK presiding at the box in the
absence of the Mayor, as follows :
Twenty-two Grand Jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, to appear July 2, 1934 :
James E. Morrison, Ward 1 ; Henry W.
Schleicher, Ward 1 ; Frank G. Spinelli, Ward
1 ; Frederick G. Leonard, Ward 3 ; Daniel J.
Sullivan, Ward 3 ; Fred Mitchell, Ward 4 ;
John O'Neil, Ward 4 ; Alexander Ross, Ward
5 ; John L. Sullivan, Ward 7 ; Thomas F. Con-
nors, Ward 10 ; John R. Williams, Ward 13 ;
Maurice C. Brill, Ward 14 ; Dennis J. Manning,
Ward 14; Samuel Strikoff, Ward 14; John V.
Kenney, Ward 15 ; Paul J. Bersig, Ward 16 ;
Joseph A. Maloney, Ward 18 ; Thomas A.
Ivory, Ward 20 ; James W. McKeown, Ward
20 ; John F. Dalton, Ward 21 ; Roland T.
Walsh, Ward 21 ; Charles C. Root, Ward 22.
Thirty traverse jurors, Second Session, Su-
perior Criminal Court, to appear June 11,
1934:
Martin G. Connors, Ward 1 ; William H.
Hansford, Ward 1 ; Charles A. Heath, Ward
3 ; Walter M. Lougee, Ward 4 ; George M.
Dewey, Ward 5 ; Harry F. Eddridge, Ward 5 ;
Ralph May, Ward 5 ; David H. Whelpley, Ward
9 ; Henry F. Williams, Ward 9 ; Joseph N.
Lucas, Ward 10; Prescott McVicker, Ward 10;
Stanley E. Reid, Ward 10; Roland E. Zeigler,
Ward 10 ; John H. Crane, Ward 12 ; Samuel
Burman, Ward 14 ; Robert Duncan, Jr., Ward
14 ; Albert V. Hall, Ward 15 ; Joseph F. Riley.
Ward 15 ; Joseph A. MeKinnon, Ward 16 ;
Francis F. Dolan, Ward 17 ; Edmund B. Wall-
bridge, Ward 17 ; Edward J. Geishecker, Ward
18; Charles E. Caldwell, Ward 19; Philip S.
Dexter, Ward 20; Willard B. Summers, Ward
20; Harry W. Beedle, Ward 21; Frederick
F. Norris, Ward 21 ; Thomas A. Connelly,
Ward 22 ; Joseph A. Donahue, Jr., Ward 22 ;
Walter F. White, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Second Session, to appear July 2,
1934:
Manuel J. Grace, Ward 1 ; Patrick A. Lang,
Ward 1 ; P. Henry O'Neil, Ward 3 ; Luther T.
Fernald, Ward 4 ; James McFarlane, Ward 4 ;
Marcus J. Keaney, Jr., Ward 6 ; Edmond J.
Gallahue, Ward 7 ; Clarence H. Ball, Ward 8 ;
Malachi F. Farrell, Ward 9 ; George Tiews,
Ward 10 ; Leonard F. Garrity, Ward 13 ; Henry
Leavitt, Ward 14 ; Arnold Davis, Ward 15 ;
Edward J. Reilly, Ward 15 ; Edward J. Ryan,
Ward 15 ; Herbert Mitchell, Ward 17 ; George
F. Smith, Ward 17; Forest T. Wills, Ward
20 ; Charles E. Beckwith, Ward 21 ; Nathan
Elsholz, Ward 21 ; Frank E. Graham, Ward
21 ; Francis H. Benson, Ward 22 ; Thomas J.
Carmichael, Ward 22 ; Albert D. Monroe, Ward
22.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Third Session, to appear July
2, 1934:
Joseph H. Higgins, Ward 1 ; Walter J.
Murphy, Ward 1 ; Thomas M. Ranahan, Ward
1 ; Alfred Rossi, Ward 1 ; Patrick J. Barry,
Ward 2 ; Frederick T. Depner, Ward 2 ; Fred
M. Healey, Ward 2 ; William B. Tryder, Ward
2 ; Carl F. Backstrom, Ward 4 ; Charles G.
Gazette, Ward 4 ; Charles F. Shugrue, Ward
5 ; Joe H. Wheater, Ward 6 ; Frank J. Cheever,
Ward 7 ; Joseph T. Farry, Ward 8 ; William
N. A. McGillivray, Ward 8 ; Earnest L. Walk-
up, Ward 8 ; John T. Donovan, Ward 9 ; Fran-
cis W. Gately, Ward 9 ; Robert B. Higgins,
Ward 10 ; Thomas J. Donovan, Ward 11 ; Earl
B. Wheeler, Ward 11 : William Collier, Ward
12 ; Raffael Maglio, Ward 16 ; Cornelius C.
Sheridan, Ward 16 ; Arthur T. Case, Ward 17 ;
William T. Maybury, Jr., Ward 18.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fourth Session, to appear July
2, 1934:
David Alexander, Ward 1 ; Edmond H. Nagle,
Ward 1 ; Chester Smith, Ward 1 ; William E.
Laughlin, Ward 2 ; Frank McCarthy, Ward 2 ;
Richard McNally, Ward 2 ; Forrest S. Meade,
Ward 2 ; Harry Spector, Ward 3 ; George W.
Masterson, Ward 4 ; John L. Proctor, Ward
4 ; Patrick Finn, Ward 7 ; John A. Gookin,
Ward 7 ; Kenneth L. Weston, Ward 8 ; James
J. Cunniff. Ward 9 ; James F. Harty, Ward
9 ; Norman F. Carr, Ward 10 ; John J. Mc-
Dermott, Ward 11 ; Thomas J. Myers, Ward
11 ; Bernard Levison, Ward 12 ; Hyman Gai-
ner, Ward 14 ; Abraham Roosov, Ward 14 ;
Matthew F. O'Brien, Ward 15; Ernest A.
Johnson, Ward 16 ; Hector J. Gair, Ward 17 ;
Arthur Southall, Ward 17; Stephen A. Cum-
mings, Ward 20 ; Alfred Fritz Pinkul, Ward
20; Harold A. Small, Ward 20; Conrad E.
Topp, Ward 21.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court;, Fifth Session, to appear July 2,
1934:
William P. Coughlin, Ward 1 ; Edward H.
Crosby, Ward 1 ; Joseph McDonald, Ward 1 ;
Joseph H. Casey, Ward 2 ; William Harkins,
Ward 2 ; John P. McCalbe, Ward 2 ; Theodore
H. Campbell, Ward 6 ; John J. Coleman, Ward
6 ; Patrick J. Devine, Ward 7 ; Timothy J.
Lynch, Ward 7 ; Daniel P. O'Connor, Ward 7 ;
James Blandino, Ward 8 ; John E. Gallagher,
Ward 8 ; Frank Margraf, Ward 10 ; Jonathan
Hamer, Ward 11 ; Leo Perlmutter, Ward 14 ;
Samuel T. Helvitz, Ward 15 ; Roscoe F. Grabert
Ward 16 ; Charles G. Kelley, Ward 16 ; Thomas
E. Hickey, Ward 17 ; J. Henry Jacobson,
Ward 17 ; Everett 'Robinson, Ward 17 ; Frank
E. Arthur, Ward 18 ; Michael J. J. Cass, Ward
19 ; William S. Jackson, Ward 20 ; William
Leithead, Ward 21 ; Robert E. Lynch, Ward
21; Jerome Richards, Ward 21; Charles H.
McGowan, Ward 22.
'Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, First Session, July Sitting, to appear
July 2, 1934:
George L. Betts, Ward 1 ; John W. Fothergill,
Ward 1 ; Richard Gill, Ward 1 ; Thomas Lopez,
Ward 1 ; Frederick W. Guidi, Ward 2 ; John H.
Murphy, Ward 2 ; Richard F. Stack, Ward 2 ;
Charles A. Waggett, Ward 6 ; Lewis Blaikie,
Ward 9 ; Arthur J. Holland, Ward 10 ; Thomas
P. Larkin, Ward 10; Paul Fargo, Ward 12;
Henry L. Hauser, Ward 13; Thomas MeTigue,
Wai-d 13 ; Samuel Brooker, Ward 14 ; William
E. Danner, Ward 14 ; Alexander Duff, Ward 14 ;
Fred Pilling, Ward 17; Karl Gross, Ward 20;
Chester A. Hubbard, Ward 20 ; Chester A.
Ward, Ward 20 ; Frank M. Keefe, Ward 21 ;
Edward J. Pierce, Ward 21 ; James H. Murphy,
Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, July Sitting, to appear
July 2, 1934:
Hugh E. O'Donnell, Ward 1 ; Henry Whalen,
Ward 1 ; Daniel M. Donnellam, Ward 4 ; Arthur
T. Gay, Ward 4 ; George H. Haynes, Ward 4 ;
John H. Murphy, Ward 4 ; Peter H. Roberts,
Ward 4; Hall Nichols. Ward 5; Robert A.
Desm'oind, Ward 7 : John F. Martin, Ward 7 ;
William Levitt, Ward 11 ; Samuel Blackman,
Ward 12 ; William R. Egan, Ward 12 ; John
E. Walsh, Ward 12 ; Charles A. Burnes, Ward
13 : John F. Morse, Ward 13 ; Benjamin
Nathan, Ward 13 ; Charles W. Hellenthal, Ward
14 ; John McLeod, Ward 14 ; Arthur X.
Koerber, Ward 15 ; Frank W. Clark, Ward 16 ;
John F. Boland, Ward 17; George C. Smith,
Ward 19 ; Charles R. Berry, Ward 20.
218
CITY COUNCIL.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Count, Sixth Session, July Sitting, to appear
July 2, 1934:
Walter A. Robbins, Ward 3 ; Francis J.
Shea, Ward G ; Thomas F. Nolan, Ward 7 ;
Herbert E. Ford, Ward 10 ; Patrick Harris,
Ward 10 ; John D. Keefe, Ward 10 ; Walter C.
Chamberlain, Ward 13 ; John A. Barry, Ward
15 ; John F. Jackson, Ward 15 ; Luke Leahy,
Ward 15 ; Frank Blake, Ward 10 ; William J.
DuRoss, Ward 16 ; Benjamin F. Pemberton,
Ward 16 ; Edmund M. Reardon, Ward 16 ;
Thomas J. McEwen, Ward 17 ; J. George
English, Ward 18; Charles B. House, Ward 19;
Christian F. W. Arpe, Ward 20; Albert P.
Hill, Ward 20 ; Harry T. Houghton, Ward 20 ;
James P. Sullivan, Ward 20 ; William E. Boyle,
Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Couint, .Seventh Session, July Sitting, to appear
July 2, 1934:
John O'Hare, Ward 1 ; John T. Hainan,
Ward 2 ; Thomas J. Buirke, Ward 3 ; George
Leary, Ward 3 ; Salvatore Peferaglia, Ward 3 ;
Raymond P. Eraser, Ward 4 ; William B.
Wainwright, Ward 6 ; James G. Broughton,
Ward 7 : Edward A. Rosebaeh, Ward 7 ; Thomas
J. Cormiean, Ward 9 ; David Portman, Ward
12 ; Ernest Moirin, Ward 13 ; George E. Noble,
Ward 13; Frank D. Doherty, Ward 14; Ernest
P. Monroe, Ward 14 ; Bennett J. Orkin, Ward
14 ; William H. Myers, Ward 17 ; Stanley H.
Coffin, Ward 20 ; George W. Dugan, Ward 20 ;
Harry M. Griffin, Ward 20 ; George D. Kirk-
patrick, Ward 20 ; Henming G. Nelson, Ward
20 ; Hugo F. Olson, Ward 20 ; William C.
Lindsay, Ward 22.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 4, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body I hereby appoint the following-
named persons constables of the City of Boston
for the term ending April 30, 1935, authorized
to serve civil process upon filing bonds :
John B. Blotto, Mitchell Camner, George W.
Cuddy, Morris W. Danberg, Andrew B. De-
Courcey, Jacob Demask, Joseph O. DeSantis,
Anthony DiSisto, Louis Gilbert, Marks Gold-
stein, Samuel Gordon, Louis Gorfinkle, Salva-
tore Grassa, Walter Edward Grignora, Spiros
Kaliris, George M. Pierce, Max Rabinovitz,
Alfred N. Sarno, Florian >S. Small, Abraham
S. Singer, Robert Smith, Israel Speetor, Philip
Tepper, James H. Waugh.
The following names are withdrawn from
the list of constables submitted by me to your
honorable body on April 16, 1934:
William Carmill, Thomas J. •Francis, Leon
J. Green, John D. Hayes, John A. Mitchell.
Respectfully submitted,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Laid over for one week under the law.
SIDEWALKS, ASHMONT STREET.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 4, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — On May 21, 1934, your honor-
able body passed an order for the construction
of artificial stone sidewalks with granite edge-
stones in front of certain numbers on Ashmont
street in Ward 16.
This being one of the ten streets for which
a loan and grant for street construction in
the total sum of $1,000,000 was allowed by the
Federal Government, I am returning the order
herewith, with my approval.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
RECORDS OF TAX ABATEMENTS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 4, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Corporation Counsel relative to your
order of April 16, 1934, concerning records of
tax abatements, their availability to inspec-
tion, and concerning also the original peti-
tions for abatement.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, May 31, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — On April 26, 1934, you
transmitted to me an order of the City Council
requesting me to inform that body, —
"1. Whether or not records of tax abate-
ments, current or otherwise, made by the Board
of Assessors, are matters of public record.
"2. Whether or not such records are avail-
able for inspection by members of the City
Council or individual taxpayers of the city,
and if so, is there any restriction on the time,
place or manner of such inspection ?
"3. Whether or not the original petitions
for abatements are open to public inspection
by members of the City Council or by indivi-
dual taxpayers."
I.
Section 7 of chapter 4 of the General Laws
(Ter. Ed. ) provides in part as follows :
"In construing statutes the following words
shall have the meanings herein given, unless
a contrary intention clearly appears . . .
"Twenty-sixth, 'Public records' shall mean
any written or printed book or paper, any
map or plan of the commonwealth, or of any
county, city or town, "which is the property
thereof, and in or on which any entry has
been made or is required to be made by law,
or which any officer or employee of the com-
monwealth or of a county, city or town has
received or is required to receive for filing,
and any <book, paper, record or copy men-
tioned in sections five to eight, inclusive, and
sixteen of chapter sixty-six . . ."
Seotion 60 of chapter 59 of the General
Laws (Ter. Ed.) provides that:
"Every board of assessors shall keep a
record of all abatements of taxes. The record
of abatement of the whole or any part of
any tax shall show plainly the following details,
viz. :
''First, The name or title in which the tax
stands assessed.
"Second, The year in which the tax was
assessed.
"Third, The total amount of the tax.
"Fourth, The date when the abatement was
made.
"Fifth, The sum abated on poll tax.
"Sixth, The sum abated on personal estate.
"Seventh, The sum abated on real estate.
"Eighth, The total sum abated.
"Ninth, In ease of an abatement to put
into effect a statutory exemption, exact ref-
erence to the statutory provisions under
which the exemption is granted and in all
other cases a statement of the cause or reason
for the abatement.
"'If the record of an abatement is made as
a part of the record of a meeting of the board
of assessors it shall be signed by the clerk
or secretary of the board for that meeting ;
otherwise by a majority of the board.
"The assessors shall forthwith upon making
an abatement furnish the tax collector with
a copy thereof."
Inasmuch as it is mandatory upon the
Board of Assessors of the City of Boston, by
virtue of the provisions of said section 60 of
chapter 59, to< keep a record of all abatements
of taxes, it is my opinion that records of
abatements are included within the definition
of "public records" in section 7 of chapter 4
JUNE 4, 1934.
219
above quoted. In other words, it is my
opinion that records of tax abatements, cur-
rent or otherwise, made by the Board of
Assessors, are matters of public record.
II.
Section 10 of chapter 66 of the General
Laws (Ter. Ed.) provides as follows:
"Every person having custody of any public
Tecords shall, at reasonable times, permit
them to be inspected and examined by any
person, under his supervision, and shall fur-
nish copies thereof on payment of a reasonable
fee . . ."
It is my opinion that, under the provisions
of said section 10 of chapter 66 above quoted,
it is mandatory upon the person having custody
of records of tax abatements to permit them
to be inspected and examined by any person
(including members of the City Council and
individual taxpayers ) , under the supervision
of such person, at reasonable times and at
any reasonable place where the person having
such records in his custody may designate.
It is my opinion, however, that such inspec-
tion must be consistent with the safety of the
records, the orderly administration of the
affairs of the department and the rights of
other persons to inspeot such records.
See in this connection Nash v. Lathrop, 142
Mass. 29, 39 (1886) (with reference to inspec-
tion of the opinions of the Supreme Judicial
Court in the custody of the Reporter of Deci-
sions), in which the Court said:
"In order to prevent -misconstruction, we
desire to add, that, while it is the duty of the
reporter to allow the public free access to
the opinions in his custody, he has the right
to make such reasonable regulations as to the
method of examining and obtaining copies of
them as he may deem necessary to secure the
safety of his papers and the orderly administra-
tion of the affairs of his office."
III.
In "Instructions to Assessors, No. 14, issued
by Henry F. Long, Commissioner of Corpora-
tions and Taxations, pursuant to the provisions
of section 1, chapter 58, General Laws (Ter-
Ed.)," at page 73-74, the following question and
answer appear :
"Question.— Are applications for abatement
and exemption public records ?
"Answer. — The answer to this is — no. These
documents are not records such as are required
by law to be kept by the board of assessors.
They are merely sources of information pre-
sented to help the assessors in determining
■whether or not the applicant is entitled to the
benefits of the abatement or exemption laws,
as the case may tbe. The assessors in a large
measure act in a confidential capacity between
taxpayers and the municipality. Consequently,
much of the information in the possession of
the assessors is confidential and therefore not
open to public inspection."
Considerable weight should be given by the
Board of Assessors to the recommendation of
the Commissioner of Corporations and Taxa-
tion and to his interpretation of its duties, in
view of the provisions of section 1 of chapter
58 of the General Laws (Ter. Ed.).
It is my opinion that applications for abate-
ment are not "public records" within the mean-
ing of those \Vords in section 10 of chapter 66
of the General Laws, above quoted, and that
they are therefore not open to inspection as
public records by members of the City Council
or by individual taxpayers.
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
VACANT LAND FOR MOTHERS' RESTS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, May 22, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter
from the Superintendent of Public Buildings
relative to your order of May 7, 1934, concern-
ing the taking over of all vacant land in
congested sections for the purpose of turning
same into small parks or mothers' rests for
children of school age and mothers, inclosing
same with wire fences and installing sand
boxes, etc.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Buildings Department, May 21, 19:34.
John F. Gilmore, Assistant Secretary, Mayor's
Office.
Dear Sir, — Referring to the attached order
of the City Council regarding the possible
construction of small parks or mothers' rests
for children of school age and mothers I have
considered the matter and have conferred
with Park Commissioner Long. The follow-
ing conclusions were arrived at :
1. It would require written permission from
the owners of each vacant lot allowing the
city to do this work.
2. The cost of the wire fence surrounding
these lots would be approximately $1.60 per
running foot. The F. E. R. A. projects do
not allow the expenditure of any great amount
of money for materials. The city is in no
position to supply these.
3. Sand boxes should never be installed on
any playground. They have been taken out
of the Boston Park System because they are
unsanitary.
4. The final objection is the cost of main-
tenance. At the conclusion of the F. E. R. A.
the city could not provide sufficient money
to properly maintain the parks.
In consideration of the foregoing I recom-
mend no action be taken on this proposed
project.
Respectfully yours,
Roswell G. Hall,
Superintendent of Public Buildings.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
William H. Barker, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect in
Orient avenue, East Boston.
William H. Bonner, for compensation for
damage to car by city car.
Joseph R. Dangora, for compensation for
damage to property at 59 South street, caused
by breaking of water meter.
Stephen J. Doherty, to be reimbursed for
judgment issued against him on account of
his acts as an employee of Sanitary Division.
First National Stores, for compensation for
damage to car by fire apparatus.
Morris Gordon & Son, Inc., for compensa-
tion for damage to property at 112. Sudbury
street, caused by broken water main.
Peter Higgins & Nathaniel H. Trafton, for
refund on liquor license.
Bridget C. Prendergast, for compensation
for damage to property at 190 Fisher avenue,
caused by broken water main.
Sager Electric Supply Company, for refund
on sign permit.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of
age to appear at places of public amusement,
viz. :
Mary A. Healey, St. Francis de Sales School
Hall, June 6.
Esther Lyons, Repertory Theatre, June 21.
Marie Kehoe, Repertory Theatre, June 14.
Kay A. McDermott, Repertory Theatre, June
12.
Bernadette Masterson, Intercolonial Hall,
June 4.
Viola K. Breiding, Current Events Hall,
June 8.
Adrienne K. Leeman, Peabody Playhouse
Hall, June 11.
Colonial Operating Company, Colonial
Theatre, June 4.
220
CITY COUNCIL.
Harold B. Simpson, Jordan Hall, June 8.
Elizabeth G. McNamcc, Elizabeth Peabody
House, June 8.
AHSENCE OF MAYOR.
Notice was received by the City Clerk of
absence of Mayor from the city during period
beginning Wednesday, May 30, and ending
with Sunday, June 3.
Placed on file.
REPORT ON FIRE DEPARTMENT.
A communication was received from the
Boston Municipal Research Bureau submitting
a report recommendng the reduction of Fare
Department costs by the elimination of four
engine companies and two ladder companies.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENT OF WALTER V.
MCCARTHY.
Notice was received from the Mayor of
appointment of Walter V. McCarthy to po-
sition of deputy commissioner in Institutions
Department, effective as of close of business
Monday, May 28, to fill vacancy caused by
resignation of Mary A. Cotter.
Placed on file.
DESIGNATION OF ACTING BUDGET
COMMISSIONER.
Notice was received from the Mayor of
designation of Charles J. Fox as Acting Bud-
get Commissioner, beginning June 1, 1934.
Placed on file.
CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The constables' bonds of Andrew W. Mur-
phy, Joseph Dinubile, David Klayman and
Louis Levine, having been duly approved by
the City Treasurer, were received and ap-
proved.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business. No. 2 on the calendar, viz. :
2. Action on appointments submitted by
the Mayor May 28, 1934, of Fred M. Cameron
and John K. Holland, to be Weighers of Coal.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Selvitella and Agnew. Whole
number of ballots 19 ; yeas 18, nays 1, and
the appointments were confirmed.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under No. 1
on the calendar, the appointment of William
Tepper (submitted by the Mayor April 16,
1934) as a constable authorized to serve civil
process. The question came on confirmation.
Committee, Coun. Finley and Roberts. Whole
number of ballots 17 ; yeas 12, nays 5, and
the appointment was confirmed.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommend-
ing passage of order for payment of aid to
soldiers and sailors and their families in the
City of Boston for the month of June, 1934 :
Report accepted ; said order passed.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON JITNEY
LICENSES.
Coun. ROBERTS, for the Committee on
Jitney Licenses, submitted the following :
1. Report on petition (referred May 21)
of Boston Elevated Railway Company to op-
erate motor vehicles between junction of Mas-
sachusetts avenue and Boylston street and
junction of Qucensberry and Jersey streets —
recommending that permit be granted.
Report accepted ; permit granted under usual
conditions.
GOLDEN JUBILEE OF CARDINAL
O'CONNELL.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Whereas, The Solemn Golden Jubilee of the
Ordination of William Cardinal O'Connell as
a priest of the Catholic Church will be cele-
brated on June 8, 1934, and
Whereas, William Cardinal O'Connell has
devoted a lifetime to the service of God and
humanity ; and
Whereas, The City of Boston has been en-
riched by the gracious personality and good
works of this great leader ; therefore be it
Resolved, That the City Council extend to
'William Cardinal O'Connell its felicitations
and congratulations on the occasion of the
celebration of this Solemn Golden Jubilee of
his Ordination as a priest of the Catholic
Church.
The resolution was unanimously passed under
suspension of the rule.
REQUESTED APPOINTMENT OF 300
FIREMEN.
Coun. FISH offered the following :
Ordered, That the Fire Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to in-
crease the department by appointing three
hundred more men.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I notice that
the Boston Municipal Research Bureau has
called for the reduction of members of the Bos-
ton Fire Department. I am not in favor of
a reduction in the department, as I believe it
is very much under -manned at the present
time. Therefore, I am now calling upon his
Honor the Mayor to appoint 300 extra men in
the Boston Fire Department.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
FIRE STATION IN WARD 13.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor con-
sider the advisability of building a fire station
in Ward 13, a community of 32,000 people who
are without any fire station.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, I introduce
this order in all seriousness. For some seven
years I have been fighting to get a fire station
in Ward 13. We are a community of 32,000
people with over 12,000 voters, and yet there
is not a fire station located in that entire
area. When you consider that from the water-
front at Savin Hill, with its new Old Colony
Boulevard, and straight down from the Up-
haras Corner section over to Blue Hill avenue
in Roxbury, a distance of over two miles, there
is no fire station of any kind, I think it must
be clear to all that the service in that section
is inadequate, especially at a time in the
course of the business depression when there
is more arson, more deliberate firing of build-
ings than at any other time in the history
of this city, I believe that the great Roxbury
section through Cherry Valley, the great Up-
hams Corner section and the section along
through Pleasant street and down to Columbia
Station and across into Savin Hill out to
Dorchester Bay, a community of 32,000 souls,
is certainly entitled to a fire station. If there
was any town in Massachusetts of 32,000
people that was without a fire station, that
had to rely on the adjoining towns to send in
apparatus upon the occasion of a conflagra-
tion, the citizens of that community would
not stand for it ; and I sincerely hope that
these out-of-towners who are now visiting Bos-
ton, instead of attempting to curtail a service
that is already curtailed, will give to the tax-
payers of the great Ward 13 section the pro-
tection which they have so long waited for and
JUNE 4, 1934.
221
been denied, at least one fire station in a
great community of 32,000 souls.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
ICE IN DRINKING FOUNTAINS.
Coun. SELVITELLA and DOWD offered the
following :
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to appropriate a sufficient sum of
money to place ice in all drinking fountains
of Boston during the summer season, as in
former years.
Coun. SELVITELLA — Mr. President, I am
going to be very brief on that particular order
because I think all the members of the Council
have now heard of the action of the Mayor of
Boston last week in curtailing the appropria-
tion covering ice for the so-called water bub-
blers ot fountains during the summertime.
Now, I don't know how many bubblers there
are in the City of Boston. I called up the
Public Works Department (this morning and
they seemed to be in as much doubt about
it as I am, so that the full number and to
what extent these bubblers are going to be
without ice, I do not know. But this morning
I am informed that the Mayor appoved con-
tracts for the furnishing of ice to the Zoo
at Franklin Park, to the "Wayfarers' Lodge,
the Chardon Street Home, Health Department
and the City Hospital, but when it came
to his reconsideration of ice for the bubblers
for the children of Boston he again canceled
the appropriation. Now I want to be as
charitable with the Mayor as I possibly can,
but if there was ever a fame when his
economy program lacked justice and mercy
and common sense, I believe this particular
case indicates a bad judgment on his part ;
because, as he says, there is going to be a
saving of but $4,500, and surely the people
of Boston would gladly pass the tin cup
around in order to provide for this ice. I
know in my own district we have already
started a public subscription and I am glad
to report that we have pledges for about $100
towards this fund, and I also see that the
Boston American has also started a fund to
provide ice ' for Ithe bubbling fountains in
Boston. Now I do not think the fair name
of Boston should be placed in such a position
as to bring ridicule and humiliation from those
who live outside of Boston, because if the
Mayor sees fit to give ice to the monkeys
in the Zoo and to cool the tails of the polar
bears at Franklin Park, surely he ought to
have enough kindness in his heart for the
kiddies in Boston to provide ice. I surely hope
that he will reconsider his action and a least
put the kiddies on at least a par with the
monkeys in Franklin Park.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
CONTRACT TO E. F. LOONIE, JR.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Finance Commissione be
requested to investigate the approval by the
Mayor on May 21, il934, of the awarding of a
contract with E. F. Loonie, Jo-., for furnishing
automobile imotor oil to the various city de-
partments for the period ending September
30, 1934.
Coun. SELVITELLA. — Mr. President, in this
order I ask that the Finance Commission in-
vestigate the letting of the conltract on May
1 to E. F. Loonie, Jr., for furnishing motor oil
to the various city departments, ending Sep-
tember 30, 1934. I made an inquiry to find
out under whit circumstances this conltract
for 25,600 gallons of motor oil was given to
this E. F. Loonie, Jr. I aim inquisitive to
find out what connection there might be be-
tween M. Loonie, who was awarded a contract
for $10,000 for the building of a coal pocket
at Deer Island. I think you will recall, Mr.
President, several weeks ago I stood on this
Council floor and I criticized the action of
the Mayor in letting out a contract without
public bids. Now I am told by Mr. Loomis,
the man imported from Needham in order to
cut out that 65 per cent graft and corruption
in our purchasing department, upon question-
ing, from me as to who this E. F. Loonie was,
that he is a brother of M. Loonie, who re-
ceived $10,000 of the city's money without a
public bid. Now, if the Mayor as going to
reward his political henchman, then I think
he ought to have in mind at least the fact
that there are companies here in Boston who
are desirous of bidding fairly and equitably on
these matters, and unless something is done
to stop this awarding of contracts — in three
weeks two of them have been given out — then
the merchants and business men of Boston
are not going to get the fair deal that the
Mayor promised them in his campaign. This
award of 25,600 gallons to E. F. Loonie was
at a price of 39 cents a gallon and according
to the City Record I find that the Cities
Service Refining Company submitted a bid of
30 cents. Is there anyone who can question
the ability of the Cities Service Refining Com-
pany to furnish oil according to the specifica-
tions of the 'City of Boston? 'Then there is
the Gulf Refining Company, 32 cents, and yet
E. F. Loonie, Jr., who is an independent
distributor without any means of refining,
receives a contract at 9 cents more than the
lowest bidder, making almost $9,984, which
would have meant a saving to the city, if this
contract had been given to the lowest bidder,
of over $2,200. So I hope that this business
of letting out contracts without bids and to
favorite sons and friends of the Mayor will
stop, so that we may save money wherever it
is possible.
Coun. SHATTUCK— I have no knowledge
concerning the merits of this question, but
I do think that it should appear in the records'
when reference is made to a difference of
9 cents in the bids, that it was stated before
your Committee on Appropriations that the
lower bid was for a different kind of oil,
namely, a Mid Continent oil as against a
Pennsylvania oil, which was the kind of oil
asked for when the bids were offered. It was
Stated to us that the bid received was the
lowest bid, as I understood it, for Pennsylvania
type oil, which was the kind they asked for.
Coun. SELVITELLA — I might answer the
councilor from Ward 5 and say I was present
in the Committee on Appropriations when the
statement was made that this award was given
because the other companies didn't have the
paraffin base. Now I want to call the coun-
cilor's attention to the fact that the Standard
Oil Company, the Shell, Texaco, Colonial-
Beacon, Gulf, American Oil Company and
other large companies were concerned, does
he honestly believe these companies could not
or did not submit a bid for oil with paraffin
base? For his own information, last Saturday
morning I called up the Cities Service in
Quincy, or at the Park Square Building, and
I gave them the information that was passed
tk> me, and for the councilor's benefit, I was
informed thalt the oil on which they bid did
contain the paraffin base.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
DISTRIBUTION OF F. E. R. A. WORK.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council fa-
vors the fair distribution of all work made
available under the F. E. R. A., so that no
undue preference be given to any one section,
or members of one political party, to the ex-
clusion of others who may be entitled to con-
sideration.
Coun. ROBERTS— I don't know whether this
order is of any value at the present time. It
is more or less dependent on whether or not
any more work is made available under the
F. E. R. A. But I believe the members of
222
CITY COUNCIL.
this body who wore here (last year will re-
member that when the matter came up as
to the distribution of the C. W. A. work,
there was a serious question whether the work
was not being given to a few favored sections
to the detriment of other sections and that
members of other political parties than those
in power were not being given much con-
sideration. In our own experience at the
present time we have not been able to say
anything about who receives this work. Our
advice as councilors as to who nfight be quali-
fied for that work has never been accepted,
but for the sake of any future work avail-
able under this program, I think the Council
should go on record in favor of all those who
are to be hired under the P. E. R. A. being
given a square deal.
The older was passed under suspension of
the rule.
CONTINUATION OF E. R. A. PROJECTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to direct the Commissioner of Public
Works to continue the E. R. A. projects now
under construction under the supervision of
the Bridge and Ferry Division to completion.
The said projects are:
No. 1. The reconstruction of the recrea-
tion pier.
No. 2. Painting of six ferry slips.
No. 3. Repairs to the Blakemore Street
Bridge.
No. 4. Repairs to the Longfellow Bridge.
No. 5. Repairs and resurfacing of the
Chelsea Viaduct-Meridian Street Bridges.
Ordered, That Roswell G. Hall, E. R. A.
administrator of the City of Boston, be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
continue the E. R. A. projects under the super-
vision of the Bridge and Ferry Division to
completion.
These projects are as follows :
No. 1. The reconstruction of the recrea-
tion pier.
No. 2. Painting of six ferry slips.
No. 3. Repairs to the Blakemore Street
Bridge.
No. 4. Repairs to the Longfellow Bridge.
No. 5. Repairs and resurfacing of the
Chelsea Viaduct-Meridian Street Bridges.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to send an additional appropriation
for the budget for the Commissioner of Public
Works to be used by the Bridge and Ferry
Division in the sum of $10,850 to cover the
costs for the completion of the E. R. A. proj-
ects now under the supervision of that division,
and for the completion of the proposed
E. R. A. projects under the supervision of
said division.
Ordered, That Roswell G. Hall, E. R. A.
administrator of the City of Boston, be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
approve the following E. R. A. projects under
the supervision of the Bridge and Ferry
Division :
No. 1. Repair to retaining wall on Charles-
town Bridge.
No. 2. Survey of all bridges in the City
of Boston.
No. 3. Repair of the steel work on Charles-
town Bridge.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to direct the Commissioner of Public
Works to direct the following E. R. A. projects
under the supervision of the Bridge and Ferry
Division:
No. 1. Repair to Retaining wall on Charles-
town Bridge.
No. 2. Survey of all bridges in the City of
Boston.
No. 3. Repair of the steel work on Charles-
town Bridge.
Coun. GOLDMAN — I would like to have
these six orders read together and then I
can discuss them. During the last week in
discussing this bridge situation with several
men working on that bridge, in going over
the matter I found the following projects
which I introduced in one of the orders that
are now under way and they have got to be
stopped on June 15 unless something is done
about it. Now, taking thmt first project, the
recreation pier, we find that for the City of
Boston to build that would cost $38,000. As
the result of the Federal Government grant it
will only cost the City of Boston $900, and
would keep between 800 and 1,000 people at
work. Then, take painting of the ferry slips.
It will cost the City of Boston $1,200 to do
it, but if the E. R. A. be permitted to
finish this job it will cost the City of Bos-
ton nothng. On the Blakemore Street Bridge,
there is the same situation. It will cost the
City of Boston $5,000 if Boston has to do it.
Incidentally, the city will have to do each
and every one of these things. If the E. R. A.
is allowed to continue, that bridge will cost
the city only $350. On the Longfellow Bridge,
there is the same situation. For us to com-
plete the job is going to cost $3,500. If the
E. R. A. is allowed to finish it, it will cost
the City of Boston nothing, as they have the
supplies left over from the C. W. A. ; 85 per
cent of the labor is unskilled, or semi-skilled,
and the remaining 15 per cent includes the
supervisory force and skilled labor. All the
projects of the Bridge and Ferry Division
are continued only until the 15th of June, at
which time about one hundred and twenty
people will be put out of work. Now, the
excuse advanced by Mr. Hall is that the work
is not maintenance work, that it is work the
City of Boston should do and therefore I offer
in substitution the following projects, if he
finds they are maintenance work and should
not be done under his orders from Carney,
then I suggest the following projects, as by
my orders. The recreation pier, the City of
Boston needs it. It is going to cost Boston
$3,800. If this job is allowed to be done, it
. will cost the City of Boston $900. Then we
liave repairing of retaining wall on the Charles-
town Bridge, it will cost Boston approximately
$10,000 to correct that wall. Now, that is
not maintenance at all. That is another
new project, and his Honor can request
Mr. Hall to put this project in. Now,
if E. R. A. is allowed to go on, it will
cost Boston $600 for a $10,000 bridge, if
it is permitted to go on with it. Then a
survey of all the bridges in the -city to give an
accurate record of the exact conditions of
the structure and plans for the city files,
which will show all changes necessary on
said bridges and approaches with details of
these conditions. This survey will cost the
City of Boston about $15,000. They say they
want it done. The E. R. A. force which
proposes this work will burden the city with
only $750 to $800 — employing thirty-four men.
No. 3 — the steel work necessary for the Charles-
town Bridge concerns two spans which stand
in a very dangerous state due to the action
of the chemicals which have corroded the
bridge steel. This will cost the city $30,000,
using some fifty-odd tons of bridge steel and
considerable labor. The E. R. A. proposes to
use two shifts of men. The work would cost
the city $30,000, but if E. R. A. does this
work it will only cost the City of Boston
$8,000. Now, it sums up as follows : If we
are allowed to continue the present projects
which are allowed to expire on June 15 and
take on these new projects, there will be com-
parative grand totals as follows: $106,000 as
against, if they take these men and employ
them now, $10,850. I therefore send out a
request thait his Honor send down $10,850
more, and, in addition to that, if they repay
it, it will only be the difference between one
and the other. They will retain all of them
or substitute these new projects which can-
not be specified as maintenance.
The orders were passed under suspension of
the rule.
JUNE 4, 1934.
223
AUTOMATIC TRAFFIC SIGNALS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner of
the City of 'Boston be requested, through his
Honor the Mayor, to Install automatic traffic
signals att the intersection of Blue Hill avenue,
Talbot avenue, Harvard street and Angell
street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
E. R. A. PROJECTS, CITY HOSPITAL.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That Roswell G. Hall, E. K. A.
administrator for the City of Boston, be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
continue the E. R. A. projects now in opera-
tion at the Boston City Hospital and its
various divisions.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor (be re-
quested to direct the Trustees of the Boston
City Hospital to continue the E. R. A. proj-
ects now in operation at the Boston City
Hospital, and its various i divisions.
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
SAND BOXES, JEFFERSON SCHOOL.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the School Committee be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to ar-
range for the installation of see-saws and sand
boxes in the Jefferson School play yard.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HEBREW IMMIGRATION AID SOCIETY.
Coun. GOLDMAN and BRACKMAN offered
the following :
Whereas, The Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society
of Boston has been conducting a program of
philanthropy for over thirty years ; and
Whereas, This society has been of service to
all mankind regardless of race or creed ; and
Whereas, This fourth day of June is the
annual flower day of said society ; therefore be it
Resolved, That the Boston City Council ex-
tends to said society its best wishes and hopes
that these philanthropic services shall continue.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
STUDY OF AERIAL AND HOLLAND
BLOCK PLANS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following :
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
make a thorough study of the so-called aerial
and Holland block plans of assessing before
abandoning the same.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following :
Ordered, That the Board of Public Welfare,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
consider the advisability of seeking to make
arrangements for the deliverance of milk to
welfare recipients at a lower price than the
prevailing retail price.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
JUNIOR COLLEGE COURSES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the members of the Boston
School Committee, through his Honor the
Mayor, he requested to consider the advisability
of establishing junior college courses in Boston.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, or: that last
order, we had 15,000 graduates from the Bos-
ton public schools last year, and this year
we are to have 15,000 more this month. What
has become of the graduates of four or five
years ago no one seems to know. We have in
this city thousands of graduates of the high
schools who are unable to continue on through
college, and it has been my idea that it would
be possible to work out some scheme whereby
the colleges should themselves possibly co-
operate with the city, or perhaps the high
school teachers' college, or the high schools
of Boston could work out a curriculum where-
by the years of the depression would not be
wasted years for thousands of girls and boys
who graduate from our high schools here.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
PARTIAL REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE
ON PUBLIC WELFARE.
Coun. McGRATH, for the Committee on Pub-
lic Welfare, submitted the following:
On April 23 his Honor the Mayor by
official order asked the Committee on Public
Welfare the following :
"May I venture to inquire what progress
has been made by this committee? I am in-
tensely interested in the Public Welfare De-
partment, and would like to have whatever
information may have been obtained by the
committee."
On April 30 the Public Welfare Committee
submitted its answer to his Honor the Mayor
in an order, making the following suggestions :
"The Special Committee on Public Welfare,
in filing a partial report, wish to emphasize
the value of a complete recheek of every re-
cipient of dependent aid, whether classified as
unemployed or regular dependent aid recipient,
to be made not later than May 25, 1934, the
method of this complete recheek to be de-
termined by the Public Welfare Department,
but in every instance, whether by visit to the
Welfare office or by personal visit to the
home of the welfare recipient, together with
the address as of the exact date that the con-
tact is made."
Subsequently, his Honor forwarded this sug-
gestion of the City Council to the Board of
Overseers, who have pxit this plan of re-
registration in action.
In fairness to the new Board and to their
earnest attempt to purge the Welfare rolls of
fraudulent recipients by placing the responsi-
bility on the individual who receives, rather
than_ on the city which gives, we submit this
partial report without comment.
When the re-registration has been com-
pleted the committee will be interested, not so
much in the number of recipients remaining,
or in the number of new applications, as it
will be in learning how many of the present
recipients failed to re-register, and when the
re-registration has been checked the committee
will be glad to know how many of those who
re-registered have been dropped from the Wel-
fare rolls as not entitled to aid.
The report was accepted.
WARD 16 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commis-
sioner be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to resurface Frost avenue, Ward 16.
Ordered, That the Board of Street Com-
missioners be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to accept and lay out Bloomington
street as a public highway, Ward 16.
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
224
CITY COUNCIL
ATTENDANCE OF FORMER COMPTROL-
LER, LIBRARY DEPARTMENT.
Conn. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Appropriations CommiUcc
ot the City Council be requested, in considera-
tion of the 1934 budget of the Library Depart-
ment, to request attendance before the com-
mittee of the recently discharged comptroller,
during whose term of employment in the past
two years operating expenses were reduced
from $1,330,000 to less than a million dollars,
namely, a reduction of circulation unit cost
per book from 35 cents to 16 1-10 cents, and
having in mind the request for increased funds
this year despite a falling off in circulation.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INFORMATION IN RE PUBLIC WELFARE.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to at once furnish the information re-
quested in City Council order of May 7, 1934,
concerning work card stamps.
Ordered, That the Public Welfare Depart-
ment be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to at once furnish the information re-
quested in City Council orders of April 30,
1934, concerning welfare cases and other in-
formation relating to Ward 1.
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to at once furnish the information re-
quested in City Council orders of May 21,
1934, concerning welfare cases and other in-
formation relating to Wards 9 and 13.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, on those last
three orders, I do not assume that this is some
of the information which young Charlie Sulli-
van has suggested that his former colleague,
Frank Whelton, has been carrying around the
city in his pocket. That information is where
most of Whelton's information is, in the place
that it has been for months since last October
or November, right down in the Welfare De-
partment, and in the possession of Mr. Fahjoy
of the Police Department. The Mayor — and I
believe sincerely — wrote a letter to the Council
some weeks ago asking with reference to the
progress of the Public Welfare investigation
and requesting the committee to produce
various information within its control or which
it could reach. We would be even more im-
pressed with the Mayor's sincerity if he would
insist on the cooperation of the Public Wel-
fare authorities. I introduced on April 30th
an order, which was passed by the Council on
that day, which was five weeks ago, asking
information concerning Ward 1 and most es-
pecially such important information las the
names of the visitors, totaling three or four in
the East Boston section, who presumably would
be involved, one or more of them, at least,
in the finding among lists of addresses of
lumber wharves and meat shops. The com-
mittee will continue to function, I fed sure,
but we would appreciate cooperation from the
Mayor's office, and we feel that information
which has been requested — namely, the names
of the visitors under whose supervision many
of these East Boston names have gotten on
Welfare — should be furnished to the Council.
A similar order was put in on May 21 con-
cerning Wards 9 and 13, which has not yet
come through. We all have in mind the prose-
cutions in the Boston Municipal Court which
were carried out to a successful conclusion
by the late Assistant Corporation Counsel
Whelton, despite all Mr. Foley and his radio
representative, Mr. Sullivan, told over the
radio involving the use of stamps. We asked
on May 7, over a month ago, that information
be furnished, giving the data on these stamps
in the various work yards, and most especially,
since obviously three or four of them have
either been stolen or let out, the names of
the persons in the employ of the city who,
we assume, reported such loss some time since
last Christmas. I as a member of the com-
mittee, and I feel the rest of the committee
would agree with me, feel that the Council is
entitled at the earliest possible moment to that
information which we have asked for.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL
CORPORATION LOAN.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to consider prompt approval of the
application of the American International
Terminal Corporation for a loan of sixteen
million dollars from the Federal Administration
of Public Works for the construction of a
dock and the creation of a ship terminal at
Old Harbor Point in Dorchester Bay.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I understood
that this application for a Federal loan for
this great public improvement was made
months ago as a possible P. W. A. project, if
I am correctly informed, with the approval and
warm indorsement of the Governor of Massa-
chusetts, the Boston Port Authority, engineers
of the War Department, the Dorchester Board
of Trade, and numerous other organizations.
The completion of this project would mean the
reclaiming of some 294 acres of land, the
dredging of a 40-foot ship channel, two years
of continuous Work for some 4,'500 men, and
the creation of millions of dollars of taxable
property. While a private corporation has
requested approval of the project, I understand
the dock would Ibe deVoted to public uses, be
self-liquidating in character, and involve no
expense to Boston except the possible ad-
visability of suitaible approaches. According to
existing plans, no less than thirty government
vessels could be docked at one time, and in
case of national emergency it would ensure
the shipping of at least 50,000 men a day.
I consider that such a project would certainly
compare more than favorably with such a
project 'as Neptune Gardens, which received
such warm indorsement from the Mayor despite
objection by the people of East Boston. I
understand that although the project would
inevitably mean placing Boston in the very
forefront among Atlantic ports, the Mayor
has not only beten unable to find time to give
it the least consideration, but at least three
times during the past three months has broken
appointments made for submitting the project
for his approval. In these days of unemploy-
ment, I urge the fairness of the request that
as chief executive of the city he at least
consider the merits of a proposal which already
has such almost unanimous approval, and with-
out expense to the city will mean some two
years' employment of 4,500 men.
The order was passed under suspension of
the rule.
IMPROVEMENTS, MT. IDA PLAYGROUND.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
provide for the installation of .tennis courts
and repair the backstop on the 'baseball
diamond at Mt. Ida Playground.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 7 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, t'o repave with smooth pavement
East Ninth street, Ward 7.
Ordered, That (the Commissioner of Public
Worlcs be requested, through his Honor the
JUNE 4, 1934.
225
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement
Btowen street, from Dorcheslter to F street,
Ward 7.
Severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 4.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed
to install traffic signals at the interesection of
Columbus avenue and Dartmouth street, Ward 4.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Commit-
tee, submitted the following :
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear
at places of public amusement, viz. :
Mary A. Healey, St. Francis de Sales School
Hall, June 6 ; Esther Lyons, Repertory Theatre,
Jume i21 ; MaTie Kehoe, Repertory Theatre,
June 14 ; Kay A. MsDermbtt, Repertory
Theatre, June 12 ; Bernadette Masterson, In-
tercolonial Hall, June 4 ; Viola K, Breiding,
Current Events Hall, June 8 ; Adrienne K.
Leeman, Peabody Playhouse Hall, June 11 ;
Colonial Operating Company, Colonial Theatre,
June 4 : Harold B. Simpson, Jordan Hall,
June 8 ; Elizabeth G. McNamee, Elizabeth
Peabody House, June 8, — recommending that
leave be granted under usual conditions.
Adjourned at 3.28 p. m., on motion of Coun.
NORTON, to meet on Monday, June 11, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
226
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, June 11, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.. President
DOWD in the chair and all the members present.
APPROPRIATION FOR MUNICIPAL
EMPLOYMENT BUREAU.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, June 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the director of the
Municipal Employment Bureau that the appro-
priation authorized for the running expenses of
the Bureau in the early part of the year will be
exhausted on or about the end of the current week.
Since, in my opinion, the Bureau, as at present
organized, is doing a worth-while work, I submit
herewith an order providing for a further allot-
ment from the Reserve Fund of S2.000. It is
estimated that this amount will be sufficient to
continue the activities of the Bureau until approxi-
mately the end of next September.
I respectfully recommend adoption by your
honorable body of the accompanying order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the sum of $2,000 be, and hereby
is, appropriated, to be expended by the Municipal
Employment Bureau, under the direction of the
Mayor, in the prosecution of its duties, said sum
to be charged to the Reserve Fund when made.
Referred to Executive Committee.
EXCURSIONS, RANDIDGE FUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The chairman of the Park Com-
missioners informs me that an appropriation of
$5,000 will be required for transportation and inci-
dental expenses in connection with excursions to
be arranged under the Randidge Fund for chil-
dren in various sections of the city. I believe
this to be a project of exceptional merit and
accordingly am submitting herewith ^ an order
providing for the appropriation of the' necessary
amount, the same to be charged to the Reserve
Fund.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the
accompanying order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the sum of $5,000 be, and the
same hereby is, appropriated, to be expended by
the Board of Park Commissioners, for recreation
purposes, by the transporting of children from
the various parts of the city to certain recreational
centers within and without the limits of the city,
and for other incidental expenses in connection
therewith, said sum to be charged to the Reserve
Fund when made.
Referred to Executive Committee.
TRANSFER FOR AQUARIUM.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the chairman of
the Park Commissioners that it is desirable to
make additions to the collection of tropical fish at
the Aquarium in South Boston. The life span of
the majority of fish of this character at the Aqua-
rium is about two years, and since no collection has
been made since 1932 the exhibits of tropical fish
are very low. It is estimated that approximately
$1,000 will be required in order to replenish the
Aquarium collection. This expense will include
the cost of men and equipment used in the collec-
tion of the fish in southern waters, as well as the
cost of an express car for the transportation of the
fish to the Aquarium.
At the present time the special appropriation is
practically exhausted, and in order that necessary
funds may be available, I submit herewith an
order providing for the transfer of $1,000 from the
appropriation for Highland Park, •Improvements,
etc., to the special appropriation for Animals,
Birds, etc. In the opinion of the chairman of the
Park Commissioners, the amount being transferred
is not required in the Highland Park appropriation.
In order that there may be no undue delay in
replenishing the Aquarium collection, I respect-
fully recommend immediate consideration and
adoption of the accompanying order by your
honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Highland Park,
Improvements, etc., $1,000, to the appropriation
for Animals, Birds, etc., 81,000.
Referred to Executive Committee.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments, viz.:
Weighers of Goods: Paul Dalmasa, 79 Lewis
street, Everett, Mass. ; Robert Fuller, 132 Waverly
street, Everett, Mass.
Severally laid over a week under the law
EAST BOSTON STREET LIGHTING
SYSTEM.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 6, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of March 26, 1934, concerning a sur-
vey of the street lighting system in East Boston,
and information as to comparative costs of electric
and gas lights on Bennington and Saratoga streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
June 4, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt of
order of City Council dated March 26, 1934,
reading:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to make a survey of the present street
lighting system in East Boston, and to furnish the
City Council with the following information:
1. The number of gas lamps on Bennington
street and Saratoga street.
a. There are sixty-nine gas lamps now exist-
ing on Bennington street and Saratoga
street.
2. When does the present contract with the
Boston Consolidated Gas Company for furnishing
gas lighting in the East Boston district expire?
a. The present contract with the Boston
Consolidated Gas Company expires
September 30, 1934.
3. The number of electric lamps on Bennington
street and Saratoga street.
a. There are fifty-five electric lamps on
Bennington street (Bremen to Saratoga
streets) and on Saratoga street for the
entire length.
4. What is the cost per annum of electric lamps
on Bennington street and Saratoga street
a. The total cost per annum for electric
lamps on Bennington street and Saratoga
street is $4,622.60.
2 27
CITY COUNCIL.
5. What is the total cosl <>f gaa lamps per
annum cm Bennington and Saratoga streets?
a, The i hi ;il oosl per .-1111111111 for gas lamps
mi Bennington and Saratoga streets is
SX,595.28.
(i. The advisability of substituting electric
lighting in place of gas lighting on Bennington and
Bar gu Btreets,
a. Not increase per annum caused by sub-
stituting electric lighting for gas lighting
as below:
Bennington street $929 42
Saratoga street 1,209 40
.$2,198 82
There is also an estimate of $1,272 for relocation
of existing lamps on both streets named above in
connection with proposed new electric laj'-out.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
WELFARE VISITORS, WARD. 1.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 7, 1934
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of April 30, 1934, concerning the num-
ber of visitors assigned to and actively doing
world n Ward 1 at stated periods.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
May 25, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following reply is respectfully
submitted to the Council order dated April 30,
1934, which reads as follows:
That the Overseers of Public Welfare be
instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council forthwith:
1. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 1 during December
1933, together with the name of each visitor.
2. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 1 during April, 1934,
together with the name of each visitor.
3. The number of visitors assigned to and
actively doing work in Ward 1 as of April 1, 1934,
together with the name of each visitor.
Answers.
1. Ten visitors:
John J. Connelly, Howard F. Rooney, Edward
H. Grant, Harry P. Sidman, Edmund D. Lockney,
Doris Sevel, Paul L. Norton, Isaiah L. Hinckley,
Joseph M. Foley, Peter Siragusa, Alice V. Nolan,
John J. McKeon.
2. Twelve visitors:
Howard F. Rooney, Edward H. Grant, Harry F.
Sidman, Edmund D. Lockney, Doris Sevel, Paul
L. Norton, Mary E. Robertson, Isaiah L. Hinckley,
Joseph M. Foley, Peter Siragusa, Francis J. Hogan,
Alice V. Nolan.
3. Twelve visitors:
Howard F. Rooney, Edward H. Grant, Harry F.
Sidman, Edmund D. Lockney, Doris Sevel, Paul
L. Norton, Mary E. Robertson, Isaiah L. Hinckley,
Joseph M. Foley, Peter Siragusa, Francis J. Hogan,
Alice V. Nolan.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
CHECKING OF WELFARE CASES.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of April 30, 1934, concerning the most
recent date when all cases still active on the Public
Welfare lists, as of April 1, 1934, in Ward 1, were
personally visited or otherw si checked up by any
visitor of the Public Welfare Department
R.I Spi Cl 1 .illy,
Fbbdbbick W. Manbfield, Mayoi
' 11 ■. of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
May 25, 193}.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston,
Dear Sir, The following reply is respectfully
11I" 'I In iIh ' 'ouii'-il ordoi 'l.n •'! \;;i i '-'A),
1934, which reads as follows:
That the Overseers of Public Welfare be in-
structed, through his Honor the Mayor, to advise
1 lie t'it\ '''.iiricil forthwith as to '.vliit mi,s: recent
date all cases still active on the Public Welfare
lists as of April 1, 1934, in Ward 1, have been
personally visited or otherwise checked up by any
visitor of the Public Welfare Department.
Answer.
Commencing December Hi, 1933, and for a
period of three weeks, every case in Ward 1 was
visited and checked up and in the ordinary visiting
routine the major number of eases in Ward 1 have
been visited or checked up since that period.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
NON-SETTLEMENT AID RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of April 30, 1934, concerning non-
settlement aid recipients, and also concerning
Boston settled cases receiving aid in other cities
and towns.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
May 25, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following reply is respectfully
submitted to the Council order dated April 30,
1934, which reads as follows:
That the Overseers of Public Welfare be in-
structed, through his Honor the Mayor, to advise
the City Council forthwith:
1. The number of recipients of aid from that
department still receiving aid as of April 1, 1934,
who have not been residents of Boston for five
consecutive years prior thereto.
2. Exactly what efforts, if any, have been
made by the Public Welfare Department to have
the proper city or town of settlement reimburse the
City of Boston for any and all payments made to
such recipients during the past five years.
3. What amount, if any, was collected during
1933 from other cities and towns to reimburse the
City of Boston for aid given.
4. What amount, if any, the City of Boston
paid during 1933 to reimburse other cities and
towns for welfare aid.
Answers.
1. 1,422 cases as of April 1, 1934.
2. A special division within the department in
charge of a supervisor and six assistants handle
all questions concerning cities and towns. This
work entails the sending of legal notices to the
city or town of settlement on all cases being aided
in Boston where there is the possibility of a settle-
ment elsewhere. In like manner, this division
is chargeable with the duty of denying liability on
notices received from other cities and towns in all
cases where definite proof has not been established
by the notifying city or town of a legal settlement
in the City of Boston. During the five-vear period
January 1, 1929, to December 31, 1933, the de-
partment collected the sum of $388,622.24 from
other cities and towns for relief to families and
hospital care, and during the same period paid
other cities and towns the sum of $271,803.96.
3. The amount collected from cities and towns
for relief to families and hospital care during 1933
amounted to $90,199.12.
JUNE 11, 1934.
228
4. The amount paid to cities and towns for
relief to families and hospital care during 1933
amounted to $57,496.54.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
INFORMATION FROM RECIPIENTS OF AID.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mavor, June 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of April 30, 1934, concerning certain
information to be obtained from every recipient
of aid in Ward 1.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
May 25, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The following reply is respectfully
submitted to the Council order dated April 30,
1934, which reads as follows:
That the Overseers of Public Welfare be in-
structed, through his Honor the Mayor, to obtain
from every recipient of aid in Ward 1, not later
than May' 10, 1934,
1. The signature of the recipient.
2. The present residence address of the
recipient.
Answers.
1. The signature of each recipient of relief
residing in Ward 1 has been secured and is a matter
of record in the office.
2. The present address of each recipient in
Ward 1 has been secured and is a matter of record
in the office.
Respectfully,
Walter V. McCarthy,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
CONVALESCENT HOSPITAL PROPERTY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Trustees of the Boston City Hospital,
relative to your orders of April 30, 1934, concerning
the disposition of the so-called Convalescent
Hospital property on Dorchester avenue.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, May 24, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — At a meeting of the Board
of Trustees held today, two orders adopted by the
City Council on April 30 were presented, one in
which the trustees are requested to provide for an
early sale of the so-called Convalescent Hospital
property on Dorchester avenue, and the other
requesting the trustees to open the hospital.
The trustees have in the past given careful
consideration to the reopening of the Convalescent
Home, and further consideration was given at
today's meeting.
The annual cost of maintaining the Convalescent-
Home during the last five years that the home was
open averaged $20,364.48.
While the home could normally care for thirty-
four persons, it was rarely more than half filled,
due to the difficulty in persuading patients who
were about to be discharged from the Boston City
Hospital to go there for convalescence.
The trustees, therefore, have again decided not
to reopen the home and believe that it would be
wise to dispose of same.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
Placed on file.
Later in the session Coun. MURRAY requested
that the message in regard to the Convalescent
Hospital property on Dorchester avenue be read
again. This was done.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, in answer to
that report of the trustees in regard to the dis-
position of the Convalescent Hospital property on
Dorchester avenue, I think the Trustees of the
City Hospital and the Mayor are" inconsistent,
inasmuch as they claim that the City Hospital
is being greatly handicapped in caring for the
chronic sick, with all the other work it has to do,
but instead of fixing up this Convalescent Hospital,
the only one of the kind in the City of Boston,
they now refuse to do anything about it. We now
have no Convalescent Hospital, and I suppose if
anybody is convalescing there is nothing for him
or her to do but go out on the street and die or go
down to Long Island.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I just want to
agree with my colleague when he says that the
Hospital Trustees and the Mayor of Boston are
inconsistent, owing to the fact that this is the oniy
convalescent hospital we have in Boston, and
that our own City Hospital is overcrowded. I
claim that that Convalescent Hospital should be
opened immediately, regardless of what the cost is.
Coun. GOLDMAN — Mr. President, very briefly,
I regret to say that I cannot agree with either of
my two colleagues. That Convalescent Hospital
has never been used. Patients would not go there,
but preferred to convalesce in the hospital where
they had received treatment; and I understand
that the trustees, instead of refusing to allow
patients to convalesce in the City Hospital, have
been allowing them to do so. So I don't think
the trustees should be condemned, but that they
should be commended for their action.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, the colleague on
the left intimates that the Convalescent Hospital
has never been used. To my knowledge it has
been used for the last forty or fifty years. It is
only in the last two years that it has been aban-
doned out there.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Elizabeth L. Curcio, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 14 Bunker Hill street, Charles-
town, caused by demolishing of adjoining premises.
Mrs. Clare Hamman, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at Washington
and Atherton streets.
Harvard Transportation Company, for com-
pensation for damage to truck by city truck.
Joe Kendzerski, for compensation for collapse of
water boiler at 7 Denton road, Allston, caused by
water being shut off.
Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Com-
pany, for compensation for damage to property at
51 Cornhill, caused by bursting of water main.
Grace McCarthy, for compensation for injuries
and damage to property caused by an alleged
defect in Chester street.
William F. Murphy, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Chapman
street.
William Oneel, for refund on refuse tickets.
Alice Rees, for compensation for injuries caused
by falling limb of tree.
Selden Radio, for compensation for damage to
property caused by water entering premises.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
Ellen F. Carney, Orient Palace Theatre, June 25.
Anne M. Lord, Highland Club, June 12.
Petition of Frank Riseman, laborer in Health
Department, to be retired, under chapter 705,
Acts of 1914.
Margaret A. Baldwin, to be paid an annuity on
account of death of her husband, William A.
Baldwin, late member of the Fire Department.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The constables' bonds of Sherman H. Calder-
wood, Louis Budd, Michael F. Simmons and
Francis J. Tobin, having been duly approved by
the City Treasurer, were received and approved.
229
CITY COUNCIL.
APPOINTMENT OF ACTING INSTITUTIONS
COMMISSIONER.
Notice was received from the Mayor of leave of
absence granted Dr. Frederic A. Washburn from
June 18 to August 16, inclusive, and of appoint-
ment of Dr. Francis X. Mahoney as Acting Insti-
tutions Commissioner in his absence.
Placed on file.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENT.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor June 4, 1934, of Mary Zaks, to be a Weigher
of Coal.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots 18; yeas 17, nays 1, and the
appointment was confirmed.
REIMBURSEMENT OF JOHN DOOCEY.
Coun. ENGLERT offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of the City
of Boston hereby approves the enactment of legis-
lation authorizing the reimbursement of John
Doocey for injuries received by being struck by a
golf ball at Franklin Park; provided that such
legislation contains a referendum to the Mayor and
City Council.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SAND BOXES, JEFFERSON SCHOOL
PLAYGROUND.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the School Committee be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to arrange
for the installation of see-saws and sand boxes in
the Jefferson School playground.
Coun. DOHERTY— Mr. President, last week a
youngster in that district was drowned in a pond
up near the Thomas Plant factory, right next to
the Jefferson School Playground. He was the
third child who has been lost there in the last
few years. There is a ledge right next to this
pond, and last Saturday I saw a youngster fall
from the top of the ledge and strike his head, and
he is now at the Children's Hospital suffering from
a fractured skull. I think pretty nearly every
Park Commissioner or School Committee that has
ever had charge there has wanted to do something
to make this place safe. At the present time it is
nothing but a menace to the community. You
see, there is no place for the children to play,
nothing for them to do. and the result is that they
get fooling around on the top of the ledge, and
are sometimes apt to get into the pond. If this
order goes through, there will be something there
to amuse and interest them.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
APPROVAL OF CHAPTER 268.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That chapter 268 of the Acts of 1934,
entitled, "An Act providing for Construction of a
Car Stop in the Extension of the Boylston Street
Subway under Beacon Street in the City of Bos-
ton," be, and hereby is, accepted.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. President, this particular
order is introduced at this time in behalf of a cer-
tain section of Boston which happens to be in my
district. Some time ago this particular section
was not treated very fairly when the extension
was built on the Kenmore subway station. At the
present time that extension runs from Kenmore
square out Beacon street, with an exit beyond
Audubon road. Prior to the building of this
subway there were car lines on Beacon street run-
ning all the way in and out of the Kenmore sta-
tion. With the building of the station the ear
lines were taken away, the street resurfaced and
the car stops also taken away. The people of that
particular section of Boston, in a closely settled
area, are interested in approximately $5,000,000 of
taxable property. There have been various hear-
ings regarding this subway, and after consideration
at the State House and hearings of various com-
mittees the bill was finally passed and now has
the signature of the Governor attached to it. It
now comes before this body for approval. I may
also state, on behalf of the iesidents of that sec-
tion, that they not only wish for a subway entrance
between Kenmore station and the exit now above
Audubon road, but they ask for a transfer passage-
way below the street surface which will enable the
people of that district to cross from one side to the
other without taking their lives in their hands
and without the liability of being killed or injured
by fast-traveling autos. There have been six
deaths in this area and about thirty injuries, and
approximately one thousand prosecutions for vio-
lation of automobile traffic rules. The people of
the section, who are interested in maintaining their
homes there, and who pay heavy taxes on those
homes, have asked for this subway to be built.
I assume that the proper procedure on this par-
ticular order is to refer it to the Executive Com-
mittee. I have quite a little data regarding this
particular request that I shall be pleased to submit
to the Council in executive session.
The order was referred to the Executive Com-
mittee.
SLUM REMOVAL LEGISLATION.
Coun. SELVITELLA, for Coun. Green, offered
the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
request his Honor the Mayor, to ask the Governor
to send a special message to the Legislature, before
prorogation, asking him to speed up and pass
before adjournment, any and all bills pertaining
to Slum Removal.
In connection with the above order, Coun.
SELVITELLA asked that the following be in-
cluded in the record:
Copy of editorial in Boston American June 8,
1934.
After the State of Illinois passed a law authoriz-
ing the acceptance of federal money for the clear-
ance of slums by the construction of modern dwell-
ings for the poor, the city of Chicago was alloted
$20,000,000.
The City of New York has received .$25,000,000,
and has begun the clearance of slums in the con-
gested tenement districts.
What have we done in Massachusetts?
Absolutely nothing.
We not only have not received a penny of federal
money for this wise and humanitarian effort; we
have not yet enacted a state law which would
permit us as a civic corporation to accept the
national government's aid in the matter.
We have been asleep or unintelligent. It is
not the former, because the proposed law has
been offered to the Legislature and has been dan-
gling there like the inanimate Sacred Cod that
hangs over the House of Representatives. We
have been dumb.
The money is available to us at Washington.
We have been too thoughtless to perform the
simple act that would open our treasury to it.
We have been guilty of an economic blunder,
because we know we will have to pay our share in
taxes of the funds that are advanced to other
Commonwealths.
We pay our share anyway, and derive none of
the advantages of it.
Our legislators appeal In the "poor people"
at election time. They go into the tenement
areas, mount the soapboxes and shed crocodile
tears for the poor working men and their families
who live in backward areas that are all but unin-
habitable.
On the other 364 days in the year, they forget
that the working man is alive, and they care less
about the conditions in which he dwells with his
wife and children.
They could pass this housing bill in a day if
they had any genuine interest in the fate of the
poor people.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
PURCHASES FOR PUBLIC WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request the
Overseers of Public Welfare to consider the advis-
ability of having all purchasing of articles for the
Welfare Department turned over to the Purchasing
Agent of the city.
JUNE 11, 1934.
230
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request the
Overseers of Public Welfare to purchase all coal
used by the department at wholesale and the
deliveries of said coal to recipients be made by the
department itself.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, ROXBURY.
Coun. ENGLERT offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to install
traffic signals at the corner of Boylstoh street and
Amory street, Roxbury.
Pased under suspension of the rule.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON
APPROPRIATIONS.
Coun. NORTON, for the Committee on Ap-
propriations, submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred May 28) appropriating $1,000,000 for
Public Welfare Department (Dependent Aid,
$750,000; Mothers' Aid, $125,000; Old Age
Assistance, $125,000), recommending that same
ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the question came
on the passage of the order.
Coun. TOBIN— Mr. President, the report of
the Appropriations Committee covers the amounts
pending in the City Council for the Public Welfare
Department at the present time in the amount of
$1,485,694.50. This amount is shown on page 12,
line 13, of Document No. 61, covering the general
appropriation for the entire city. The amount is
shown in this column for the purpose of giving
the entire picture of the city's finances to the
members of the City Council. The appropriation
for the Welfare Department, however, is a separate
item which was submitted to us on May 7 as a
result of an order which I introduced sometime
ago, and which was passed by the Council, calling
upon the Overseers to submit their budget in
advance of the regular budget for the entire city.
That being so, the reasonable thing to do after
the hearings held on the budget was for the com-
mittee to submit the Welfare budget separately
and recommend its passage at today's meeting.
On May 7 the Council approved appropriations
totaling $5,600,000 for relief disbursements by
the Public Welfare Department. With these
appropriations the department was given sufficient
funds to cover all relief payments from the first
of the current year to the middle or end of the
present week. From the information presented
to the Committee on Appropriations it is evident
that the $5,600,000 will be all used by the end of
this week. In order that the department may
not be forced to suspend relief payments because
of lack of funds, your committee recommends
that the Council approve, at today's meeting, an
additional relief appropriation of $1,000,000, an
amount which in all probability will cover the
relief requirements of the department until the
middle of next month. This will permit the
department to carry on for another month without,
interfering with the necessary disbursements.
It wijl also give us further opportunity to study
the rest of the city budget for the requirements of
the other departments. The remaining sum,
shown on page 12, of $485,694.50 is for the main-
tenance of the department, on which your com-
mittee also recommends passage at today's meet-
ing. This is for the mai ntenance of the department
itself. In discussing the $1,000,000 appropriation
for relief disbursements, it is only fair to call to
the attention of the Council the entire program
this year proposed for making funds available for
the department for relief disbursements. On page
12 of the printed budget, on line 14, under the
heading of "amount remaining available for appro-
priation," the figures are $2,582,361.55. This
item is shown in the summary by departments of
the Mayor's budget recommendation. It shows
that this amount remains still available for appro-
priation within the tax limit. The committee
has been informed that in all probability $2,000,000
will be allocated at a later date to the Welfare
Department for relief purposes, making a total
budget appropriation for welfare relief disburse-
ments in 1934 of $8,600,000. As a budget appro-
priation this latter amount will be included in the
tax levy of the current year and account for
approximately $5.16 in the tax rate. According
to the chairman of the Overseers of the Public
Welfare Department the total relief disbursements
of the department in 1934 will approximate
$12,500,000 as against $13,618,223.54 in 1933.
The total appropriation for the Welfare Depart-
ment in 1934 will in all probability be in the
vicinity of $13,000,000 as against $14,095,656.93
in 1933. It is our understanding that the difference
between the total budget relief appropriation and
the total anticipated relief disbursements, or
approximately $4,000,000, will be secured by the
City of Boston, by taking advantage of chapter 49
of the Acts of 1933, which permits municipalities
to borrow from the Commonwealth for main-
tenance expenses an amount not in excess of the
total amount of tax titles held by the city. Since
at the present time Boston holds over $5,000,000
in such titles, it is evident that the borrowing of
$4,000,000 is feasible. This borrowing will later
on have to be approved by the City Council so
that none of our rights are jeopardized, and the
money is secured by the city issuing notes to the
Commonwealth and not to private corporations or
individuals. The notes will be general obligations
of the city, and the indebtedness incurred by the
city under this procedure will not be within the
tax limit. The advantage of this particular
borrowing is further evidenced because it will not
add to the funded debt of the city and, hence,
will not add to next year's tax rate, except for
interest payments. If it were a funded debt an
amount would have to be provided for in the tax
levy to reduce the serial requirements. Every
collection made on the tax titles is turned over
to the state and hence reduces the principal. It
should also be pointed out that the borrowing
from the Commonwealth under the provisions of
chapter 49 does not let the city open to subsequent
financial control by the state. The committee also
recommends that the Council approve at this
meeting the regular maintenance budget sub-
mitted by the Mayor for the Welfare Department
for the year 1934 totaling $485,694.50. The
committee has been influenced in making this
recommendation, first, by the fact that this
department budget was received by the Council on
May 7, three weeks in advance of the regular
budget; and secondly, by the feeling that the
present Board of Overseers of the Welfare Depart-
ment should not be hampered by lack of funds in
carrying out their proposed reorganization plans.
With reference to this statement about hampering
the department, we should bear in mind that
under the provisions of this year's tax limit bill
departments are authorized to expend in anticipa-
tion of the passage of the budget an amount not
in excess of one half of their departmental appro-
priations for 1933. The present month of June,
as we all know, marks the end of just half of the
current year. Departments, therefore, are very
close to the limit of expenditure which may be
made prior to the passage of the budget. Under
circumstances like that before us, the departments,
in order to protect the pay rolls, would hold back
money to cover the pay rolls, and not expend
money on other items. In this particular instance
the department would probably hold back on the
expenditure of money for furniture, supplies and
equipment for the district offices that have been
proposed, and by doing so would hold back on the
redistricting plan itself because the initial district
set-up is going to be expensive, as each office will
have to have furniture and supplies of some sort.
It is very desirable for the Welfare Department to
know as soon as possible just what they can plan
on expending for the present year. The depart-
ment is now ready to decentralize the granting of
aid and is about to establish district offices through-
out the city._ Naturally, the decentralization will
involve considerable expense in the fitting out of
these district offices. There is danger that delay
in the passage of the maintenance budget of the
department will prevent the department from
proceeding further with its reorganization plans.
In the firm belief that decentralization will con-
siderably improve the administration of the
Welfare Department, your committee recommends
the maintenance budget of the Welfare Department
be given prior consideration to the other depart-
mental budgets. We feel that such a recommenda-
tion is justified in order that those at present in
charge of the Welfare Department, who con-
stitute a new Board, with new leadership and a
new policy, may be free to proceed without delay
or hindrance in the important work of reorganiza-
tion in the granting of relief to the people of our
city.
231
CITY COUNCIL.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I am glad to
hear this, although I would like to have a little
more time to digest it. I am a little bit disillu-
sioned, because, after listening to the speeches that
were made in the campaign I was led to believe
that it was against the cardinal principles of proper
financing to borrow to any extent for running
expenses. If I gather the real meat of what we
have just heard correctly, I understand that we
are again to borrow at least some part of the
expense of running the Welfare Department for the
current year. I was naturally encouraged in
reading the morning papers to see that the Mayor
was going to keep one of his campaign pledges, to
the extent that the step-rate increases were to be
recognized in accordance with his platform, and,
perhaps with selfish interest, I drew the conclusion
that the saving that could be made by the reduction
of 2,200 welfare receipients in the last thirty days,
amounting to about $10 each per wreek, making an
annual saving of SI, 000, 000, was even so quickly
recognized by giving these step-rate increases to
employees of the City of Boston. I am willing to
agree, after this long expose of why we should,
before voting for the general budget, vote these
items for the benefit of the Welfare Department,
that perhaps we should do so. I believe the
present Welfare Board is endeavoring to do its
best and that we should give it further encorage-
ment, without at this time voting the entire amount
in which recipients of welfare are concerned. I
would, however, be glad, in accordance with the
usual custom, to hear the sentiments of the chair-
man of the committee on the subject.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, my sentiments
are well expressed in that document. The Welfare
Department at the present time is attempting a
tremendous job, the reorganization of the depart-
ment. With that end in view they are asking for
this million dollars for payment to welfare recip-
ients, and for $485,000 for maintenance, so that
they may get started. I have no reason why they
should not receive that money at the present time.
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, in answer to the
councilor from Ward 17 (Coun. Wilson), may I
state at the present time that we are not voting
for the entire welfare budget? We are voting
81,000,000 for relief disbursements for one month.
And we are not this year changing the policy of
any other year in borrowing for maintenance of the
department itself. What I said in that respect
merely related to relief disbursements. The
maintenance of the department itself will go
through as in other prior years. I merely want to
have it made clear that the about $500,000 for
maintenance of the department is for the pay roll
of the department and for the expense of carrying
out the new plan.
Coun WILSON — Mr. President, I appreciate
the explanation, but the record is not yet entirely
clear in this matter, and I wish to have any mis-
apprehension removed. Of course, we are voting
the million dollars for welfare. My reference to
borrowing was only to the fact that I was a little
disappointed to hear that again this year we were
borrowing to meet part of the current expenses of
operating the government, in view of what we had
heard during the campaign; that I was a little
disappointed and surprised to learn that, in spite of
many statements we heard from different can-
didates in the last campaign, we are still going to
borrow some money for operating expenses for the
city Welfare Department, in an effort, I presume,
to keep down the tax rate on the property owners
in this particular year, even though in a short time
it will simply mean putting that amount into
future expenses of the city for running the govern-
ment todav.
The $1,000,000 loan order for relief in the Welfare
Department was passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred June 11) appropriating $485, 6114. 50 to
meet current expenses, Welfare Department, —
recommending that same ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the question
came on the passage of the order.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I wonder if
the chairman of the Committee on Appropria-
tions would kindly inform me, or anybody else
who does not know about it, why should not the
whole budget be passed upon at this time?
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I feel that
perhaps the colleague here (Coun. Tobin) can
answer that question. While I was appointed
to the position of chairman of the committee,
I have been demoted apparently by the chief
executive, and I had just as soon have the repre-
sentative of the executive, who has seen fit to
recognize some one other than your chairman,
answer those questions.
Coun. ROBERTS— Well, Mr. President, it
seems that the committee has seen fit to send
in a separate appropriation for this department,
apart from the entire budget, which is a very
unusual procedure, and I think the best thing for
us to do at the present time is to send the present
order to the executive session. I so move, sir.
The order was referred to the Executive Com-
mittee.
HOSPITAL SERVICE OF
FOOD.
'KOSHER"
Coun. GOLDMAN and Coun. BRACKMAN
offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Trustees of the City Hospital to make ade-
quate provision for the serving of "Kosher food,"
in conformance with the Jewish dietary laws, to
hospital patients of the Hebrew faith.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS, WARD 14.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor direct the
Traffic Commissioner to install traffic signal lights
at the northwest corner of the intersection of
Hazleton street and Blue Hill avenue, in Ward 14.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIXTH GRADE, CHARLES LOWE
SCHOOL.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the School Committee to consider the advisa-
bility of conducting a sixth grade at the Charles
Lowe School.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ARC LIGHT, SOUTH BOSTON.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install an arc light at the corner of Bateman
place and N street, South Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BRANCH WELFARE OFFICE, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
establish a branch office in a central location in
Ward 7 when the proposed plan of decentralization
is put into effect.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC CONDITIONS, COLUMBIA ROAD.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to make a
survey of traffic conditions along Columbia road,
South Boston, from H street to N street, and
report to the City Council relative to same, for
the purpose of relieving congestion due to the
parking of automobiles along this area while the
owners are bathing at the various beaches.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PAYMENT OF CITY HOSPITAL INTERNES.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital be -requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to consider the advisability of paying
internes at the City Hospital at least one dollar a
day to cover all necessary expenses.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
JUNE 11, 1934.
232
FEDERAL EMERGENCY RELIEF RULING.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to communicate with Federal Emergency
Relief Administrator Harry Hopkins in an effort to
have him modify his ruling so that those working
on the School House project may receive more
pay than that of laborer.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BEACON LIGHT, WARD 16.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
a traffic beacon at the junction of Lenoxdale
avenue and Milton street, Ward 16.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CITIZENSHIP OF DR.
EINSTEIN.
ALBERT
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Council of Boston be
requested to consider the advisability of approv-
ing the bill now before the Congress of the United
States that would make Dr. Albert Einstein a
citizen of the United States of America.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Public Welfare,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
look into the advisability or probability of supply-
ing milk to welfare recipients at 8 cents a quart.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, there are
fifty-three milk stations in New York City at the
present time delivering milk to welfare recipients
at eight cents a quart. I believe that that is a
system which might well be adopted here. It
would mean a saving of thousands of dollars on
milk alone in the welfare budget.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
USE OF HIGH SCHOOLS AS JUNIOR
COLLEGES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Boston School Committee,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
consider the advisability of using the Boston high
schools, at hours when they are not in use for
regular school purposes, for the purpose of teaching
junior college subjects to those, who because of the
depression, are unable to continue on after finishing
their high school education.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, it is estimated
that in Boston today we have over twenty thousand
graduates of high schools who had intended going
on through college. By reason of the economic
depression they are deprived of that opportunity.
Our schoolhouses are closed during most hours
of the day. It would appear that instead of losing
this high school training of a college nature it
would be advisable for these young men and women
to make up subjects that will eventually be credited
to them in their college course. In other cities of
America there are afternoon and evening courses
arranged, with competent teachers and professors
who give their services free, in carrying on what
are known as junior college courses. Young men
or young women who are out for a year or two
from school, who have planned a college career,
find that there is much that they lose and have
to make up. Here is a chance to afford an oppor-
tunity to these young men and women, so that they
will not have to give up their idea of going to
college, simply using our high school buildings
and perhaps grammar school buildings, with a
teaching corps of competent professors and high
school instructors who will give their services,
thus filling this gap and supplying this need which
exists at present. We have here handy the leading
universities of New England, with competent
high school teachers and professors who will
gladly give their services. It will afford an oppor-
tunity to these pupils to keep up, continue their
education, in the courses which will be necessary
to them if they are to enter college.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 3.15 p. m., on motion of
Coun. FISH, to take a recess subject to the call of
the Chair. The members reassembled in the
Council Chamber and were called to order by
President DOWD at 4.42 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
Ellen F. Carney, Orient Palace Theatre, June
25; Anne M. Lord, Highland Club, June 12—
recommending that leave be granted under usual
conditions.
The report was accepted and leave granted
under usual conditions.
2. Report on petition of Catherine M. Hanley
(referred April 2) to be paid annuity on account
of death of her husband, George J. Hanley,. late
member of the Boston Police Department, recom-
mending passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
182 of the Acts of 1930, as amended by chapter
241 of the Acts of 1930, an annuity of fourteen
hundred dollars be allowed and paid to Catherine
M. Hanley, widow of George J. Hanley, a member
of the Police Department, who died on March 20,
1934, from injuries received in the performance of
his duty, said annuity being made up of allowances
as follows:
For the widow, Catherine M. Hanley, so long
as she remains unmarried, SI, 000 per annum.
For each of the following- named children,
during such time as he or she is under the age of
eighteen or over said age and physically or men-
tally incapacitated from earning, S200 per annum:
Eleanor M. Hanley, born August 25, 1920; Eunice
A. Hanley, born January 3, 1925, —
the payments to date from March 21, 1934, and
to be charged to the appropriation for Police
Department, Pensions and Annuities.
The report was accepted and the order passed.
3. Report on petition of Mary J. F. Clark
(referred October 9, 1933) to be paid annuity on
account of death of her husband, John C. E.
Clark, late member of Boston Police Depart-
ment, recommending the passage of accompanying
order, viz.:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
182 of the Acts of 1930, as amended by chapter
241 of the Acts of 1930, an annuity of one thousand
dollars be allowed and paid to Mary J. F. Clark,
widow of John C. E. Clark, a member of the
Police Department, who died on May 16, 1933,
from injuries received in the performance of his
duty, said annuity to date from May 17, 1933,
to continue so long as said widow remains unmar-
ried and to be charged to the appropriation for
Police Department, Pensions and Annuities.
The report was accepted and the order passed.
4. Report on petition of Frank Riseman
(referred today) to be retired under chapter 765
of Acts of 1914, recommending passage of accom-
panying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the Retirement Board for Laborers
be hereby authorized and requested to retire
under the provisions of chapter 765 of the Acts of
1914, as amended by chapter 63 of the Special
Acts of 1915, Frank Riseman, employed as a
laborer in the Health Department, who has been
in the service of the city continuously for more
than fifteen years and who is permanently in-
capacitated for further employment.
Report accepted: order passed.
5. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) appropriating S4S5.694.50 to
meet current expensjs Welfare Department —that
same ought to pass.
The report w'a's accepted and the question came
on the passage of the order.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I don't
know whether I have any objection to this particu-
lar item or not, but I understand that when wc
adjourn today we are going to meet next Wedues-
233
CITY COUNCIL.
day, and I am wondering if there is any reason
why this item should not be voted upon along with
the rest of the budget, at that time. In my
experience in the Council we have never taken an
item such as this one, for the employees of the
Welfare Department, and segregated it, taking a
separate vote upon it, and I see no reason why
we should do so at this time. So I make a motion
that we lay this matter on the table until the next
meeting, when, I understand, we are going to vote
upon the whole budget, Wednesday of this week
The two days' delay, to my mind, can make no
possible difference.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. President, I ask unani-
mous consent to speak on the motion to lay on the
table.
President DOWD — If there is no objection, the
councilor may proceed.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. President, sitting in with
the Committee on Appropriations the other day
on this particular item, I discussed the same point
that Councilor Roberts has just raised. In view
of the explanation given to the committee at that
time by the Budget Commissioner, Mr. Fox,
however, I withdrew any objection I might have
to the separate consideration of this item. He
explained very satisfactorily to me, and I believe
to the rest of the councilors present, the status of
the Welfare Department at the present time and
the necessity of having these funds to carry on
with. Inasmuch as there has been a very promising
change made in the department, and inasmuch as
they anticipate decentralizing the department
and having more employees to do the work, I then
agreed with the committee^ and I am now going
to vote for this particular item.
Coun. ROBERTS— Will the previous speaker,
the councilor from Ward 21, yield for a question?
Coun. AGNEW— Certainly.
Coun. ROBERTS — My only question — un-
fortunately I was not present in the committee at
the time — is this. I would like to know why
action upon this particular item at this time is so
imperative, when it will simply mean otherwise
a delay of two davs, or, in fact, of one day?
President DOWD— The Chair will rule that
Councilor Roberts' motion to lay on the table
until the next meeting is not debatable.
Coun. Roberts' motion to lay the item on the
table was declared carried. Coun. TOBIN
doubted the vote and aBked for a show of hands.
The Council voted 8 in the affirmative and 10 in
the negative, and the motion to lay on the table
was lost.
The order was passed, yeas 17, nays 2:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish, Gleason,
Goldman, Green, Kerrigan, McGrath, Murray,
Norton, Selvitella, Tobin — 17.
Nays — Coun. Roberts, Wilson — 2.
6. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) transferring $1,000 from appro-
priation for Highland Park, Improvements, to
appropriation for Animals, Birds, etc., Park De-
partment,— that same ought to pass.
The report was accepted, and the order was
passed, yeas 19, nays 0.
7. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) appropriating 85,000 to be ex-
pended by Park Commissioners for transporting
of children, under Randidge Fund, for recreation
purposes — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; order passed, yeas 19, nays 0.
S. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) appropriating $2,000 to be ex-
pended by Municipal Employment Bureau —
recommending that same ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the question came
on the passage of the order.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President,, I have been
opposed to this Bureau for several years. Under
the previous administration it proved ineffective,
and of no value whatsoever. I, in company with
yourself, Mr President, have continued the fight
against it. Now, under a reform Mayor, we again
have this Municipal Employment office question
before us. It was proposed in executive session
that we have a hearing and that they come before
us to prove what they have been doing. I am
perfectly willing to give them a chance to do some-
thing, or to show that they have done something,
if such has been the case; but I must, especially
at a time like this, vote against this appropriation.
Coun. FISH— Mr. President, owing to the fact
that a certain charge was made in executive, called
to our attention by one of our members, that, the
director is using this office for the benefit of his
family, his wife running an employment bureau,
I move that the matter lie on the table.
The motion to lay on the table was declared lost.
Coun. FISH doubted the vote and asked for a roll
call.
Coun. GREEN — Mr. President, I rise to a
question of information. I would like to know
the status of the employees of the Bureau if we
do not take any action?
President DOWD — They will have no money
at the end of the week.
The motion to lay on the table was lost, yeas 4,
nays 14:
Yeas — Coun. Englert, Fish, Roberts, Selvitella
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Finley, Gleason, Goldman,
Green, Kerrigan, McGrath, Murray, Tobin,
Wilson — 14.
The order failed of passage (fifteen votes being
required), yeas 14, nays 5:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Finley, Gleason, Goldman,
Green, Kerrigan, McGrath, Murray, Tobin,
Wilson — 14.
Nays — Coun. Englert, Fish, Norton, Roberts,
Selvitella — 5. »
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I move
reconsideration and assignment to the next meet-
ing.
President DOWD — The question comes on
reconsideration.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, I raise a
point of order, that Councilor Brackman's motion
was to reconsider and assign to the next meeting.
President DOWD — As a matter of fact, it is
necessary to separate the questions, as the coun-
cilor's motion embodied two questions. The first
question is on reconsideration.
The motion to reconsider the passage of the
order was declared lost. Coun. SELVITELLA
doubted the vote and asked for the yeas and
nays.
Coun. Brackman's motion to reconsider pre-
vailed, yeas 12, nays 6:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Finley, Gleason, Goldman,
Green, Kerrigan, McGrath, Tobin — 12.
Nays — Coun. Englert, Fish, Murray, Norton,
Roberts, Selvitella — 6
The motion to assign to the next meeting was
carried.
REPORT ON TAX ABATEMENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
The Finance Commission, June 11, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Your honorable body requested
the Finance Commission by an order adopted on
April 16 "to investigate all abatements made by
the assessors from January 1, 1934, to April 15,
1934, and report to the City Council concerning
the granting of such abatements on all properties
valued in excess of $20,000, and report also on the
names of the firms or individuals petitioning for
such abatements." In reply thereto, the commis-
sion makes this report.
At the time the Council adopted the above
mentioned order, the commission had already
begun to obtain from the Assessing Department
information in regard to abatements granted
between September 1, 1933, and December 31,
1933, similar in scope to that requested by the
Council in regard to later abatements; but whereas
the Council in its order requested information
concerning abatements granted on property
throughout the city, the work started by the
Finance Commission was confined to abatements
granted in Ward 3, the downtown ward.
The commission has decided to turn over to the
City Council, therefore, all the information us it
appeared, whether or not specifically required by
the order adopted by the Council.
In offering this information the commission
desires to make plain a few important points in
regard to it. In the first place, to investigate
every abatement of the nature specified by the
Council and to offer an intelligent opinion in
regard to each, which, it would appear from the
wording of the order, .is what the Council re-
quested, would entail the expenditure of more
time and money than the commission has at its
disposal.
In the period covered by this report the com-
mission has listed more than two thousand abate-
.TUNE 11, 1934.
234
ments granted by the Assessing Department.
In many cases one abatement covers several
parcels. To pass upon the propriety of the
action of the assessors in each case would mean
necessarily that the commission must hire several
real estate experts and practically duplicate the
procedure of the State Board of Tax Appeals in
examination of the claims of the petitioners in
every case. It is obvious that such a procedure
would require the commission to sit daily, full
time, for many months and necessitate a kind of
review of a city activity that it would not" be
reasonable to expect the commission to undertake.
The only report, therefore, that the commis-
sion can within reason make, in reply to the order
adopted by your honorable body, is to list the
abatements as they were granted with certain
identifying detail which is important, but without
any reference to the merits of the decision of the
Assessing Department.
In Ward 3, between September 1 and December
31, according to information obtained by the
Finance Commission from the Assessing Depart-
ment, it appears that the assessors granted abate-
ments of taxes on the ground of over-valuation
totaling $805,393.93. In addition, the assessors
granted abatements of taxes totaling $(54,747.07
during this period on the authority of the State
Commissioner of Taxation in cases where the
assessors were willing to compromise old tax bills.
In the same ward, between January 1 and April 15,
1934, the assessors granted abatements of taxes on
the ground of over-valuation totaling $340,259.62.
In the entire city, according to information
given the Finance Commission by the Assessing
Department, between September 1 and Decem-
ber 31, 1933, the assessors granted abatements of
taxes for all causes totaling $1,775,932.91. In the
entire city between January 1 and April 15, 1934,
the assessors, according to information given the
Finance Commission, granted abatements of taxes
for all causes totaling $713,800.39.
These figures, of course, include large and small
abatements and, therefore, these totals are not of
the particular classification specified in the Council
order.
Another thing to remember is that many of the
abatements granted in both the periods compared
are not solely due to decisions of the Assessing
Department. Some are the result of specific order
by the State Board of Tax Appeals and others
are the result of agreement between the city and
petitioners while petitions for abatements of pre-
vious years' taxes were pending before that Board
The records of the action of the Assessing
Department on abatements have not been kept
in such form as to make it possible to obtain all
important information, or information such as
your honorable body requested, in the period
covered by this report. Just as often as not peti-
tions for abatements fail to contain the information
as to who actually appeared in the Assessing
Department to obtain the abatement. On every
petition, of course, appears the name of the party
to whom the parcel is assessed. In many cases
it is assumed that the owner actually applied
because there is no other information on the
petition, but the Finance Commission has been
informed by members of the Board of Assessors
that the person who interceded for the abatement
frequently has not been the owner and yet, no
record of this person's identity was kept in many
cases.
Another consideration is that some one person
has represented several parcels, many of which
individually have been assessed below the figure
specified by the Council in its order, but which in
the aggregate will exceed the valuation of $20,000
mentioned. The record of abatements granted,
however, shows each unit by itself. If the parcels
thus included in the request for abatement are in
separate wards, the assessors' records appear in
separate books without special indication; if in
the same ward, often the parcels covered by one
person's request for abatement are separated
without special indication if ownership is in differ-
ent names, and often are separated if ownership
of two or more parcels is in one name.
The difficulties of obtaining a true list of abate-
ments granted, with such special information as
your order specifies, have been found by the
Finance Commission to be such that the only part
of it that can be furnished with any degree of
reliability is the total of them. To separate
exactly what was specifically ordered by the
State Board of Tax Appeals from what was part
of an agreement while the case was pending and
from what was given by the Assessing Department
without suggestion or pressure in any way from
the State Board of Tax Appeals either cannot be
done, or would require more time and effort than
would be justifiable at the present time.
A further statement seems necessary to explain
properly the abatements shown as having been
granted under the authority of the State Tax
Commissioner. In these cases the petitioner was
delinquent for more than one year. For purposes
of convenience, the assessors applied the abate-
ment granted to the tax of only one year.
With these reservations and explanations the
commission submits:
(1) A list of abatements appearing in the records
of the Assessing Department as granted between
September 1, 1933, and December 31, 1933, in
Ward 3 on parcels of valuation in excess of $20,000,
or where the same petitioner appears for a group
of parcels which total in valuation $20,000 or more.
(2) A list of abatements appearing on the
records of the Assessing Department as granted
between January 1, 1934, and April 15, 1934, in
the whole city on parcels of a valuation in excess
of $20,000, or where the same petitioner appears
for a group of parcels which total in valuation
$20,000 or more.
Respectfully submitted,
Joseph J. Leonard, Chairman,
Joseph A. Sheehan,
Joseph Joyce Donahue,
Charles M. Storey,
The Finance Commission.
Robert E. Cunniff,
Secretary.
Placed on file.
CONFIRMATION OF CONSTABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN, for the Committee on
Constables, called up, under No. 2 on the calen-
dar, unfinished business, the following names of
men appointed by the Mayor as constables on
June 4, to serve civil process, and moved their
confirmation:
Maurice W. Danburg, 7 Outlook street, Dor-
chester; Samuel Gordon, 16 Auburn street, Bos-
ton; Salvatore Grassa, 71 Saratoga street, East
Boston; Jacob DeMask, 943 Hyde Park avenue,
Hyde Park; Max Rabinovitz, 36 Wilder street,
Roxbury; Israel Speetor, 148 Quincy street,
Roxbury; Louis Gorfinkle, 67 Brooker street,
Roxbury.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finley and Green. Whole number
of ballots 17, yeas 15, nays 2, and the appoint-
ments were confirmed.
In connection with the above, Coun. GOLD-
MAN stated that the men named have filed their
questionnaires and completed all requirements.
CONSTABLE COMMITTEE REPORT.
Coun. GOLDMAN, for the Special Committee
on Constables, submitted the following report
showing the constable status to date:
April 16, 1934, Mayor appointed 156
June 4, 1934, Mayor withdrew 5
151
June 4, 1934, Mayor appointed 24
Total 175*
Report.
A April 23, Council confirmed. . . 104
B April 30, Council confirmed. . . IS
C May 7, Council confirmed. . . 9
D May 21, Council confirmed. . . 2
E June 4, Council confirmed. . . 1
F June 11, Council confirmed. . . 7
141
Non-appearance before committee
after notice 10
157
Not appearing before committee
as not notified IS
175
Report accepted.
* Allowed by ordinance.
235
CITY COUNCIL.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted the following:
1. Report on petition of Edmund Currie (re-
ferred \l;i\ 7) io It reimbursed i<>r a in <ii
execution issued against him on account of his
acts as driver of motor vehicle belonging to San-
itary Division of Public Works Department,
recommending passage of accompanying order,
viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred forty-
nine dollars and twelve cents be allowed and paid
to Edmund Currie in reimbursement for the amount
of an execution issued against him on account of
his acts as operator of a motor vehicle belonging
to the Sanitary Division of the Public Works De-
partment, September 20, 1933, said sum to be
charged to the Reserve Fund.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I would
like to know from the chairman of the committee
when the meeting of the committee was held? I
happen to be a member of that committee and this
is the first notice I have received of the report.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, this is a
matter that has been pending since 1933, and I
believe it was approved by the committee some
time ago. My impression is that it was approved
by the Law Department.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Was the committee
polled?
Coun. BRACKMAN— The committee was
polled on this particular measure some time ago.
Coun. SELVITELLA— How long ago?
Coun. BRACKMAN— At the time we had
about twenty claims, and that was one of them.
I think it was about a month ago.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Well, I have no knowl-
edge of any such meeting.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Well, I am not insistent
about putting the thing through today. I am
perfectly willing that my colleagues shall have an
opportunity to go over this claim either now, while
this meeting is on, or at some later day.
Coun. SELVITELLA— As a member of the
committee, Mr. President, I think I ought to
have an opportunity to examine into claims that
have been approved. I would like to glance over
this.
President DOWD — The councilor can move
that the claim be recommitted to the Committee
on Claims.
Coun. SELVITELLA— I do, sir. The matter
was recommitted.
Adjourned at 5.10 p. m., on motion of Coun
NORTON, to meet on Wednesday, June 13, 1934
at 10 a. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
236
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Wednesday, June 13, 1034.
Adjourned regular meeting of the City Council
in the Council Chamber, City Hall, at 10 a. m..
President DOWD in the chair and all the members
present.
THE BUDGET.
Coun. NORTON, for the Committee on Appro-
priations, submitted the following:
The Committee on Appropriations, to which
was referred on May 21 and May 28, respectively,
the budget recommendations of the Mayor for
the County of Suffolk and City of Boston, having
considered the subject, respectfully recommends,
with certain members reserving their individual
rights, that the same ought to pass as submitted.
For the Committee,
Clement A. Norton, Chairman.
Amounts Allowed for 1934.
Art Department SI
Assessing Department 277
Auditing Department 68
Boston Port Authority 34
Boston Retirement Board : . 28
Boston Traffic Commission 119
Budget Department 9
Building Department 150
Board of Appeal 13
Board of Examiners 4
City Clerk Department 37
City Council , 70
City Council Proceedings 10
City Documents 25
City Planning 19
Collecting Department 164
Election Department 2S1
Finance Commission 49
Fire Department 3,732
Wire Division 75,
Health Department S21
Hospital Department 2,918
Sanatorium Division 545
Institutions Department:
Central Office 40,930 10
Child Welfare Division 303,390 81
Long Island Hospital 6S5.253 42
Steamers "Hibbard" and
" O'Meara" 44
Law Department 113
Library Department 1,050
Licensing Board 40
Market Department 13
Mayor's Office 81
Public Celebrations 15
Conventions, etc 5
Park Department 1,123
Cemetery Division 105
Police Department 5.00S
Public Buildings Department 459
Public Welfare Department:
Temporary Home 12.S40 00
Wayfarers' Lodge 20,355 00
Public Works Department:
Central Office 70
Bridge Service 364
Bridges, Repairs, etc 75
Ferry Service "308,
Ferry Improvements, etc 20
Lighting Service 964
Paving Service 90S.
Sanitary Service 2,156
Sewer Service 479
Registry Department 53
Reserve Fund 450
Sinking Funds Department
,610 00
,835 75
,361 50
,333 60
,850 00
,953 00
,945 00
,095 00
,194 75
,416 00
,180 00
,561 22
,462 50
,000 00
,170 00
S63 60
,716 88
,250 00
,344 5S
170 00
,910 00
;,971 45
,850 00
,120 3S
,266 00
,265 00
015 00
141 29
860 17
.urn
000 00
S10 00
,659 50
,500 00
409 00
1,347 00
,SMi llll
5,000 00
./HI- llll
i. mm mi
,172 00
i,450 00
,179 00
,sr,n mi
,885 2S
1,000 00
:,515 00
Soldiers' Relief Department $876,765 00
Statistics Department 6,921 76
Street Laying-Out Department. . . 151,025 00
Supply Department 49,166 12
Treasury Department 72,676 59
Weights and Measures Depart-
ment 41,390 00
Total departmental allowances. . S25, 636,007 25
Amount previously appropriated
for snow removal 750,000 00
Amounts previously appropriated
for Public Welfare Depart-
ment 7,0S5,694 50
Amount remaining available for
appropriation 2,582,361 55
Amount available for appropriation
inside tax limit S36,054,063 30
City Debt Requirements.
. .. Sll,055,210 28
Suffolk Countv Courthouse, Cus-
todian 5245,163 17
County Buildings 96,915 00
Jail 212,936 75
Supreme Judicial Court 52,964 50
Superior Court, Civil Session, Gen-
eral Expenses 452,953 50
Superior Court, Civil Session,
Clerk's Office 148,667 60
Superior Court, Criminal Session. . . 466,085 26
Probate Court 25,158 33
Municipal Court, City of Boston, 369,S1S 20
Municipal Court, Charlestown
District 27,013 11
East Boston District Court 28,256 42
Municipal Court, South Boston
District 26,172 49
Municipal Court, Dorchester Dis-
trict 34,290 63
Municipal Court, Roxbury Dis-
trict S1.915 30
Municipal Court, West Roxbury
District 29,449 10
Municipal Court, Brighton Dis-
trict 17.S62 05
Boston Juvenile Court 24,294 70
District Court of Chelsea 33,376 82
Registry of Deeds 153,832 03
Index Commissioners 19,628 90
Insanity Cases 32,105 00
Land Court 5,030 00
Medical Examiner Service, North-
ern Division 21,370 00
Medical Examiner Service, South-
ern Division 14,445 00
Associate Medical Examiner Serv-
ice, Northern Division 1,858 50
Associate Medical Examiner Serv-
ice, Southern Division 1,733 00
Miscellaneous Expenses:
Auditing Department 79S 00
Budget Department 1,255 00
Collecting Department 1,190 00
Sheriff 3,650 00
Treasury Department 5,049 96
Granite Avenue Bridge S.61S 91
Social Law Library 1,000 00
Penal Institutions Department:
Office Expenses 32.S60 00
House of Correction 430,350 66
Steamer "Michael J. Perkins" . . 55,890 2S
S3.163.95S 17
County Debt Requirements S152.375 17
Printing Department $412,130 00
City Record, publication of $31.SS6 SO
Public Works Department:
Water Service S992.500 00
Water Income Division 232,500 00
Collecting Department:
Water Division 72,700 00
Water Service, Debt Require-
ments 63,728 25
S1.361.42S 25
Public. Works Department: — —
East Boston Traffic Tunnel $99,600 00
237
CITY COUNCIL.
RECAPITULATION OF AMOUNTS ALLOWED FOR 1934.
From taxes:
Public Welfare and Snow Removal appropriations previously voted. . . $7,835,694 50
City Maintenance Requirements 25,630,007 25
City Debt Requirements 11,055,210 28
City total $44,526,912 03
County Maintenance Requirements $3,163,958 17
County Debt Requirements 152,375 17
County total 3,316,333 34
City and County total $47,843,245 37
From revenue:
Printing Department $412,130 00
City Record, publication of 31,886 80
Water Service 1,361,428 25
East Boston Traffic Tunnel 99,600 00
$1,905,045 05
Grand total $49,748,290 42
BASIS OF ESTIMATES, 1934.
Average valuation, $1,843,744,900.
$17 on the thousand brings $31,343,663 30
Estimated ways and means 4,710,400 00
Amount available for appropriation inside tax limit $36,054,063 30
Ways and Means other than Taxes for 1934.
An estimate of the ways and means, other
than taxes, of meeting expenditures of the City
of Boston and County of Suffolk for the year
ending December 31, 1934:
Building Department $30,000 00
City Clerk Department 27,000 00
Collecting Department 47,000 00
Fire Department 60,000 00
Health Department 24,000 00
Hospital Department 300,000 00
Institutions Department 8,900 00
Interest 650,000 00
Library Department 23,000 00
Licensing Department 45,000 00
Liquor Licenses 1,000,000 00
Market Department 92,000 00
Mayor 58,000 00
Park Department 85,000 00
Pedlers' Licenses 4,000 00
Police Department 58,000 00
Public Buildings Department 18,000 00
Public Welfare Department 1,600,000 00
Public Works Department 160,000 00
Registry Department 21,000 00
Soldiers' Relief Department 95,000 00
Street Laying-Out Department. . . 40,000 00
Weights and Measures Depart-
ment 14,500 00
County of Suffolk 250,000 00
$4,710,400 00
Appropriations and Tax Orders for the
Financial Year 1934.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, for performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City Council
during the year, upon the City of Boston, or
County of Suffolk, or the departments or officers
thereof, and to meet the obligations for interest
on debt, sinking fund requirements and maturing
debt not provided for by sinking fund, the respec-
tive Bums of money specified in the tables and
schedules hereinafter set out be, and the same
are, hereby appropriated for the several depart-
ments and for the objects and purposes hereinafter
stated.
Ordered, That the appropriations for Water
Service, current expenses, and the payment to
the state under the provisions of chapter 488 of
the Acts of 1895, and acts in addition or amend-
ment thereto, and for the interest and debt re-
quirements or for loans issued for water purposes
be met by the income of said works and any excess
over income from taxes; that the appropriation
for East Boston Traffic Tunnel be met by the
income from tunnel tolls and any excess over
income from taxes; that the appropriation for
Printing Department be met by the department
income and any excess over income from taxes;
and the appropriation for City Record be met by
the income of said publication and any excess
over income from taxes; that the other appropria-
tions hereinafter specified be met out of the in-
come of the financial year beginning January 1,
1934, and the balance from taxes to be assessed
on the polls and estates of the City of Boston.
Ordered, That all sums of money which form
no part of the income of the city but shall be
paid for services rendered or work done by any
department or division for any other department
or division, or for any person or corporation other
than the City of Boston, be paid into the general
treasury, and that all contributions made to
any appropriation be expended for the objects
and purposes directed by the several contributors
thereof.
Ordered, That all taxes raised to meet the
appropriations of the city and county and all
taxes assessed for meeting the city's proportion of
the state tax for the year 1934 be due and pay-
able on the fifteenth day of September, 1934;
that interest shall be charged on all taxes remaining
unpaid after the second day of October, 1934, in
accordance with the provisions of chapter 59,
section 57, of the General Laws, until paid, except
the taxes assessed upon shares of national banks,
which shall bear interest at the rate of 12 per cent
per annum from the fifteenth day of September,
1934, until paid; and that all interest which shall
have become due on taxes shall be added to and
be part of such taxes.
Ordered, That except aB the appropriation for
any purpose or item shall be increased by additional
appropriations or transfers lawfully made, no
money shall be expended by any department for
any of the purposes or items designated in the
tables and schedules hereinafter set out in excess
of the amount set down as appropriated for such
specific purpose or item.
The report was accepted and the question camo
on the passage of the budget.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I am going to
be very brief, as I believe we have all made up
our minds as to the positions we are going to take.
My position, primarily and fundamentally, is this,
that we are spending more money than we are
receiving, and we are simply postponing the day
of judgment when we muBt inevitably face facts.
If we do not face them now, we will have to do so
later on, when it will mean chaos. "Later on,"
I believe, means the ending of 1934 or surely in
1935. It will mean chaos for city employees; it
will probably mean that we will be held up on
the matter of welfare for unfortunates. It will
mean that the entire financial structure of the
city will be in jeopardy. No man or no city can
spend more than it is receiving. The budget
should be returned to the Mayor with a request
that a million dollars be cut from it. Two-thirds
of the requests can be granted now. The Appro-
priations Committee might then work with the
Mayor on the balance over a period of months.
It is unfair to ask the Appropriations Commissioner
JUNE 13, 1934.
238
to cover over 350 items in a few days. The
budget calls for over $800,000 more than last
year's budget. It means a true tax rate of about
S39. Only S7,100,000 has been appropriated for
welfare in this budget. Where is the difference
coming from? The Mayor has not definitely out-
lined in writing his plan. Welfare expenses will
run up over S12,000,000 this year in Boston.
Orally, the Budget Commissioner has explained.
This is the chief weakness of this budget. The
Council is on a par with the Mayor in the matter
of the budget. The budget is the chief function
of the Council. Only a few days ago did the
Council Committee receive the full printed, docu-
mented budget. The city is spending beyond its
means. This means financial chaos by the end of
1934 or surely in 1935. In 1932 the city had a
floating debt of S8,000,000. This is most unusual.
In 1933 this amount was S13, 500,000. Floating
debt means generally the temporary loans that the
city doesn't pay back in the year in which the
money was borrowed. This year the floating debt
will be even higher. Boston now has approxi-
mately $17,000,000 in uncollected taxes. Boston
is now borrowing at low rates of interest, but this
is so of even New York City which has an acute
financial problem. Money today is scared away
from the stock market, there is little industrial
• long-term financing, and tax-exempt Municipal
bonds and other obligations are preferable. But
this won't last. It may change next month.
Last year's appropriation limit was 336,750,000.
Every cent was appropriated. Last year the city's
debt requirements called for §9,555,000, making a
total of S46,705,000 in the Mayor's budget. This
year, with a Mayor pledged to economy, elected
on that platform, the tax limit set by the Legisla-
ture allows the Mayor to appropriate S36,054,000.
Debt requirements call for Sll,055,000. Interest
on temporary borrowings will run up to at least
S400.000, making a total of S47, 509,000. The
Mayor must face the issue now. To postpone it
means chaos. We are spending more than we are
receiving. To continue means bankruptcy. It
means payless pay days, discharges and general
confusion. It means the welfare recipients, the
poor, may have to suffer. Now is the time to
face the facts. Otherwise, we will face them near
the end of 1934, and surely in 1935, and most
surely during the remaining years of Mayor
Mansfield's administration.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I will try to
be reasonably brief, although I know of no reason
why the Council should endeavor to hurry on the
most important matter that will come before us
for the entire year 1934. But for the purposes of
the record, and to explain the vote I intend to
cast in this matter, unless some constructive sug-
gestions are made by the committee, I will make
this statement. For the year 1933, the final year
of former Mayor Curley's last term, the budget
presented by the Mayor, after paring slightly over
five million dollars from departmental estimates,
as shown by Document 56 of 1933, and as passed
by the City Council, amounted to 836,750,000.
After relief requirements of the Public Welfare
Department had later required loans totaling
S4, 100,000, I understand expenditures for the year
amounted to S40,928,835. During the hectic
autumn days of 1933, incident to the city election,
the voters were told, (1) that the mortgaging of
the future by borrowing to pay current operating
expenses in any one year was financial folly leading
to eventual bankruptcy; (2) that there was no
real need for further pay cuts or discharges among
city employees and, in fact, no need for a continua-
tion of the 5 to 15 per cent salary and wage reduc-
tions which went into effect by executive order of
April 21, 1933, because (3) some 65 per cent of city
expenditures was directly due to graft, waste and
corruption in our city government. We, therefore,
started the year 1934 with a new deal. There
would be no borrowing of money to take care of
the current operating expenses of this year with
money to be paid back in the future; city and
county employees could feel secure for the future;
and taxes would presumably at once reflect the
saving of the millions formerly squandered each
year wastefully and corruptly! We, therefore,
have before us Document 61 of 1934, the budget
for the first year of the new era. It may be that
present economic conditions make the proposed
financial policy for this year necessary or advisable,
just as in the past. But let us face the issue. Let
us not attempt to decoy the taxpayers of Boston
into any belief that heroic savings have been
effected. City Document 61 of 1934 isn't a budget;
it's the expression of a hope! Setting it up under
the name of a budget, without some added explana-
tion, is like trying to sell a pair of No. 6 shoes to a
man with size 8 feet! The Mayor says, on page 10
of the budget, dated as late as May 28, 1934: "It
will be noted from the foregoing table that despite
material increases in snow removal costs and debt
requirements for the current year, the estimated
net budget requirements for those divisions of the
tax rate determined under the direction of the
Mayor indicate at the present moment a reduction
in excess of $300,000 from similar requirements at
this time last year." Those words "indicate at the
present moment" have a world of meaning. In the
first place, a reduction of S300.000 represents not a
65 per cent reduction from the 1933 figures, but
nearer .007 per cent! But I don't want to linger
long on that 65 per cent story. No one ever
seriously believed that. There are two far more
important issues. First, are the reductions from
last year's figures the result of ferreting out waste
and fraud? Second, is this a budget, viz., does
Document 61 even roughly represent what it
will inevitably cost to run the city this year?
Consider the first question. What are some of the
items that are reflected in the 1934 reductions, —
such as they are? (A) The 5 to 15 per cent pay
reductions, first made effective on April 21, 1933,
for about two thirds of last year, when made
effective for the entire year 1934 mean close to
$800,000 additional cut. (B) The large amount of
repair work carried on in city departments so far
this year under C. W. A. and E. ft. A. projects, it
is stated, make possible reductions totaling
S285,000. (C) Because of the reported uncer-
tainty, as late as May 28, regarding the amounts
of loans issued in anticipation of taxes and for
P. W. A. projects, and the interest requirements
for those loans as well as the East Boston Tunnel
bond issue, no appropriations for those purposes
are submitted for the present. The final and
most important issue of all, is whether the present
appropriation order is really a budget, honestly
calculated to balance contemplated 1934 depart-
mental expenditures against anticipated 1934
revenue, — independent of later special loans, or
some change in the tax law, as earlier suggested
by Councilor Shattuck this year. The total appro-
priations recommended for 1934 amount to
S36,054,063.30 as against some forty-four millions
requested in original department estimates. This
item definitely allocates only $7,085,694.50 to the
Public Welfare Department. Even adding to
welfare the Mayor's entire suspense item of
$2,582,361.55, makes only S9,668,056 available
for a welfare budget which the Overseers themselves
estimate will perhaps equal thirteen million, viz.,
SI, 100,000 less than in 1933. The suspense item
can't all be used for welfare, but even if it could,
there is still a $3,330,000 spread. Take just one
other department, such as the Police Department.
Even ignoring the eleven sergeancy and 215 patrol-
man vacancies, the Police Commissioner stated
flatly that the $550,000 cut in his estimates would
not permit him to properly operate the depart-
ment, and his representative stated that un-
doubtedly $250,000 of the present cut would be
absolutely required later in the year. In brief,
on the present Bet-up, we are upwards of four million
short. Some of that I believe will be saved in the
proposed purging of the welfare lists, — but not all.
And the interest requirements on the P. W. A.
project loans, and on the East Boston Tunnel
and other 1934 loans, are still to be taken care of.
If further cuts cannot be made in the budget, and
if in 1934 we must again revert to the financial
policy of borrowing against the future to pay the
current bills of the present, and if the 1934 tax
rate is to be held down by that method, then all
concerned should be sufficiently on the level witli
the taxpayer, and with the employees of the city,
to admit that the new deal is still the old deal ,
even if it is a new deck of cards. It was with
that in mind, and although I am not a member of
the committee, that I yesterday suggested to the
Appropriation Committee the advisability of
inviting, the Mayor to confer with the committee
as to what the real financial program of 1934 is to
be. I of course, am not so impractical as to have
expected the Mayor to sit in day after day with
the committee on detail work, but I do feel that
the Mayor and the City Council should not be at
arm's length in the consideration of iniportant
questions of general policy. And I believe that
neither the Mayor nor the City Council, nor both,
should attempt to make the public believe that
the expenses of operating the city have been sub-
239
CITY COUNCIL.
stantially reduced as the budget taken alone
would imply, or attempt to make the public
believe that the financial policy of borrowing to
pay current expenses has been abandoned for one
moment.
Coun. SHATTTJCK— Mr. President, this budget
was submitted to your Committee on Appropria-
tions in installments, beginning about two weeks
ago, but the printed document, containing all the
details and showing the picture as a whole, so far
as it is shown, was not submitted until last Thurs-
day, six days ago. So we have but six days to
examine this voluminous document as a whole.
Now, what do we find? This budget is based on
a deficit. Only a little over seven million has
been appropriated for Public Welfare, and the
amount still available for appropriation within
the tax limit is only $2,582,000. If all of this were
added to the appropriation, the total would be onlv
a little over $9,500,000. Last year the Welfare
Department expenditures were over fourteen
million. This year it is estimated that they will
be at least twelve million. We have already
spent about half that sum. It is apparently
proposed to use two million of the reserve for
welfare and to borrow three to four million to
cover the rest that is needed. Some of the balance
of the unappropriated reserve (about $100,000,
I believe) is to be used for restoring step-rate
increases to those employees on the city budget
who formerly were on a graded salary scale.
What is to be done with the $400,000 or more
remaining we haye not been told. I am opposed
to any more bond issues to meet operating
expenses. We are already too heavily bonded.
The annual debt-service charges have reached the
huge total of eleven million. Of this, about
$1,800,000 is attributable to the operating expense
borrowings of last year. The inevitable result
of following this course is bankruptcy. The
Mayor is aware of all this, and in his budget has
made some cuts in appropriations, but, in my
opinion, he has not gone far enough. There are
still many departments which are overmanned.
The Fire Department is a notable example. There
are still some activities which are let out on con-
tract which might be attended to by persons who
are on the pay roll and not fully employed. The
welfare problem has only recently received the
attention it deserves. I am satisfied that a more
vigorous pruning might reduce the budget outside
of welfare expenses by $750,000 to $1,000,000, and
that it should be possible to cut welfare expenses
below $12,000,000. The savings from consol-
idation of departments have not yet been explored.
In these and other ways the indicated deficit of
about $3,500,000 should be cut to about $2,000,000.
I do not propose that any essential service shall
be given up. I merely suggest that we cut out
the waste, even if by doing so we disturb the
positions of some individuals who have jobs in
departments which do not need their services.
There probably is waste to the full amount of the
indicated deficit of three and one-half millions,
but some of it cannot be removed at once. Fur-
theremore, our dilemma arises in large part from
the volume of welfare payments due to unem-
ployment, and from the heavy debt charge, much
of which is due to past folly. The real estate tax
has reached the point of diminishing returns. We
have already demonstrated the fact that a higher
rate will not produce more revenue. Tax delin-
quencies increase as the rate goes up. If we make
a further cut of about one and one-half million
in the budget (including welfare), as I believe we
can, for the reasons stated above, — our problem is
only partly solved. We should still need two
million more to balance our budget without bor-
rowing, and the real estate tax would still be more
than the traffic will bear. The remedy for this,
in my opinion, is new sources of taxation other
than real estate. Unfortunately, the Federal
Government has seized the principal other sources
of taxation to such an extent as to leave small
pickings for state and municipal governments.
Under the new deal, the Federal Government has
dealt to itself the aces and the picture cards. We
should demand some of these for the essential
service of local government, but in the meantime
we must do what we can with the pickings. I
repeat the suggestion that for this purpose we
insist on a temporary increase, say for two years,
in the state corporation and individual income
taxes, the proceeds to be divided among the cities
and towns. If a 50 per cent increase were made,
this would raise the individual rates from 6 per
cent to 9 per cent on income from dividends and
interest, from 1| per cent to 2^ per cent on earned
income, and from 3 per cent to 4J per cent on
gains. Boston's share would be about three mil-
lions. This, with the budget reductions suggested
would wipe out the deficit and leave about one
million toward a lower real estate tax than would
otherwise be required. Neither retrenchment nor
an increase in income taxes on top of those we
already have, even though temporary, is pleasant.
But, circumstanced as we are, waste is indefensible,
and payment of our bills as we go is better in the
long run than drifting into bankruptcy. The
present tax limit is based on the assumption that
part of our operating expenses will be met from
borrowing. This should be amended at once, and
at the same time the Legislature should provide
additional revenue, at least in the amount indi-
cated, for the relief of stricken real estate. This
will not only help Boston, but will also help every
other city and town in the state. For the reasons
stated, I cannot vote for the budget in its present
form. Some of the changes needed — as, for ex-
ample, raising the welfare appropriation to an
amount sufficient to cover estimated expenditures,
and taking the whole amount from current revenue
— are beyond the power of the Council. Others —
such as careful downward revision of all items in
which waste can be found — involve a detailed
study for which the Council has no adequate
facilites and has been given no sufficient time.
Others involve legislation. The only course open,
therefore, appears to me to be absolute rejection
of the budget as submitted, or resubmission to
the Mayor for further consideration along the
lines indicated. I am agreeable to either of these
courses.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, it is not
necessary to inform any of the old members of the
Council, those who have served here for more than
one term, that the principal matter to be acted
upon by this Council is the budget, and that after
the budget is passed, there is very little power that
the Council has. In Document No. 1, I will refer
to the inaugural address of his Honor Frederick
W. Mansfield. On page 2 he says:
"It is not my intention to accept a tax rate
increase without great effort to prevent it. I shall
undertake every proper effort at the city's disposal
to keep the tax rate at the lowest possible figures.
Non-welfare expenditures can be cut down; this
will be done. Welfare expenditures are, of course,
too definitely bound up with economic trends all
over the nation to permit any definite promise.
The result, as far as those two items are con-
cerned, is evidenced in Document 61. I would
refer again to page 3 of the inaugural address:
"In 1932 the tax rate was $35.50. A reduction
to $32.80 was effected in 1922, but this figure did
not represent the true state of affairs. The
reduction of $2.70 was far more than accounted
for by two loans and a grant, a municipal relief
loan of $3,500,000, a Welfare Department loan of
$3,800,000, and a Federal welfare grant of
$1,994,000, or a total of $9,292,000."
That is what the Mayor said at the inuguration
this year, in January, but when it came to sub-
mitting the budget, after numerous radio addresses
in which he broached the matter of reducing the
tax rate in the City of Boston by small discharges
in a few of the departments, although naturally
some constructive work might have been expected,
such work does not seem to be reflected here.
What he complains of in his inavigural with ref-
erence to the Curley administration does not
seem to have been remedied in this budget. I
submit that this budget message should be sent
back to the Mayor and that he should be given an
opportunity to refer to his inaugural address and
also to his campaign promises in the line of re-
ducing the tax rate in the City of Boston before
the budget is taken up and acted upon by this
body. I propose to vote against the budget.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, as a
member of the Committee on Appropriations I
want to make my position very clear in voting in
favor of this budget. As a new member of the
Council I do not pretend to know the technical
operations in budget making. Neither am I
going to give the Mayor of Boston an opportunity
to have a Roman holiday by discharging ruth-
lessly and relentlessly city employees, in addition
to those who have already been treated in a ruth-
less manner, an opportunity of which he might
take advantage if the suggestions advanced by
some members of the committee were put in
operation. I read with interest this morning the
reported statement of the Mayor that it would be
JUNE 13, 1934.
240
his pleasure to have this Council reduce the
budget. Of course, it would be his pleasure, and
it would simply mean another holiday for the
Mayor in going ahead and discharging employees.
For that reason, I am going to vote for the budget,
but with certain reservations, and I think it is
within our rights to direct attention to certain
departments where we believe — or, at least, it is
my opinion — that savings might be effected. I
am going to direct your attention to the budget
for the Long Island Hospital. There we are
told that budget includes two newly created
positions that have never before existed in the
City of Boston, — first, the Superintendent of
Works at Long Island, a position never heard of
before, at $2,500 per annum, to which, I suppose,
are added his food, heat, light and power. Then
the Mayor has seen fit to appoint an assistant to
the Medical Director at Long Island, another
position that was never in existence before. At
this particular institution the Mayor has used
the pruning knife to reduce expenses, exercising
an apparent economy, but what he has done in
reality is to take from one pot and put into another
one, saving enough to take care of his friends
through the creation of two new jobs. I have
no objection particularly to the creation of jobs,
because I would like to see everybody get a job.
But I would like to direct your attention to what
has happened in the food item at Long Island
Hospital. The budget comes before us with an
estimated figure of $212,500 for food during this
year. That figure was submitted by the head of
the department. The Mayor then cut that food
budget down to $175,000, which means that almost
25 per cent has been taken off the food for the in-
mates at Long Island, despite the fact that Com-
missioner Washburn before the committee said that
the number of inmates had increased 10 per cent in
the first four months of the year. But instead of
increasing the estimated allowance submitted to
the Mayor, we find that the food budget has been
cut 25 per cent, despite the 10 per cent increase in
the number of inmates at the Island. So I am
going to vote for the budget with the reservation
that at least $4,000 be stricken from the budget
for the Long Island institution, abolishing the two
newly created jobs, for which money has been
saved at the expense of the poor, suffering inmates
of that institution.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, if in order
at this time, in order to expedite business, I would
like to offer a motion to the effect that this budget
be sent back to the Mayor with the request that
more time be allowed to study the budget and
that the Mayor and the Appropriations Com-
mittee work together to see if we cannot find
ways and means of reducing the budget.
The question came on Coun. Norton's motion.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I have
no objection to recommittal to the Mayor, but
I do object to the terms upon which the recom-
mittal is suggested. I believe that the straighten-
ing out of this budget is largely a responsibility
of the Mayor, as I said before. Many of the
things that have to be done are things that this
Council cannot do. They involve, for instance,
raising the appropriation for welfare up to the
amount that is actually going to be spent, so
far as can be estimated. Instead of providing
in the budget for that purpose about $7,000,000,
we all know that that amount is a great deal
less than will be spent, and there is the question
of providing ways and means for raising the amount
of money that is really going to be spent. I
have no objection to referring it back to the
Mayor, but I don't think it should be referred
back to the Mayor simply so that he may sit
down and confer. 1 think he has to do some
work himself.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I shall be
glad to amend my motion, adopting Councilor
Shattuck's suggestion in regard to ways and
means for obtaining new revenue, and for the
consideration of various matters that he has
suggested. In other words, I believe there should
be a general review of this whole business.
President DOWD — Will the councilor please
specify the motion that he desires the Chair
to put?
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, it would
read as follows: "Ordered, That the City Council
of Boston returns the Mayor's 1934 budget to
the chief executive with the suggestion that more
time be allowed for further study of that budget."
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, speaking on
that motion, I object to it on two grounds. I will
reiterate what I tried to say yesterday and what
I said earlier today, that I think the Council
and the Mayor should not deal at arm's length. I
think the Mayor should lay his cards on the table;
I think the Appropriations Committee and the
other members of the City Council and the tax-
payers should be told what the proposed financial
policy of the city for 1934 is to be, and what the
plans of the Mayor are, — whether he intends to
float loans to pay current expenses or whether he
intends to comply with the request made here
awhile ago that an attempt should be made,
through the Legislature, to aid us through legis-
lative sources. I think he should confer with
the Council on questions of policy. I believe that
the Mayor should sit in with the Committee on
Appropriations. I agree with the Mayor's re-
ported statement that the Council have some
duty in the matter of rejection of items in this
budget, and I believe that the Mayor should sit
in with the committee. But I do not believe we
should toss the budget back in the Mayor's lap
simply with the suggestion that he shall take
$1,000,000 more out of the appropriations. If
there were a conference, we might agree upon
items, and it is a fact that we can reduce, but we
have no right to increase a single item. But I
can't see what will be accomplished by simply
throwing it back to the Mayor and asking him to
reduce. A conference upon the whole thing,
having in mind possible increases and reductions,
might accomplish something.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Can the President tell
what effect it will have on departments if this
budget is not passed this morning?
President DOWD — In the event of the budget
not being passed before Tuesday of next week,
some of the employees in departments of the city
will not receive anv salaries.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I would
move to amend the order offered by the councilor
from Hyde Park (Coun. Norton) by substituting
the following: "Ordered, That the budget be
returned to the Mayor for further study and for
revision, so as to bring about all possible economies
and to produce a balanced budget."
President DOWD — Does the councilor from
Hyde Park (Coun. Norton) accept that amend-
ment?
Coun. NORTON— Yes, Mr. President.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I am
opposed to the motion made by the councilor
from Hyde Park and amended by the councilor
from the Back Bay. This is the latest <late I can
remember that a budget has ever been submitted
to the Boston City Council, and I am unalterably
opposed to further delay in passing the budget.
The budget is the life blood of the city. If the
Committee on Appropriations has not by this late
date been able to sit down with the Mayor on
these questions that have been suggested, I think
it is evident that they have been somewhat derelict
in their duty; and I do not think they should at
this late stage of the game expect the Council to
aid them in trying to send back or delay this
budget. I am opposed to the shutting down of
city departments or to having employees go pay-
less while the Council is playing with the budget.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, while I am
not a member of the Committee on Appropria-
tions, and while they are able to defend them-
selves, I believe it is a little unfair to blame them
for any delay in this matter, bearing in mind the
fact that they received the budget three weeks
later than any budget has ever been received in
the last ten years, as far as I know, and only
received the printed figures less than a week ago.
For that reason I believe criticism of the com-
mittee is a little out of order. I might say that
the Budget Commissioner stated to the com-
mittee that he would have available early this
morning, if we should need it, the information as
to the various departments that would go out of
business if this budget were delayed ten days or
two weeks.
Coun. Norton's motion as amended by Coun.
Shattuck was lost.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I have
another motion here that I would like to offer, if
in order. Under legislative enactment this year
we have been given authority to expend half of
last year's budget. There is now an opportunity
to pass a budget for eight months of the year.
The amount for six months has been practically
spent, or will be by July 1. Eight months would
bring the period through July and August. In
other words, if two-thirds of the year's budget is
241
CITY COUNCIL.
provided for at this time, it will give the Council
the opportunity in the next couple of months to
look into various matters concerning the finances
of the city under the Mayor's maintenance budget.
Therefore, if in order, I would respectfully in-
troduce the following order: "Ordered, That the
present budget be passed to the extent of two-
thirds of the amounts requested under the in-
dividual items as submitted to the Council by the
Committee on Appropriations."
The question came on the adoption of the order
offered by Coun. Norton.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I question
whether under the law we can do that. There
was some discussion of that point yesterday, if
I understood it correctly. Commissioner Fox
pointed out that under the special act of the Legis-
lature fixing the tax limit of the City of Boston
for this year, we were merely allowed to go for-
ward for six months on the basis of last year's
appropriation, that that was the limit; that we
had no power to go forward on that basis for more
than six months.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I don't un-
derstand that there is any law against passing an
eight months' budget, or even a monthly budget,
something that I had in mind last year. I cer-
tainly see no reason under the law why we cannot
pass at this time an eight months' budget. That
will give us an opportunity, working with the
Mayor and the Appropriations Committee, to see
if something cannot be done on the last four
months' budget. This budget means an actual
tax rate of $39 or more, and it certainly does seem
as if we should have an opportunity to look more
carefully into the financial condition of the city.
This is the one extremely important function in
the year of the City Council. The gentleman
from Ward 5 stated several years ago that after
we had passed the budget our work for the year
was practically finished. Now, if there is a possi-
bility here of passing an eight months' budget,
the Council will then have some opportunity to
examine into the situation confronting the city,
and we will be able to keep in touch with that
situation. I find no law preventing the Council
from passing a budget for two-thirds of the year.
Coun. Norton's order, that the present budget
be passed to the extent of two-thirds of the amounts
requested under the individual items as submitted
to the Council by the Committee on Appropria-
tions, was declared rejected. Coun. Roberts
doubted the vote and asked for the yeas and nays.
The order was rejected, yeas 2, nays 20:
Yeas — Coun. Norton, Roberts — 2.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish, Fitzgerald,
Gallagher, Gleason, Goldman, Green, Kerrigan,
McGrath, Murray, Selvitella, Shattuck, Tobin,
Wilson— 20.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I now press
the motion that the budget be -referred back to
the Committee on Appropriations with instruc-
tions to request the Mayor to confer with the
committee with reference to his financial policies
for the year 1934 — whether or not he has taken
any steps to comply with the suggestion that
Councilor Shattuck made earlier in the year, and
the possibility of further reductions in the 1934
budget.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I would like
to make a "maiden speech," if I may have the
temerity to do so at this time! I approve the
motion of the gentleman from Ward 17 (Coun.
Wilson), although when the final vote on the
budget is taken, today or a week from today, I will
most certainly vote for the budget, regardless of
the fact that I am not on friendly terms with the
gentleman who submitted it. But year in and
year out in this Council I have voted for certain
amendments to the budget that have been intro-
duced, and when those amendments have been
lost I have then voted for the budget; and I have
done so on the ground that it is absolutely ridicu-
lous to vote against the total budget. If the
budget is not voted for, the Hospital Department
will cease to function, the Fire Department will
cease to function, the Police, Sewer and other
departments so vital to the people of our city will
cease to function. Now, that brings us to this
point, sir, that for years across the street, in that
building over there, there was a Good Government
Association, which used to say that under Mayor
Curley 65 cents out of every dollar spent by the
city went for waste, graft and corruption. And
they used to say, "Allow us to go in there and
take charge of this government and we will show
you what we will do for the taxpayers of this city."
In the last mayoralty contest a gentleman by the
name of Mansfield campaigned through this city,
raising his right hand and saying, " I am an honest
man." Well, I always love to meet an honest
man. He said, "I am an honest man. I say to
you that 65 cents of every dollar contained in the
budget for the last four years has gone for waste,
graft and corruption, and if you elect me I will
immediately save the homes of the taxpayers of
this city by cutting out that 65 cents for waste,
graft and corruption." Six weeks ago, sir, I intro-
duced an order, which is in the records, asking two
questions — "Were those statements made by you
in the campaign unwarranted and false, or is
there still an amount of 65 per cent in this budget
as submitted by you that represents waste, graft
and corruption?" Up to the present time Mr.
Loeffler, the man who dictates the policies of this
administration, has failed to answer, or those
running the government have failed to pay any
attention to those questions. And so we turn to
the Good Government Association, which has been
in office across the street here for twenty years,
and ask, "What have you to say?" Well, we
find that they are disorganized, that they won
the fight and then ran away, and they tell us,
"There is a man from Detroit, named Loeffler,
whom you must hold responsible. It is true that
Sherman Shepard, for years the secretary of our
organization, is secretary of the new organization,
but we have washed our hands clear of the whole
affair. We have given you this man, and have
now walked out. You cannot hold us responsible.
We are out of it and have turned it over to the
gentleman from Detroit." Mr. Loeffler didn't
have a good job, this Thurston, this magician, and
so he was brought into the cabinet of his Honor
the Mayor. He then found that we had to close
the smallpox hospital to save $6,000, because
Loeffler said that the financial future of this city
was at stake. We were borrowing money for less
than 2 per cent, but yet the flag of panic was flying
from the top of this hall and we were told that it
was necessary to close that smallpox hospital,
because we couldn't find $6,000 to carry it on;
that it was necessary to jeopardize the lives and
health of little children there, subjecting them to
contact with contagious disease, because $6,000
could not be raised. We found that we couldn't
have ice water in the fountains when the tempera-
ture got up to 85 degrees above zero; that when
the thermometer got to 6 below zero a poor old
fellow, who had been a prosperous professional
man in his earlier days, had to be put out on the
streets to wander around, because we could not
find food for him. They found out that the
financial condition of the city was tottering, and
they took as Mayor a big man, an outstanding
man, a mental genius, an attorney, who knows all
things; because we have found in recent years
that if we want a man who can settle an estate
or run a steamship line, we must take an attorney.
And so we have down there a man who has been
the head of the Bar Association, a legal expert.
And so they decided that they could not find
$6,000 and had to close the smallpox hospital;
and because they could not find $5,000 they had
to stop icing the water in the fountains in hot
weather. And so we have this Mayor, who has
two hats, — a tall hat and a derby hat, although he
doesn't wear the derby very often, — and this
magician, this Thurston, reached into the closet
downstairs and took $480,000 that was in the
derby hat, in the closet, that they didn't even
know about, to appropriate for other purposes.
When they wanted to raise money for certain things
it could be found. For other things, the financial
future of the city was at stake, when it came to a
matter of paying for the food of a poor old profes-
sional gentleman who had seen better days, they
allowed him to wander out alone on the streets
when the weather was 6 degrees below zero. The
financial future of the city was then at stake, as it
. was at stake when the thermometer was 85 degrees
above zero, and the ice water was taken away
from the parched throats of the little children;
as it was at stake when it came to take care of
little children of big families by' the health nurseo,
the only mothers they knew. Loeffler said, "No,
you will never find that tender touch again, wo
must have economy." And nurses who had pre-
viously gone around in different sections of this
city, thirty-seven messengers of mercy, cannot go
into homes to give little children a bath or the
tender care and soothing touch of a mother. But
when political expediency called for it, $480,000
JUNE 13, 1934.
242
could be found to increase the salaries of those
already getting salaries; while forty-three men
were turned out of the City Hospital, seventeen of
whom applied to Public Welfare for assistance.
That was economy. That was the economy of
political expediency. When they sent up the trial
balloon and found that this man's administration
was the worst since that of George A. Hibbard,
they then resorted to the same practical politics
that the so-called gang fellows have always played
in the city. It is economy if it hits at the head of
a political enemy, but it is not economy if it
means that you are going to put fifty constables
who are friends of yours in jobs, or if you are going
to give a juicy contract to a fellow who has helped
you in politics, or a juicy position to a brother-in
law. And so from every platform in this city in
the last campaign, men who had been in this Coun-
cil for the last four years, as I was, — in two years
of which I occupied the position you now occupy,
Mr. President, as President of this body, — every
member who voted for the budgets that came in
was branded as a thief, because in those budgets
there was an amount of 65 cents in every dollar,
it was claimed, representing waste, graft and cor-
ruption. And this man who was elected Mayor
said, "I am an honest man. If I am sent to
City Hall as Mayor I will restore the salaries of
city employees. I will not cut the departments,
as those opposed to me say that I will. I will not
discharge employees. But I will, simply by giving
an honest administration, eliminate waste, graft
and corruption, thereby cutting the taxes. I will
restore pay and I will drive the chiselers out of the
bonding market, and there will be no such thing as
preferred contractors." The people took this
man at his word and elected him, sir, and we are
now living under a reform administration. You
are now seeing a reform administration that
throws all of these employees out of the hospital,
discharging health nurses, that attempts to close
the smallpox hospital, that takes away the ice from
the children, but that is willing to furnish S480.000
when it means votes and political preference.
And so the Good Government Association have
walked out, and have left this situation with us.
As for the Municipal Research Bureau, they were
invited to sit in with the Committee on Appropria-
tions and give the committee the benefit of the
knowledge they have. They have sent out volumi-
nous reports, they have told what they would do
were they in control of the situation, and the
chairman of the Appropriations Committee had
their representative sitting here every day look-
ing over the most highly segregated budget of any
big city in America in the hope of getting their
advice. They were told to put up or shut up, and
they didn't give any advice that amounted to a
single thing, sir. And we are now told to send
this back to the Mayor, with a blanket request to
him to cut off a million. What will he say? His
reply will be, "I can only do this at the expense of
salaries, and when the City Council ask me to
cut salaries I object," — because he is the same
Mayor, sir, who sent in to this body an appro-
priation of Si, 800,000 for a City Hall. He lobbied
every member of this Council, with few exceptions,
for that project, and we fought it. He finally
decided that he had better withdraw, quit, and
did so, and the following night he appeared as the
chief speaker before the Boston Real Estate
Exchange and misrepresented our position. There
is a great organization, sir, containing men from
Belmont, Needham and other places, who would
like to run our government. When you invite
them in here, as Mayor Curley said, to make
suggestions, they are away playing golf or having
an outing down at Swampscott. They cannot
get here when they are called on. But the Mayor
stood up before that body and said, "Do you
want to know what we are doing to reduce taxes
and relieve you people? Why, only yesterday I
took from that bodv a ridiculous appropriation of
$1,800,000 for a new City Hall." So they handed
the bag to the City Council and we were left
holding it, and in the minds of the small taxpayers
it looked as though this body had fought deliber-
ately to put over the very thing which they
defeated in spite of the lobbying of the man who
is Mayor. And if we sent this budget back to the
Mayor in any such way as is proposed here, he
would immediately continue in his capacity of
Doctor Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and declare that the
Council had requested him to cut further a budget
that had already been cut to the bone, in spite of
the fact, that he had cut only one per cent from it
and had left the other 04 per cent he talked about,
as representing waste, graft and corruption. He
will say, "Mr. President and gentlemen of the
Council, the only way I could cut would be to
take out of the pay of city employees, and if you
think I will ruin one home or cause discomfort to
one city employee, you are mistaken." The city
employees would then go out and say, "What a
horrible body that City Council is!" No. Mr.
President, I am a firm believer in giving to this
reform Mayor, the Municipal Research Bureau,
and the now defunct Good Government Associa-
tion— that will not be rehabilitated for three years
— full swing. They are in authority. Of course,
in three years the Good Government Association
will repudiate the present Mayor, as George A.
Hibbard was repudiated, and will back John Jones
or somebody else "to save the city," because the
present Mayor has failed. But while they are in
they are going to take the responsibility for the
budget and for other administration of city
affairs. They are then going to condemn them-
selves, even if they haven't the courage to say that
they made a mistake when they asked me and
other members of the Council to vote for a budget
"reeking of graft, waste and corruption." They,
Mr. President, are taking the responsibility. I
know those responsible for the election of Mayor
Mansfield, and they are already trying to get from
under. They say, "I had nothing to do with the
election," but they did. He is their baby, and
they are going to fondle him, cuddle him and stay
with him. No matter what sort of baby he be-
comes, they will have to stay with him and run
this city — without waste, graft and corruption,
showing what an honest, capable man, brought
from as far away as Detroit, can do for this city!
They have not saved one cent up to date. But the
thing will have to go on, and when the Good
Government Association and the Municipal Re-
search Bureau have used him, when they have
done with him, they will treat him as poor Hibbard
was treated. They will cast him aside and point
the finger of scorn at him as the horrible example
of what, a Mayor should not be. As I have said,
Mr. President, when this budget comes before us
for final passage, I shall vote for it. I do not
believe in sending it back to the Mayor. I believe
it should, rather, go back to the Committee on
Appropriations, where it rightfully belongs. I
agree with the position taken by the gentleman
from Ward 17 (Coun. Wilson). I think the chair-
man of that committee and the other members of
the Committee are all more capable than, the
Mayor of Boston. There are men on that com-
mittee far better qualified, Republicans and Demo-
crats, than the Mayor of this city, because they
have been taught by experience. A man may be
an able lawyer, he may be an able business man,
but if he has not had practical experience he can-
not properly handle matters of this kind. Send
it back to the committee, and let them demand
that the Mayor come in, and even demand that the
Municipal Research Bureau come in, and make
concrete suggestions as to specific items, before
they fold up and go out of town. Certainly the
chairman of that committee is an honest man,
and the other members of the committee are honest
men, and they have a right to demand that Mr.
Loeffler not only sit in with the committee, but
that he furnish any information he may have
which will be of assistance. The books are open
to those men, and let us have their suggestions,
let them take the responsibility, and if the result
is failure they then condemn themselves. I will
vote for the budget, I will vote for the amendment
to send it back to the Committee on Appropria-
tions, and I trust that the committee will obtain
whatever information it can from Mr. Loeffler and
the rest of these brainy men. Give them the bud-
get. Give them specific things to do, and when
they fail the Mayor can be condemned for saying
that 65 cents out of every dollar in last year's
budget went for waste, graft and corruption.
Coun. KERRIGAN— Mr. President, I am
opposed to sending this bill back. I am going to
vote in favor of the passage of the budget. His
Honor the Mayor has been using and is using
every effort to administer the affairs of the city
in such a manner that the welfare of all the citizens
is considered. There is no doubt in my mind
that he is honest and sinc'ere; he is trying to do his
best under very trying conditions. Such diffi-
culties as are facing the Mayor are conditions
which are beyond his control and for which he is
in no way responsible. They are conditions
which were placed in his lap. The Mayor has
discharged in the past month men who were in the
243
CITY COUNCIL.
employ of the city. He has made these discharges
on the advice of the heads of the departments.
There is no doubt in my mind that these men
will be put back to work by the Mayor when the
financial set-up of the city is in better condition,
and I have every reason to believe that the honest
city worker will be happier under the present
Mayor than he has been for a long, long while.
The Mayor has cut the budget $300,000 this year,
and to my mind as he goes along he will do his
best to give the citizens of Boston an honest and
sincere administration. The Mayor has made a
change in the Welfare Department which, to my
mind, will effect a large saving for the city. The
various heads of departments have appeared
before the Appropriations Committee in the past
few weeks, and I think the committee at this
time — if, as was claimed, the budget could be cut
one million or two million — should be able without
recommittal, to show where such a cut can be
made, and should be able to point out where the
city will be able to save money. So at this time,
Mr. President, I make the motion that the budget
pass in its entirety.
President DOWD — There is at present another
motion before the house.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I listened
with interest to the address of the gentleman from
Ward 13 (Coun. McGrath). About 90 per cent
of it seemed to be denunciation of various persons
and things. So I gathered that he, on the whole,
would vote for this budget although he didn't
like it. I was not quite sure why he did not like
it, hut I gathered he didn't like it because it was
not big enough. So I would like to ask him,
through you, Mr. President, what items he would
add to the budget to increase it, and what taxes
he would impose to meet that added expense?
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I would
add to the budget an item restoring the salary of
every person attached to the present administra-
tion, and, so far as the question of raising additional
taxes is concerned, I would notify the assessors
to go out for increased personal taxes on the
wealthier districts of the city, where they could
pick up thousands of dollars if they made an
honest survey.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mn President, I dis-
like to speak upon this matter, because I do not
wish to add to the remarks that have already been
made. I do not think, however, that it should be
referred back to the committee or to the Mayor.
We should either pass the budget or reject it. It
seems to me the chairman of the committee, who
has made a great study of budgets and finances
and who can quote figures from every city in the
country, ought to be able to furnish any additional
information that may be required at the last
minute. Personally, while I do not objact to
coming here at any time to serve the city, I could
see no reason why thiB budget might not have
been acted upon at last Monday's meeting.
Many of the members come here at great sacrifice,
and all this talk amounts to nothing, because
practically everybody admits that in the final
analysis he is going to vote for the budget, anyway.
I am not here defending the Mayor. He has other
defenders. But I cannot let the opportunity go
by to answer the statement that the Good Govern-
ment Association elected Mansfield, because
anybody who has been in politics for any length
of time knows about the support that was given
to Mayor Mansfield in the election in this city.
The fact is that Mansfield carried some of the
rock-ribbed Democratic wards in this city, as
well as other wards. Ward 17, no longer a Re-
publican ward, was carried by Mansfield. You
will find, going down the line, that he did pretty
well in the Democratic wards — that he had the
support of "Billso" Hickey, of Congressman
McCormack, of Arthur Sullivan in Charlestown,
Joseph Mulhern and others; that any number of
others were pretty well lined up with the present
Mayor of the city. I trust that there will be no
more talk on this matter, but that we will either
pass or reject the budget.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I am glad
that the councilor did not move the previous
question. We started to argue here at quarter
of eleven, and it is now only ten minutes of twelve
— the shortest debate 'on the most important
budget that this Council has had in recent times.
Action upon the budget is the only function of
this body that amounts to anything. Why
should we rush it through? Since the new legis-
lative enactment went into effect in 1910, every
Council in every year when the Mayor has sub-
mitted a budget, has given up its authority, the
only authority we have, and acquiesced, agreed
with the Mayor in every request he has made.
That has been the story on every budget that
has come here year after year, since 1916. What
I am saying is, the only power that this City
Council has it has bargained away to the Mayor
every year. Now, this is a beautiful time to
criticize the Mayor. It is the popular thing to
do, but it is not the right thing to do. Any man
sitting as Mayor of Boston today has a terrific
problem before him. It is easy enough to criticize;
it is easy enough to bring in personalities. How
easy it is to talk about the Municipal Research
Bureau or about the gentleman from Detroit.
But what has that to do with this matter? If
the Municipal Bureau gives me information, I
welcome it. I welcome information in regard to
the City of Boston from any bureau, from any
organization. Of course, I have the right to
interpret it, but I welcome it, whether the man
who gives it to me comes from Kalamazoo or from
the lowest part of Africa. You have a city
government here that costs twice as much as the
government of any city of like size in America, of
any large city with the exception of New York.
Let some friends of the people answer this question,
Where is the money coming from? The gentle-
man from Ward 3 (Coun. Fitzgerald) refers to my
bringing comparable figures into this body from
other cities. Where can we get our figures?
Was there ever a study made where comparisons
did not have to be brought in from other cities
and other places? We are now having a budget
that means an actual tax rate of $39 or more. It
means that a thousand homes in my ward alone
will be sold because of inability to pay the tax.
There is a section of the ward known as "the
deserted village," where people who had bought
homes have lost them because they were unable
to pay the highest tax rate of any city of a com-
parable population in the entire world. And we
hear complaint because people have referred to
waste and extravagance in the city government
of Boston in the last twenty years. Attacking
somebody here this morning is not going to help
that situation. One thing we can do is to send
the budget back to the Mayor. It was only a
few days ago that the printed document came to
our committee, and still we are told here that we
have had time enough to consider it. I have
moved, and have been defeated on the motion,
to send the budget back to the Mayor and the
Appropriations Committee. I have been defeated
on a motion that we pass an eight-months' budget
that will give the Council at least control of the
budget for the last four months of the year. Now,
you are asked, under the motion before the body,
to refer the entire matter back to the Appropria-
tions Committee. You can exercise your judg-
ment as to whether or not the matter requires
more study or whether we should have more time
on it. The gentleman from Ward 3 (Coun.
Fitzgerald) complains about the chairman of the
Committee on Appropriations desiring to have
more information and desiring to have more
study and attention given to this matter. Do
you think that only three days on a budget with
over three hundred fifty items is sufficient, when
we don't even know where the money is coming
from on the one important item of welfare?
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, will the
gentleman yield for a question?
Coun. NORTON— Certainly.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Has the information re-
ceived upon this budget been any different from
what has been received from any former Mayor
since the new system of electing the Council was
inaugurated?
Coun. NORTON — In justice I must answer
your question in the negative. But two wrongs
do not make a right. You have now had an
opportunity, however, to do something about it.
You have done the same thing since 191ti, have
sold your birthright to the Mayor. You have
never objected to a budget that has been sub-
mitted here. You have acquiesced when he in-
creased the tax rate and the expenditures. Every
time when we go before a legislative body, the
chairman of the legislative committee says,
" You were a member of the body that appropriated
this money were you not? "Yes." "That
is all." In other words, the responsibility for
these tremendous expenditures rests right with
this Council as well as with the Mayor. We now
have a chance to exercise our prerogative. This
JUNE 13, 1934.
244
is the only time when we stand on a level with
the Mayor, so far as the powers given to us are
concerned.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, will the
gentleman yield for a question?
Coun. NORTON— Certainly.
Coun. SHATTUCK— I wish to ask the gentle-
man whether I am correct in my understanding
that he does not believe in being a rubber stamp?
Coun. NORTON— Well, the question itself is
so infantile that it does not require an answer.
(Laughter.) I am not going to take the time to
indulge in any political pyrotechnics here. This
is a budget of the City of Boston. This is the
time when you are putting an additional burden
on the homes of our section and of other sections
of this city. It is not a time to be wasting millions
of dollars when thousands of people today are
hungry. This is the time when we might try to
save a little something in order to make sure that
100,000 men, women and children, in this greatest
cataclysm that has ever struck our city, will be
fed and cared for. §5,000 would do much towards
providing milk for those who need it, much might
be done in other ways which could be accomplished
by "savings in the budget. And still we are pro-
posing to vote for a budget containing §900,000
over that of last year. And then we are told that
we are rubber stamps! Yes, wei have been since
1916, but I don't see how any man can stand on
this floor at any subsequent meeting and talk
about the Mayor of Boston if he votes "yes" on
this budget at this time. I believe that the Mayor
could further reduce this budget, that he can be
shown where it can be done. I specifically noted
in my minority report of last year where the former
Mayor could reduce the budget. But what is
the use of talking here about Mr. Loeffler or Mr.
Sherman Shepard or the Good Government Asso-
ciation? What has that to do with this budget?
I asked those organizations to come here. They
gave me valuable suggestions. They will give any
member of this body their ideas along certain lines.
And just let me call this to your attention, while
you are berating the Mayor of Boston. He has
fired very few. There are some who have been
placed on furlough, but that is merely a temporary
expedient, and I believe some of those who have
been dropped will be taken back. He has had
an opportunity to be extraordinarily vicious along
certain lines in his attitude towards certain things
connected with the previous administration. But
he has not been. This Mayor downstairs a few
weeks ago could have brought certain members
of the city government into disrepute by saying
the word, but he did not do it. This man is not
the terrible man he has been pictured. Don't
jump on him simply because it is considered the
proper thing to do. Let us forget animosity.
Let us look at these different items from the stand-
point of fairness, not bringing in these extraneous
matters which have nothing to do whatever with
the question before us. This body is going to
pass this budget, with all these millions of dollars,
$900,000 more than last year, without having
looked into it properly. In doing so, yes, we are
rubber stamps for the Chief Executive. The
law that established this body never intended
that you should bargain away your rights for a
mess of pottage. Each of you represents 30,000
or 40,000 people. You represent your individual
sections. The matter should have further study.
We have not had sufficient time for it. This
printed document in detail came to the committee
less than five days ago. Do you believe we should
have more time? Reduce the tremendous tax
burden that is destroying business in this city and
driving inhabitants away. Give us more time
on the budget.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I would
like to see this go back to the committee. The
chairman of the committee has made reference
to the fact that the representative of the Municipal
Research Bureau gave him some very valuable
assistance. I think we are entitled to the infor-
mation he received. I think if this is referred
back to the committee we may be able to get in
writing specific suggestions from the Municipal
Research Bureau. I understand that the gentle-
man representing the Municipal Research Bureau
is sitting in the gallery at the rear, and I under-
stand that he likes to hear me talk! I say to him,
when he comes in, let him bring in a signed state-
ment in writing as to what he wants cut, and if
there are valuable suggestions from this organiza-
tion to the chairman of our committee, perhaps
we can hear what they are, when the budget comes
back to us again.
Coun. GOLDMAN — Mr. President, perhaps
this is an opportune time for saying that you
were very wise in your appointment of a chair-
man of the Appropriations Committee, that you
couldn't have selected a more careful watch dog
of the treasury
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I rise to a
point of order, that the gentleman is not speaking
to the amendment.
Coun. GOLDMAN— I am, Mr. President.
President DOWD — Kindly stay on the amend-
ment.
Coun. GOLDMAN — You could not have
selected a more careful watchdog of the treasury,
Mr. President
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President I rise to a
point of order, that the gentleman is not talking
to the amendment.
President DOWD — The Chair will again warn
the councilor to talk to the amendment.
Coun. GOLDMAN— I am on that, Mr.
President, and I reiterate that the President could
not have appointed a better chairman or a better
committee. Clem Norton, I think, is as fine a
man as we could have in that place. We have
here, in spite of Councilor McGrath's reference to
lawyers, able lawyers
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I press my
point of order, that the gentleman is not talking
to the amendment.
President DOWD— The Chair will state that
the point of order is well taken, that the councilor
must talk to the amendment, if he desires to
address the body.
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, I am on
that amendment, and will reach the point of my
argument in just a moment, as I think will be
clear, in spite of Councilor Roberts' objection.
I don't think I have to preface my remarks by
saying, first of all, that I am opposed to the amend-
ment. But I am opposed to it, if that is what the
gentleman wants, and my reasons are as follows:
We have on that committee four able lawyers —
Councilor Roberts, in spite of his objections,
Councilors Tobin, Selvitella and Agnew. We
have a very fine business executive in Councilor
Gallagher, and the treasurer of Harvard Uni-
versity, Councilor Shattuck, is on the committee.
They have gone into each and every budget re-
quirement of each department, and there is no
need of going over the same matters again. I now
move that the previous question be called for.
The previous question was ordered.
Coun. Wilson's motion to recommit the budget
was declared lost. Coun. ROBERTS doubted the
vote and asked for the yeas and nays. The
motion was lost, yeas 5, nays 17:
Yeas — Coun. Fish, McGrath, Norton, Roberts,
Wilson — 5.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fitzgerald,
Gallagher, Gleason, Goldman, Green, Kerrigan,
Murray, Selvitella, Shattuck, Tobin — 17.
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, I now
move that the appropriations for the City of
Boston for the fiscal year 1934, contained in
Document 61, be passed.
President DOWD — The motion is out of order.
The question now comes on the passage of the
budget, and the clerk will call the roll.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, I want to
ask if the county is included in that?
President DOWD— Yes.
Coun. MURRAY— Then, Mr. President, I
move that all printing done for the City of Boston
or the County of Suffolk be done in the Municipal
Printing Plant of the City of Boston.
President DOWD— The Chair will state that
a motion in that form is out of order.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I move that the
county budget be voted upon separately from the
city budget.
Coun. Fish's motion was lost.
Coun. FISH and MURRAY jointly submitted
the following: "That the budget be amended by
laying on the table the following items:
Superior Court, Civil Session, Clerk's Office, B,
89,900, and D, $13,000.
Superior Court, Criminal Session, D, §14,500.
Probate Court, B, $9,650, and D, $8,000.
Registry of Deeds, B, $1,600, and D, $4,000."
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, we had quite an
argument last year on the printing in the county
budget, and voted 21 to 1 in favor of having the
245
CITY COUNCIL.
printing done in the City Printing Plant. For
that reason I now call upon the Mayor of Boston
to see that that printing is sent to the City Printing
Plant, where it rightfully belongs.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President.
President DOWD— The Chair will rule that
the motion is not debatable.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I ask
unanimous consent to make a statement.
President DOWD — If there is no objection,
the councilor may proceed.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I was
one of those who voted last year to lay this item
on the table, but I find that we cannot tie up the
courts in this matter. The Council has no power
to compel the clerk of courts or the county officials
to do this, because the courts and the county
officials have to function, and there is no way of
compelling them to do what is here proposed.
Therefore, as it is a useless gesture and after all
causes some hardship — as it did last year, when
there wasn't even a slip of paper available at
times to mark up cases for trial — I trust that it
will not prevail. We cannot tie up the courts and
penalize the people because clerks of courts will not
give their printing to the City Printing Plant. I
wish they would do so, but we cannot compel
them to do so. Therefore, I hope the budget will
pass without this amendment.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, the previous
Mayor believed, and I understand that the present
Mayor acquiesces this year, that such printing
should be done by the City Printing Plant and not
by outside concerns. So I trust that the motion
will prevail.
The motion to amend the budget was declared
lost. Coun. FISH doubted the vote and asked
for the yeas and nays.
The amendment prevailed, yeas 13, nays 8:
Yeas — Coun. Donovan, Englert, Finley, Fish,
Fitzgerald, Gallagher, Green, Kerrigan, McGrath,
Murray, Norton, Selvitella, Shattuck, — 13.
Nays — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Dowd, Gleason, Roberts, Tobin, Wilson — 8.
President DOWD — The question is on the
passage of the budget as amended and the clerk
will call the roll.
Coun. TOBIN— Mr. President, I would like to
speak on the passage of the budget.
President DOWD— The Chair will rule that,
the roll call having been ordered, the gentleman
is out of order.
The budget as amended was passed, yeas IS,
nays 4 :
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty,
Donovan, Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish, Fitzgerald,
Gallagher, Gleason, Goldman, Green, Kerrigan,
McGrath, Murray, Selvitella, Tobin — 18.
Nays — Coun. Norton, Roberts, Shattuck,
Wilson — 4.
ADDITIONAL AMOUNT FOR MUNICIPAL
EMPLOYMENT OFFICE.
President DOWD — The Chair will now call up
assignment, the order providing $2,000 extra for
the Municipal Employment office. The question
is on the passage of the order.
( loun. NORTON — Mr. President, there, again,
we are going to spend money that we haven't got on
a useless experiment. I have opposed this for
a number of years, and I still oppose it.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, I want to
strongly urge this appropriation, because if we do
in ,1 vote for the appropriation we are voting for
the discharge of four trusted employees of the
City of Boston. I think it would be shortsighted
on our part to close that office, which is at least
trying to do something. The moment we close
that office on Church street, that during the de-
pression has been trying to do something, although
perhaps failing at times, we are transferring all
those applicants to this Council. I certainly
believe that this Council, or a majority of them,
are not in favor of discharging those faithful city
employees, and have so recorded themselves many
times by vote.
The order was passed, yeas 20, nays 2 :
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Brackman, Doherty, Don-
ovan, Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fitzgerald, Fish,
Gallagher, Gleason, Goldman, Green, Kerrigan,
McGrath, Murray, Selvitella, Shattuck, Tobin,
Wilson— 20.
Nays — Coun. Norton, Roberts — 2.
PETITION OF URSULA M. LOUGHRAN.
A petition was received from Ursula M. Lough-
ran for children under fifteen years of age to appear
at the Hotel Somerset on June 15, 1934.
The petition was granted under the usual con-
ditions.
COUNTY EXPENDITURES, PRINTING AND
BINDING.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Committee on County Ac-
counts investigate the expenditure for printing
and binding by the County of Suffolk.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LEAVE WITHOUT LOSS OF PAY.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to instruct all department heads to grant leave of
absence, without loss of pay, to employees who
are duly elected delegates to the Department
Convention of the United Spanish War Veterans,
to be held at Nantucket on June 22, 23 and 24,
1934.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
UNITED STATES CITIZENSHIP OF DOCTOR
EINSTEIN.
Coun. WILSON, for the Committee on Rules,
submitted the following:
1. Report on order (referred June 11) that
City Council approve bill now before Congress
that would make Dr. Albert Einstein citizen of
United States — recommending that same ought
to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
CONFIRMATION OF CONSTABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business, appointment by the Mayor on June 4,
1934, of Joseph O. DeSantis and Marks Goldstein,
to be constables, authorized to- serve civil process.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finley and Kerrigan. Whole num-
ber of ballots 12; yeas 10, nays 2, and the ap-
pointments were confirmed.
PAYMENT OF EMPLOYEES.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Institutions Department
Commissioner continue to pay employees when
absent on account of death in the family.
Coun. DOHERTY— Mr. President, it has been
called to my attention, in connection with one of
the nurses at the Long Island Hospital whose
father died last week, that the usual procedure of
allowing three or four days' pay when the nurses
are out because of a death in tho family has been
discontinued in the Institutions Department. I
move, therefore, the passage of this order under
suspension of the rule.
Tho order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
On motion of Coun. GOLDMAN it was voted
that when the Council adjourn it be to meet on
Monday, July 2, 1934, at 2 p. m.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. GOLDMAN,
at 1.20 p. m., to meet on Monday, July 2, 1934, at
2 p. m.
CITY COUNCIL.
246
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, July 2, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council, held in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Fitzgerald
and Murray.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Weigher of Coal: Homer L. Mohr, 10 Conwell
street, Somerville.
Weighers of Coal and Weighers of Goods:
Walter R. Geyer, 5 Lockwood street, Hyde Park,
Mass.; William L. Harlow, 39 Warren avenue,
Hyde Park, Mass.
Severally laid over one week under the law.
ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION FOR
WELFARE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am informed that there is a
strong likelihood that your honorable body will,
at the close of today's meeting, adjourn for a
period of at least three weeks. In view of this
possibility, I submit herewith an order providing
for the appropriation of an additional SI .000,000
for relief disbursements by the Public Welfare
Department.
Up to the present time S6, 600,000 has been
appropriated for relief payments. It is estimated
that this amount will be all used up by July 16, or
one week earlier than the proposed date for the
next meeting of the City Council. To remove
the necessity of calling an additional session of the
Council, I am submitting today the order pre-
viously mentioned and respectfully recommend its
adoption by your honorable body.
With the additional appropriation provided
in today's order, the Public Welfare Department
will have sufficient funds to conduct its activities
until approximately the middle of August. At
this time it is my intention to submit the final tax
and appropriation order of the current year for the
relief requirements of the Welfare Department.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, for performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City Council
during the year, upon the City of Boston, or the
departments or offices thereof, the respective sums
of money specified in the table hereinafter set
forth be, and the same are, hereby appropriated,
to be expended for the objects and purposes
hereinafter stated, that the sums be raised by
taxation upon the polls and estates taxable in the
City of Boston, and that all orders heretofore or
subsequently passed by the City Council relating
to appropriations, taxes, and the interest thereon,
apply to the taxes herein provided for.
Public Welfare Department.
Central Office.
F. Special Items $1,000.000
9. Dependent Aid $750,000
10. Mothers' Aid 125.000
14. Old Age Assistance 125,000
Referred to the Executive Committee.
CONCERNING BONDS OF CITY OFFICERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith an ordinance
providing for an amendment to section 2, chapter
3, of the Revised Ordinances of 1925, in so far as
that particular section pertains to the premium
to be paid on the bond of the City Collector and
employees of the Collecting Department. In
effect this amendment authorizes the payment of
a premium of one per cent on such bonds as against
a premium of one half of one per cent on all other
bonds. This amendment is made necessary by
the fact that the National Rating Bureau ha3
established a one per cent premium throughout
the country on bonds covering collectors of taxes.
This action has been taken because of the fact
that a large number of tax collectors throughout
the country have been in difficulty, owing to in-
ability to collect taxes due their respective munic-
ipalities.
The City Collector is bonded in the sum of
S150.000, the amount fixed by the Commissioner
of Corporations and Taxation of the State. The
premium on such a bond is 31,500. As the ordi-
nance now stands a payment cannot be made by
the city in excess of S750. Unless the amendment
herewith submitted is adopted it will be necessary
for the City Collector to pay for the bond from
his own private resources. In view of the fact
no other city official is required to make such a
contribution I respectfully recommend adoption
of the accompanying ordinance.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Ma3'or.
An Ordinance Concerning Bonds of City Officers.
Be it ordained by the City Council of Boston, as
follows:
Chapter three of the Revised Ordinances of
1925 is hereby amended in section two by striking
out the last sentence in said section and inserting
in place thereof the following: "The amount paid
as premium for the surety upon any bond afore-
said, not exceeding one per cent of the penal sum
named therein for the bonds of the city collector
and his employees, and not exceeding one half of
one per cent of the penal sum named therein for
the bonds of the other officers and employees,
shall be allowed and paid as an expense of the
department of which the principal on the bond is
an officer or employee."
Referred to the Committee on Ordinances.
TRANSFER FOR HOSPITAL BUILDINGS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 29, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attached
communication from Joseph P. Manning, chair
man of the City Hospital Trustees, in which it is
requested that available balances remaining in
several special appropriations be transferred to
permit the furnishing and equipping of the new
kitchen and new laundry buildings. These two
buildings are practically completed in so far as
construction is concerned, and only require the
installation of the proper furnishings and equip-
ment to permit of their being opened for public
use. In order that no undue delay may attend
the opening of the buildings in question. I submit
herewith two transfer orders as requested by Mr.
Manning, and respectfully recommend their im-
mediate consideration and adoption by your hon-
orable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, June 29, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — The new kitchen building,
as well as the remodeled laundry building, are
practically completed and we are very desirous
of purchasing the necessary equipment for furnish-
ing the same. The cost of furnishing and equipping
the new kitchen building has been very carefully
estimated by Mr. Smith, our chef, and Miss
247
CITY COUNCIL.
McGovern, the chief dietitian, to be $45,000.
The cost of furnishing and equipping the store-
house in the remodeled laundry building is esti-
mated at $8,000.
To meet these items it is suggested that unex-
pended balances remaining in several appropria-
tions in this department be transferred. The
work originally contemplated in these special
appropriations has been completed and the
balances remaining are no longer required for the
original objects.
I respectfully request that transfer orders as
indicated below be submitted to the City Council:
From the appropriation for Children's Pavilion,
Furnishing and Equipping, $17,259.39; Burnham
Memorial Building, Remodeling, etc., $16,502.62;
New Administration Building, Furnishing and
Equipping, $4,927.68; Pathological Building,
$2,146.42; Surgical Building, Furnishing and
Equipping, $2,110.58; Kitchen Building, Equip-
ping, etc., $861.11; Tunnel for Hospital Building,
$504.07; New Medical Pavilion, Furnishing and
Equipping, $469.42; Power Plant, Improvements,
etc., $218.71, to the appropriation for Kitchen
Building, Furnishing and Equipping, $45,000.
From the appropriation for Pathological Build-
ing, $4,087.22; Laundry Building, $2,867.95;
Laundry Building, Equipment, etc., $1,044.83, to
the appropriation for Laundry Building, Furnish-
ing and Equipping, $8,000.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Hospital Depart-
ment, Children's Pavilion, Furnishing and Equip-
ping, $17,259.39; Burnham Memorial Building,
Remodeling, etc., $16,502.62; New Administration
Building, Furnishing and Equipping, $4,927.68;
Pathological Building, Furnishing and Equipping,
$2,146.42; Surgical Building, Furnishing and
Equipping, $2,110.58; Kitchen Building, Equip-
ment, etc., $861.11; Tunnel for Hospital Buildings,
$504.07; New Medical Pavilion, Furnishing .-111(1
Equipping, $469.42; Power Plant, Improvements,
etc., $218.71, to the appropriation for Hospital
Department, Kitchen Building, Furnishing and
Equipping, $45,000.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Hospital Depart-
ment, Pathological Building, $4,087.22; Laundry
Building, $2,867.95; Kitchen, Equipment, etc.,
$1,044.83, to the appropriation for Hospital
Department, Laundry Building, Furnishing and
Equipping, $8,000.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
TEMPORARY LOAN.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the City Treas-
urer that the temporary loan authorization made
by your honorable body in the early part of this
year will be used up on or about the middle of this
month and that in his opinion a further authoriza-
tion of $15,000,000 should be secured at this time.
I submit herewith, in conformity with the
recommendation of the City Treasurer, the
necessary order. .
For your information in considering this order
I present the following facts: Up to and including
today $27,500,000 in temporary loans have been
issued by the city leaving a balance in the author-
ization of $2,500,000. The City Treasurer con-
templates that on the 14th day of the current month
it will be necessary to issue $3,000,000 of temporary
loan bonds. Since the balance remaining in the
authorization is less than the amount which the
City Treasurer estimates must be borrowed on
the 14th it is evident that an additional authoriza-
tion should be granted at this time. In 1933 the
total temporary loan authorizations made by the
City Council was $52,500,000 and actual borrow-
ings against these authorizations were $50,500,000.
It is evident, therefore, that the authorization
requested at this time by the City Treasurer is well
within the authorization of last year as well as the
actual amount borrowed.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the
accompanying order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That to provide temporarily money
to meet the appropriations for the financial year
1934 the City Treasurer issue and sell, at such
times and in such amounts as he may deem best,
notes or certificates of indebtedness of the City of
Boston not exceeding fifteen million dollars in the
total, in anticipation of the taxes of the current
municipal year; that all such notes or certificates
of indebtedness be dated the day the money for
the same is received, be made payable with the
interest thereon within one year of their date from
the taxes of the year 1934, and bear interest from
their date until the same are made payable at
such rate as the City Auditor, the City Treasurer
and the Mayor may determine.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
PAYING INTERNES AT BOSTON CITY
HOSPITAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mavor, June 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Trustees of the Boston City Hospital,
relative to your order of June 11, 1934, con-
cerning the advisability of paying internes at the
City Hospital at least one dollar a day to cover all
necessary expenses.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, June 22, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — At a meeting of the Board of
Trustees held today an order of the City Council
was presented, whereby the trustees are requested,
through his Honor the Mayor, to consider the ad-
visability of paying internes at the City Hospital
at least one dollar a day to cover all necessary
expenses.
The trustees voted to disapprove of this request,
as they feel that the education received at the
hospital is priceless, and is recognized by medical
students, as shown by the number of applicants.
The trustees also feel that a fee for education here
would be justified.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS ALONG COMMON-
WEALTH AVENUE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of May 28, 1934, concerning a study of the
traffic lights along Commonwealth avenue, with a
view to speeding up traffic.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, June 22, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor of acknowledging
Council order dated May 28, 1934, which reads as
follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
r ichI.oiI, through his llonoi the Maj 01 , I" make
a study of the traffic lights along Commonwealth
avenue with a view to speeding up traffic along
this artery."
The signal system in Commonwealth avenue
was placed in operation on December 4, 1932.
Prior to the installation investigation and study
JULY 2, 1934.
248
had been given to traffic conditions in this area
for a period of more than three years. These
investigations included volume counts of vehicular
and pedestrian traffic, observations of the habits
of vehicles with respect to speeds and turning
movements, studies of the physical attributes of
the area from the point of view of traffic and
various other studies.
As the result of these investigations the system
when installed was timed to provide a flexible
progressive movement of traffic in Commonwealth
avenue at a predetermined speed of 20 miles per
hour. Shortly after the signals were installed we
were able to change the timing so that under
normal traffic conditions unimpeded by illegal
parking and other obstructive conditions a speed
of 25 to 27 miles an hour may be maintained in
the avenue.
We consider this speed sufficiently high for an
intown street such as Commonwealth avenue.
In fact, when the flow of vehicular traffic is
heavy or when rain or icy conditions make for
slower travel, motorists are unable to proceed at a
speed sufficiently high to keep up with the timing
of the signals.
Observations in this area further show that
occasionally congested conditions are caused by
outside influences which have no bearing on the
timing of the signal system. For example, it
is notorious that double and triple line parking
of vehicles obtains in certain sections of Common-
wealth avenue daily, particularly in front of the
Physicians Building at 270 Commonwealth
avenue.
Accurate accident records have been kept in
this office showing all motor vehicle accidents
resulting in personal injuries in this area from
January 1, 1927, to the present time. An analysis
of these records shows that since the installation
of the signals the frequency of accidents of this
type has been reduced approximately 60 per cent.
In our opinion this splendid record has completely
justified the installation of this signal system and
shows that the method of operation is consistent
with reasonable movement of traffic and the
safety of the general public.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hicket,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS, WARD 16.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of June 11, 1934, concerning the installation
of a traffic beacon at the junction of Lenoxdale
avenue and Milton street, Ward 16.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, June 25, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Your communication of June 16,
1934, ordering consideration and report on City
Council order adopted June 11, 1934, "to install
a traffic beacon at the junction of Lenoxdale
avenue and Milton street, Ward 16," has been
received in this office.
We respectfully state that on June 6, 1934, a
flashing traffic beacon was installed at this inter-
section.
Yours very truly,
William P. Hicket,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS, WARD 11.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the BoBton Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of June 11, 1934, concerning the installation
of traffic signals at the corner of Boylston and
Amory streets, Ward 11.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, June 25, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — We are in receipt of your communi-
cation of June 16, 1934, ordering consideration
and report on City Council order presented by
Councilor Englert on June 16, 1934, "to install
traffic signals at the corner of Boylston and Amory
streets, Ward 11."
We respectfully report that there are no funds
available at present for the installation of traffic
signals.
Yours very truly,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS, WARD 14.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 30, 19.34.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commissioner, relative to your
order of June 16, 1934, concerning the installation
of traffic signal fights at the northwrest corner of
the intersection of Hazleton street and Blue Hill
avenue, Ward 14.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, June 25, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — We are in receipt of your communi-
cation of June 16, 1934, ordering consideration
and report on City Council order presented by
Councilor Goldman on June 16, 1934, "to install
traffic signal lights at the northwest corner of the
intersection of Hazleton street and Blue Hill
avenue. Ward 14."
We respectfully report that there are no funds
available at present for the installation of traffic
signals.
Yours very truly,
William P. Hicket,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERN-
ING RE-REGISTRATION OF PUBLIC
WELFARE CASES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June IS, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning certain
additional information to be obtained in the
anticipated re-registration of all public welfare
cases
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield. Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 13 inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That his Honor the Mayor be, and herebyis,
respectfully requested to require the Public Wel-
fare Department, in its anticipated re-registration
of all public welfare cases, to obtain with other
necessary information:
a. A statement of whether or not the recipient
is a citizen.
b. Whether the recipient is a registered voter
and, if so, from what address.
0. The address of the registrant as of the date
of obtaining the statement.
d. The recipient's address on April 1, 1934,
1931, 1932 and 1933."
I beg to state that the matters referred to in the
above order will receive the attention of the social
service staff.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
249
CITY COUNCIL.
ADDITIONAL QUARTERS FOR LUCY
STONE SCHOOL.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 21, 1034.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the School Committee of the City of Boston
relative to your order of April 30, 1934, concerning
the need for permanent additional quarters prop-
erly to house pupils at the Lucy Stone School in
Dorchester.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Citv of Boston,
School Committee, June 20, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The School Committee has received,
through vour Honor, the following order passed
by the City Council, April 30, 1934.
"Ordered, That the School Committee of the
City of Boston, through his Honor the Mayor, be
respectfully requested to comply at an early date
with the urgent need for permanent additional
quarters properly to house pupils at the Lucy
Stone School in Dorchester."
The School Committee finds that under date
of April 26, 1934, a communication was sent
Councilor Robert Gardiner Wilson, Jr., in response
to a petition to the same effect.
The School Committee finds itself unable at
this time to make any report other than as con-
tained in this communication, and consequently
instructed the secretary to send to the Council,
through your Honor, the attached copy of the
committee's communication to Councilor Wilson
of April 26, 1934.
Respectfully yours,
Ellen M. Cronin, Secretary.
Placed on file.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO AMERICAN
FLAG BY SCHOOL CHILDREN AND
TEACHERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 20, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the School Committee of the City of Boston,
relative to your order of May 21, 1934, concerning
a pledge of allegiance to the American Flag at
least once a week during the school year by school
children and teachers.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
School Committee, June 14, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Under date of May 28, your office
forwarded to the School Committee an order
passed by the City Council on May 21, 1934,
requesting the School Committee to require that
the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag be repeated
by the children in the Boston public schools at
least once each week during the school year and
that teachers in the various grades be required to
participate in the pledge.
The order of the Council was received by the
School Committee in conference on Monday
evening of this week and the secretary was directed
to inform the Council, through your Honor, that
the School Committee, at the meeting of May 21,
1934.
Resolved, That there be incorporated in the
Regulations of the Boston School Committee a
provision that the Pledge to the Flag shall be a
mandatory exercise in every classroom at least
once a week.
This requirement has since been included in the
Regulations, and the salute to the flag therefore
now is mandatory. The custom is to have teachers
give the salute with their respective classes.
Respectfully yours,
Ellen M. Cronin, Secretary.
Placed on file.
CONTINUATION OF MEN AT WORK
UNDER E. R. A.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mavor, June 14, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
Roswell G. Hall, E. R. A. administrator for the
City of Boston, relative to your order of May 28,
1934, concerning the continuance of employment
of men at work on the E. R. A. projects of the
Bridge and Ferry Service until such time as these
projects have been totally completed.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Buildings Department,
June 13, 1934.
John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — The projects referred to in the
attached order of the City Council were continued
from June 1 to June 15, and were again continued
today until July 1.
Respectfully yours,
Roswell G. Hall,
Superintendent of Public Buildings.
Placed on file.
INFORMATION CONCERNING ACTIVE
PUBLIC WELFARE CASES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning active
cases as of April 4, 1934, in Wards 9 and 13.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge your com-
munication of June 13, 1934, with reference to the
order of the City Council, May 21, 1934, request-
ing certain information as to active cases as of
April 4, 1934, in Wards 9 and 13. Kindly be
advised that the order has been referred to Miss
Mary A. Cotter, director of social service, for con-
sideration and report.
Yours very truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
CHECK-UP OF ACTIVE WELFARE CASES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning the most
recent date all cases still active on the public wel-
fare lists as of April 1, 1934, in Wards 9 and 13,
have been personally visited or otherwise cheeked
up by any visitor.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge your com-
munication of June 13, 1934, with reference to
the order of the City Council, May 21, 1934, re-
questing an inquiry as to most recent date all
cases still active on the public welfare list as of
April 1, 1934, in Wards 9 and 13, have been per-
sonally visited or otherwise checked up. Kindly
JULY 2, 1934.
250
be advised that the order has been referred to
Miss Mary A. Cotter, director of social service,
for consideration and report.
Yours very truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
INFORMATION CONCERNING NAME AND
NUMBER OF WELFARE VISITORS IN
WARDS 9 AND 13.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the OverseerB of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning the name
and number of visitors assigned to and actively
doing work in Wards 9 and 13 at certain periods.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge your com-
munication of June 13, 1934, with reference to the
order of the City Council, May 21, 1934, request-
ing an inquiry as to the name and number of vis-
itors actively doing work in Wards 9 and 13 at
certain stated periods. Kindly be advised that
the order has been referred to Miss Mary A. Cotter,
director of social service, for consideration and
report.
Yours very truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR WEL-
FARE RE-REGISTRATION.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, being a further com-
munication concerning certain additional informa-
tion to be obtained in the anticipated re-registra-
tion of all public welfare cases.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 26, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — On June thirteenth you sent a copy
of an order of May twenty-first from the City
Council requesting that the following information
be obtained in re-registering applicants for aid:
a. A statement of whether or not the recipient
is a citizen.
b. Whether the recipient is a registered voter
and, if bo, from what address. ■
c. The address of the registrant as of the date
of obtaining the statement.
d. The recipient's address on April 1, 1930,
1931, 1932 and 1933.
These have all been included in the facts re-
quired by our new application form.
Yours very truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
PERSONAL SIGNATURE AND OATH IN
RE-REGISTRATION OF WELFARE CASES.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of Public Welfare, relative to your
order of May 21, 1934, concerning provisions for a
.personal signature and oath to the truth of state-
ments made in connection with the proposed
general re-registration and in the case of all new
registrations, by each applicant for aid.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 13 inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to provide
that, in the case of the proposed general re-regis-
tration and in the case of all new registrations, the
statements by each applicant for aid shall be
signed in person by said applicant and sworn to as
true and correct before a notary public or justice
of the peace in the employ of the Public Welfare
Department."
I beg to report that we are considering for adop-
tion the matter referred to in your letter.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
AUTOMOBILE REGISTRATION BY
WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning checking
the records of the Registry of Motor Vehicles for
recipients of welfare aid who hold a license to
operate motor vehicles for 1934.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 13 inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to check
from the records of the Massachusetts Registry of
Motor Vehicles, either directly or through the
Statistics Department, the names of all present
recipients of welfare aid who hold a license to
operate motor vehicles for 1934."
I beg to advise that the matter is now under
consideration for adoption.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
PEDLERS' LICENSES HELD BY
WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June IS, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning the veri-
fication of names of holders of pedlers' licenses who
also appear as recipients of aid.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 13 inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare bo re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to check
251
CITY COUNCIL.
and verify such names of any and all holders of ,
pedlers' licenses in the City of Boston as also ap-
pear on the records of the Public Welfare Depart-
ment as recipients of aid."
I beg to advise that the matter is now under
consideration for adoption.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
PERSONAL RECEIPT BY WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative
to your order of May 21, 1934, concerning a re-
quirement that recipients of dependent aid shall
receipt for each payment in person, except in
cases where payment is made by check.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 13 inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be
directed, through his Honor the Mayor, to require
hereafter that any and all recipients of dependent
aid payments shall receipt for each payment in
person, except in cases where payment is made by
check, in which case the indorsement on the check
shall be sufficient receipt."
I beg to report that the above order will receive
the consideration of the Overseers at its meeting
on June 20, 1934.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
INCORRECT STATEMENT BY WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning the disposi-
tion of cases of aid recipients who have given
incorrect statements, or have had work cards
stamped improperly, or who are known as habitual
drunk cases.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 13 inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council as to the disposition, by
said department, of cases of recipients who are
found to have given incorrect statements on their
applications, and recipients who have been found
to have had improper stamping of work cards, and
such recipients as are known to be habitual drunk
cases."
I beg to advise that in the cases mentioned
above the applicants are promptly dropped from
the list.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
REPAVING BOWEN STREET, WARD 7.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of June 4, 1934, concerning repaying
with smooth pavement Bowen street, from Dor-
chester street to F street, Ward 7.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
PubUc Works Department,
June 20, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of an order of the City Council dated June 4, 1934,
reading:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Bowen street,
from Dorchester street to F street, Ward 7," —
and to state that Bowen street, from Dorchester
to F street is 412 feet in length and 20 feet in
width, and the condition of pavement is poor.
To construct an asphalt pavement on a 6-inch
concrete base and regulating this section of Bowen
street will cost $3,000. No funds are available at
the present time for this work.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
IMPROVING BEACH AT L STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the chairman of the Park Department, relative to
your order of May 28, 1934, concerning cleaning
up the beach and removing stones between L
Street Bath and the Boston Yacht Club and also
along Farragut Beach.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, June 14, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council that the Park Commission be re-
quested to clean up the beach and remove all
stones from same between L Street Bath and the
Boston Yacht Club, and also along Farragut Beach.
Permit me to assure you the park employees
will give this beach their usual careful attention.
The stones have been removed to considerable
extent, and the Welfare help will still continue to
remove same whenever conditions warrant it.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
TENNIS COURTS, MT. IDA PLAYGROUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the chairman of the Park Department, relative
to your order of June 4, 1934, concerning the
installation of tennis courts and the repair of the
baseball backstop at Mt. Ida (Ronan Park) Play-
ground.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, June 20, 1924.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council, that the Park Commission be re-
quested to install tennis courts and repair the
backstop on the baseball diamond at Mt. Ida
Playground.
JULY 2, 1934.
252
The Ronan Park Playground has two tennis
courts which have been put in very good condition.
The installation of additional tennis courts on this
playground is out of the question, at the present
time, due to economic conditions and lack of area
which would be necessary to build these courts on.
It certainly would not be advisable to take the top
of the hill which is covered with grass and trees
and construct tennis courts here. The consensus
of opinion in the neighborhood is strictly against
anything of this kind.
The cutting down of the baseball field would,
in my opinion, seriously interfere with athletic
activities which have been carried on since the
playground was constructed. The baseball back-
stop is now being repaired. All backstops curl
at the bottom after a certain length of time, —
it is simply necessary to tie a wire to a bottom
rail to eliminate this trouble.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, BLUE HILL AVENUE.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of June 4, 1934, concerning the installation
of automatic traffic signals at the intersection of
Blue Hill avenue, Talbot avenue, Harvard street
and Angell street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, June 15, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — This will acknowledge receipt of
Council order dated June 4, 1934, which reads as
follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner of the
City of Boston be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to install automatic traffic signals at
the intersection of Blue Hill avenue, Talbot ave-
nue, Harvard street and Angell street."
There are no funds available at the present
time for the installation of the above traffic signals.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
CONTINUATION OF E. R. A. PROJECTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
Roswell G. Hall, Administrator for Boston F. E.
R. A., relative to your order of June 4, 1934, con-
cerning the continuance to completion of certain
E. R. A. projects under the supervision of the
Bridge and Ferry Division.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Buildings Department,
June 15, 1934.
John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — Referring to the orders of City
Councilor Goldman regarding the continuation
of certain E. R. A. projects, I respectfully report
as follows:
1. "The reconstruction of the Recreation
Pier." I have already approved this project and
have forwarded same to the State Administrator
at 49 Federal street.
2. "The painting of six ferry slips." This
project was closed out on June 14 because the work
was completed.
3. "Repairs to the Blakemore Street Bridge."
The completion date on this project has been con-
tinued to June 30.
4. " Repairs to the Longfellow Bridge." The
completion date on this project has been continued
to June 30.
5. "Repairs and resurfacing of the Chelsea
Viaduct-Meridian Street Bridges." The comple-
tion date on this project has been continued to
June 30.
Regarding the projects to repair the retaining
wall on the Charlestown Bridge; to survey all
bridges in the City of Boston; and to repair the
steel work on the Charlestown Bridge; these have
not as yet been submitted to me for my approval.
Respectfully yours,
Roswell G. Hall,
Administrator for Boston F. E. R. A.
Placed on file.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June IS, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
Roswell G. Hall, Administrator for Boston F. E.
R. A., relative to your order of June 4, 1934, con-
cerning the continuance of E. R. A. projects now
in operation at the Boston City Hospital and its
various divisions.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Buildings Department,
June 15, 1934.
John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — Referring to the order of City Coun-
cilor Doherty regarding a continuation of the
E. R. A. project now in operation at the City
Hospital, I respectfully report that I have already
approved an extension of this project to June 30
and 50 per cent of the mechanics have been re-
turned to work. At the end of this period con-
sideration will be given to a further continuance.
Respectfully, yours,
Roswell G. Hall,
Administrator for Boston F. E. R. A.
Placed on file.
SUPPLYING OF MILK TO WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 25, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your orders of June 4 and June 11, 1934, concern-
ing the supplying of milk to welfare recipients.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 22, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — In further reference to the order of
the City Council requesting the Overseers to con-
sider the advisability of arranging for deliveries
of milk to welfare recipients at a lower price than
the prevailing retail one, I beg to say that such
matter is receiving the attention of this depart-
ment and we are endeavoring to contact milk
companies to effect such an arrangement.
This answer is also in reply to the order of the
City Council of June 11, 1934, asking the Overseers
to look into the advisability or probability of
supplying milk to welfare recipients at S cents a
quart.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowtjnq,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
DELIVERY OF COAL TO WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 25, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen,- I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
253
CITY COUNCIL.
your order of June 11, 1934, concerning the pur-
chase and delivery of coal to recipients of aid by
the Welfare Department.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 22, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 16, 1934, inclosing
the following order from the City Council passed
on June 11, 1934:
"That his Honor the Mayor request the Over-
seers of Public Welfare to purchase all coal used
by the department at wholesale and the deliveries
of said coal to recipients be made by the depart-
ment itself."
In reply thereto I beg to state that arrange-
ments are being made whereby coal to be de-
livered to families this winter will be by contracts
after public advertisement.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
BRANCH WELFARE OFFICE IN WARD 7.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 25, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of June 11, 1934, concerning the estab-
lishment of a branch office in Ward 7.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 22, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 16, 1934, inclosing
the following order from the City Council passed
June 11, 1934:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to estab-
lish a branch office in a central location in Ward 7
when the proposed plan of decentralization is put
into effect."
I beg to report that it is the intention of the
Board to establish a branch office in Ward 7 as
soon as our plans materialize.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowlinq,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
PURCHASE OF ARTICLES FOR WELFARE
BY SUPPLY DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 25, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of June 11, 1934, concerning the pur-
chasing of articles for the Welfare Department by
the Supply Department.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 22, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 10, 1934, inclosing
the following order from the City Council passed
June 11, 1934:
"That his Honor the Mayor request the Over-
seers of Public Welfare to consider the advisability
of having all purchasing of articles for the Welfare
Department to be turned over to the Purchasing
Agent of the City."
I beg to report that such an arrangement has
already been effected with the Supply Department
of the city and all orders for supplies from this
department are purchased by the Superintendent
of Supplies. In addition, all repair items are
ordered through the Public Buildings Department.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS AT
LOWER THAN RETAIL PRICE.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of June 4, 1934, concerning the advis-
ability of arranging for deliveries of milk to welfare
recipients at a lower price than the prevailing
retail price.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
June 15, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of June 13 inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That the Board of Public Welfare, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to consider the
advisability of seeking to make arrangements for
the deliverance of milk to welfare recipients at
a lower price than the prevailing retail price."
I beg to report that the above order will receive
the consideration of the Overseers at its meeting
on June 20, 1934.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
VETO PAYMENT TO JOHN DOOCEY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith without
my signature and with my disapproval the resolve
adopted on June eleventh, 1934, wherein your
honorable body approved of the enactment of
legislation to authorize the city to pay a sum of
money for the benefit of John Doocey {sic) for
injuries received by being struck by a golf ball
at Franklin Park providing such legislation con-
tains a referendum to the Mayor and City Council.
No new facts have come to my attention since I
vetoed a somewhat similar order providing for a
payment to John Ducey who, I presume, is the
same person now called John Doocey, in my com-
munication to your honorable body dated April
third, 1934. I am informed that this claim was
originally disapproved by the Law Department
in August, 1932, on the ground that there was no
liability on the part of the city and that no negli-
gence on the part of any city employee was dis-
closed by the records of the case. Under these
circumstances I again decline to approve of the
resolution.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
VETO OF ANNUITY TO WIDOW OF
SERGEANT CLARK.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 27, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my
signature and with my disapproval the order
adopted by your honorable body on June 11, 1934,
and which reached my office on the next day.
There is nothing in the history of the caBe as it is
presented to me to show that the motor accident
JULY 2, 1934.
254
which occurred on May 7, 1933, and which pre-
ceded Sergeant Clark's death, which was on May
16, 1933, was the cause of his death. Nor does it
appear that the injuries which were received at
the time of the accident were incurred in the per-
formance of his duty as a police officer. The
injuries sustained according to the original report
of the accident from Division 19 were a laceration
of the scalp and of two fingers whereas the death
record shows that he died from angina pectoris
and arteriosclerosis, and the letter from the City-
Prison dated May IS recites that death was due to
shock.
There being nothing in this record to show that
the death was attributable to the injuries sustained
in the motor accident or that the accident occurred
during the performance of his official duty, I feel
constrained to veto the order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
BOSTON ELEVATED RAILWAY FINANCES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, June 14, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Corporation Counsel, relative to your orders
of April 16 and 30, concerning a check-up of the
Boston Elevated Railway finances by the Metro-
politan Transit Council.
Respectfully,
Frederick TV. Mansfield, Major.
City of Boston,
Law Department, June 13, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — You have referred to me an
order passed by the City Council on April 16, 1934,
which provides as follows:
"Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Metropolitan Transit Council to investigate
the newspaper accounts of the statistics compiled
by James T. Swan, a C. P. A., pertaining to the
financial condition of the Boston Elevated Railway
Company."
You have also sent me a report dated April 30,
1934, made to you by the Budget Commissioner
with reference to said order.
The Metropolitan Transit Council was estab-
lished by section 3 of chapter 383 of the Acts of
1929, and consists of the Mayors and Chairmen
of the Boards of Selectmen of all cities and towns
of the Metropolitan Transit District. The terri-
tory within and the inhabitants of the following
cities and towns, namely, Arlington, Belmont,
Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett,
Maiden, Medford, Milton, Newton, Revere,
Somerville and Watertown constitute said district.
Said chapter 383 further provides that the
affairs of the district shall be managed by a board
of five trustees, of whom four are appointed by the
Governor and one bv the Mavor of Boston.
Section 3 of chapter 333 of the Acts of 1931
provides as follows:
"Section 3. If at any time while public
management and operation continues a deficit
shall occur or which notice is given to the treasurer
and receiver general of the commonwealth under
section eleven of said chapter one hundred and
fiftv-nine, the trustees of the Boston Elevated
Railway Company, hereinafter called the trustees
of the company, shall at the same time give like
notice to the trustees of the metropolitan transit
district created by chapter three hundred and
eighty-three of the acts of nineteen hundred and
twenty-nine who shall forthwith call a meeting of
the metropolitan transit council created by said
chapter three hundred and eighty-three to consider
whether or not the fares and charges for service
shall be increased. If said council so determines
the trustees of the company shall within sixty
days after receipt of written notice of such deter-
mination put into effect such higher rates of fare
and charges for all or any services furnished or
operated as in their judgment will be sufficient, or
best adapted, to prevent thereafter and further
deficit to be assessed upon the cities and towns in
uln.l, service is operated. The trustees of the
company shall also notify the department of public
utilities whenever such a deficit shall occur. I pun
receipt of such notice said department shall carry
on such investigation as it may deem advisable
of the operations and the expenses of the company,
and shall make a report to the governor and the
members of the metropolitan transit council in
writing of its findings, together with any recom-
mendations, whereby future deficits may be
avoided or reduced, and the service improved
Under the provisions of said section three, after
the Trustees of the Metropolitan Transit District
have been given notice of a deficit by the Trustees
of the Boston Elevated Railway Company, the
District Trustees are required to call forthwith a
meeting of the Metropolitan Transit Council for
the purpose of considering whether or not the
fares and charges for the service shall be increased.
While there is no provision which specifically
authorizes the Metropolitan Transit Council to
make an investigation into the financial condition
of the Boston Elevated Railway Company, the
authority given "to them to consider whether or
not the fares and charges for service shall be
increased" should, in my opinion, be construed to
permit them, before making such determination, to
investigate the financial condition of the company
so as to enable them to make a proper determina-
tion with regard to increased fares. I find nothing,
however, in the provisions of said section three or
in any other provisions of law which authorizes
the Metropolitan Transit Council to expend money
in making an investigation, and I am, therefore,
of the opinion that any such investigation must
be made without expenditure of any public funds.
It is very doubtful that an investigation of the
kind referred to in the above-quoted order could
be effectively conducted without the expenditure
of money.
I wish to call to your attention in this connection
that it is my opinion that, under the above-quoted
provisions of section three of chapter 333 of the
Acts of 1931, the Department of Public Utilities
has authority to investigate the matters referred
to in the above-quoted order provided that they
relate to the operations and expenses of the
Elevated. You will note that under the provisions
of said section the Department of Public Utilities
is directed, upon receipt of notice of a deficit, to
carry on such investigations as it may deem
advisable of the operations and expenses of the
Elevated and to report to the Governor and the
members of the Metropolitan Transit Council in
writing of its findings, together with any recom-
mendations, whereby further deficits may be
avoided or reduced, and the service improved.
The cost of such an investigation would be an
expense of that department and the only expense
to the City of Boston which would result from
such investigation would be indirect, namely, the
proportionate burden of the cost of state govern-
ment borne by the city. In the event that the
investigation were carried on by the permanent
staff of the department there would probably be
no resulting financial burden to the city.
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
PROPERTY AT 178 HILLSIDE STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 2, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — It has been brought to my atten-
tion that the city holds title to a piece of property
located at No. 17S Hillside street, Roxbury, said
title having been secured through the foreclosure
of a tax deed. This property consists of a panel
of land and a three-story frame tenement dwelling,
which has been unoccupied for a period of two
years or more. In the opinion of the Building
Commissioner, this building constitutes a very
serious fire menace. In fact, the Police Commis-
sioner has deemed it necessary to place a police
guard on the property in order to prevent damage
to property in the immediate vicinity.
I am advised that there has been pending in
the Committee on Public Lands of the Council
Bince November 27 of last year an order author-
izing the sale at public auction of this property.
It must be evident that such a sale would not only
remove the danger of fire which at present
ild also add to the taxable valuation of
the city, since whoever purchased the property
25S
CITY COUNCIL.
would undoubtedly expend money in its improve-
ment. Believing that the order in question has
been inadvertently overlooked, I am taking the
liberty of directing the matter to the attention of
your honorable body with the request that action
be taken on the order without further delay. A
photograph of the building is attached thereto.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Building Department, July 2, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — For your information I am submitting
in chronological order the history of a building
located at 178 Hillside street, Ward 10, with the
suggestion that the city sell this building to some
person who may be interested in repairing and
occupying the same, or for whatever other action
you deem necessary.
September 22, 1932, formal complaint recorded
against the heirs of Alice Moran, care of Patrick
J. McManus, administrator, and we were informed
that Patrick J. McManus was dead. Search for
various heirs was made but we were unable to
locate any, and on Novembler 8, 1932, the com-
plaint notice was posted on the building.
On June 8, 1933, under Land Court Tax Lien
Case No. 4153, the City of Boston obtained a
decree foreclosing tax title to this property.
August 4, 1933, I called attention to his Honor
the Mayor of the condition of this building, and
the fact that it was owned by the city, and at the
request of the Mayor I wrote a letter to Samuel
Silverman, Esq., Corporation Counsel, and Wilfred
J. Doyle, City Clerk, calling their attention to
the building.
November 27, 1933, meeting of the City Council.
Letter received from the Mayor, dated November
20, 1933, presenting an order to give the Mayor
the authority to sell at public auction the building
located at 178 Hillside street, Roxbury. This
matter was referred to the Committee on Public
Lands.
June 20, 1934, I received a letter from the Police
Commissioner calling my attention to the condi-
tion of this building and to the fact that the boys
had thrown firecrackers into the building causing
a fire damage of $500, and it was necessary to
place a police guard on the property to prevent
damage to the community.
June 21, 1934, I ordered the supervisor of con-
struction of this department to have the windows
of the building boarded up with E. R. A. labor.
This work was done immediately.
It would be a simple matter for me to step in
and demolish this building with E. R. A. labor,
but in my opinion the building is in good structural
condition and is too valuable to be taken down.
Respectfully yours,
Edward W. Roemer,
Building Commissioner.
Placed on file.
JURY LIST.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
City Clerk's Office, June 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — You are hereby notified that the
list of inhabitants qualified to serve as jurors, as
prepared by the Election Commissioners and con-
tained in City Document No. 60, was this day filed
with me.
Respectfully,
W. J. Doyle,
City Clerk.
Placed on file.
Coun. DOWD offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Clerk be hereby directed
to cause the names on the Jury List, as transmitted
to him by the Election Commissioners and con-
tained in City Document No. 60, to be written
each on a separate ballot, and said ballots to be
properly folded and placed in the box provided for
the purpose.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
James W. Bagley, for compensation for damage
to car by ash team.
Walter Bias, for compensation for injuries caused
by an alleged defect in Paul street.
Ralph M. Block, for compensation for damage
to car by city wagon.
J. B. Bornstein, Inc., for compensation for dam-
age to property at 1134 Washington street, caused
by bursting of water pipe.
Boston Students' Union, for compensation for
damage to property at 81 St. Stephen street,
caused by break in water main.
Mary A. Campbell, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 41 Alpine street, Roxbury,
caused by water from drainage system.
Stella Campbell, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Cambridge street.
Eleanor Caputo, for compensation for damage
to property at 349 Sumner street, East Boston,
caused by ash truck.
Delia E. and Thomas J. Collins, to be reimbursed
for repairing faulty sewer at 8 Belmore terrace,
Jamaica Plain.
Rachel E. Coyne, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Huntington avenue.
Schuyler Dillon, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Gallivan
Boulevard.
Catherine Enos, for compensation for damage to
property at 6 Thurston street, East Boston, caused
by defective water meter.
Elma F. Ericksen, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Temple place.
Irene Finley, for compensation for injuries
caused by city truck.
Daniel F. Flood, to be reimbursed for execution
issued against him on account of his acts as a
police officer.
Ella E. French, for compensation for damage
to property at 52 East Springfield street, caused
by leak in water pipe.
Jacob Gold, for compensation for damage to
property at 24 Brattle street, caused by leak in
water pipe.
Morris Gordon, for compensation for damage to
horse and team by city team.
John Harris, for refund on permit for open air
parking space.
Anne E. Jackson, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 22 Myrtle street,
Jamaica Plain.
Mrs. Nellie Jacobs, for compensation for dam-
age to clothing caused by an alleged defect at
Franklin Park.
Gladys M. Johnson, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at Grove and
Washington streets.
Mrs. Mary Leaman, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at Ellsworth
and Freeport streets.
Chester G. Legro, for compensation for damage
to property by dump cart.
George Lekas, for compensation for damage to
window at 25 Savin Hill avenue, caused by stone
from street.
Anna J. Lennon, for refund on hairdressing
license.
Louis H. Letvak, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Walnut park,
Roxbury.
Patrick H. McLaughlin, to be reimbursed for
execution issued against him on account of his
acts as a policeman.
Ohmer Register Company, for compensation
for damage to car by city truck.
John Pearson, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
Phil Pofcher, for refund on ash tickets.
Sam Samuels, for compensation for damage to
property at 107 Dover street, caused by bursting
water pipe.
Joseph W. and Marion E. Shaw, for compensa-
tion for damage to property at Auckland and Bay
streets, caused by installation of sewer.
John J. Shea, Jr., for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in steps leading from
Downer avenue.
Henry R. Swartz, for refund on pedler's license.
Harry Arthur Syer, for compensation for acci-
dent occurring on Congress street.
John H. Timmons, refund on drug license.
JULY 2, 1934.
256
Mrs. D. J. Welby, for compensation for damage
to garbage receptacle.
Henry Yee, for refund on ash tickets.
Morris Young, for compensation for damage to
property at 138 Cambridge street, caused by defec-
tive sewer.
Charles Pandele, for compensation for damage
to property at 1130 Washington street, caused by
explosion of water pipe.
Executive.
Petitions of children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
Mary A. Geary, Whiton Hall, June 15.
Florence I. Hamilton, Recital Hall, June 26.
Petition of Celia M. Malloy, to be paid an
annuity on death of her husband Edward F. Malloy.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway Company
to operate between Fields Corner Station and the
junction of Blue Hill avenue and Geneva avenue,
over Geneva avenue, Columbia road and Blue Hill
avenue; return over Geneva avenue, Park street
Dorchester avenue to private right of way leading
to Fields Corner Station.
REPORT OF FINANCE COMMISSION ON
OIL CONTRACT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Finance Commission, July 2, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The commission submits this
report in answer to the order adopted by your
honorable body at a meeting on June 4, 1934,
requesting the Finance Commission to investigate
the approval by the Mayor on May 21, 1934, of the
award of a contract to E. F. Loonie, Jr., for pur-
chasing automobile motor oil.
Bids were requested by the Superintendent of
Supplies for a supply of lubricating oil to be used
by various city departments. In response, sixteen
bids were received and opened on March 26. The
specifications called for oil distilled entirely from
Pennsylvania crude oil. These specifications have
been examined for the Finance Commission by a
representative of the Pennsylvania Grade Crude
Oil Association and he has iniormed the commis-
sion that in order to comply with the specifications
the contractor must furnish a very high grade
Pennsylvania oil.
The two bidders who submitted the lowest price
for this type of oil, 39 cents per gallon, less 1 per
cent, discount ten days, were the Atlas Petroleum,
Inc., and E. F. Loonie, Jr., representing the Quincy
Oil Company. Other bidders who offered to
supply Pennsylvania oil were eliminated from
consideration because their prices were high. At
least eight of the bidders bid on other than Pennsyl-
vania oil. The Superintendent of Supplies re-
quested the two bidders who offered the lowest
prices to submit samples of the oil which they
intended to deliver under the contract. These
samples were examined by the city chemist and he
reported to the Superintendent of Supplies that
both samples were well within the specifications.
The commission examined the Superintendent
of Supplies and was informed that he awarded the
contract to E. F. Loonie, Jr., in preference to the
Atlas Petroleum, Inc., because Loonie indicated
to him that he intended to deliver a particular
brand of Pennsylvania oil which comes in con-
tainers put up in the Pennsylvania oil fields and
bearing a certification that the oil is made from
100 per cent pure Pennsylvania crude oil.
An analysis of the chemist's report of the two
samples shows that the sample offered by the
Atlas Petroleum, Inc., in some particulars might
be considered better than the sample offered by
Mr. Loonie for the Quincy Oil Company, but the
Superintendent of Supplies stated that it is the
specification which sets the standard tor deliveries,
not the sample.
The Finance Commission reports to your honor-
able body that in its review of the facts the com-
mission has found nothing to warrant criticism of
the action of the Superintendent of Supplies in
awarding the contract to Edward F. Loonie, Jr.,
as distributor for the Quincy Oil Company.
Respectfully submitted,
Joseph J. Leonard, Chairman,
Joseph a. Shebhan,
Charles M. Storey,
The Finance Commission.
Placed on file.
REPORT OF SMALLPOX HOSPITAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Law Department, May 28, 1934.
To the Plonorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised that on May 21,
1934, your honorable body passed the following
order:
"Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be
requested to inform the City Council in explana-
tion of his opinion of May 21st to the City Council
relative to the Smallpox Hospital whether or not
it is required by law that the said hospital be re-
tained under the control of the Health Commis-
sioner."
Section 92 of chapter 111 of the General Laws
(Ter. Ed.) provides as follows:
"Each city, except Brockton, shall, and each
town may, and upon request of the department
shall, establish and maintain constantly within
its limits one or more hospitals for the reception
of persons having smallpox, diphtheria, scarlet
fever, tuberculosis or other diseases dangerous
to the public health as defined by the department,
unless there already exists therein a hospital sat-
istactory to the department for the reception of
persons ill with such diseases, or unless some
arrangement satisfactory to the department is
made between neighboring municipalities for the
care of such persons. All such hospitals estab-
lished and maintained by cities and towns shall
be subject to the orders and regulations of the
boards of health thereof. Plans for construction
of such hospitals shall be approved by the depart-
ment before they are constructed, and the district
health officers shall annually make such exami-
nation of said hospitals, and of all other hospitals,
sanatoria, asylums, homes, prisons and dispen-
saries, both public and private, caring for diseases
dangerous to the public health, as in the opinion
of the department may be necessary, and report
as to their condition and needs to those responsible
for their management. A city or town which,
upon the request of the department, refuses or
neglects to establish and maintain such a hospital
shall forfeit not more than five hundred dollars;
Erovided, that if, in the opinion of the boards of
ealth of two or more adjoining municipalities,
such hospitals can advantageously be established
and maintained in common, the authorities of
the said cities or towns may, subject to the ap-
proval of the department, enter into any agree-
ments deemed necessary to establish and maintain
the same. Cities and towns having a population
of less than one hundred thousand inhabitants
according to the last national census shall not be
required by this section to make hospital pro-
visions for tubercular patients."
Section 3 of chapter 16 of the Revised Ordi
nances of 1925 contains the following:
"The health commissioner . . . shall have
charge of the hospital for persons having infectious
diseases, established by the city, and of the patients
in said hospital . . ."
It is my opinion in view of the foregoing that
the hospital in question, so long as it is maintained
by the city, must remain subject to the orders and
regulations and under the charge of the Health
Commissioner. I have been informed by the
Health Commissioner that, as indicated in my
letter to your honorable body on May 21, 1934,
said hospital is still maintained by the city. I
have also been informed by the Health Commis-
sioner that said hospital still remains subject to
his orders and regulations and under his charge.
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENT BY THE MAYOR.
The appointment by the Mayor of William J.
Finn of 36 Maple street, Hyde Park, to position
of Overseer of Public Welfare, was received and
placed on file.
NOTICE OF MAYOR'S ABSENCE.
Notice from the Mayor of his absence from the
city from June 22 to June 25 was received and
placed on file.
257
CITY COUNCIL.
SECRETARY OF SINKING FUNDS.
Notice of the election of Charles J. Fox to the
position of secretary of the Sinking Funds Com-
mission was received and placed on file.
RETURN OF PERSONS LIABLE FOR
MILITIA DUTY.
Notice was received from the Assessing Depart-
ment of the number of persons liable to enrolment
in the militia.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENT OF FOOD INSPECTOR.
Notice was received of the appointment of Harry
O'Neil of 7 Copeland street, Roxbury, as food
inspector in the Health Department.
Placed on file.
SIDEWALK ASSESSMENTS.
Notices were received from the Commissioner
of Public Works with orders assessing proportion-
ate parts of cost of constructing sidewalks in front
of the following streets, viz.:
Half Cost.
Calumet street, Ward 10 S73 10
Cedar street, Ward 11 161 90
Coolidge road, Ward 22 1,202 27
Columbia road, Wards 14 and 15 1,874 30
Dewey street, Ward 13 375 89
Elmwood street, Ward 9 99 90
Francis street, Ward 10 41 58
Holman street, Ward 22 1,315 31
Hooker street, Ward 22 263 04
Hunneman street, Ward 8 (IS 95
Jamaica street, Ward 11 2,606 66
Royal street, Ward 22 960 41
Sheridan street, Ward 19 25 70
St. Botolph street, Ward 4 254 48
Wayne street, Ward 12 48 70
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MINORS' LICENSES.,
President DOWD submitted application for
minors' licenses from forty-seven newsboys and
four bootblacks, and licenses were granted under
usual conditions.
CONSTABLES' BONDS.
Bonds, duly approved by the City Treasurer,
of the following-named constables were received:
Alfred N. Sarno, Israel Spector, Samuel Gordon,
Marks Goldstein, Gilbert I. Favor, Joseph O.
DeSantis, Morris W. Danberg, Jacob Demask,
Max Rabinovitz.
Approved by the Council.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted a report recommending
the passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers
and their families in the City of Boston for the
month of June, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC LANDS REPORT.
Coun. DONOVAN, for the Committee on
Public Lands, submitted the following report, viz.:
Report on message of Mayor and order, referred
November 7, 1933, on proposed sale at public
auction of a building located at 178 Hillside street,
Roxbury, which has become the property of the
city by reason of the foreclosure of a tax title,
recommending order ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the order was
passed, yeas 18, nays 0.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions of Stephen J. Doherty
(referred June 4) recommending the passage of the
following two orders:
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred ten dollars
be allowed and paid to Stephen J. Doherty in re-
imbursement for the amount of judgment issued
against him on account of his acts as operator of
a motor truck belonging to the Sanitary Service,
Public Works Department, January 15, 1934, said
sum to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Ordered, That the sum of fifty-five dollars be
allowed and paid to Stephen J. Doherty in reim-
bursement for amount of judgment issued against
him on account of his acts as operator of a motor
truck belonging to the Sanitary Service of the
Public Works Department, January 15, 1934,
said sum to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Reports accepted; orders passed.
2. Report on the order for the payment to
Edmund Currie of $149.12, which was recom-
mitted to the Committee on Claims on June 11,
1934, that the order ought to pass.
Report accepted and order passed.
CONSTABLES' APPOINTMENTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under No. 1, the
names of Francis E,. Brown and David B. Kaplan;
under No. 2, the names of Andrew B. DeCourcey,
Anthony J. DeSisto, Louis Gilbert, Louis Gorfinkle,
Salvatore Grassa, Spiros Kaliris, Florian S. Small,
Abraham Singer, Philip Tepper, James H. Waugh.
The President appointed Coun. Selvitella and
Gallagher to be a committee, to receive, sort and
count the ballots.
The committee attended to the duty assigned
them, and the appointments were confirmed,
yeas 16, nays 0.
Coun. GOLDMAN — Report from committee
to date. Appointed by the Mayor, 156; with-
drawn by the Mayor on June 4, 5; June 4, ap-
pointed by the Mayor, 24; total appointed, 175.
Confirmed to date 154, leaving 1 held at the request
of a councilor, 1 held at his own request, 18 appear-
ing not to have notification and 1 still with com-
mittee, making total of 175.
President DOWD — The President desires to
thank you for your kind report.
SHOWER BATHS.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Park Commissioner to open all shower baths
in the city under his control, from Saturday at
12 o'clock during the summer months, and have
them remain open during the entire afternoon.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LABORERS' PAY.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor consider
the advisability of restoring the day's pay to
city laborers in the Public Works Department,
which he recently took from them, so that there
will be no discrimination in the pay received by
public works laborers as against laborers in
other departments.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
AUTOMOBILE ARRESTS.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel inform
the City Council whether the statement attributed
to Commissioner Hultman in the daily press is
true, namely:
That even though a person is caught in the
act of stealing a tire from an automobile an officer
has no right to arrest him without a warrant.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
JULY 2, 1934.
258
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor submit the
following message to the Director of Public
Celebrations:
Councilor Joseph McGrath,
City Hall.
Dear Sir, — Last November when Frederick W.
Mansfield was pleading for support in his contest
for Mayor of Boston, the voters of Ward 13 gave
him the following emphatic support:
Mansfield, 3,226. Foley, 2,730. Nichols, 2,535.
Now that he has won the coveted honor with
our help he shows a surprising lack of apprecia-
tion. The one department head living in Ward 13
was removed from office, and Mayor Mansfield
appointed a resident and voter in the town of
Needham to this position. Not a single position
has been given to a resident of Ward 13 by Mayor
Mansfield.
Now to add insult to injury, Ward 13 is the
only ward in Boston purposely eliminated from the
4th of July celebration, paid for in part by Ward 13
taxpayers, yet not one dollar will be spent by the
city for the enjoyment of the 3,226 supporters, or
their children's enjoyment.
I would like to ask you, Mr. Councilor, if this is
Mayor Mansfield's idea of gratitude.
Very truly yours,
Upham's Corner Civic Association.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, my only
reason for submitting this in an order to his Honor
was that I had no communication with that
office, not having been in there since his Honor took
office, and never having been invited in there, and
I thought perhaps the Upham's Corner Civic Asso-
ciation thought I could answer for the Mayor
and I am unable to do that and for that reason I
wanted to have them get their communication
in the hands of the man that should be responsible
to the people. Unfortunately, there were 3,500-
odd misguided people in the ward, of which I was
not one, who voted for his Honor last November,
perhaps on the theory he was to reduce 65 per cent
the budget of the preceding year. However, it
does seem that his Honor should know how an
association of this kind who were supporters of him
feel relative to this neglect of the ward. At a time
like this when the other twenty-one wards are
having a Fourth of July celebration, I suppose they
feel they should have one, and so I am putting this
into the hands of the Mayor as the responsible
party to allow him to answer to those 3,500 as to
why they were neglected.
Coun. SELVITELLA— I am interested in the
remarks of the councilor because I have learned a
way of making an entree and I sympathize with
him in the lack of communication. While we are
on the subject of a Fourth of July celebration, we
might be a little premature, but I think that when
that day has gone that we will each and every one
of us here have to take an inventory or stock of
just what is going to transpire on July 4th. I
have learned something here today, that when we
do send a communication and it doesn't get to the
party, or at leaBt they say it doesn't, we have a
way of introducing an order and getting that
communication to the Mayor's office. East
Boston gave Mayor Mansfield 6,200 votes, more
than three thousand more than his nearest com-
petitor. We have not been as unfortunate as the
councilor from Ward 13, as I understand from run-
about sources, and from other people who do not
live in my district, that we are going to get $500
for a celebration. I do not suppose I ought to
permit this opportunity to pass without giving
my vote of thanks to the Mayor of Boston because
last year we received 81,500 and, being a local boy,
of course we did not expect as much as $1,500,
but we are getting $500, but it occurs to me at
this time that small politics are being played.
That $500 was suggested a month ago and we
were going to get fireworks and a band concert,
but through my efforts, and with the help of my
friends, such as the President of this Council,
we persuaded, or he persuaded the Mayor to allow
us to spend that money as we saw fit. Now the
suggestion originally was made by the councilor
from East Boston, but of course he couldn't be
allowed to get that credit and it was laid on the
table until our Congressman from Washington
arrived in town, so in order that he might get the
credit rather than Selvitella they waited until last
Friday and the Congressman received due credit
for something that he was surprised to know any-
thing about. I think the Fourth of July is a cele-
bration where the councilor from each district is
responsible for the proper success. At least, that
has been my understanding, but because men like
McGrath, Wilson, and a few others, — I do not want
to put them on the spot, — who have stood on this
floor and fought for what they thought was the
best interest of their district, small politics is being
played to try to keep the various councilors out
of the picture. Now, I am a new man in this
body and I am willing to learn and I have learned
something today and I hope before I complete my
two years at least I will understand human nature.
Coun. FISH — I think that piece of literature is
just trying to show up the present Mayor of Boston
for the purpose of boosting a certain candidate for
Governor of the Commonwealth, and may I say
to the councilor from Ward 13 that James M.
Curley treated Dorchester pretty rotten the last
three years regarding ice cream and candy for the
kiddos.
Coun. NORTON — My ward is a ward of home
owners and a ward of small children. It is a
factory section. They have the American Tool
Machine Company, the car shops of the New Haven
Railroad, Sturtevant Company and others, and
we are not going to get five cents, and I don't know
as I want any money. Out there we have five
thousand children without shoes. We must have
ten thousand who are not getting enough milk.
Four years ago I think we had a couple of thousand
dollars. Those were flush years, — just throwing
it away. Yes, we plead guilty. I rather take it
if the Mayor would see fit to give me five cents out
there, if he would, I would rather give it out to
the children for more milk and clothing rather than
to throw it up in the air on balloons.
Coun. McGRATH — In answer to the councilor
from Ward 16, I would say it is my understanding
that the Upham's Corner Civic Association is
about 95 per cent Republican and I doubt if they
are interested in the Democratic Primaries. As a
matter of fact, I didn't introduce the order as
coming from myself, I introduced it because they
cailed on me to ask whether I thought this was
Mayor Mansfield's idea of gratitude and not
knowing the idea of the Mayor on gratitude,
and what gratitude he should show the ward, I
thought by this method I should send it over to
the man who is responsible for the appropriation,
the Mayor of Boston. This comes directly from
the Civic Association.
Order passed under suspension of the rules.
CONTRACTS UNDER COMPETITIVE
BIDDING.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to let out the following contracts under competi-
tive bidding, namely, permanent paving, smooth
paving and artificial stone sidewalks.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FLOODING CERTAIN STREETS DURING
HOT WEATHER.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor of Boston
consider the advisability of requesting the Fire
Commissioner, during the hot weeks of the sum-
mer, to flood certain streets of the city, especially
where there are a large number of children, and
also to use to capacity the sprinkler shower bath
system attached to the hydrants.
Coun. NORTON — I think it is possible that in
so far as here in Boston we suffer from the most
acute stages of humidity and hot weather during
the period of six weeks in the average year, it
would seem it would be economical to spend a
little money on the matter of sprinklers at the
various hydrants in the poor sections of Boston.
I believe we can save money if we take that previous
order and look into the matter of patched paving.
where there is no bidding. There is no question
of competition in it. It is just giving it to the
political friend to get as much as possible out of
it and soak public utilities as much more, which
is heing paid back in electric light rates. That
has been going on for a number of years and should
be stopped. If we stop part of that we will have
enough money to take care of the children in hot
weather.
Passed under suspension of the rules.
2f)9
OITY COUNCIL.
LICENSE TO SELL LIQUOR IN HYDE PARK.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be respect-
fully requested to consider the advisability of
requesting the Alcoholic Beverage Commission
to review the matter of the issuance of licenses to
sell intoxicating beverages in the Hyde Park sec-
tion of Boston, especially in cases where the Boston
Licensing Board has turned down the application
and the Alcoholic Beverage Commission has ap-
proved of same.
Coun. NORTON— The Boston Licensing Com-
mission, acting at the request of every clergyman
in the Hyde Park section of Boston and every civic
organization of that section, has turned down the
request of two applicants to sell liquor in the Hyde
Park section. Those two licenses have been
granted over the heads of the Boston Licensing
Board, and the Hyde Park section is a Niagara
of rum shops and we want to know where it is
going to stop. With the Boston Licensing Board
turning down applicants they can go somewhere
else and land feet up.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
AIR-CONDITIONING CITY HOSPITAL.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to consider the advisability of air-con-
ditioning a section of one of the new buildings.
Coun. NORTON — For four years during the
hot weather I have introduced that order. It is
bad enough for well people during weather of this
nature to get along, but think of the thousands
in the hospital with fever. There is no reason
why one or two or three floors of one of these new
hospital units could not be air-conditioned today.
Four years ago some of the doctors said it was
not a good thing for sick people. The American
Medical Association on that question has advised
me here in writing, in a three-page letter, that it
is a good thing and does save life and I respectfully
at this time turn over to the authorities, whoever
they may happen to be, this file, which I have
put together during the last four years, on the
matter of air-conditioning two or three of the
floors in one of the new buildings where patients
who suffer from the humidity will have an oppor-
tunity at least of enjoying that wonderful influence
of air-conditioning.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DISPENSING OF COATS BY CERTAIN
POLICE OFFICERS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner of
Boston be requested to consider the matter of
allowing certain police officers of Boston to dis-
pense with their coats during the extreme hot
weeks of the summer.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SURVEY OF ALL LICENSES AND PERMITS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the President of the City Council
be requested to appoint a special committee, com-
posed of five members of the City Council, to
make a complete survey and detailed investiga-
tion of any and all licenses and permits now issued
by any and all departments of the City of Boston,
whether or not a fee is now charged, but as to which
the provisions of chapter 297 of the Acts of 1931
may be applicable, with a view to determining and
fixing fair and proper fees in each case.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
hereby is, requested to obtain from all city de-
partments and supply forthwith to the City Coun-
cil the following information in detail:
a. A complete list of each and every type of
license, permit and certificate now obtainable
from or used by each department as to which a fee
is now charged and with reference to which chapter
297 of the Acts of 1931 may be applicable.
b. A complete list of each and every type of
license, permit and certificate obtainable from or
used by each department as to which no fee is now
charged, but with reference to which chapter 297
of the Acts of 1931 may be applicable.
Further ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be,
and hereby is, requested to further advise the City
Council forthwith concerning the above informa-
tion in each and every case:
a. The name and division of each department
referred to.
b. The type or name of each permit and license
now used by each department.
c. The number of each type of such permits and
licenses granted or issued annually for each year
from 1929 to 1933, inclusive.
d. A designation as to which of said permits
and licenses are now issued without any charge
whatever.
e. The amount of any charge now made for each
permit or license.
f. Any changes in the charge for permit or
license made between January 1, 1929, and De-
cember 31, 1933, inclusive.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, very briefly,
of course, the Acts of 1931, chapter 297, a little
over two years ago was an act authorizing the
City Council of Boston, with the approval of the
Mayor, to fix fees for certain licenses and permits,
not including marriage licenses, and I think
we should approach it trom the angle in which
the Legislature intended the passage of the act.
It specifically reads. "The City Council of Boston
shall fix the rates, subject to the approval of the
Mayor," and with the budget out of the way I
would assume this is perhaps one of our more
important functions for the balance of the year,
that a complete survey and investigation should
be made. It is not improbable that the new
Mayor may begin inquiries along these lines, but
the work should be done by the City Council
based on information received from the various
department heads. I have in mind permits and
licenses which are now grossly inadequately
charged for. I have in mind the many permits
and licenses which the City of Boston issues
which have no charge. I have in mind an item
such as, for example, the issuing of permits by
the Police Department for Sunday work, con-
sidered as emergency, which should bring in a
revenue of upwards of $5,000. I have in mind
issuing of certificates to men as registered voters
which requires a large part of the time of the
Election Department and should have a sub-
stantial charge. I have in mind the gasolene
permits, which I believe now have a charge of
something like $1 or $2, but having in mind the
profit in gas permits in some prior years at least
a charge from $25 to $50 would seem applicable
and I feel if this matter is properly gone into by
the body authorized to take it up by the Acts of
1931 of the Legislature, we can add a substantial
amount of revenue to the City of Boston and
certainly enough in the various departments to
make up the deficiency which makes it possible
for the single men on the welfare to be at least
for some time kept out of the fate that has been
promised to them in the recent ruling of the Board.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
Coun. GLEASON called up, under No. 2 on the
calendar, the name of George M. Pierce.
The Chair also called up No. 3 on the calendar,
viz.:
3. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor June 11, 1934, of Robert Fuller and Paul
Dalmasa, to be Weighers of Goods.
The President appointed Coun. Green and Agnew
to be a committee to receive, sort and count the
ballots.
The committee attended to the duty assigned
them.
The appointments were confirmed, yeas 16.
nays 0.
WELFARE PAYMENTS TO SINGLE MEN.
Coun. SELVTTELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of the Public
Welfare be requested to inform the City Council,
in the matter of the proposed substitution of food
and lodging cards instead of cash payments for
single men, whether or not it is the intention of
the Board to treat all such single men as a class or
to deal with the individual cases.
JULY 2, 1934.
260
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I am
going to be very brief. This order is with reference
to the order that was issued by the executive
director of the Welfare Department last week
regarding 1.500 so-called single men who were
receiving S4 in cash and who were notified they
were going to get a $2 meal book instead. Now,
my understanding of those single men's cases is
that if a man is a widower he is considered a single
man. If he has been separated from his family
at some time during his life, he is considered a
single man. Now, never have I been more sincere
than at the present time with reference to this
order, because the past two or three months I
have been hearing a lot of rumblings by the Public
Welfare Department and about the huge fraudu-
lent cases that existed. I kept silent because I
would rather have a reorganization of the Welfare
Department than permit a single case to remain
on the rolls that was not properly there, and when
this new Board was appointed and when the new
executive director, Mr. Dowling, was appointed,
I was in hopes his first work would be to uncover
these so-called fraudulent cases and when last
week he sent out this order I was surprised because
then I felt that he, in his attempt to clarify the
Public Welfare Department, confesses that there
does not exist a single fraudulent case, because to
take these 1,500 men and ask them to take a book
regardless of where the man might live, whether
it be in South Boston, East Boston, or Roxbury,
and say to him, "You must go to the Volunteer
Cafe on Brattle street and have your meals.
Now this book represents S2 in meals, — twenty-one
meals per week which is an average of 9^ cents.
Well, now, I don't know just what kind of a meal
9j cents will produce, but I think we are all men of
practical experience, so we know that 9 j cents will
not give much of a return and it is unfair that
many men who are advanced in years, men who
have contributed a great many years of their life
to the community, who because of adverse circum-
stances, beyond their control, are now paying the
penalty to justify the removal of the executive
director. I am not here in his defense, but any-
one can assume the duties of that office and scribble
out an order such as Mr. Dowling did and then say
that he is upholding the duties of his office and
publishing it as something which this Council
intended him to do. I say it is unfair to have
these men who are beyond the age of fifty years,
who are unable to get any work, at least give them
an opportunity of performing work. They are
not hobos or tramps or bums. They were re-
spectable citizens of their community and are
today and it is unfair to have them go to a " scratch
house" and say to them that you must sleep in
those quarters, and if you do not you will be off
the welfare roll. So we are to take some measure
of responsibility. My order is asking the Board
of Public Wellare to treat each case individually
and if he finds in his investigation that any man
has been using the money for liquor, then I would
be the first one to take him off the rolls, but if that
man is a man who has been devoting his life to the
community and made every effort to make an
honest living, it is unfair to drive him from his
little one or two room flat he might now be using.
I have no quarrel with Mr. Dowling. I don't
know him, but as I stated at the time he took office,
that he was unfitted by training to assume the
duties of that office, because if a man has devoted
his life to prosecution, and that is all he has done,
who has been connected with these reform organi-
zations- then he is not the man because he lacks
that sympathetic understanding that I charged
him with at that time, and when we have a man
through whose veins ice water runs — and I don't
mean the ice water of the fountain — then I say
it is time this Council took some action because
this is the beginning of other things that are going
to happen and will be worse than this order. Now,
I have no quarrel with the Mayor's office, but he
must assume responsibility for whatever this man
does and I believe I am expressing the sentiment of
this Council when I say we are all desirous of
ridding the rolls of "fakirs," but do not start on
men who have only a few moro years in this world,
who in some cases would be tempted to commit
suicide rather than take this $2 book and walk the
streets until they got a 9$-cent meal or go to any
of those "scratch houses," that the city will have
to pay anyway, so there cannot be much of a saving.
I have no quarrel with the Mayor if he is desirous
of decent economy, nor any quarrel with him if he
wishes to dine the naval officers at the Hotel
Touraine, because that is a good act of courtosy.
Neither have I any quarrel with him if he sees tit
to bring guests to the Parker House and dine them
at the expense of the City of Boston, because that
is all incidental to his duties. Neither have I any
quarrel if he sees fit, as I am told, to spend $175
for gold scissors to cut the tape in order that they
may pass through the East Boston Tunnel. That
is his business. I hope, however, it is not true, but,
gentlemen, this is a serious business. Let us give
these men who represent our communities in various
parts of Boston an opportunity to enjoy life,
health and happiness, and if there is a spark of
sympathy in the present Mayor I hope he will, and
I shall be the first to congratulate him if he will,
revoke this order and have every man come before
the Board or have every man investigated in-
dividually and find out whether he is deserving of
at least S4 a week. [Applause.l
The PRESIDENT— Under the rules of the
Council we cannot allow any applause. The
spectators are here as our guests, and are expected
to observe that rule.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I am glad
the councilor introduced the order on this matter.
I think we all should have in mind a certain situa-
tion peculiar to a few of our wards. I refer to
the South End of Boston, where there are many
lodging houses and where many of the men who
are so radically affected by this order live. I
refer particularly to Wards 5, 8 and 9, and the
councilors from these wards can attest to the
fact that there are a number of well-meaning
individuals, who totally through some fault
beyond their control, cannot find work. There
is a certain class of people in every city in the
United States between the ages of fifty and sixty
who probably will never find work again. They
have been respectable citizens and they find them-
selves so reduced in circumstances they have to
go to the Welfare Department. They constitute
a fine body of men and it is a social problem we
have to deal with and I think the Welfare Depart-
ment would be making the biggest mistake if they
put this order into effect without investigation
of the individual cases. Some time ago the Welfare
Department inaugurated a system whereby the
men receiving the welfare should produce receipts
from their landladies and I think that is in vogue
at the present time. Now, the slightest kind of an
investigation will show just which ones of this
class of people are actually worthy of assistance
and let us not throw them on the streets. They
have been humiliated enough and they are receiv-
ing a small amount as it is. I think an investiga-
tion would be in order, and before anything else
is done let us have a thorough investigation and
let us not have anv unfortunate acts.
President DOWD— The Chair will call Councilor
McGrath to the chair.
Coun. McGrath in the chair.
Coun. GOLDMAN— While I do not always
agree with Councilor Selvitella, this is one occasion
where I offer the same sentiments he does. When
I first read about it I wrote to Dowling the follow-
ing letter, %vhich I will submit with the consent
of the Council. And I say here that this is not
Mayor Mansfield's policy at all. That is the
attitude of Dowling and Dowling alone and I join
Councilor Selvitella in urging immediate elimina-
tion of these books and I agree wholeheartedly
in his suggestions here today.
President DOWD — Mr. Chairman, this is my
maiden speech for the year. For nine years, all
during my public career, I have done the utmost I
could to uplift the burden that rests upon the
shoulders of the poor of Boston. The time has
not come in the history of Boston when any individ-
ual, no matter who he may be, can say that we
are going to take 1,500 men and put them on the
streets of Boston. We cannot say to the man who
has a little one-room flat where he cooks his own
food, "You have got to discard your furniture,
we are not going to give you a place to sleep or
shave or keep clean; we are going to force you to
sleep on the streets." Any self-respecting person
rather than go to the Hell hotel like Dawes Hotel
would rather sleep on the streets where, at least,
he might have a chance of coming away without
going to a delousing plant of some kind. There is
no man more worried about the situation in the
last few days that I have been. I represent a
ward of poor people and much as I dislike to leave
the President's chair to take issue in the City
Council I believe today I am forced to do so, and
I :mi forced to do so her;nise of the tact I went to
800 the Mayor this morning and put the facts up
to him just, as cold as any man could do and 1 «
to say to you, Mr. Chairman, the very words tho
261
CITY COUNCIL.
Mayor of Boston said to me: "That I, Mayor
Mansfield, do not want to see any single worthy
man cut off the pay roll and I want you, Mr.
President, to tell the members of the Council that
if they know of one worthy man who is cut off to
have him reapply immediately and he will be
investigated, and if his case is found worthy, then
he will be put back on the rolls' immediately."
Then I said: "What about the men fifty-five,
sixty or sixty-five years of age?" He said, "I am
going to issue an order that discretion be used
with all the people by the visitors in the Welfare
Department." And let me say to some of those
visitors who are as hard-boiled as they possibly
can be, who have never known what it is to be
poor, who owe everything they ever had to the
people who are receiving aid, that they better use
discretion. I want to know of a single, solitary
worthy case in my ward of any man put off the
welfare. If he is, and he is worthy, he is going
to go back on the welfare, but the men, of course,
who spend their $4 or $5 for anything it is not
intended to be used for, then we cannot do any-
thing for them. I said, "Is it true that something
is going to be done with the women of Boston,
with the 4,500 women who are going to be thrown
on the bricks the same as the men?" He said,
"There is absolutely no truth in that whatsoever,"
and he called Mr. McMurry, chairman of the
Public Welfare Department, and asked him if any
conversation was had so far as the women of
Boston were concerned and Mr. McMurry's
answer was "No." I like to be neutral as President
of the Council. I have only a few months more to
sit up there and then I will be back where I belong,
but at the same time I am not going to allow any
self-appointed officer to dictate the policies of
telling how the poor of Boston shall be treated.
I believe the Mayor's attitude and answer will
meet with the approbation and the approval of the
public and our councilors. His answer is, that
every case will be investigated and if that man is
found worthy, then that man will be retained on
the rolls, and I want to say to you, sir, and to
every member of this Council, and to the people
of my district and the people of Boston, that if
there is any single, individual case that is a worthy
case that is cut off the rolls by some hard-boiled
visitor because they want to make a saving in their
department, then I want to know about it, and I
will do everything I can to correct the unjust evil
that has been or is attempting to be done.
Coun. DONOVAN— I desire to call to the atten-
tion of the members of this body the fact that I
know of one individual who has an artificial limb
— a leg — who has been taken out of his room and
obliged to go to the Volunteers of America to
receive his meals. Last Wednesday was the pay
day and the following Wednesday being a holiday,
he was given two books. This man is fifty-seven
years of age, born in Boston and has been obliged
to do this. I wish to inform the Mayor that I
know of one case and I hope this man's case will be
rectified.
Coun. GREEN — I think we ought to take some
drastic action this afternoon; ought to request
the City Messenger to invite Mr. Dowling to
appear before the City Council in executive
session. If the monarch of all he surveys issued
these orders without consulting the Mayor I
think we ought to have a show-down and if he is
cold-blooded, we will try to thaw him out. I make
a motion to bring Mr. Dowling before the com-
mittee in executive session.
President DOWD — I already thought of that
this morning, because I felt we ought to have him
up here to give him a little thawing out, but the
Welfare Department was holding their meeting at
three o'clock and I conferred with McMurry and
found they would not be released until after six
o'clock. I might suggest that you appoint a com-
mittee of five to wait upon the Mayor and see if
he gives the same answer to the committee as to
me.
Coun. NORTON — I see no reason why
McMurry and Dowling, if they are there, cannot
come up now. [Applause. |
Acting President McGRATH— The Chair will
state that those in the gallery are here as our wel-
come guests. The rules of the Council do not
permit approval or disapproval of any speech on
the Council floor, and I ask you as our guests to
respect that rule.
The question then came on the motion of
Coun. Green that the Council send for Chairman
McMurry and Secretary Dowling of the Welfare
Department.
Motion carried, and the City Messenger in-
structed to ask both of those gentlemen to come
up.
Acting President McGRATH — The question is
on the passage of the order of Councilor Selvitella.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. Chairman, we want to
be fair. A statement was made on the floor that
$175 was paid for a pair of gold scissors so that a
leading personage could officially open the tunnel.
$175, I understand, was paid for the scissors and
paid to the Bigelow Kennard Company, but was
paid not out of the City of Boston funds, but paid
personally by the chairman, Thomas Sullivan,
and his two colleagues, John McDonald and
Arthur V. Sullivan.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. Chairman, I didn't
go so far as to say it was paid by the City of Boston.
I said it was called to my sttention that $175 was
paid for the pair of gold scissors and I thought I
said I hoped it was not so.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
In connection with the order, Coun. Selvitella
submitted the following:
"As I See It."
(An Address by Richard Grant over Yankee
Network on Wednesday, June 27, 1934.)
Good Evening Friends. Well, your old friend
John C. Dowling of the Watch and Ward Society
is off in a cloud of dust on his new job as head
of the Boston Welfare Department. A couple of
days back, John dashed off a statement showing
that he had been able to save a lot of money for
the taxpayers by chasing hundreds of people off
the charity list, and today the Welfare Board
announced a new policy that will send all the
single men on the welfare list scurrying from one
"beanery" to another, looking for a place where
they can buy a good home-cooked dinner for 10
cents. In the past these fellows have been getting
$4 in cash every week, which certainly didn't
encourage them to become spendthrifts, but from
now on they'll get no money at all, just a food
order, good for $2 worth of groceries at any hotel
or restaurant in the city.
That figures out — according to the same kind
of arithmetic Mr. Dowling uses in computing his
income tax — to twenty-one meals a week — assum-
ing that even people who are on the welfare list
are accustomed to eat three times a day — at the
rate of nine and a half cents a meal. Well, sir,
if I knew of any place where I could eat for nine
and a half cents I'd go there myself, but so far
I haven't been able to find one where you could
even buy doughnuts and coffee for less than a
dime. And if it wasn't for the cruel irony of the
situation I think I'd laugh right out loud at Mr.
Dowling's explanation of the Welfare Depart-
ment's new deal. He says it is being done to
"create among the men an individual sense of
responsibility." No doubt they'll all start wear-
ing white vests to look like bank directors when
they walk up to the counterman in a one-arm
lunch and take out their pauper's tickets to ask
for nine and a half cents worth of caviar.
And il a welfare recipient who falls into this
class is not living at home or with a family group,
Mr. Dowling has arranged to have him sleep at
the Wayfarers' Lodge on Hawkins street, where
he will have the privilege of rubbing elbows with
tramps and other human derelicts whose com-
pany should go a long way toward helping him
to retain his individual sense of responsibility.
About six thousand men will be affected in all by
the new order which goes into effect next week,
and it will be a big surprise to some of Mr.
Dowling's own welfare workers who didn't throw
their hats in the air and cheer when the news
was given out this afternoon. A long line of wel-
fare recipients was waiting in Hawkins street
when it happened and several of them fainted,
I understand, when they heard what was going to
happen.
Now, what I would like to know is just how
debased in his own esteem a man must become
in order to be considered by the City Welfare
Board a fitting object of charity. It looks to me
as if the object of this move, instead of promoting
individual responsibility, is to make the position
of anybody who applies for public welfare assist-
ance so lacking in individuality or self-respect
that people will starve or commit suicide sooner
than break the last thread that binds them to
respectability. I'm sure I'd rather jump off a
dock than accept this kind of help from John
JULY 2, 1934.
262
Dowling. But maybe that's what John wants
and there are a few other people in town who
would probably pay to see me do it.
And if the charge that I've so often heard made
by people whose sole interest is in the size of the
tax rate is true — that everybody on the welfare
rolls is a chiseler who would rather accept a dole
than work if he had the chance — what's the sense
of paying anything for welfare aid? Whv does
the city spend $13,000,000 a year? Well, it has
always been my idea that the only reason for
having cities is to make it easier for all who live
in them to work for their mutual benefit. Boston
pays out a large sum to keep the Elevated Rail-
way running so that people can go about. It
builds sewers for sanitation and maintains recrea-
tional activities to ensure the ensuing generation
of sound, healthy bodies. But apparently it is
resolving itself into a government like that of
Ancient Sparta, where the weak were trampled
and destroyed on the theory that they had no
right to live and be a burden on the able-bodied
citizens of the community.
How fond we are of prattling about the virtues
of the Good Samaritan of the Bible who bound
up the wounds of his natural enemy and restored
him to health. We even hire teachers to train
our children that the most valuable asset they can
possess when they go out into the world to make
their way is self-reliance and the good American
philosophy that one man is as good as another
as long as he behaves himself. And yet in Boston,
the capital city of Massachusetts, Hub of the
Universe, center of culture, we shall inaugurate
next Monday a plan to deliberately pauperize and
stultify thousands of decent fellows whose only
crime is being temporarily down on their luck.
If Mr. Dowling can't think of some better way to
reorganize the Public Welfare Department than
this and the Mayor can't find a human being to
take his place, then the city is in a very bad way
indeed.
Coun. GOLDMAN submitted the following
letter:
Boston City Council,
Council Chamber,
City Hall, June 29, 1934.
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director, Overseers of the Public
Welfare, Boston.
Dear Sir, — Please record my indignant protest
against the proposed policy of your department
with respect to single men living with relatives.
The issuing of $2 meal tickets for a week's food
and the virtual concentration of these men into
public lodging houses is contrary to every principle
of humane, social welfare work. It is uncivilized
and inhuman. I refuse to believe that this city
has come to such a sorry condition when we must
herd men together like animals and force them into
a most degrading type of existence.
Under the present system these men still can re-
tain their self-respect and morale. Most of these
men are honest, decent Americans, who are unable
to obtain work and are on the welfare roles as a last
resort. Their future is bleak enough without deal-
ing them such a humiliating blow. Not even the
most urgent demands of economy should cause us
to relegate these men to the barbaric existence
which you propose to impose on them. These
lodging houses in which you expect to herd them
will become breeding places for discontent. Every
form of vicious doctrine will find fertile ground
among these men who have been practically dis-
owned by society. You cannot break the morale
and self-respect of a human being without expect-
ing dangerous consequences.
If you must economize, do it in some other way.
Don't sacrifice human lives! Human values are
too sacred to be tossed aside in the name of econ-
omy. Eliminate the frauds from your list, drop
the undeserving cases, but, for God's sake, let's
treat those deserving Americans who are on the
Welfare rolls like human beings. Let them be
able to look at the world with self-respect and
dignity when we have emerged from these trouble-
some times.
Sincerely yours,
Maurice M. Goldman, Councilor.
HEARSAY INFORMATION RE WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That tho Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, not
to stop aid in any case, where hearsay information
is received by the department, without first investi-
gating said information.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, this
seems to be a day to discuss the Welfare Depart-
ment, and being one of the most important func-
tions, I think we have spent this time properly in
discussing its affairs. Several cases have come to
my knowledge within recent times of where hearsay
evidence was given to the Board of Welfare by
some anonymous person or someone would call uo
and soy one of the recipients was working and
then, acting on such information, that person's aid
was stopped, and then an investigation started
and in the meantime that person would be without
aid for perhaps two weeks. Then it would be dis-
closed that perhaps there was nothing to this in-
formation or there was some weight to it. I
think it is wrong to stop a person's aid because
some person gives information and then a week or
two to investigate it to the detriment and suffering
of that individual.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
CHARLES STREET TRAFFIC.
Coun. GREEN, for Coun. Fitzgerald, offered the
following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to provide
for the installation of automatic traffic signal
lights on Charles street, at the junction of Allen
street and at the junction of Chambers street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Coun. GREEN, for Coun. Fitzgerald, offered the
following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Police Commissioner to place traffic officers
on duty at the junction of Allen street and Charles
street, from 8 a. m. to 11 p. m., and at the circle
at the junction of Leverett and Charles streets at
the same time.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Coun. GREEN, for Coun. Fitzgerald, offered
the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to place
"Stop" signs at all streets leading into Charles
street, from Cambridge to Leverett street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INSTALLATION OF TRAFFIC LIGHTS.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to install traffic
lights at Columbus avenue and Dartmouth street.
Coun. ROBERTS— This is the fourth time I
have introduced this order and since January first
there have been several more deaths at this par-
ticular section where three streets come in.
According to the records it is the third worst place
in Boston. I propose to reintroduce this order
every time another death occurs.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
CLEANING BATHING BEACHES ALONG
SOUTH BOSTON WATERFRONT.
Coun. KERRIGAN and DONOVAN offered
the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to take
immediate steps to have old tin cans, broken
bottles, decayed fruit and all other rubbish and
foreign substances removed from the bathing
beaches along the South Boston waterfront, as a
means of protecting the health of the bathers.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIGNS ON CAGES AT FRANKLIN PARK
ZOO.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That tho Park Commissioner bo re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to place
263
CITY COUNCIL.
cards or signs on the cages of the various animals
at the Franklin Park Zoo, giving the name and
history of each animal.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
TRANSFER OF LONG ISLAND STUDENT
NURSES.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Institutions Commissioner
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
inform the City Council as to what progress, if
any, has been made with reference to the transfer
of nursing students from the Long Island Hospital
Training School to the Boston City Hospital
Training School, to afford them an opportunity
to complete their course of training.
Coun. DOHERTY— As Chairman of the Hospi-
tal Committee I have not been able to get informa-
tion whether the class of nurses discharged from
the Long Island Hospital are going to the City
Hospital. I would like to have this order referred
to the Executive Committee so we can find out just
exactly where these girls stand.
Referred to Executive Committee.
RESURFACING STANWOOD STREET.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to resurface Stanwood street in Ward 14, from
Blue Hill avenue to Columbia road.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS AT LUCERNE STREET
AND WOODROW AVENUE.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor direct the
Board of Street Commissioners to install a light at
the corner of Lucerne street and Woodrow avenue
in Ward 14.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONTINUATION OF E. R. A. PROJECTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to continue the E. R. A. projects as contained in
page 222 of Council Records of the meeting of
June 4, and that each order offered therein should be
continued again as if a new order and ask that the
date be extended to continue all of them until
at least August 15, 1934.
Coun. GOLDMAN — On that last order of mine
you will recall under date of June 4 I introduced
that order regarding the E. R. A. project on that
Bridge and Ferry Service. There are five orders
and I felt perhaps it would not be advisable to
clutter up the record by reading the same orders.
We had word they were continuing that from
July 1 and I am now asking again a continuance
until August 15.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
PEDESTRIAN LANES.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following.-
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to paint
pedestrian lanes at the following locations in
Ward 21:
Chestnut Hill avenue and Commonwealth
avenue, Warren street and Commonwealth avenue,
Allston street and Commonwealth avenue, Union
square, Allston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAIRING NORTHERN AVENUE
BRIDGE.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to proceed immediately with the work of
repairing the Northern Avenue Bridge.
Coun. DONOVAN — Several months ago this
body passed a loan order to the extent of $375,000
for the repairs of the Northern Avenue Bridge.
The bridge has been out of commission for six
months causing confusion in that vicinity. Ship-
ping interests have lost thousands of dollars
because cargoes assigned to them have not reached
the docks in time. Motor transportation has been
at a standstill and I am calling on the Mayor to
start immediately the reconstruction of the
Northern Avenue Bridge so conditions will not
be further complicated.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
AGE LIMIT FOR GUARDS AND GATE-
MEN IN EAST BOSTON TUNNEL.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to inform the City Council as to his reason
for establishing an age limit for guards and gate-
men to be appointed on the new East Boston
Traffic Tunnel.
Coun. DONOVAN— I understand the age limit
has been placed on the men who are to serve as
guards in the new vehicular tunnel. The age
limit is set at forty, and eight of the first nineteen
men on the civil service list have been declared
ineligible because they are over forty. Now.
these men are being done a great injustice by
making a hurdle of the age of forty. I ask the
Mayor to reconsider his action.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
Coun. GREEN — I would like to ask what
report the City Messenger received from Mr.
McMurry and Mr. Dowling?
CITY MESSENGER— I was unable to get any
report. The secretary told me that neither Mr.
McMurry nor Mr. Dowling were able to leave the
meeting they were attending.
Acting President McGRATH— The Chair will
announce the matter will be taken up in executive
session.
Coun. DONOVAN— Colonel Sullivan has told
me that if we desire his presence at executive
session to explain the $175 for those gold scissors,
he would be glad to come down and explain.
Acting President McGRATH— That will be
taken up in executive session.
Coun. WILSON — Might we also suggest that
one reason we would like to have that in the
meeting of the Council is that we would like more
light on the million dollar order we are asked to
pass in a rush today.
Acting President McGRATH— The matter will
be taken up in executive session.
RECESS.
The Council took a recess at 3.43 p. m., and
were called to order in the chamber by President
DOWD at 4.40 p. m.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn under the law, Coun.
ROBERTS presiding at the box in the absence of
his Honor Mayor Mansfield, as follows:
Nine traverse jurors, Superior Criminal Court,
First. Session, to appear August 9, 1934:
Charles A. Briggs, Ward 2; Robert C. Haynes,
Ward2; Raphael J. Savino, Ward 6; JohnEdward
Gaughran, Ward 7; Joseph Klaus, Ward 7; Henry
J. Polak, Ward 9; Michael J. Kenney, Ward 16;
Daniel J. Larkin, Ward 16; Charles J. Mullin,
Ward 17.
Twenty-five traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear August 6, 1934:
Lawrence Beatrice, Ward 1; Charles W. McGinn,
Ward 1; Robert Riordan, Ward 2; Harry Connell,
Ward 3; James Torravecchia, Ward 3; John F.
Brickley, Ward 8; James F. McCarthy, Ward 8;
Andrew Minihan, Ward 10; Owen Joseph Nolan,
Ward 10; John L. Murphy, Ward 11; Frank E.
Weiler, Ward 11; Samuel Adams, Ward 16;
Frederick McDonnell, Ward 16; Gerald E. Swan-
son, Ward 16; Frank M. McNamara, Ward 18;
William L. Carpenter, Ward 19; James F. Myers,
JULY 2, 1934.
264
Ward 19; John L. P. Brooks, Ward 20; Henry E.
Fuller, Ward 20; Thomas McNulty, Ward 20;
Edmund R. Peters, Ward 20; Thomas F. Redding-
ton. Ward 20; William S. Blake. Ward 21; David
A. Walker, Ward 21; Charles E. Brown, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Third Session, to appear August 6, 1934:
Joseph Alberghini, Ward 1; Patrick D. O'Brien,
Ward 1; Valentine Little, Ward 1; Joseph Sasso,
Ward 1; Edward Shannon, Ward 1; Forest C.
Sprague, Ward 1; Alexander W. Wilson, Ward 1;
Louis A. Chiesa, Ward 3; Daniel S. Maloney,
Ward 3; Robert Irvine, Ward 6; William J. Hanna,
Ward 8; John S. Doucet, Ward 11; John M.
Downey, Ward 11; Junius Walden, Ward 12;
Hyman Green, Ward 14; John J. Connolly, Ward
15; Victor R. Nordstrom, Ward 16; Harry F.
Grover, Ward 17; William N. Crocker, Ward 19;
James V. Sweeney, Jr., Ward 19; William H. Ayer,
Ward 20; Henry F. Myer, Ward 20; Fred P.
Schmid, Ward 20; Abraham Aronson, Ward 21;
John W. Doherty. Ward 21; Fred W. Howard,
Ward 21; Frank Ranson Kellogg, Ward 21; John
Lee, Ward 21; Thomas F. Murray, Ward 22.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petition (referred today) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.: Mary A. Geary,
Whiton Hall, June 15, 1934; Florence I. Hamilton,
Recital Hall, June 26, 1934, — that leave be granted
under usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted under usual
conditions.
2. Report on order (referred today) concerning
survey of license fees, etc., that order ought to
pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
President DOWD— The Chair will appoint
Councilor Wilson, Green, Brackman, SelviteUa and
Agnew.
3. Report on petition of Boston Elevated
(referred today) to operate motor vehicles, Fields
Corner to Blue Hill and Geneva avenues, recom-
mending order ought to pass.
Report accepted and order passed.
4. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) for temporary loan of $15,000,000
in anticipation of taxes, that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed, yeas 17,
nays 0.
APPROPRIATIONS.
Coun. GOLDMAN moved to take from the
table No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, for performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City Coun-
cil during the year, upon the County of Suffolk or
the departments or officers thereof, the respective
sums of money specified in the tables and schedules
hereinafter set out be, and the same are, hereby
appropriated for the several departments and for
the objects and purposes hereinafter stated, that
said sums be raised by taxation upon the polls
and estates taxable in the City of Boston, and
that all orders heretofore passed by the City
Council relating to appropriations and taxes and
the interest thereon apply to the taxes herein
provided for.
Superior Court, Civil Session, Clerk's
Office.
B. Service other than personal $9,900 00
D. Supplies 13,000 00
Superior Court, Criminal Session.
D. Supplies S14.500 00
Probate Court.
B. Service other than personal $9,650 00
D. Supplies 8,000 00
Registry of Deeds.
B. Service other than personal $1,600 00
D. Supplies 4,000 00
President DOWD — The order was taken from
the table and the question came on passage of the
order.
Coun. FISH— I am opposed to taking this from
the table or voting on this order.
President DOWD — It is already taken from the
table. Question now is on the passage.
Coun. FISH — I am opposed to the passage of
the order. After we voted against it last week I
don't see any reason why we can vote for it now.
The question came on passage of the order.
The order failed of passage, the vote on its
passage being:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Doherty, Dowd, Englert,
Gleason, Goldman, Kerrigan, Tobin, Wilson — 9.
Nays — Coun. Donovan, Finley, Fish, Gallagher,
Green, McGrath, Roberts, SelviteUa, Shattuck— 9.
Coun. GOLDMAN moved to reconsider the
vote. Reconsideration prevailed, and on motion
of Coun. GOLDMAN the order was assigned to
the next meeting.
THE NEXT MEETING.
President DOWD— Coun. GREEN moves we
now adjourn to meet two weeks from today.
Coun. SHATTUCK — I have the same question
as Councilor Englert. My impression was we
were to meet one week from today.
President DOWD — There is no business to
compel us. Does Councilor Green desire to with-
draw his motion?
Coun. GREEN — I withdraw my motion.
Coun. GOLDMAN — I move we meet two weeks
from today. There is no need of meeting next
Monday.
The motion was adopted and the Council voted,
at 5.15 p. m., to adjourn, to meet on Monday,
July 16, 1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON I'RINTINQ DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
'265
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
SPECIAL MEETING.
Friday, July 6. 1934.
Special meeting of the City Council held
in the Council Chamber. City Hall, -at 2 p. m.,
President DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun.
Brackman, Murray, Norton.
CALL FOR MEETING.
The meeting was held pursuant to the
following call :
Boston City Council,
Council Chamber,
City Hall, July 3, 1934.
To All Members of the City Council.
You are hereby requested to assemble in
the City Council Chamber. City Hall, on Fri-
day, July 6, 1934, at two o'clock p. m., to
take action on proposed order relative to the
West Roxbury High School and on such other
measures as may come before the meeting.
Sincerely.
John F. Dowd, President.
CONTINUATION OF E. R. A. PROJECT AT
CITY HOSPITAL.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor. July 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Board of Trustees of the Boston
City Hospital, relative to your order of June
4, 1934, concerning the continuance of the
E. R. A. projects now in operation at the
Boston City Hospital and its various divisions.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, June 22, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor. — At a meeting of the
Board of Trustees held today an order of
the City Council was presented, whereby the
Mayor is requested to direct the Trusties of
the Boston City Hospital to continue the
E. R. A. projects now in operation at the
Boston City Hospital, and its various divisions.
The trustees requested me to state that the
E. R. A. projects are in progress at the pres-
ent time. If these projects are to be con-
tinued the Hospital Department will join in
their continuance.
Yours sincerely,
I" 1 I'll I'. M WN'INfi,
President, Board of Trustees.
Placed on file.
KOSHER FOOD AT CITY HOSPITAL.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, Julv 8, 1934.
To^ the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Hoard of Trustees of the Boston
City Hospital relative to your order of June
11, 1934. concerning the making of adequate
provisions for serving 'Kosher food." in con-
formity with the Jewish dietary laws, to
hospital patients of the Hebrew faith.
Reap* I illy,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, June 22, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — At a meeting of the
Board of Trustees held today an order of the
City Council was presented, whereby the
trustees are requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to make adequate provision for the
serving of "Kosher food." in conformance
with the Jewish dietary laws, to hospital pa-
tients of the Hebrew faith.
Due to the fact that very few requests
for Kosher food are received in the hospital,
and because of the size of the organization,
it was deemed inadvisable to attempt to pro-
vide Kosher food.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
Placed on file.
APPROPRIATION FOR WEST ROXBURY
SCHOOLS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Officer of the Mayor, July 5, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — On February 26, 1934, your
honorable body gave its second and final
read.ng and passage to an order appropriating,
under the provisions of chapter 366 of the
Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment thereof
and in addition thereto, the sum of two
million dollars ($2,000,000) , to be expended
under the direction of the School Committee,
for one new high school and one new inter-
mediate school, and on April 14, 1934, the
City and the United States of America entered
into a grant agreement providing for a grant
to the city with reference to this project.
On July 2, 1934, the School Committee
passed an order requesting a change in the
project for which said sum was appropriated
from the construction of a new high school
in West Roxbury and a new intermediate
school in South Boston to the construction of
a new intermediate school and an addition to
the Robert Gould Shaw School in West Rox-
bury and a new intermediate school in South
Boston, contemplating the conversion of the
Washington Irving Intermediate School (orig-
inally designed for a high school) into a
high school. I submit herewith to your hon-
orable body a copy of said order.
The change proposed by the School Com-
mittee has the approval of the Board of Com-
missioners of School Buildings, the Superin-
tendent of Construction of the Department of
School Buildings, and the Superintendent of
Schools.
I am submitting herewith an order providing
that the city shall engage in the public works
project of constructing a new intermediate
school and an addition to the Robert Gould
Shaw School in the West Roxbury district.
and an order appropriating the sum of one
million two hundred thousand dollars ($1,-
200.000) for the construction of this new
intermediate school and addition to the Shaw
School, and I recommend prompt considera-
tion and passage by your honorable body of
these orders.
In order not to affect at this time the grunt
agreement above referred to between the City
and the United States of America it is con-
templated that the amendment of the ap-
propriation order of two million dollars ($2.-
000. 001" now in force, for the constructon of
a new high school and a new intermediate
School to one of eight hundred thousand dol-
lars ($800,000) for the construction of a
new Intermediate school in South Boston, be
postponed until after approval of the amended
project has been given by the Emergency
Finance Hoard, ami the Governor of the I
monwealth, and after a new grant agreement
for the amended project has been executed be-
tween the City and the United States of
America.
Respect fully submitted.
Frederick W. MANSFIELD, Mayor.
266
CITY COUNCIL.
City of Boston,
In School Committee, July 2, 1934.
Whereas, The City of Boston and the United
States of America have entered into a grant
agreement (Public Works Administration,
Docket No. 4217) for a grant from the United
States of America to the City of Boston to
aid in financing the project for the construc-
tion of school buildings ; and
Whereas, Said grant agreement defines said
project substantially as the construction of
two fireproof school buildings, namely, one
new high school in West Roxbury and one
new intermediate school in South Boston, in
accordance with the application of the City
of Boston for said grant from the United
States of America ; and
Whereas, It appears to be for the best
interests of the City of Boston to convert the
Washington Irving Intermediate School build-
ing in Roslindale (originally designed for a
high school) into a high school, and to erect
in Roslindale a new intermediate school and an
addition to the Robert Gould Shaw Inter-
mediate School in West Roxbury ; now there-
for, it is
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, requested to amend the applica-
tion of the City of Boston for a grant from
the United States of America to aid in financ-
ing the project for the construction of school
buildings (Public Works Administration,
Docket No. 4217) from a project for the
construction of one new hgh school in Ros-
lindale and one new intermediate school in
South Boston at an estimated aggregate cost
of two million dollars ($2,000,000) to a pro-
ject for the construction of one new inter-
mediate school in the Washington Irving Inter-
mediate District, an addition to the existing
Robert Gould Shaw School in West Roxbury,
and one new intermediate school in South Bos-
ton, at an estimated aggregate cost of two
million dollars ($2,000,000), and to take such
action and make such recommendations as
shall be necessary to carry out the foregoing
request.
The resolutions were adopted and the order
passed by the following vote :
Yeas — Messrs, Hurley, Lyons, Mackey, Sulli-
van and Tobin — 5.
Nays — 0.
A true copy.
Attest :
Louise Kane,
Assistant Secretary.
Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of section 2, part 1, of chapter 366
of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof and in addition thereto, the City of
Boston shall engage in the following public
Works project: Construction of one inter-
mediate school in the West Roxbury district
and an addition to the Robert Gould Shaw
School in the West Roxbury district, at an
estimated cost of $1,200,000.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chap-
ter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in
amendment thereof and in addition thereto,
the sum of $1,200,000 be, and hereby is, ap-
propriated, to be expended under the direction
of the School Committee, for the construction
of one intermediate school in the West Rox-
bury district and an addition to the Robert
Gould Shaw School in the West Roxbury dis-
trict, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from
time to time, upon request of the Mayor,
bonds or (certificates of indebtedness of the
city to said amount.
Referred to Executive Committee.
DEPUTY CITY AUDITOR.
Coun. FISH offered the following.
An Ordinance Concerning the Appointment
of a Deputy City Auditor.
Be it ordained by the City Council of Boston,
as follows :
Chapter 6 of the Revised Ordinances of
1925 is hereby amended b,y inserting after
section eight the following new section :
Section 9. The city auditor may appoint,
subject to the approval of the Mayor, a deputy
city auditor, who shall be sworn to the faith-
ful discharge of his duties and shall hold office
until his successor is appointed and qualified.
The deputy city auditor shall perform such
duties as may be assgned to him from time
to time by the city auditor. If, by reason of
illness, absence, or other cause, the city auditor
be temporarily unable to perform the duties
of his office, the deputy city auditor shall per-
form the same until such disability ceases.
Referred to Executive Committee.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted a report recommend-
ing passage of order for payment of aid to
soldiers and their families in the City of
Boston for the month of July, 1934.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
TEMPORARY LOAN IN ANTICIPATION
OF TAXES.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, the order for temporary loan of
$15,000,000 in anticipation of taxes. On July
2, 1934, the order was read once and passed,
yeas 17, nays 0.
The order was read a second time and
again passed, yeas 19, nays 0.
ABSENCE OF THE MAYOR.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 5, 1934.
Wilfred J. Doyle, Esq.,
City Clerk.
Dear 'Sir, — This is to notify you that I shall
be out of the city beginning. Thursday, July
5, at 5 p. m., and ending with Monday, July
9. I expect to return to City Hall on Tues-
day morning July 10.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
ADDITIONAL ROOM FOR ELECTION DE-
PARTMENT.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor in-
struct the Election Commission to make ad-
ditional room in the Elecion Department for
the comfort and convenience of the large num-
ber of citizens of Boston that are slgnyfying
their intention of registering to vote in the
coming primary and election.
Coun. MoGRATH — I just want to say this,
Mr. President, that I was suprised when I
went over to the Election department the
other day to find that the inadequate quarters
we have always had for registering voters
had been greatly lessened because of the fact
that the Election Department has moved the
partitions away out in the -center of the floor.
We all know that in the past when there was
interest in an election the quarters there
were not sufficient to handle the crowd, and
I don't know any reasonable excuse for this
change. The process started in the Assessing
Department some four or five months ago,
when all but one of the doors were closed.
One of the entrances was blocked with files,
creating almost a fire hazard. It seems to me
we are spending a lot of time giving ad-
JULY 6, 1934.
267
ditional room for city employees to work to
the disadvantage of the citizens who come to
the Hall. We are greatly hampering the citi-
zens who come to the Assessing Department
looking for information relative to taxes on
their homes and now it is either an over-
sight or a deliberate act on somebody's part
to cut down to a minimum the room necessary
for the registering of the voters of the City
of Boston. This year being a State Election,
we wiiU have both the primary and election
registration and as we know, "who have had
experience, the room has always been too
small, but today it is ridiculous and if it
were not such a serious matter I would not
call it to the attention of his Honor.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
POLICE OFFICERS.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
allow the uniformed members of his department
to dispense with the wearing of their coats
while on duty during the summer months.
Coun. FISH — Just a word. I notice all
the officers in the suburban cities and towns
are allowed to shed their coats during the
summer months. Even the Police Commis-
sioner likes to shed his coat when the weather
is warm, and I hope this order will be passed
under suspension of the rule.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.30 p. m., on motion
of Coun. GLEASON, to take a recess, subject
to the call of the Chair. The members
reassembled in the Council Chamber and were
called to order by President DOWD at 3.50
p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Commit-
tee, submitted the following :
1. Report on ordinance referred today con-
cerning appointment of Deputy City Auditor
— that the same ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the ordinance
was passed.
2. Report on message of the Mayor (re-
ferred July 2, 1934) and order for an ap-
propriation of $1,000,000 for special items
for the Welfare Department — that said order
ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the order was
passed, yeas 19, nays 0.
3. Report on message and orders (referred
today) for approval of public works projects.
West Roxbury. and the order for $1,200,000
for an intermediate school, West Roxbury
district, and an addition to the Robert Gould
Shaw School — that said orders ought to pass.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, for the
record I might state the Executive Committee
reports that loan order back without preju-
dice in order that it may receive a first read-
ing, having invited for the next meeting of
the Council Messrs. Campbell, Drummey.
Phaneuf and Lane to enlighten the Council
a little more on the merits of the order.
Coon. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, on the
last occasion when these loan orders w
fore the Council I voted against all of them
on the ground that the city \v:is already over-
burdened with debt and this was one more,
and a very large addition to that debt. There
is still less reason for adding to the debt,
because it has appeared since that time that
we have not balanced our operating budget,
and we should have to (borrow at least four
million dollars to balance our operating budget.
That is four million more tagged on to an
already execessive debt. Therefore, sir, I
shall vote against this order.
Coun. FINLEY — Mr. President, for the
record I would like to briefly state my personal
stand in regard to the proposed West Roxbury
High School, as originally planned and sub-
stitution therefor as just read in the order
that was presented before the members of
the Council. The Boston School Committee
having voted to change their original plans
for a new senior high school in the West
Roxbury district, and having voted to sub-
stitute plans for a new intermediate school
to be built in the Roslindale section at $800,000,
and enlarge the facilities of the Robert Gould
Shaw School to the extent of an additional
twenty rooms, also giving them an enlarged
territory for that building, and to convert the
Washington Irving into a senior high school
for the West Roxbury-Roslindale district, in
order to avoid further delay Messrs. Tobin,
Phaneuf of the Boston School Commission and
Mr. Foley, Corporation Counsel of Boston, made
a trip to Washington to confer with the
P. W. A. authorities to ask permission to
make this substitution in place of the original
plans. They have reported back that the
Federal authorities are agreeable to this change,
provided action is taken immediately. As-
surance is contingent that it meets with the
immediate approval of the Mayor and the
members of this Council. Although many
people in the district of West Roxbury, in-
cluding myself who represents the district, are
keenly disappointed at the loss of a new
senior high school, nevertheless, I believe that
it is of the utmost importance that definite
action be taken immediately in order to avoid
the loss, of the project entirely. I believe that
it is necessary for us as public officials to
cooperate to the fullest extent in order that
we may get idle men back to work as soon
as possible, and I therefore recommend to the
members of this Council, as a matter of ex-
pediency, that we give favorable consideration
to the order that has been presented for that
purpose.
The report was accepted and the orders were
passed, yeas 18, nays — Coun. Shattuck — 1.
ORDINANCE CONCERNING BOND OF
CITY OFFICER.
Coun. FISH, for the Committee on Ordi-
nances, submitted a report on message and
ordinance (referred July 2, 1934) concerning
bond of City Collector — that same ought to
pass.
Report accepted and ordinance passed.
AS TO WAGE SCALE PAID BY McCABE.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to inform the City Counoil as to the
ale paid by Joseph P. McCabe to
men in his employ who are working on his
contract with the City of Boston for the
removal of ashes and garbage in thi
Chester district.
Coun. FISH — I understand sine.- McCabe has
taken over the ash contract in Dorchester they
have reduced the wages from ?:> to $4.60, and
for that reason I call upon the Mayor to in-
vestigate the condition thai exists.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
268
CITY COUNCIL.
RE STEP-RATE 'INCREASES IN WAGES.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to inform the City Council as to when
all step-rate increases, recently authorized by
the Legislature, will become effective.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING EAST SIXTH STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement East
Sixth street, Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NEXT MEETING.
On motion of Coun. TOBIN it was voted
that when the Council adjourns it be to meet
again on Monday, July 23, 1934.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. FISH, at
4.15 p. m., to meet on Monday, July 23, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PWNTINQ DEPARTMENT
OITY COUNCIL.
269
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council,
Monday, July 23, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Shattuck and
Green.
WITHDRAWAL AND APPOINTMENT OF
CONSTABLES.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — The following names are with-
drawn from the list of constables submitted by me
to your honorable body on April 16, 1934: Americo
Alviti, Joseph B. Brown, Harry I. Cohen, Max
Zimmerman.
Subject to confirmation by your honorable body ,
I hereby appoint the following-named persons
constables in the City of Boston, authorized to
serve civil process on filing bonds: Salvatore
Maffai. Max Rabinovitz, Abraham Bornstein,
John Ruggiero.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Severally laid over one week under the law.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mavor, July 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body, I hereby appoint the following
to be constables' of the City of Boston without
authority to serve civil process and to serve with-
out bond, to be connected with official positions:
James A. Molloy, 275 Humboldt avenue, Rox-
bury ; Robert E. Scott, 14 Windsor street, Roxbury ;
David I. O'Connor, Iroquois street, Roxbury.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body. I hereby appoint William W. Kee,
40 Park street. Dorchester, and Emil Cacace, 1324
Washington street, Boston, as weighers of goods.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 17. 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Subject to confirmation by your
honorable body, I hereby appoint William L.
Warnock. 15 Forster street, Somerville, as a
weigher of coal.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Severally laid over one week under the law.
JUNIOR COLLEGE COURSES IN
BOSTON HIGH SCHOOLS.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 13, 1934.
To i lie City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the School Committee of the City of Boston,
relative to your order of June 11, 1934, and also
relative to a previous similar order passed June 4,
1934, concerning the advisability of establishing
Junior College courses in Boston high schools.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
School Committee, July 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The School Committee has received
the order passed by the City Council June 11,
1934, and transmitted through the office of the
Mayor, requesting the School Committee to con-
sider the advisability of "using the Boston high
schools, at hours when they are not in use for
regular school purposes, for the purpose of teach-
ing Junior College subjects to those, who, because
of the depression, are unable to continue on after
finishing their high school education".
The School Committee respectfully reports
that in its opinion the provision now made for the
return of pupils to the day high schools for post-
graduate work is adequate for the unemployed
graduates. Provision also is made in the evening
high schools for those who wish to continue their
education and who are unable to attend the day
schools.
The School Committee feels that it is not ad-
visable at this time to extend the opportunities
for further study to the extent of opening up the
high school buildings as suggested by the order
passed by the City Council.
Respectfully yours,
Ellen M. Cronin, Secretary.
Placed on file
PUBLIC WELFARE.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, July 16, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning certain
information required on identification cards of
recipients of public welfare, not to include a pho-
tograph.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
July 13, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of July 10 inclosing the fol-
lowing order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to provide
that on the identification card of all recipients of
public welfare there shall appear the signature,
and such other identification, provided such other
identification does not include a photograph of
the applicant, as the Overseers of Public Welfare
may consider advisable, and that the identifica-
tion card shall in every case be presented before
any payment in cash to any recipient shall be
made."
The matters mentioned in the above order of
the City Council are receiving the attention of the
Overseers.
Yours truly.
John C. L. Dowlino,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
LOCATION OF VOTING BOOTHS.
The following was received:
Citv of Host on.
Office of the Mavor. July Hi. 1934.
I',, the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Board of Election Commissioners! relative to
270
CITY COUNCIL.
your order of May 21, 1934, concerning a proposed
study of the location of voting booths in the City
of Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W, Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Election Commissioners,
July 13, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield.
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — In re order of City Councilor Norton,
dated May 21, relative to the locations of polling
places in the City of Boston.
In as much as we are compelled by law to post
the locations of polling places during the month
of August, it is impossible this year to make a
complete and accurate study of these locations.
This department has fortunately been successful
in locating the major portion of polling places in
public buildings (schoolhouses, engine houses,
ward rooms, libraries, etc.), the remaining portion
having been located in houses of religious worship.
Thirty-two precincts are located in voting booths
on land rented by the City of Boston. Such vot-
ing booths are used only in precincts where it is
impossible to obtain a private or public building
for voting purposes. Changes in locations are
made from time to time, where an exigency arises,
or when complaint is made by the voters of the
precinct.
We will at all times entertain such complaints
and give proper attention to new locations. How-
ever, as stated above, lack of time for the present
year does not permit a complete study of the three
hundred sixty-seven (367) voting precincts in the
city, in order that we might comply with the re-
quirements of law.
Respectfully yours.
Board of Election Commissioners,
David B. Shaw, Chairman.
Placed on file.
CLEANING UP SOUTH BOSTON BATHING
BEACHES.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, July 16, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
July 2, 1934, concerning the removal of old tin
cans, broken bottles, decayed fruit, rubbish and
other foreign substances from the bathing beaches
in South Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, July 14, 1934.
John F. Gilmore,
Assistant Secretary.
Dear Mr. Secretary, — I am in receipt of an order
from the City Council that the Park Commission
be requested to remove tin cans, broken bottles,
decayed fruit, etc., from the bathing beaches along
the South Boston waterfront.
I respectfully beg leave to inform you that the
employees of the Park Department are contin-
ually engaged in keeping the beaches clean, not
only in the South Boston district, but every bath-
ing beach within its jurisdiction.
Very truly yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
HEARSAY INFORMATION RE WELFARE
RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 16, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of July 2, 1934, concerning a require-
ment that no case shall have aid stopped on
hearsay information until alter an investigation.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
»„ r , ^ .-, Ju]y 13> 1934-
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of July 12, 1934, inclosing the
following order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, not to
stop aid in any case, where hearsay information is
received by the department, without first inves-
tigating said information."
In reply I beg to say that aid is never stopped
under my administration except after full and
complete investigation is made.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
ADDITIONAL LAND FQR JOHN
MARSHALL SCHOOL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the School Committee of the City of Boston,
relative to your order of May 28, 1934, concerning
the taking of additional land adjacent to the John
Marshall School, Dorchester, for play space for
the children attending same.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
School Committee, July 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The School Committee has received
the order passed by the City Council May 28,
1934, requesting the committee, through your
Honor, to take additional land adjacent to the
John Marshall School, Dorchester, for play space
for the children attending that school.
The committee finds that less than a year ago a
suggestion for the taking of additional land for the
John Marshall School was before the Board of
Apportionment, and that Board, after looking
into the matter, reported to the committee that
the district was not growing appreciably and that
the play space for pupils afforded by the land then
owned was slightly more than the standard play
space per pupil.
In view of the situation as then reported and the
fact that the principal of the district had made
no presentation of need for additional school
accommodations for the district, and the further
fact that the money available for new buildings
was so limited that it was not then possible to
provide for actual building needs, the School
Committee could not approve of any enlargement
of the John Marshall School yard.
The committee now finds the situation practically
unchanged, and since the funds available for
building needs this year are still further limited,
the committee could not see its way to make any
appropriation for the enlargement of the yard of
the John Marshall School.
Respectfully yours,
Ellen M. Cronin, Secretary.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC CONDITIONS, COLUMBIA ROAD.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of June 11, 1934, concerning a survey of
traffic conditions along Columbia road, South
Boston, from H street to N street, for the purpose
of relieving congestion due to the parking of auto-
mobiles.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
JULY 23, 1934.
271
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, July 11, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated June 11 which
reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to make
a survey of traffic conditions along Columbia
road, South Boston, from H street to N street,
and report to the City Council relative to same,
for the purpose of relieving congestion due to the
parking of automobiles along this area while the
owners are bathing at the various beaches."
The regular summer regulations in effect along
the Strandway forbid parking in certain portions
of the roadway adjacent to the dwelling houses in
Columbia road, L street, Ticknor street and the
Strandway.
Inclosed is a copy of these regulations which
have been in effect during the summer for the past,
several years.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
City oi Boston,
Traffic Commission, May 31, 1934.
Voted, The following rules are effective from
June 1, 1934, to October 1, 1934:
Strandway is a one-way Btreet from Columbus
Circle to Strandway outside road, at a point ap-
proximately opposite G street.
Parking of vehicles is prohibited in Strandway,
east and south sideB (ocean side), from Columbus
Circle to Farragut road.
Parking of vehicles is prohibited in Columbia
road, north side, from I street to Farragut road.
Parking of vehicles is prohibited in L street,
both sides, from Columbia road to East Eighth
street.
Parking of vehicles is prohibited in Ticknor
street, both sides, from Columbia road to Marine
road.
Parking of vehicles is permitted without time
limit in Strandway, west and north sides (reserva-
tion side), from Columbus Circle to Farragut road.
Parking of vehicles is permitted without time
limit in Columbia road, south side, from I street
to Farragut road.
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
SIXTH GRADE, CHARLES LOGUE SCHOOL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the School Committee of the City of Boston,
relative to your order of June 11, 1934, concerning
the advisability of conducting a sixth grade at the
Charles Logue School.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
School Committee, July 3, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield.
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir,— Under date of June 19, 1934, the
School Committee received from the office of the
Mayor a communication transmitting the follow-
ing order passed in City Council June 11, 1934:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the School Committee to consider the advisability
of conducting a sixth grade at the Charles Logue
i I I
From the best information available, the School
Committee finds that to care for the compaiam ebj
few pupils who live in the northeastern section of
the district who would attend a sixth grade In the
Charles Logue School, i! established, provision has
been mado to grant transfers freely to the Robert
Treat Paine District and to the Roger VVolcoll,
District. The Audubon School in I In- Hubert
Treat Paine District is loss than one halt mill-
distant from the homes of I hese children. I he Roger
Wolcott School is three fifths of a mile distant.
Pupils who have elected to attend the Edmund I'.
Tileston building have been given luncheon
privileges at that school.
With these arrangement*, it seem* lo tin- <
mittee that there will be no undue hardship i in
posed on any child who must attend S sixth grade
from the northeastern section of I lie distiu i I hi
school authorities believe that the committee
would not be justified in opening up an additional
sixth grade, either in the portable in the Charles
Logue School yard, as has been suggested, or in
the Solomon Lewenberg Intermediate School.
The committee is informed that early this year
a committee of mothers called on the principal of
the Edmund P. Tileston District to discuss sixth
grade accommodations, and at the close of the
conference the group was satisfied that the present
solution is the best one for all concerned.
Respectfully submitted,
Ellen M. Cronin, Secretary.
Placed on file.
SAND BOXES, JEFFERSON SCHOOL PLAY-
GROUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the School Committee of the City of Boston, rela-
tive to your order of June 11, 1934, concerning
the installation of see-saws and sand boxes at the
Jefferson School playgrounds.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
School Committee, July 2, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Under date of June 21 your office
forwarded to the chairman of the School Com-
mittee the order passed by the City Council June
11, 1934, requesting the committee, through your
Honor, to arrange for the installation of see-saws
and sand boxes in the Jefferson School playgrounds.
The School Committee would respectfully report,
that this department has assigned two playground
teachers to carry on play activities in the Park
Department playgrounds adjacent to the Jefferson
School yard. See-saws, sand boxes, and other
similar equipment for children's corners have been
ordered.
Respectfully yours,
Ellen M. Cronin, Secretary.
Placed on file.
WAGE SCALE PAID BY McCABE.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, July 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works relative to
your order of July 6, 1934, concerning the wage
scale paid by Joseph F. McCabe to men working
on the removal of ashes and garbage in the Dor-
chester district.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
July 16. 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of an order of the City Council, dated July 6,
reading:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to inform the City Council as to the wage scale
paid by Joseph P. McCabe to men in his employ
who are working on his contract with the City of
Boston for the removal of ashes and garbage in
the Dorchester district."
On page 5 of the contract with the above men-
tioned firm for the removal of ashes and garbage
in the Dorchester district is the following:
"For wages to be paid under our contract the
contractor agrees and shall pay not less than the
following schedule: Laborers. $0.50 per hour."
Foreman Kelly, under whose jurisdiction the
collection and removal of garbage and refuse in
the Dorchester district falls, states that the la-
borers working under this I out ran are paid at the
rate of so -iii per hour and consequently the con-
tractor is not violating the terms oi 'he contract.
Respectfully,
('. J. Carvbn,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on tile.
272
CITY COUNCIL.
FLOODING CERTAIN STREETS DURING
HOT WEATHER.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 21, 1034.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Fire Commissioner, relative to your order of
July 2, 1934, concerning the flushing of streets
and the use to capacity of the sprinkler shower
bath system attached to hydrants, especially
indistrietswhere there is a large number of children.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Fire Department, July 20, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am returning herewith to your
Honor a copy of an order passed by the City
Council on July 2, 1934, as follows:
"Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor of Boston
consider the advisability of requesting the Fire
Commissioner, during the hot weeks of the Bum-
mer, to flood certain streets of the city, especially
where there are a large number of children, and
also to use to capacity the sprinkler shower bath
system attached to hydrants.
In City Council July 2, 1934. Passed.
Attest"
W. J. Doyle, City Clerk."
Since 1922 hydrant showers have been operated
by this department during the summer months
when the temperature is 80 degrees or over. Most
of these showers are located in the congested sec-
tions, but others are operated all over the city.
These showers are operated in the morning and
afternoon. The shower baths have been in use
during this summer and will continue to be in ac-
cordance with the custom established.
In the early evening of hot days, during the
summer months, streets in the congested sections
of the city are flushed by members of this depart-
ment.
Yours very truly,
Edward F. McLaughlin,
Fire Commissioner.
Placed on file.
CONTINUANCE OF ALL E. R. A. PROJECTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
Roswell G. Hall, E. R. A. Administrator for Bos-
ton, relative to your order of July 2, 1934, concern-
ing the continuance of all the E. R. A. projects, as
contained in page 222 of the records of the City
Council, at least until August 15, 1934.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Buildings Department,
July 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Referring to the attached order of the
City Council regarding continuance of various
E. R. A. projects, I have to inform you that to
date these projects have not been approved
by the State Emergency Relief Administration.
Furthermore, projects of this nature, that is,
maintenance projects, are contrary to their policy
and it is extremely doubtful if any more extensions
will be allowed.
Respectfully yours,
Roswell G. Hall,
Superintendent of Public Buildings.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 4.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of June 4, 1934, concerning the installation
of traffic signals at the intersection of Columbus
avenue and Dartmouth street. Ward 4.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, July 20, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated June 4, 1934, which
reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to
install traffic signals at the intersection of Colum-
bus avenue and Dartmouth street."
There are no funds available at the present time
for the installation of the above signals.
When money becomes available this intersec-
tion will be one of the first to be given considera-
tion.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Hicket,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
PEDESTRIAN LANES, COMMONWEALTH
AVENUE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of July 2, 1934, concerning the painting of
pedestrian lanes at certain locations in Ward 21.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, July 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated July 2, 1934, which
reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to paint
pedestrian lanes at the following locations in Ward
21: Chestnut Hill avenue and Commonwealth
avenue, Warren street and Commonwealth avenue,
Allston street and Commonwealth avenue, Union
square, Allston.."
All of the pedestrian lanes, that is, crosswalks,
etc., in Ward 21, Brighton, which this department
has previously painted have been repainted within
two weeks.
These locations include two of the intersections
referred to in the Council order. The other two
locations will be painted as soon as sketches are
prepared, which will be within a few days.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
CHARLES STREET TRAFFIC.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of July 2, 1934, concerning the placing of
"Stop" signs on all streets leading into Charles
street, from Cambridge to Leverett street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, July 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated July 2, 1934, which
reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
place 'Stop' signs at all streets leading into
Charles street, from Cambridge to Leverett street."
In order to erect "Stop" signs in the streets
entering this portion of Charles street it would be
JULY 23, 1934.
273
necessary that Charles street, from Cambridge
street to Leverett street, be made a through way.
Under the statute law it would be necessary to
obtain the permission of the Massachusetts De-
partment of Public Works in order to adopt this
rule.
Two through way streets, namely, Common-
wealth avenuem, from Arlington street to Kenmore
square, and Blue Hill avenue, from Dudley street
to Mattapan square, have been created in Boston.
The Commonwealth avenue through way was
discontinued when the automatic signal system
was installed.
Observations of traffic conditions in these two
streets under the through way rule has convinced
the Engineering Department of this commission
that through way rules in streets seriously increase
the accident hazard due principally to two reasons
— first, that motorists using the through way in-
crease the speeds of the vehicles, and, second
that practically no attention is paid by them to
vehicles entering from side streets.
It is our opinion that the erection of "Stop"
signs would not correct the evils attendant on
traffic conditions in Charles street.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of July 2, 1934, concerning the installation of
automatic traffic signal lights on Charles street at
the junction of Allen street and at the junction of
Chambers street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, July 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated July 2, 1934, which
reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to pro-
vide for the installation of automatic traffic signal
lights on Charles street at the junction of Allen
street and at the junction of Chambers street."
There are no funds available at the present time
for the installation of the above signals.
Yours very truly,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner,
Placed on file.
AGE LIMIT FOR GUARDS AND GATEMEN
IN EAST BOSTON TUNNEL.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works relative to your
order of July 2, 1934, concerning the reason for
establishing an age limit for guards and gatemen
to be appointed on the new Sumner Tunnel.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
July 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir,— I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of an order of the City Council, passed July 2,
1934, reading:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
WorkB be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to inform the City Council as to bis reason
for establishing an age limit for guards and gate-
men to be appointed on the new East Boston
Traffic Tunnel."
The duties of i he tunnel guards, both inside • '"1
on the plaza, aro such that physical activity i*
necessary. In emergencies arising in the tunnel
it is absolutely essential that the guards be alert,
active and quick in grasping the requirements ana
solving any difficulty that presents itself. The
constant noise of traffic in the tunnel and the con-
finement in the tunnel for a length of time and
the liability of the employees being subjected to a
percentage of carbon monoxide under certain
conditions will have a far less detrimental effect on
a man under forty years than on a man over forty
years of age.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
REPAIRING NORTHERN AVENUE BRIDGE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of July 2, 1934, concerning immediate
procedure with the work of repairing the Northern
Avenue Bridge.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
July 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of an order of the City Council, dated July 2 ,
reading:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to proceed immediately with the work of repairing
the Northern Avenue Bridge."
The repairing of the Northern Avenue Bridge is
to be a Public Works Appropriation project. At
date, the Public Works Department is waiting for
the approval of the project from Washington. The
project has been approved by the State Emergency
Finance Board and by the State Engineer of the
P. W. A. The state engineer has made his recom-
mendation to Washington and is now waiting the
necessary approval, which has not been received
up to date.
As soon as the necessary approval has been
received steps will be taken to immediately request
bids for the repairing of the Northern Avenue
Bridge.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
SIGNS ON CAGES AT FRANKLIN PARK
ZOO.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Ollice of the Mayor, July 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — 1 herewith transmit a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
July 2, 1934. concerning the placing of signs giving
name and history of each animal at the Franklin
Park Zoo.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Park Department, July lti. 1034,
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mi j or of Boston.
Dear Sir, I am in receipt of an order from tho
City Council that the Park Commission tic re-
quested lo place cards or signs on the cages of I he
various animals at I he Franklin Park Zoo. giving
the name and history of each animal.
The common name, specific name and habitat
of each animal in the Franklin Park Zoo is on each
cage and has been for years. There arc no Blgns
on the big flying cage, as it would be impossible,
owing to the number of species, lo designate each
bird.
i espectfully j ours,
\\ iia.iwi P, Long, Chairman,
I 'I ui'd on lilc.
274
CITY OOUNOIL.
LAND CONVEYED TO THE COMMON-
WEALTH BY THE CITY OF BOSTON.
Tbe following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am submitting herewith an order
authorizing me, in the name and on behalf of the
City of Boston, to convey to the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts, for the sum of .$17,380.30,
certain parcels of land set forth in said order which
had been taken for playground purposes by the
Street Commissioners of the City of Boston,
These parcels of land were used for the present
state highway situated in East Boston.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts I am in-
formed is willing to pay to the City of Boston the
sum of money that the City of Boston paid to
settle the suits which had been brought to collect
damages on account of the taking of said parcels
of land by the Board of Street Commissioners of
the City of Boston for playground purposes. I
am informed that the Park Department no longer
needs the said land for public purposes and the
inclosed order has been prepared at their request.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the order
by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Whereas, The Board of Street Commissioners
of the City of Boston by a resolve and order ap-
proved by the Mayor of Boston March 1, 1930,
took for playground purposes two parcels of land
belonging to Florence J. McCarthy, containing
approximately 16,294 and 20,578 square feet of
land, respectively, situated on Pope street, in that
part of Boston called East Boston, and awarded
for said parcels the sum of $3,892.52 and $4,732.94,
respectively, and settled suits brought in the
Superior Court for the County of Suffolk on ac-
count of said taking of said parcels of land for the
aggregate sum of $13,125.70; and
Whereas, By the same instrument of taking,
the said Board of Street Commissioners took for
playground purposes a parcel of land from Michael
Murphy Heirs, containing approximately 12,156
square feet, situated at the corner of Pope street
and Byron street, in said East Boston, and awarded
as damages for the taking of said parcel of land
$2,795.88 and settled a suit brought in the Superior
Court for the County of Suffolk for damages on
account of the taking of said parcel of land for the
sum of $4,254.60; and
Whereas, There was recorded in the Registry
of Deeds for the County of Suffolk on August 29,
1933, a written instrument wherein the Depart-
ment of Public Works of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts purported to take for a state high-
way, in behalf of the Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts, said land which the City of Boston
had taken for park purposes, situated on Pope
and Byron streets, in that part of Boston called
East Boston; and
Whereas, By the said instrument of taking
the said Department of Public Works of the Com-
monwealth of Massachusetts purported to take
for a state highway certain portions of streets
situated in East Boston and more particularly
set forth in said instrument of taking, excepting
and reserving from the rights taken therein all
easements for wires, pipes, conduits, poles and
other appurtenances for conveyance of water,
sewage, gas and electricity and for telephone
communication then lawfully in or upon the said
premises thereby taken, and all lawful rights of
the public to use those parts of the public streets
and ways of the City of Boston which were in-
cluded in the said taking; and
Whereas, The Board of Park Commissioners
of the City of Boston no longer needs the said
parcels of land which had been taken for play-
ground purposes as above set forth for public
purposes; and
Whereas, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
is desirous of purchasing said parcels of land pur-
ported to have been taken as aforesaid; now,
therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized, in the name and behalf of
the City of Boston, to convey to the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts, by an instrument in
writing satisfactory to the Law Department of
the City of Boston, the above mentioned parcels
which have been taken by the Board of Street
Commissioners for playground purposes upon the
delivery to the said City of Boston of the sum of
$17,380.30.
City of Boston,
Park Department, July, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — By a resolve and order of the
Board of Street Commissioners of the City of
Boston approved by the Mayor March 1, 1930,
the said Board took for playground purposes three
parcels of land situated on Byron street and Pope
street. East Boston. The said parcels of land
are now part of the state highway which has been
recently built by the Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts. I am informed that the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts is willing to pay the sum
of $17,380.30 for said parcels of land. The said
sum iB the sum which was paid in settlement of
suits for damages brought on account of the tak-
ing of said premises. The said Park Department
no longer needs the said parcels of land for play-
ground purposes and I recommend their sale to
the Commonwealth for this sum.
Very truly yours.
William P. Long,
Chairman, Board of Park Commissioners.
City of Boston,
Park Department, July, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — By a resolve and order of
the Board of Street Commissioners of the City of
Boston approved by the Mayor March 1, 1930,
the said Board took for playground purposes
three parcels of land situated on Byron street and
Pope street. East Boston. The said parcels of
land are now part of the state highway which has
been recently built by the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. I am informed that the Com-
monwealth of Massachusetts is willing to pay the
sum of $17,380.30 for said parcels of land. The
said sum is the sum which was paid in settlement
of suits for damages brought on account of the
taking of said premises. The said Park Depart-
ment no longer needs the said parcels of land for
playground purposes and I recommend their sale
to the Commonwealth for this sum.
Very truly yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman, Board of Park Commissioners.
Referred to Committee on Public Lands.
REPAIR OF CHELSEA NORTH AVENUE
BRIDGE.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the Commissioner
of Public Works that under the provisions of
chapter 342 of the Acts of 1934 the City of Boston
is authorized to repair and strengthen the Chelsea
North Bridge over the Mystic river between Bos-
ton and Chelsea at a cost not exceeding $270,000.
Under the provisions of the bill 50 per cent of the
cost of the work is to be paid by the Common-
wealth. Sixty-two and one-half per cent of the
balance, or $84,375, is to be paid by the City of
Boston, and the remaining portion of the cost,
$50,625, is to be paid by the City of Chelsea. The
act further provides that the Commonwealth's
share of the cost shall be secured by an appro-
priation from the Highway Fund, and that pay-
ments required from Boston and Chelsea shall
be secured by the issuance of loans outside the
statutory limit of indebtedness. No work can
be begun nor any contract be made for this project
until the three parties responsible for financing
the cost have made the necessary arrangements
to provide their respective shares.
An appropriation to cover the Commonwealth's
share of the cost was provided by the Legislature
in the supplementary budget of the state. It now
remains for Boston and Chelsea to provide in the
manner authorized their proportionate share of
the cost of this project.
At the present time in view of the serious con-
dition of this bridge only a limited amount of
traffic is being permitted to use the bridge. Since
it is one of the important arteries of traffic, this
limitation is naturally the cause of considerable
JULY 23, 1934.
275
congestion and confusion. There can be no ques-
tion but what the work contemplated under the
legislative act is desirable and necessary. In
order that there may be no undue delay in com-
mencing the contemplated work I submit herewith
a loan order in the amount of $84,000. The
appropriation for the remaining portion of Bos-
ton's share of the cost, namely, $375, is included
in the supplementary budget submitted to your
honorable body this day. I respectfully recom-
mend immediate consideration and action on the
accompanying order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under the provisions of chap-
ter 342 of the Acts of 1934, the sum of $84,000
be, and the same hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the Commis-
sioner of Public Works, tor Chelsea North Bridge,
Repair and Strengthening, and that the City
Treasurer be authorized to issue, from time to
time, upon request of the Mayor, bonds or cer-
tificates of indebtedness of the city to said amount,
the same to be issued outside the statutory limit
of indebtedness.
Referred to Executive Committee.
FINAL BUDGET RECOMMENDATIONS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith my final budget
recommendations for the current fiscal year.
These recommendations, covering five budget
divisions, total 32,435,122.09. The segregation
of this total is shown in the following table:
City Maintenance Requirements. . $1,582,361 55
City Debt Requirements 635,026 96
County Maintenance Require-
ments 76,007 05
Income Department Maintenance
Requirements 12,039 75
Traffic Tunnel Interest Require-
ments 129,686 78
$2,435,122 09
The following explanations are offered in con-
nection with the recommendations submitted
under the various budget divisions.
City Maintenance Requirements.
The total recommended for appropriation under
this division represents the amount which is still
available for appropriation inside the tax limit.
An analysis of the various items making up this
total is shown in the following table:
Welfare appropriations $1,186,300 00
Sliding scale increases 146,650 05
Emergency relief projects 120,950 00
Reserve Fund 75,000 00
Library books 25,000 00
Public Celebrations 9,000 00
Registration of voters 4,400 00
Chelsea North Bridge 375 00
Miscellaneous 14,686 50
$1,582,361 55
Appropriations for Welfare purposes are spread
over three departments. In the Public Welfare
Department $1,000,000 is recommended for relief
disbursement needs and $71,300 for additional
pay roll requirements. The former amount makes
a total of 38,600,000 to be included within the tax
levy this year for disbursements by the Public
Welfare Department for Unemployment Relief,
Care of Dependents. Mothers' Aid, and Old Age
Assistance. It is estimated that this amount will
be sufficient to cover such disbursements until the
middle of nexl September. It is planned to secure
the amounts required for relief disbursements after
this date by taking advantage of the provisions ol
chapter 49 of the Acts of 1933, which authorizes
municipalities to expend for maintenance purposes
the- proceeds of loans made ta the < lommonwealth
against tax titles held bj cities and towns, In
the Soldiers' Relief Department, relief expenditures
for the first half of the current year were approxi-
mately $450,000. In view of the fact the original
budget appropriation was $800,000, it is deemed
desirable to appropriate an additional $100,000, in
order to avoid a deficit at the end of the year. In
the Child Welfare Department a 6 per cent increase
in the number of children under the care of the
department, together with a sharp upward move-
ment in the prices of clothing furnished the chil-
dren, make3 it necessary to provide additional
allowances for board, medical attention, and wear-
ing apparel, totaling $15,000.
Under the provisions of chapter 228 of the Acts
of 1934, authorizing the restoration as of January
1 of the current year, of sliding scale increases
which have been suspended for the last three years,
it has been necessary to appropriate $146,650.05
to provide for approximately 1,400 employees who
will benefit under such restoration. Two-thirds of
the total so appropriated has been allocated to
three departments — Police, Fire and Library.
The probable continuance of E. R. A. projects
for some months to come makes it necessary to
provide additional allowances totaling $120,950 to
various city departments for the purchase of
materials and supplies, and the rental of necessary
equipment required to carry on emergency relief
projects. In all, the city has appropriated in excess
of 3400,000 for such projects since the beginning of
the vear.
In order that funds may be available to meet
probable further increases before the close of 1934
in the prices of commodities, it has been deemed
desirable to allocate an additional $75,000 to the
Reserve Fund, making a total appropriation in
this fund for 1934 of $525,000. In 1933 $550,000
was appropriated.
At the urgent request of the Library Trustees an
additional appropriation of S25.000 is recom-
mended for the purchase of library books. Of
the original appropriation of $75,000 provided
in the budget, approximately 350,000 was ex-
pended in the first six months, leaving only $25,000
for the requirements of the last half of the year.
Since books represent the life-blood of the library,
it is felt desirable, in order that the work of the
library may not be seriously crippled, to provide
an additional appropriation which will make
available in the last, half of the year an amount
equal to that expended during the first six months.
From the experience of the first six months of the
current year it is evident that the original budget
appropriation of $15,000 for Public Celebrations
will be inadequate to provide for the requirements
of the current year. In the opinion of the Director
of Public Celebrations, expenditures of his de-
partment in 1934 will total $24,000, making nec-
essary an additional appropriation of $9,000. In
1933 expenditures for Public Celebrations totaled
$37,747.64.
At the request of the Election Commissioners an
additional appropriation of $4,400 is recommended
in order that proper provisions may be made for
ward registration of voters in advance of the State
Primary and Election.
Under the provisions of chapter 342 of the Acts
of 1934 the City of Boston is required to appro-
priate $84,375 for the repair and strengthening of
Chelsea North Bridge. In a separate messsage
forwarded today to your honorable body, I am
recommending that $84,000 of the sum previously
mentioned be borrowed outside the limit of in-
debtedness of the city. The balance of the amount
the city must raise for this purpose is included in
this budget.
Miscellaneous appropriations totaling $14,686.50
recommended in this budget cover additional
requirements of several city departments for
supplies, equipment and materials.
City Debt Requirements.
To meet interest requirements on temporary
loans issued this year, and semiannual interest
payments on loans issued in the early part of the
year, an additional appropriation of $635,026.96
is recommended. The following table indicates
the make-up of this total:
Actual interest charges on temporary
loans issued to July 16 $579,960 26
Estimated interest charges on tempo-
rary locus -i ill to be issued 38,547 95
Semiannual interest charges on loans
issued May 1 16,518 75
$635,026 90
It is interesting to note that the supplementary
interest appropriation recommended at this time
last year was $721,198.60.
276
CITY COUNCIL.
County Maintenance Requirements.
Of the total of $76,007.05 recommended for
county departments, 846,783.95 represents the
cost of restoration of sliding scale increases for
county employees. It is estimated that 643
individuals will be benefited by such restorations.
Other county recommendations include $2,000
for extra clerical assistance in the office of the
Clerk of the Superior Civil Court because of ad-
ditional work contemplated as a result of an an-
nounced plan to call the entire docket or list of
pending cases at the opening of the court in Septem-
ber; $2,700 for additional special justices in dis-
trict courts because of legislation requiring tort
actions in motor vehicle cases to be brought in
District Courts, rather than the Superior Court;
$3,000 for the construction of a wire fence at the
Shirley Gut end of Deer Island; $5,000 for addition-
al payments to dependents of prisoners at Deer
Island; and $2,900 for E. R. A. projects at the
Courthouse in Pemberton square.
Income Departmental Requirements.
The principal item contained in the recom-
mendations under this division is an appropriation
of $7,674.75 to cover the cost of the restoration of
sliding scales in the four income departments.
It is estimated that seventy employees will benefit
under this restoration.
Debt Requirements, Traffic Tunnel.
Under the provisions of chapter 297 of the Acts
of 1929, authorizing the construction of the East
Boston Vehicular Tunnel, all interest on tunnel
bonds accruing prior to the use of the tunnel was
chargeable to the cost of construction of the tunnel.
With the opening of the tunnel on June 20, however,
interest charges on the $16,000,000 issue became
operating costs, payable from the tolls and charges
collected. To meet semiannual interest pay-
ments on these bonds falling due in September,
October and December, an appropriation of
$129,686.78 is included in the supplementary
budget recommendations. This appropriation
will be met from the revenues of the tunnel and
will not be included in this year's tax levy.
I submit herewith the necessary appropriation
and tax orders in connection with the Supplemen-
tary Budget and respectively recommend their
adoption by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Supplementary Appropriations and Tax
Orders for the Financial Year 1934.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, lor performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by the vote of the City
Council during the year, upon the City of Boston,
or County of Suffolk, or the departments or officers
thereof, and to meet the obligations for interest
on debt, sinking fund requirements and maturing
debt not provided for by sinking fund, the respec-
tive sums of money specified in the tables and
schedules hereinafter set out be, and the same are
hereby, appropriated for the several departments
and for the objects and purposes hereinafter stated.
Ordered, That the appropriations for Water
Service, current expenses, be met by the income of
said works and any excess over income from taxes;
that the appropriation for East Boston Traffic
Tunnel, and for interest requirements thereon, be
met by the income from tunnel tolls and any excess
over the income from taxes; that the appropriation
for Printing Department be met by the department
income and any excess over income from taxes;
that the other appropriations hereinafter specified
be met out of the income of the financial year begin-
ning January 1, 1934, and the balance from taxes
to be assessed on the polls and estates of the City
of Boston.
Ordered, That all orders heretofore passed by
the City Council relating to appropriations and
taxes and the interest thereon apply to the taxes
herein provided for.
Supplementary Department Amounts Allowed
by Mayor for 1934.
Assessing Department $1,620 00
Boston Port Authority 75 00
Boston Retirement Board 575 42
Boston Traffic Commission 2,400 00
Building Department 7,850 00
Board of Appeal 90 00
Board of Examiners 3 75
City Clerk Department $725 00
City Council 617 36
City Planning Board 1,430 00
Collecting Department 361 72
Election Department 5,590 00
Fire Department 25,087 24
Wire Division 1,566 10
Health Department 7,320 00
Hospital Department 17,000 00
Institutions Department:
Central Office 355 00
Child Welfare Division 16,144 00
Law Department 1,121 62
Library Department 49,719 00
Licensing Board 800 00
Public Celebrations 9,000 00
Park Department 50,000 00
Police Department 57,500 00
Public Buildings Department 18,535 00
Public Welfare Department, Cen-
tral Office 1,096.300 00
Public Works Department:
Central Office 279 00
Bridge Service 3,377 00
Chelsea North Bridge, Repair
and Strengthening 375 00
Paving Service 15,068 00
Sanitary Service 2,811 00
Sewer Service 1,952 57
Registry Department 120 00
Reserve Fund 75,000 00
Sinking Funds Department 15 50
Soldiers' Relief Department 100,847 27
Street Laying-Out Department. .. 5,370 00
Supply Department 185 00
Treasury Department 4,975 00
Weights and Measures Depart-
ment 200 00
$1,582,361 55
City Debt Requirements $635,026 96
Suffolk County Courthouse, Cus-
todian $4,569 78
County Buildings 425 00
Jail 5,551 70
Supreme Judicial Court 188 00
Superior Court, Civil Session, Gen-
eral Expenses 2,686 71
Superior Court, Civil Session,
Clerk's Office 5,000 00
Superior Court, Criminal Session. . 4,737 83
Municipal Court, City of Boston.. 9,591 00
Municipal Court, Charlestown Dis-
trict 156 71
East Boston District Court 237 50
Municipal Court, South Boston
District 342 50
Municipal Court, Dorchester Dis-
trict 562 06
Municipal Court, Roxbury Dis-
trict 3,073 58
Municipal Court, West Roxbury
District 868 50
Municipal Court, Brighton Dis-
trict HI 25
Boston Juvenile Court 277 50
District Court of Chelsea 398 75
Registry of Deeds 3,330 25
Index Commissioners 671 09
Medical Examiner Service, North-
ern Division 298 64
Medical Examiner Service, South-
ern Division 645 00
Associate Medical Examiner Ser-
vice, Southern Division 200 00
Miscellaneous Expenses, Budget
Department 90 00
Miscellaneous Expenses, Treasury
Department 255 00
Penal Institutions Department:
Office Expenses 953 30
House of Correction 30,205 61
Steamer "Michael J. Perkins". . 579 79
$76,007 05
Printing Department $2,711 80
Public Works Department:
Water Service $2,560 00
Water Income Division 1,415 00
East Boston Traffic Tunnel 133,686 78
$137,661 78
JULY 23, 1934.
277
Collecting Department, Water
Service $l,3.r)2 95
City of Boston.
Assessing Department.
A. Personal Service $1,620 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $1,620 00
Boston Port Authority.
E. Materials $75 00
Boston Retirement Board.
A. Personal Service $375 42
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $375 42
B. Service Other than Personal 200 00
$575 42
Boston Traffic Commission.
A. Personal Service $1,900 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $1,900 00
B. Service Other than Personal 500 00
$2,400 00
Building Department.
A. Personal Service $7,850 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $7,850 00
Board of Appeal.
A. Personal Service $90 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $90 00
Board of Examiners.
C. Equipment $3 75
City Clerk Department.
A. Personal Service $725 00
1. Permanent Em- ^ —
ployees $725 00
City Council.
A. Personal Service $117 36
2. Temporary Em-
ployees $117 36
B. Service Other than Personal 500 00
$617 36
City Planning Board.
A. Personal Service $430 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $430 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 1,000 00
$1.430 00
Collecting Department.
A. Personal Service $361 72
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $361 72
Election Department.
A. Personal Service $5,590 00
1. Permanent E m -
ployees $1,190 00
2. Temporary Em-
ployees 4,400 00
Fire Department.
A. Personal Service $24,087 24
1. I' e r m a n e n t Em-
ployees $24,087 24
H. Emergency Relief Projects 1,000 00
$25,087 24
Fire Departmenl (Wire Division).
A. Personal Servico $1,566 10
1. P c r in a n e n i Em-
ployees $1,500 10
Health Department.
A. Personal Service $7,070 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $7,070 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 250 00
$7.320 00'
Hospital Department.
A. Personal Service $7,000 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $7,000 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 10,000 00
$17,000 00
Institutions Department (Central Office).
A. Personal Service $355 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $355 00
Institutions Department (Child Welfare Division).
A. Personal Service $1,144 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $1,144 00
B. Service Other than Personal 10,000 00
C. Equipment 5,000 00
$16,144 00
Law Department.
A. Personal Service $761 62
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $761 62
C. Equipment 160 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 200 00
$1,121 62
Library Department.
A. Personal Service $24,719 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $24,719 00
C. Equipment 25,000 00
$49,719 00
Licensing Board.
A. Personal Service $800 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $800 00
Public Celebrations $9,000 00
Park Departmenl.
H. Emergency Relief Projects $50,000 00
Police Department.
A. Personal Service $55,000 00
1. Per in a n e n t Em-
ployees $55,000 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 2,500 00
$57,500 00
Public Buildings Department.
A. Personal Service $1,535 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $1,535 00
( '. Equipment 2,000 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 15,000 00
Sis..".:;.-, ml
Public Welfare Department (Central Office).
A. Personal Service $71,300 00
2. T v m [> o r a r v Em-
ployees $71,300 00
F Special Items l ,000.000 00
9. ( lore ol i lependents. $850,000 00
in Mothers' \id 75,000 00
14, Old Ige Assistance. 75,000 00
II. Emergency Relief Projects 25.000 00
<l ii'ir. .;oo mi
278
CITY COUNCIL.
Public Works Department (Central Office).
A. Personal Service $279 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $279 00
Public Works Department (Bridge Service).
A. Personal Service $377 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $377 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 3,000 00
$3,377 00
Chelsea North Bridge, Repair and
Strengthening $375 00
Public Works Department (Paving Service).
A. Personal Service $5,068 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $5,068 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 10,000 00
$15,068 00
Public Works Department (Sanitary Service).
A. Personal Service $2,81100
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $2,811 00
Public Works Department (Sewer Service).
A. Personal Service $1,952 57
1. Permanent Em-
ployees
$1,952 57
Registry Department.
Personal Service
1. Permanent Em-
ployees
Reserve Fund
$120 00
$120 00
$75,000 00
Sinking Funds Department.
D. Supplies
$15 50
Soldiers' Relief Department.
A. Personal Service $847 27
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $847 27
F. Special Items 100,000 00
8. State and Mili-
tary Aid, Sol-
diers' Relief
and Burials. . . $100,000 00
Street Laying-Out Departme
Personal Service
$100,847 27
A
nt.
$5,170 00
1
B.
Permanent Em-
ployees $5,170 00
Service Other than
Supply Department.
200 00
$5,370 00
A
$185 00
1
A
Permanent Em-
ployees $185 00
Treasury Department.
Personal Service
$650 00
1
2
Permanent Em-
ployees $350 00
Temporary Em-
ployees 300 00
B.
C.
H.
Service Other than
Equipment
1,200 00
125 00
3,000 00
$4,975 00
Weights and Measures Department.
Personal Service $200 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees
$200 00
City Debt Requirements.
F. Special Items $635,026 96
5. Interest $635,026 96
County of Suffolk.
Suffolk County Courthouse Custodian.
A. Personal Service $541 87
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $541 87
B. Service Other than Personal 55 00
C. Equipment 1,000 00
D. Supplies 100 00
H. Emergency Relief Projects 2,872 91
$4,569 78
County Buildings.
A. Personal Service $425 00
1. Permanent Em- ™ ■"— »■
ployees $425 00
Jail.
A, Personal Service $5,476 70
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $5,339 76
2. Temporary Em-
ployees 136 94
B. Service Other than Personal.
75 00
$5,551 70
Supreme Judicial Court.
A. Personal Service $188 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $188 00
Superior Court, Civil Session, General Expenses.
A. Personal Service $2,686 71
1. Permanent Em- ™ ""■■ ■""■
ployees $2,686 71
Superior Court, Civil Session, Clerk's Office.
A. Personal Service $5,000 00
1. Permanent Em- »— — ■
ployees $3,000 00
2. Temporary Em-
ployees 2,000 00
Superior Court, Criminal Session.
A. Personal Service $4,737 83
1 Permanent Em- -
ployees $4,737 83
Municipal Court, City of Boston.
A. Personal Service $9,591 00
1. Permanent Em- —m^mmmmi^
ployees $9,591 00
Municipal Court, Charlestown District.
A. Personal Service $88 56
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $88 56
C. Equipment 68 15
$156 71
East Boston District Court.
A. Personal Service $237 50
1. Permanent Em- _____
ployees $137 50
2. Temporary Em-
ployees 100 00
Municipal Court, South Boston District.
A. Personal Service $42 50
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $42 50
B. Service Other than Personal 300 00
$342 50
JULY 23, 1934.
279
Municipal Court, Dorchester District.
A. Personal Service S562 06
1. Permanent Em- ^^^—
ployees $277 96
2. Tern porary E m -
ployees 284 10
Municipal Court, Roxbury District.
A. Personal Service $2,923 58
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $923 58
2. Temp o r a r y Em-
ployees 2,000 00
C. Equipment ' 150 00
$3,073 58
Municipal Court, West Roxbury District.
A. Personal Service $810 50
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $137 50
2. Tempor a r y Em-
ployees 673 00
B. Service Other than Personal 8 00
G. Miscellaneous 50 00
$868 50
Municipal Court, Brighton District.
A. Personal Service $111 25
1. Permanent Em- «^— — ■
ployees $111 25
Boston Juvenile Court.
A. Personal Service $127 50
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $127 50
B. Service Other than Per-
sonal 150 00
$277 50
District Court of Chelsea.
A. Personal Service $398 75
1. Permanent Em- ^™»^«
ployees $398 75
Registry of Deeds.
A. Personal Service $3,330 25
1. Permanent Em- "^"^^""i
ployees $3,330 25
Index Commissioners.
A. Personal Service $671 09
1. Permanent Em- — ^—
ployees $671 09
Medical Examiner Service, Northern Division.
A. Personal Service $298 64
1. Permanent Em- — —'
ployees $298 64
Medical Examiner Service, Southern Division.
A. Personal Service $495 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $49.3 00
D. Supplies 150 00
$645 00
Associate Medical Examiner Service, Southern
Division.
B. Service Other than Personal $200 00
Miscellaneous Expenses, Budget Department.
A. Personal Service $90 00
1. P e r in a n e D t Em- ^^""^
ployees $90 00
Miscellaneous Expenses, Treasury Department
A. Personal Service $255 00
1. Permanent Em- ■— ■— <
ployees $255 00
Penal Institutions Department (Office Expenses).
A. Personal Service $953 30
1. Permanent Em- •*——
ployees $953 30
Penal Institutions Department (House of Correc-
tion).
A. Personal Service $11,355 61
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $11,355 61
B. Service Other than Personal 5.300 00
C. Equipment 2,000 00
E. Materials 6,000 00
F. Special Items 5,550 00
7. Pensions and Annui-
ties $550 00
9. Care of Dependents. . 5,000 00
830,205 61
Steamer "Michael J. Perkins."
A. Personal Service
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $579 79
$579 79
Income Departments.
Printing Department.
Personal Sen-ice $2,711 80
1. Permanent
ployees. .
Em-
$2,711 80
Public Works Department (Water Service).
Personal Service.
1. Permanent Em-
ployees
$2,560 00
Water Income Division.
A. Personal Service
S2.560 00
$1,415 00
1. Permanent Em-
ployees
$1,415 00
East Boston Traffic Tunnel.
A. Personal Service $4,000 00
2. Temporary Em-
ployees $4,000 00
F. Special Items 129,686 78
5. Interest $129,686 78
$133,686 78
Collecting Department (Water Service).
A. Personal Service $987 95
1. Permanent Em-
ployees $987 95
B. Service Other than Personal. . . . 365 00
$1,352 95
Referred to Executive Committee.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Mary A. Cameron, for compensation for loss of
bathing suit at L Street Bath House.
Charles F. Campbell, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Oaktoit
avenue.
Peter DiGennero, for compensation for damages
resulting from city operations on Bennington
street.
Frank Fiohera, for compensation i.. i
property at 126 State street, caused by break in
water main.
Ford Motor Sales Company, for refund on used
oat license.
William Harrington, for compensation for
damage to property at 97 Homer street I
Boston, caused bj bursting of water main,
Mrs Joseph N. Baverty, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Blakemore
mii eel
Mr*. Sadhn Hodge, For compensation for damage
to property ut 226 slum nun avenue, caused l>\
bursting of water main.
280
CITY COUNCIL.
Herbert A. Holder, for compensation for damage
to property at 67 Broad street, caused by bursting
water main.
Mrs. Harry Kantrow, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 15 Vesta road.
Charles Kean, for compensation for damage to
property at 222 Shawmut avenue, caused by
bursting of water main.
Margaret Kearney, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at Mary Hemen-
way Park.
Emma L. Kelly, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Montague street
and Mellen street.
Joan D. Kelly, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Belgrade avenue,
Roslindale.
Thomas P. Killion, to be reimbursed for ex-
ecution issued against him,
B. Kondratowicz, for compensation for damage
to property at 46 Village street, caused by city
truck.
E. M. Krovitz, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
Josephine LeBlanc, for compensation for damage
to property at 35 Dwight street, caused by bursting
water main.
Fanny Lifsehitz, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 92 Crawford street,
Roxbury.
Clara I. Macdonald, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 126 State street, caused by
bursting of water pipe.
McCarthy & Vaughan, for compensation for
damage to property at 210 Shawmut avenue, caused
by bursting of water main.
Garfield Morrison, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect on Boston Com-
mon.
Ellen M. O'Brien, for compensation for damage
to car by city truck.
Pacific Restaurant, for compensation ior damage
to property at 75 Dover street, caused by bursting
of water main.
Estate of Clara P. Potter, tor compensation for
damage to property at 78 Montgomery street,
caused by city team.
Louisa W. Puffer, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 133 Commonwealth
avenue.
Sadie Raskin, for compensation ior damage to
property at South Huntington and Huntington
avenues, caused by police cruising car.
Anna Riordan, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Barry Playground.
H. Rohtstein & Co. , for compensation for damage
to truck by city wagon.
Joseph & Benjamin Rudnick, for compensation
for damage to property at 1134-1140 Dover street,
caused by break in water main.
Alfred Santoni, for compensation for damage to
property at 216 Shawmut avenue, caused by break
in water main.
Frank Schiff, for compensation for damage to
property at 1129 Washington street, caused by
break in water main.
Ada Smith, ior compensation for injuries caused
by an alleged defect at 322 Blue Hill avenue.
William Snyder, for refund on liquor license.
Standard Cafeteria, Inc., lor compensation for
damage to property at 1138 Washington street, by
break in water main.
Nellie M. Sullivan, for compensation for damage
to property at 220 Shawmut avenue, caused by
break in water main.
Steva Vrattos, ior retund on victualler's license.
William C. Welch, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 68 Ruggles street,
Roxbury.
Rebecca Wiseman, for refund on store license.
Charles P. Abbott, for compensation for damage
to automobile caused by unlighted beacon on
Lewis street, East Boston.
H. William Anderson, for compensation for
damage to automobile by cart of Public Works De-
partment, Sanitary Division.
Mary Driscoll, for compensation for personal
injuries caused by lire hose in front of 190 Hanover
street.
Mabel L. Findlay, for compensation for personal
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Haymarket
square.
Helen C. Hunt, for compensation for damage to
automobile caused by alleged defect on Huntington
avenue, near Garrison street.
David F. Kirby, for reimbursement of judgment
against him for acts as employee of Public Works
Department, Water Division.
Patrick F. Lee, for compensation for damage to
automobile by city team.
William Lyndam, for refund on liquor license.
Bernard F. Smith, for compensation for damage
to automobile caused by "Magic Carpet," so
called, on Bunker Hill street, Charlestown.
Joseph E. Burke, for compensation for damage
to automobile by city truck.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway for license
to operate motor vehicles between the Brookline-
Boston line at Huntington avenue and Kenmore
square; over Huntington avenue, Francis street,
Brookline avenue and Kenmore square (Boston
section of a route between the junction of Cypress
and High streets, Brookline and Kenmore square,
Boston).
CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The bonds of the following named constables,
having been duly approved by the City Treasurer,
were received and approved, viz.:
Francis E. Brown, Anthony DiSisto, Thomas
Freedman, Salvatore Grassa, Louis Gorfinkle,
Spiros Kaliris, George N. Pierce, Abraham S.
Singer, Philip Tepper, Anthony J. Testa, James
H. Waugh.
RE-CENSORSHIP OF MOTION PICTURES
Coun. SELVITELLA and McGRATH offered
the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston en-
dorse the present campaign for purification of the
Motion Picture Industry so that the citizens and
especially the children of Boston may not have
their minds contaminated by exhibition of salacious
and vulgar motion pictures, and that the Mayor
of Boston be requested to call a meeting of the
Board of Censors with a view of banning from the
theaters of Boston all objectionable motion pic-
tures, and for the further purpose of setting up
regulations desired, to purge from motion pictures
all scenes or references of an immoral or indecent
nature.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CLEANING UP COLUMBIA STATION AND
OLD COLONY BOULEVARD.
Coun. McGRATH submitted the following:
Ordered, That the Health Commissioner imme-
diately prevent further dumping of banana stalks
adjacent to the Columbia Station and along Old
Colony Boulevard.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
TAXES ON SYMPHONY HALL.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Corporation Counsel to keep the City Council
informed on the progress made to prevent Sym-
phony Hall from being tax exempt.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
RESTORATION OF DAY LABORERS' PAY.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor reques}
the Public Works Commissioner to inform tha
City Council what action has been taken, if any,
on restoring the day's pay to laborers recently
taken from them.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RE LABORERS WORKING SCHEDULE.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to consider the advisability of putting
back the laborers on a six-day basis, and to stop
all furloughs and to take the men who are now on
furlough to full time work.
Coun. MURRAY — I understand there is enough
money in the different departments to be trans-
ferred to take care of this item and I hope the
JULY 23, 1934.
281
Mayor will see the advisability of once more having
peace and harmony among the family of city
workers.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LAYING OUT CEDARWOOD ROAD.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to lay out and accept Cedarwood road, in Ward 19.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ELIMINATION OF STREET CAR RESER-
VATION ON BENNINGTON STREET.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to confer with the officials of the Boston Elevated
Railway to eliminate the street car reservation on
Bennington street, East Boston, from Swift street
to Orient Heights.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS AT PORTER AND
CHELSEA STREETS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic control signal at Porter street
and Chelsea street, Ward 1.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FIVE-CENT FARE ON ELEVATED
THROUGH GENERAL SUMNER TUNNEL.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston Ele-
vated Railway Company be requested, through
his Honor the Mayor, to consider the advisability
of a five-cent fare, without transfer privilege,
through the General Sumner Tunnel, and that
copies of this .resolution be sent to the Trustees of
the Boston Elevated Railway Company.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, just a
word in connection with the proposed five-cent
carfare. At the present time Boston, as is gen-
erally known, is losing thousands of dollars on ac-
count of the operation of the tunnel which, of
course, is no one's fault. At the same time, the
Boston Elevated Railway Company is losing hun-
dreds of dollars on account of the number of
persons who thumb a ride from the entrance of the
tunnel and go through without using the street
car service. At the present time it is possible for
anyone who wants a free ride to stop autoists at
either end of the tunnel and if the operator of the
car is good enough and kind enough to take that
particular person in his automobile he goes through
that tunnel free of charge. Of course I have no
objection to that, and the only thing is that the
Boston Elevated at the present time has an oppor-
tunity of getting more of those nickels if they will
operate a bus through this tunnel, at the same time
giving additional service to the car riders of East
Boston and saving those hundreds of dollars which
they are at the present time losing.
Coun. MURRAY — I am glad to hear the oh -
pion of the Elevated talking. I want to inform
him he might, look into the advisability of asking
the Boston Elevated, if they are losing so much
money, to put more buses on and give employment
to men who are laid off. There is an ordinance of
the City of Boston which says there shall be no
Btandees and the Elevated every day in the week
ignores that ordinance. I think it is about time
we inform them they should stop having standees
in buses.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS AT COLUMBIA ROAD
AND QUINCY STREET.
Coun. TOWN offered the following:
Ordered. That the Traffic Commission lie re-
quested, through iiis lltmor the Mayor, to furnish
the City Council as soon as possible with an esti-
mate of the cost of installing automatic traffic
signals at the corner of Columbia road and Ouincy
street, Ward 1">.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RESURFACING ELLINGTON STREET
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Pub!,c
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to resurface Ellington street, from Erie street to
Old road in Ward 14.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers for
the month of July, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
REPORT OF PARKMAN FUND COM-
MITTEE.
Coun. GALLAGHER, for the Committee on
Parkman Fund, submitted the following:
Report on message of the Mayor and order
(referred May 21, 1934), on appropriation of
$87,000 from the Parkman Fund, recommending
order ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed, yeas 18,
nays 0.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.40 p. m., on motion of
Coun. GLEASON, to take a recess subject to the
call of the Chair. The members reassembled in
the Council Chamber and were called to order by
President DO WD at 5 p. m.
APPROPRIATION FOR WEST ROXBURY
SCHOOLS.
President DOWD called up No. 4 on the calen-
dar, viz.:
4. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amend-
ment thereof and in addition thereto, the sum of
$1,200,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the School Com-
mittee, for the construction of one intermediate
school in the West Roxbury district and an addi-
tion to the Robert Gould Shaw School in the
West Roxbury district, and that to meet said
appropriation the City Treasurer be authorized
to issue, from time to time, upon request of the
Mayor, bonds or certificates of indebtedness of
the city to said amount.
On July 6, 1934, the foregoing order was read
once and passed, yeas 18, nays 1.
The question came on passage of the order.
The order was given its second and final reading
and passage, yeas 19, nays 0.
SALE OF LAND AT 178 HILLSIDE STREET.
President DOWD called up No. 5 on the cal-
endar) viz. :
6. Whereas, The Collector of Taxes for the City
of Boston sold for the nonpayment of taxes of the
year 1928 an estate situated on the southwesterly
side of Hillside street, in that part of Boston called
Roxbury, containing about 2,070 square feel ol
land and assessed in the names of Alice MeManus
and Patrick Moran. and the said Collector of
Taxes for the City of Huston gave a tax deed of
said premises to the City ol Boston, dated Sep-
tember 12. 1929, ami recorded with Suffolk Deeds,
Book 5139, page 02 I; and
Whereas, By a decree of the Land Court, Suffolk
Registry l listricl , dated June s, 1933, the said tax
deed was foreclosed by the said City it Boston.
and
282
CITY COUNCIL.
Whereas, It is advantageous to the said City
of Boston to sell the said premises; now, therefore
it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized to sell at public auction all
the right, title and interest of the said City of
Boston in and to the said parcel of land, namely,
a certain parcel of land situate in that part of
Boston called Roxbury, on the southwesterly side
of Hillside street, containing about 2,070 square
feet of land, more or less, and numbered 178 in
the present numbering of the said Hillside street;
and it is hereby further
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized to execute and deliver, in
the name and behalf of the City of Boston and in
form satisfactory to the Law Department of the
City of Boston, a written instrument conveying
the said premises to the highest bidder at said
auction sale upon the payment to the said City
of Boston of the purchase price bid at said sale.
On July 2, 1934, the foregoing order was read
once and passed, yeas 18, nays 0.
Question came on the passage of the order. The
order was given its second and final reading and
passage, yeas 20, nays 0.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message and orders (referred
today) for supplementary budget recommenda-
tions, appropriations totaling $2,435,122.09, recom-
mending report and orders ought to pass.
CounT WILSON — If there is no objection I ask
that we vote on the Items F-5 first. Those are
the items having to do with interest on debt re-
quirements. The purpose of making that request
is that I am going to make a later request con-
cerning the total budget and then I am going to
ask in the second place that the step-rate items be
voted on separately so that those who wish to
vote, and they must vote for the interest on the
debt requirements, can vote on that separately,
and those who are in favor of the step-rate in-
creases to 2,113 employees can vote on that and
then they may or may not vote on the budget.
President DOWD — Your motion is to vote on
F-5 first?
Coun. WILSON— Yes, all the F-5 items.
President DOWD — Is there any objection?
The Chair hears none and the question is on the
passage of the order pertaining to Item F-5.
Coun. GOLDMAN— I haven't seen F-5 and
don't know what I am voting on.
(Item F-5 read by the clerk.)
President DOWD — The question is on the pas-
sage of Item F-5 and the clerk will call the roll.
Items F-5 of supplementary budget was passed,
yeas 20, nays 0.
Coun. WILSON — I don't want to be un-
reasonable as I know some of the members are
anxious to get away, and yet I would ask that we
make one further split and that we vote next on
the A-l items in the supplementary budget, and
I make that request for this reason: That I was
one of the four or five councilors who voted against
the original budget, this being the supplementary
budget, and consistently I wish to vote against
this additional amount, except for the step-rate
increase items, and I feel that I can quite con-
sistently vote for those particular items which
are all listed in A-l under the supplementary
budget offered by the Mayor and I can do so for
the reason that we have the explanation of the
Budget Commissioner that the voting of this
money aggregating $230,350 means step-rate
increases to 2,113 city and county employees,
on his assurance that an increase to one salaried
person who is receiving around $3,500 is the
exception rather than the rule; that practically
all of these step-rate increases are to employees
of the City of Boston who are receiving less than
$2,200; that out of 1,400 of the jobs some 700
involve members of the Fire Department and the
Police Department and a few in the Library De-
partment; that out of the balance of the 1,400
city employees affected over 250 of the cases refer
to clerks employed by the City of Boston now
receiving under $1,600 a .year; and I strongly
feel that although I cannot vote for the whole
supplementary budget, I can vote for Items A-l,
which, as I have stated, means increases aggregat-
ing $230,350 to 2,113 men and women, practically
98 per cent of whom are now receiving a little
more than a living wage, if they are receiving that,
and for that reason I ask we vote on the A-l items
first.
Coun. NORTON — I voted against the original
budget and I feel as though I have to vote against
this. The step-rate increases are important be-
cause they increase the salary of employees,
nevertheless, they are increases of salaries of those
up to $3,500. Here we have out of 21,563 city
and county and school employees a selected list of
2,113. Why? Why should they be selected over
the others? Why are the hard working clerks in
the auditor's office, as I notice them on the job
from nine in the morning until five at night, not
included in this? Why are many of the other
employees not included? This is a preferred list.
Therefore, Mr. President, I feel it is so unfair at the
present time against the city's interests that I
am going to vote against it. Up here on Beacon
street we have the Boston Transit Commission,
men who worked for over thirty years facing dis-
charge,— no work for them. A man who has a
job today is a fortunate man. Thousands of the
best people in this city are walking the streets with
nothing to do and no one knows where the money
is coming from to carry the city through the next
year. I am opposed to step-rate increases.
Many of our low paid city employees are under-
paid and in ordinary times should receive more
money, but we are in the midst of the worst de-
pression our city has known. We have not
enough money to properly feed the unemployed.
The Mayor himself has stated that the city is
headed for financial chaos. 2,113 city employees
out of a total of 21,563 are to be given step-rate
increases. Taxes will be increased $465,000 or
more. Courage and sagacity now might stall off
the day of reckoning when there will be no pay
roll and hundreds of city employees will be dis-
charged for " lack of funds."
President DOWD — The question is on the
passage of all items under A-l and the clerk will
call the roll.
Items A-l of supplementary budget passed;
yeas 19, nays 1:
Yeas — Agnew, Brackman, Doherty, Donovan,
Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish, Fitzgerald, Gallagher,
Gleason, Goldman, Kerrigan, McGrath, Murray,
Roberts, Selvitella, Tobin, Wilson— 19.
Nays — Norton — 1 .
President DOWD — The question now comes on
the passage of the remaining items of the supple-
mentary budget and the clerk will call the roll.
The remaining items of the supplementary
budget are passed, yeas 17, nays 3:
Yeas — Agnew, Brackman, Doherty, Donovan,
Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish, Fitzgerald, Gallagher,
Gleason, Goldman, Kerrigan, McGrath, Murray,
Selvitella, Tobin— 17.
Nays — Norton, Roberts, Wilson — 3.
2. Report on message of the Mayor and order
(referred this day) for loan of $84,000 for repairing
Chelsea North Bridge, recommending order ought
to pass.
The order was read once and passed, yeas 20,
nays 0.
3. Report on the petition of Cecelia M. Malloy
(referred July 2) — recommending the passage of
the following:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
182 of the Acts of 1930, as amended by chapter 241
of the Acts of 1930, an annuity of sixteen hundred
dollars be allowed and paid to Cecelia M. Malloy,
widow of James T. Malloy, a member of the Police
Department who was killed in the performance
of his duty on June 4, 1934, said annuity being
made up of allowances as follows:
For the widow, Cecelia M. Malloy, so long as
she remains unmarried, $1,000 per annum.
For each of the following-named children, during
such time as he or she is under the age of eighteen
or over said age and physically or mentally in-
capacitated from earning, $200 per annum: James
T. Malloy, Jr., born June 13, 1924; Lawrence W.
Malloy, born October 23, 1929; Margery T. Malloy,
born June 5, 1931, —
the payment to date from June 5, 1934, and to be
charged to the appropriation for Police Depart-
ment, Pensions and Annuities.
Report accepted; order passed.
4. Report on the petition of Margaret A.
Baldwin (referred June 11) — recommending the
passage of the following:
Ordered, That under the provisions of chapter
182 of the Acts of 1930, as amended by chapter
241 of the Acts of 1930, an annuity of one thousand
JULY 23, 1934.
283
dollars be allowed and paid to Margaret A. Bald-
win, widow of William A. Baldwin, a member of
the Fire Department, who died on January 22,
1934, from injuries received in the performance of
his duty; said annuity to date from January 23,
1934, to continue so long as said widow remains
unmarried and to be charged to the appropriation
for Fire Department, Pensions and Annuities.
Report accepted; order passed.
5. Report on order (referred June 11, 1934)
for the acceptance of chapter 268 of the Acts of
1934, providing for construction of a car stop in
the extension of the Boylston Street Subway under
Beacon street, — recommending order ought to pass.
Report accepted; order passed.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I thought
that the report of the committee would first be
accepted and then the act itself be accepted, and
I would like to ask unanimous consent to make a
statement.
President DOWD — There appears to be no
objection, the gentleman mav proceed.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, always in
the past, or during the past seven or eight years
since unemployment became one of the great
problems of our city and the welfare rolls and the
soldiers' relief rolls were growing to such an extent
that they were bringing heavy taxes on the homes
of the city, the Mayor of the City of BoBton, who-
ever he may be, has said to members of this Council
that he had a splendid way to reduce the rolls of
the soldiers' relief by allowing the Transit Depart-
ment of the City of Boston to build the East
Boston Tunnel entrance or to build the Kenmore
square station with men receiving soldiers' relief
and thereby substantially reduce that amount
paid out by the city. We have a splendid Transit
Department and we have a man at the head of it
who is known throughout this state, not alone
for his honesty but for his ability to carry through
an engineering plan with soldiers' relief help as
few men in the state could do it. Not having the
same information from his Honor the Mayor as
we had received from other mayors there were
those of us in the Council who believed that we
at least were entitled to know whether some private
contractor who would hire aliens from within or
without the city, who couldn't even speak the
English language, would build this tunnel, or men
who had rendered service in the World War would
build this station, and we appointed a committee
of the gentlemen from Ward 4 and Ward 21 to
visit his Honor the Mayor, and we were astounded
to learn that he didn't even know anything about
the matter. How could he say what he was going
to do on something that he knew absolutely noth-
ing about? Now there are those of us who know
that he went to his Excellency the Governor and
asked him not to sign this, so he did know, sir, he
has full knowledge that a certain contractor in
this city will be favored and that this man will
employ aliens on the job. and I want to say to
his Honor the Mayor, and to you, Mr. President
and the other members of this Council, who vote
for this matter today, — and I understand it will
go through, — and I have no objection and because
of the gentleman who represents the ward it is in,
I would like to vote for it today, but, sir, every
member of this Council who votes for this matter
today when men come to their door and ask that
they be employed on this project, don't turn to
them and say you cannot help any. When they
see other men, not residents ot Boston, but aliens
who are taking the places of men who offered their
lives and sacrificed for this country, don't say
that you know nothing about it because, Mr.
President, you and every member of this Council
and his Honor the Mayor, when you vote for this
bill today, you are voting without knowledge,
you are voting away the right of these men on
soldiers' relief to work for an honest, day's pay
rather than be forced to go up there and accept
charity. You arc voting for a pig in the bag.
The only man who has knowledge of what con-
tractor will build it is I lie \Ia.\oi and he refuses
you and the other members ot this Council that
information and on behalf of lle.se men. fathers
oi families, Boston residents, American citizens,
who could gel off ihc charity rolls and gel an
honest da.v's pay, I make this protest against this
matter going through with the members of the
Council denied the informal ion which his Honor
the Ma \ or possesses
Coun. WILSON I ask unan is consent to
make a statement. In line with the OOUnoiloi
from Ward 13, I must admit, having in mind thl
fact I want to vote with Councilor Agnew, who
has worked so hard on this proposition, I was
puzzled today when the committee from the
Council requested the chief executive of the city
definite advice and affirmative advice to the
effect that the Transit Department, which, with
the East Boston Tunnel now completed, is laid
off and done, would construct this $300,000 ]ob.
I listened to the facts and figures presented to
us by Mr. Sullivan and by Mr. Dana of the
Elevated and I was impressed with the fact that
this improvement in this section costing $300,000
would mean an operating expense ot only $15,000,
of which the City of Boston would stand only 82
per cent, or a charge of $12,300, and the argument
advanced by Councilor Agnew to the effect that
one hundred or two hundred adjoining property
owners had stormed the State House requesting
this particular improvement. I wouldn't as-
sume they could consistently after it is built,
object to a fair and equitable increase in the
assessments in that section which would easily
make up the $12,300 of interest requirement that
the city will need to pay after it is built. I am
surprised that the Mayor, who we were told had
asked the Governor not to sign this particular
proposition, would refuse to tell us either that he
would not allow the Transit Department to build
it or at least admit he knew something about the
proposition and, voting as we are today, I refuse
to go forward without offering an order, which I
now propose to offer, ordering his Honor the Mayor
to instruct the Transit Department of the City of
Boston to construct the proposed car stop in the
extension of the Boylston Street Subway, if, as
and when approved by himself and by the directors
of the Boston Elevated Railway Company. I
believe on the figures given by Colonel Sullivan
if the City of Boston advances this money we
should have some confidence in Colonel Sullivan
who has assured us there would be 200 civil service
employees, citizens of Bo9ton, working for nine
months, rather than see this job go out on contract
to alien, nonresident labor, and so after this is out
of the way I am going to offer this order which I
have mentioned ordering the Mayor to instruct
the Transit Department to construct the car stop
in question.
Coun. AGNEW — I want to be brief on this
matter, especially because I happen to be the
proponent of this order in asking the Council to
accept this legislative act. It is purely of munic-
ipal benefit and hearsay evidence never holds water
anywhere and it should not among the members ot
this Council, and it is merely hearsay evidence of
what the Mayor or the Governor had to say about
this matter. I believe in the Mayor when he says
this is the first time it came to his attention as far
as the order being presented to him. I have never
said anything to the Mayor up to the present time
and feel that it is the Council's duty at the present
time to improve this particular section of Boston.
I have talked on this particular order in executive
session until I am about dry and I want to be brief
and when a member of the Council stands on the
floor and says he has absolute knowledge that the
Mayor did this, that or the other thing with the
Governor, it is entirely unfounded. I ask the
members of this Council to feel with me in this
particular order as I feel with them. It is a
municipal benefit to the particular district, that
the people in this particular district are in need
of and I ask this Council to give this particular
matter its most careful consideration and pass it
lodav
Coun. ROBERTS — I have been interested in
this particular matter for some time and my dis-
tnei is somewhat affected by this particular
situation. The place where this proposed subway
entrance is to be erected would accommodate a
great, many people, and there is dire need for the
subway station at the present time. The only
difficulty with the present situation is we are
called upon to aeecpl in act without knowing
how much money is going to be spent and how it
is going to be spent. I was surprised personally
to have the Mayor say, although the Legislature
passed the bill involving v;nniiiiii in which the
City of Boston was vitally interested, thai he
knew nothing about the provisions of the bill
except what he had read in the newspaper, and
then he said with regard to the particular phase
of whai he had read in the paper he had heard
agitation of the nature mentioned and nothing
further. He said, " I on n,,i pi ep or, I i,. sc y
whether the work, il I da ipprove it, would bo
done b\ the Transit Department or a contractor ' '
Now, il most far-fetched proposition the
284
CITY COUNCIL.
Council lias ever voted on. There has never been
an order where we didn't know how much money
was going to be spent and who was going to do
the work. We are obliged to rely in the matter
on his judgment, but I feel the Council should
pass it because, under the leadership of the coun-
cilor from Ward 21, the district is entitled to the
improvement.
Coun. GALLAGHER— The act reads "the
Transit Department of the City of Boston, here-
inafter called the Transit Department, shall con-
struct part of the extension of the Boylston Street-
Subway under Beacon street in the City of Boston."
The act reads that the Transit Department shall
construct it.
6. Report on petition of Margaret Gustin
(referred March 19, 1934), to be paid an annuity
on account of the death of her husband. William
M. Gustin, — that no further action is necessary.
Report accepted.
7. Report on petition of Mary S. McNamara
(referred January 29, 1934), to be paid an annuity
on account of the death of her husband, Bernard
F. McNamara, — that no further action is necessary.
Report accepted.
CAR STOP IN BOYLSTON STREET SUBWAY'
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, requested to instruct the Transit
Department of the City of Boston to construct the
proposed car stop in the extension of the Boylston
Street Subway, if approved by the Mayor and
by the directors of the Boston Elevated Railway
Company.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD— The Chair will call up No. 3
on the calendar and appoint Coun. Gallagher and
Selvitella to receive, sort and count the ballots.
3. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor July 2, 1934, of Homer L. Mohr, to be a
Weigher of Coal; and Walter R. Geyer and William
L. Harlow, to be Weighers of Coal and Weighers
of Goods.
Yeas 17, nays 0, and the appointments were
confirmed.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up under No. 1, of
unfinished business, the name of Henry G. Dahl-
quist, Robert C. Mains.
President DOWD appointed Coun. Fish and
Doherty to receive, count and sort the ballots.
Yeas, 17, nays 0, and the appointments were
confirmed.
INFORMATION RE ELIZABETH PEABODY
SCHOOL.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to confer with the School Committee in
an effort to obtain the following information:
How many school rooms are occupied in the
Elizabeth Peabody School on Poplar street, and
whether this school can be abandoned and the
pupils transferred to another school, and the
structure razed, and the land turned over to the
Park Department for a small playground.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, one of
the difficult things to contend with in the West
End, and other parts of Ward 3, including the
North End and the South End, is the great need
of small breathing spaces or playgrounds so that
the smaller children will have playgrounds of their
own and thereby kept off the streets which in these
days are so dangerous on account, of automobiles.
It is a sad situation on a hot day to see these little
tots playing on the sidewalks and curbstones of
streets and it is a wonder that the mortality is not
greater than it is. In parts of Boston, such as
the ward which I represent, there are old tenement
houses that are beyond repair, there are old schools
which are hardly worth remodelling, and these
structures could be very readily removed and the
land used for purposes that will make these dis-
tricts more healthful and beautiful to live in.
I wish it were possible for the city each year to do
something for these districts which are mainly
occupied by tenements and multi-family houses,
and this applies I might say not only to Ward 3,
but also to Charlestown, lower East Boston, and
Roxbury, out almost as far as the Jamaica Plain
line.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
USE OF BASEBALL DIAMOND ON BOSTON
COMMON.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to allow
the baseball team known as the Boston Agawam
A. A. to use the baseball diamond on Boston Com-
mon one evening a week.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FURNISHING SAFE WATER FOR RESI-
DENTS OF BAY VIEW SECTION, SOUTH
BOSTON.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public.
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to take such immediate steps as may be necessary
to furnish clean and safe water for the use of resi-
dents in the Bay View section of South Boston,
and to inform the City Council as to what action
he proposes to take in the matter.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
THADDEUS KOSCIUSZKO CIRCLE.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Park Commission-
ers be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to name the traffic circle at the intersection of
Columbia road, Old Colony avenue and the Strand-
way, Thaddeus Kosciuszko circle, in commemo-
ration of the services rendered by this Polish
patriot during the Revolutionary War.
In connection with the order Coun. KERRI-
GAN offered the following statement:
Thaddeus Kosciuszko was born in Poland on
February 12, 1746. He was educated in the
schools of Poland and later attended a military
academy in Warsaw, subsequently continuing
his studies in Paris, France.
He became an accomplished commander and
a high grade military technician and engineer.
He became interested in the fight that the American
colonies were making for liberty and independ-
ence. Kosciuszko came to America in the summer
of 1776 and was one of the first Europeans to take
up arms in the defense of America. He did not
come to this country for the pleasure of fighting
the English, hut for the noble joy of contributing
to the glorious conquest of human liberty.
Kosciuszko's enlistment brought other Polish
volunteers to America. His initiative in service
and, more particularly, his loftier and more rugged
spirit seemed to be better suited to the new times
and the new world.
He spent six years fighting in the Revolutionary
War and he contributed substantially to its suc-
cessful termination. His services at Saratoga
contributed materially to the victory of that cam-
paign, which resulted ultimately in the recogni-
tion of America by France. His work in forti-
fying West Point will ever remain as the finest
example of engineering skill.
One hundred and fifty years ago, the American
Congress conferred upon Thaddeus Kosciuszko
the rank of Brigadier-General "for his long, faith-
ful, and meritorious service."
The order was passed under a suspension of the
rule.
FLUSHING STREETS IN HOT WEATHER.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public.
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to flush the streets in congested sections
of South Boston during the hot weather.
Passed under suspension ot the rule.
JULY 23, 1934.
285
DRINKING FOUNTAIN IN BUCKLEY
PLAYGROUND.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install a
drinking fountain in the Reverend Thomas W.
Buckley Playground, South Boston, to be paid for
out of E. R. A. funds, also to install settees in same.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAIR NORTHERN AVENUE BRIDGE.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of taking immediate
steps to repair or replace the Northern Avenue
Bridge.
Coun. DONOVAN — Regarding this order, I
presented a similar order three weeks ago and up
to the present time no definite action nas taken
place. Now this Northern Avenue Bridge has
been tied up since the 26th of last December and
on April 30 this body voted S375.000 for recon-
struction and up to date nothing has been done.
Now, there have been several serious tie-ups in
that vicinity. Dorchester avenue has been closed
for several weeks. Last week a fire occurred on
Summer street and it will take about ten days to
repair it. The business and transportation and
shipping interests in that section have suffered
during the past six months. Cargoes assigned to
boats leaving Boston have not been put aboard on
time. Consequently ships have left this port
without the proper cargo consigned to them.
Now the delay is that public works funds have
not been made available from Washington, but I
believe the Mayor should take action immediately
to pay for the reconstruction ot this bridge out of
city funds and I am asking unanimous consent
that the attached clipping be inserted in the records.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following clipping
from the Boston Globe of July 23, 1934:
"Black Eyes" for Boston.
Business organizations as well as other citizens
who have concern for the sort of impression our
metropolis makes upon visitors would do well to
focus attention upon the careless attitude of City
Government toward vehicle transit problems.
Three weeks after the completion of the East
Boston Tunnel the approaches remain unfinished;
yet they should have been ready simultaneously
with the opening of the tube to traffic.
What is the matter?
Last week a temporary tie up on the main
bridge into South Boston caused a bad traffic jam.
This harassment served to bring to public attention
one of the most singular cases of official negligence
of the public business in years by emphasizing the
consequences of the closing of the Northern Avenue
Bridge.
That bridge, which for years has been one of the
most important traffic arteries leading from the
city proper to a very busy section of the waterfront,
has been closed since January 26. In three more
days six months will have elapsed since this oc-
curred. Yet the bridge remains closed, not a
tap of repair work or reconstruction work has
been done on it, and to date the public authorities
have not reached final decision as to proceedure.
April 30 the City Council appropriated $375,000
for repairs. Thus far no funds have been assigned.
Dickering with the Federal Government for funds
goes on. Meantime several of the most valuable
commercial enterprises of the city are bedevilled;
steamship companies are losing freight business
owing to delays in moving trucks in and out of the
docks area; tourists landing there from oilier
parts of the Nation are given disgraceful intro-
duction to our city; and bad congestion of traffic
is almost a daily affair.
Years of time, energy and thought have been
devoted to the upbuilding of the Port of Boston.
Only -i few more weeks of this sort of thing will
be needed to destroy it. No other city on the
Atlantic seaboard would tolerate this mishandling
of public convenience and necessity to which
delayed tunnel approaches, bridge tie ups and the
like testify daily hereabouts.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 10.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
an automatic traffic signal at the intersection of
Day and Heath streets. Ward 10.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NEW DIVISION OF WARDS.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That a special committee, to consist of
seven members of the City Council, be appointed
to prepare and submit to the City Council an
ordinance for a new division of the city into wards,
in accordance with the provisions of chapter fifty-
four of the General Laws, and said committee is
hereby authorized to incur such expense, not
exceeding one thousand dollars, as may be neces-
sary for the foregoing purpose, to be charged to
the Reserve Fund.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
President DOWD — The Chair will appoint
Councilor Gallagher, Murray, McGrath, Roberts,
Green, Fitzgerald and Wilson to be members of
the committee provided for in the order.
RE MOTION PICTURE INDUSTRY.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Whereas, The Catholic. Protestant and Jewish
denominations have joined hands in the movement
to safeguard the morals of the public, particularly
young children, by demanding that the motion
picture industry produce clean motion pictures;
and
Whereas, All of said denominations are strongly
opposed to the present so-called "block system"
of distribution of said films to the motion picture
theaters throughout the country; therefore, be it
Resolved, That the members of the Boston City
Council heartily endorse the movement to ban
unclean or immoral motion pictures, the presenta-
tion of which would tend to injure, destroy, or
offend the morals and decency of the general
public.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LAYING OUT OF RICHMOND ROAD.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered. That the Public Works Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
accept and lay out Richmond road. Ward 18.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LAYING OUT HARMON STREET.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
consider the advisability of accepting and laying
out Harmon street, Ward 18.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RESURFACE FLOYD STREET.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor.
to resurface Floyd street in Ward 14.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LAVING OUT GOODWAY ROAD.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of street Commie-
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to lay out and accept Goodway road in Ward 19.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
Adjourned at 5.40 p. m., on motion of Coun.
GOLDMAN, to meet on Monday, August 6, 1934.
at 2 p. m.
CITY Or BOSTON PRINTING DETAHTMENT
OITY COUNCIL.
286
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, July 30, 1934.
Special meeting of the City Council held in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p.m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Green,
McGrath, Shattuck and Wilson.
CALL FOR MEETING.
The meeting was held pursuant to the following
call:
Boston City Council,
Council Chamber,
City Hall, July 25, 1934.
To the Members of the City Council.
You are hereby requested to assemble in the
City Council Chamber, City Hall, on Monday,
July 30, 1934, at two o'clock p. m., to take action
on the loan order of $84,000 for the repair of the
Chelsea Bridge and for such other business as
may come before the meeting.
Respectfully,
John F. Dowd, President.
Placed on file.
CLEANING OF CATCH-BASINS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — In the belief that money may be
saved for the city by having all catch-basin clean-
ing performed by the personnel of the Sewer
Division of the Public Works Department rather
than by contract, I have discussed the various
aspects of this change in method with the Com-
missioner of Public Works. The commissioner
feels it would be advantageous for the city to
make the change but states that before so doing
it will be necessary to purchase additional ma-
chinery, since the Sewer Division is at the present
time not completely equipped to take over this
entire project. The commissioner states that
money which was originally appropriated for
contract cleaning may be very well transferred
for this purpose. I accordingly submit an order
providing for the transfer of $25,000 from the
Sewer Division budget item for catch-basin
cleaning to the item for motor vehicles.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the
aforesaid order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
July 30, 1934.
To His Honor the Mayor.
In order to comply with your instructions that
the Public Works Department should undertake
the work of cleaning catch-basins by the depart-
ment force instead of by contract, it will be neces-
sary to purchase some additional machinery.
I respectfully recommend that the following
transfer be made in the budget of the Sewer
Division: $25,000 from B-18, Cleaning to C-4,
Motor Vehicles.
Yours respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Approved:
Charles J. Fox,
Acting Budget Commissioner.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to make the following
transfer in the appropriation for Public Works
Department, Sewer Division:
From the appropriation for B, Service Other
than Personal, $25,000, to the appropriation for C,
Equipment, $25,000.
Referred to Executive Committee.
TRANSFER OF FUNDS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I have been requested by the City
Auditor to submit to your honorable body an
order providing for the transfer of $1,000 from
the personal service item in the Budget Depart-
ment budget to the service other than personal
group in the Auditing Department. The amount
to be transferred represents pay roll savings which
have developed in the Budget Department because
of the fact the City Auditor is serving in the
capacity of Acting Budget Commissioner. The
auditor informs me that he desires this transfer
in order to carry out certain plans he has under
way for reorganizing the work and improving the
procedure of the Auditing Department.
In accordance with his request I submit here-
with the necessary transfer order and respectfully
recommend its adoption by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Budget Department,
A-l, Permanent Employees, $1,000, to the appro-
priation for Auditing Department, B, Service
Other than Personal, $1,000.
Referred to Executive Committee.
APPROPRIATION TO COVER INTEREST.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the City Auditor
that it will be necessary to include in the tax levy
of the current year, an appropriation of $22,750,
said appropriation to cover interest requirements
on Series B, East Boston Traffic Tunnel bonds,
which have and will accrue in the period between
the opening of the tunnel and October 1, the
latter date representing the actual date on which
semi-annual interest payments on the bonds in
question must be met.
The construction of the East Boston Traffic
Tunnel was authorized under chapter 297 of the
Acts of 1929. Under the provisions of this act
the city was authorized to issue, in connection
with the construction of the tunnel, bonds to
the amount of $16,000,000. In 1932 the Legis-
lature passed an act (chapter 287) authorizing
street and other traffic improvements in the
vicinity of the Boston terminus of the tunnel. In
connection with these improvements an additional
issue of $3,000,000 in bonds was authorized, the
same to be known as Traffic Tunnel Bonds,
Series B.
Under the provisions of this latter act, at the
end of one year after the entire tunnel was in
operation, a supplemental sinking fund was to be
established out of the excess tolls and charges
which remained after all operating costs exclud-
ing interest on Series B bonds had been met.
This supplemental sinking fund when established
was to be used first, for the payment of interest
on Series B bonds, and second, for the payment
of the principal of such bonds as they became due.
In short no provision was made by the Legislature
for the payment of interest on the $3,000,000
issue of Series B bonds accruing after the tunnel
had been placed in operation, but prior to the
establishment of the supplemental sinking fund.
On October 1, 1933, $2,000,000 of Series B
bonds was issued by the city. On October 1 of
this year a semi-annual interest payment of
$45,000 will be due on these bonds. Under the
provisions of chapter 287 the portion of this
interest accruing prior to the opening of the
tunnel on June 29 will be charged against the cost
of construction of the tunnel. That portion
accruing after June 29 and up to October 1, which
is estimated by the City Auditor to be $22,750
since it cannot be paid from the operating income
of the tunnel, must be provided for from the only
other available source, namely, taxes.
287
CITY COUNCIL.
I accordingly submit, herewith, the appropria-
tion order to cover this item and respectfully
recommend its passage by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, for performing the
duties and exercising the powers devolved by
statute or ordinance, or by vote of the City Council
during the year, upon the City of Boston or
County of Suffolk or the departments or officers
thereof, the respective sum of money specified
in the table hereinafter set out be, and the same is,
hereby appropriated for the purpose hereinafter
stated, that the same be raised by taxation upon
the polls and estates in the City of Boston, and
that all orders heretofore passed by the City
Council relating to appropriations and taxes and
the interest thereon apply to the taxes herein
provided for:
Traffic Tunnel Bonds, Series B, Interest,
S22.750.
Referred to Executive Committee.
LOAN FOR CHELSEA NORTH BRIDGE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 30. 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The Legislature in enacting chap-
ter 342 of the Acts of 1934. "An Act Providing
for the Repair and Strengthening of the Chelsea
North Bridge over the Mystic river by the City
of Boston," failed to include the usual provision
that the act should take effect upon its p
This omission automatically postponed tne effec-
tive date of the bill until thirty days after its
approval by the Governor. This latter action
took place on June 27. hence the provisi
the act were not fullv effective until last Friday,
July 27.
Because of this fact some doubt exists as to the
effectiveness of the action of your honorable body
in giving a first reading to the loan order, covering
Boston's share of the cost, which I submitted ai
the last meeting of the Council. Despite the
fact that on June "o t la- Legisla i an- made an appro-
priation to cover tin- C monwealth's share of
. the best legal opinion available holds
that no loan order may >•<• authorized bj Boston
until the provisions of the acl are fully effective.
The need for the immediate repair and strength-
ening of the Chelsea North Bridge is universally
admitted. In order that tin- Btarl of the i
may not be delayed, because of legal complica-
tions, beyond the earliest date possible under the
action of the Legislature, I deem ii advisable to
request permission of your honorable body to
withdraw the loan order for lliis work which was
considered .ii the last meeting of the Council.
At tin- same tune i submit herewith a similar
order providing that under I lie provisions of
chapter 342 of the Vets of 1934 the City ol
appropriate $84,000 as its share of the cosl of
restoring the Chelsea North Bridge to complete
use and operation. in view of the urgency of
prompt action in this respect, I earnestly recom-
mend licit your honorable body give this order
favorable cot let ei ing,
pectfully,
i rick W. Mansfield, Mo
Ordered, licit under I he provisions of chapter
34L' of the Acts of 1934 tie- sum of $84,000 he,
and hereby is, appropriated to be expended by the
Commissioner of Public Works for Chelsea North
Bridge, Repair and Strengthening, and thai the
City Treasurer l»e authorized to issue from time
to time, upon reque I of the Mayor, l>onds or
certificates of indebtedness of the city of Bo ton
to said amount, the same to be issued outside the
statutory limit of indebtedness.
Referred to Executive Committee,
Conn. MI'RRAY I believe we ought to give
this order a first reading todaj bee ■• have
passed it, already once. I think we ought, to do
that right .'iv.
Presideni DOWD In view of the fact we have
other matters before the Executive Committee
that require fifteen votes, if will he necessary to go
into executive session anyway and for thai reason
the reference is made. If there is any objection to
the reference the order may be given a first reading.
Is there any objection.
(There was no objection and said order was
referred to the Executive Committee.)
EXPENSE OF REPAIRING NORTHERN
AVENUE BRIDGE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, July 26. 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Corporation Counsel, relative to your order of
May 7, 1934, concerning the advisability of hav-
ing a proportionate part of the expense of repairing
the Northern Avenue Bridge borne by the railroad
company or companies holding track rights across
said bridge.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
July 21, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — I have your request for
consideration and report upon the following order
of the City Council passed May 7, 1934:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
in the contemplated substantial repairs to be made
on the Northern Avenue Bridge, to consider the
advisability of requiring a proportionate part of
the expense to be borne by the railroad company
or railroad companies holding track rights across
said bridge, having in mind that a very -substantial
part of the heavy traffic over the bridge consists
of railroad freight, as approximately 2S.000 freight
ears utilized said bridge during the past year.
I understand that the Board of Street. Com-
missioners by an order approved by former Mayor
Andrew J. Peters on March 11, 1918, granted to
the Union Freight Railroad Company "the right
lo conduct, maintain and use a track for the
transportation of freight by steam power" over
a certain location of which the Northern Avenue
Bridge is a pari, and that the only conditions
contained irr the grant are as follows:
"The right to lay down the tracks located by
this order is upon condition that the whole work
of laying same, the form of rail to be used, and the
kind and quality of material used in the paving
of said tracks shall lie under the direction and to
the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Public
Works, and shall be approved by him, and that
safety devices lo be approved by said Commissioner
of Public Works shall be installed by the said
Union Freight Railroad Company at the ap-
proaches to both ends of the draw.
"Also upon condition that the said railroad
company sh.ill accept this order, and shall file
such acceptance with the Board of Street Com-
missioners in accordance with statute law, other-
wise it shall be null and void."
I also understand that on the same date the
Board of Streel Commissioners, with the approval
of the Mayor, passed certain regulations with
reference lo lire lime and extent of use of said
tracks a ml licit I he Union freight Railroad
i oiiipany filed with the Board of Street Com-
missioners acceptance of said grant and regulations
on May 13, 1918.
It is also my understanding that no other
railroad company has been granted the right lo
riiainiain or use tracks on tho Northern Avenue
Bridge.
While I hi' rigid lo maintain and use tracks on
the Northern Avenue Bridge might have been
granted on condition Ihal I lie railroad company
keep I he bridge in repair or bear' a part of lire
cost of its reconstruction or repair, in the absence
of such a condition or statutory obligation, it is
my opinion thai there is no such obligation.
See I he Western Paving and Supply Co. v. The
Cilizen's Street Railroad Co., 12.S hid.
525 (1891.)
Slate ex nl r. The Corrigan Street Railway
Co., 85 Mo. 2(53 (1884.)
I lliof, Roads and Streets (4th ed.), Sections
1051 and 1056 and cases cited;
Elliot, Railroads (3d ed.), Section 1112 and
caw i-iled
JULY 30, 1934.
288
No statute has been found after diligent search,
which, in my opinion, imposes any obligation upon
the railroad in question to repair or to contribute
to the cost of the repair in question.
It is, therefore, my opinion that there is no
obligation on the part of said railroad company
to bear any part of the expense for the reconstruc-
tion or repair of said bridge.
See in this connection Boston v. Union Freight
Railroad Company, 181 Mass. 205 (1902) in which
it was held that there could be no recovery by the
city against the same railroad company for repair-
ing portions of Atlantic avenue and Commercial
street occupied by the tracks of the company, on
the ground that the company had no obligation
to keep any part of the streets in repair in view
of the provisions of chapter 578 of the Acts of
1898 (now section 89 of chapter 169 of the General
Laws(Ter. Ed.).
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the Committee on Claims:
Henry F. Bamberg, for compensation for
damage to automobile caused by defect in front
of 552 Hyde Park avenue.
John J. Brennan, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect on Chardon street.
Arthur Di Nicolo, for compensation for damage
to property at 33 Dwight street, caused by water.
Irene V. Fort, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect on Salem street, near
Cross street.
Fred S. Gilley, for compensation for damage to
boat caused by boat of Park Department.
Helen C. Hanlon, for compensation for damage
to clothing at L Street Bath.
Hub Laundry Company, for reimbursement of
expenses for laundry caused by bursting of water
main at corner of Dover and Washington streets.
Christopher M. Kehoe, for compensation for
damage to automobile caused by tree falling upon
it in front of 382 West Fourth street.
Goodman Kostick, for abatement of water rates
on property ,at 272 and 274 Emerson street and
85 L street, South Boston.
Joseph L. Mullen, for refund on petition before
Board of Appeal.
Ellen M. O'Brien, for compensation for damage
to automobile by city truck.
Martin W. Quilty, for compensation for per-
sonal injuries and damage to automobile by cfty
truck.
Joseph H. Sanger, for compensation for personal
injuries due to alleged defect in Franklin Park.
Joseph Silk, for compensation for buildings at
30 and 32 B street, South Boston, razed by Building
Department.
M. Slate, for refund on fee for awning.
Nellie M. Sullivan, for compensation for damage
to property at 220 Shawmut avenue, caused by
break in water main.
Charles Torrielli, Inc., for compensation for
damage to property at 171 Hanover street, caused
by bursting of water main.
W. A. Andrews, for refund on license fee.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLE'S BOND.
The constable's bond of David B. Kaplan,
having been duly approved by the City Treasurer,
was received and approved.
APPOINTMENT BY THE MAYOR.
Notice of the appointment of Louis E. Kirstein
of 506 Commonwealth avenue, Boston, as a
member of the Boston Port Authority Board,
for a term of five years, was received from the
Mayor and placed on file.
REINSTATEMENT OF INSPECTORS.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commissioner
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
reinstate the inspectors that were laid off in the
Public Works Department.
Coun. FISH — In view of the fact that the Mayor
is going to reinstate the building inspectors on
or about October 1, I sincerely hope that he will
consider the advisability of reinstating the in-
spectors in the Public Works Department who
were laid off at the same time.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under No. 1 on
the calendar, the appointment of William A.
Glynn (submitted by the Mayor April 16, 1934)
as a Constable authorized to serve civil process.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor July 23, 1934, of Constables connected
with official positions and without authority to
serve civil process, as follows:
James A. Malloy, Robert E. Scott, David I.
O'Connor.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business, No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor July 23, 1934, of Constables authorized
to serve civil process, as follows:
Salvatore Maffei, Max Rabinovitz, Abraham
Bornstein, John Ruggiero.
The Chair called up, under unfinished business,
No. 5 on the calendar, viz.:
5. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor July 23, 1934, of Isaac Wilensky, Rubin
Wilensky, William L. Warnock, John Jamgotchian,
to be Weighers of Coal, and William W. Kee, Emil
Cacace, John Jamgotchian, to be Weighers of
Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finley and Fitzgerald. Whole
number of ballots 14; yeas 14, and the appoint-
ments were confirmed.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.45 p. m., on motion of
Coun. GOLDMAN, to take a recess subject to the
call of the Chair. The members reassembled in
the Council Chamber and were called to order by
President DOWD at 3.30 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. GALLAGHER, for the Executive Com-
mittee, submitted the following:
1. Report on message and order (referred
today) for loan of $84,000 for repairs to Chelsea
North Bridge — recommending that same ought to
pass.
2. Report on message and order (referred
today) for appropriation of $22,750, to cover
interest requirements on Series B, East Boston
Traffic Tunnel bonds — recommending that same
ought to pass.
3. Report on message and order (referred
today) transferring $25,000 from B-18, Cleaning,
to C-4, Motor Vehicles — that same ought to pass.
4. Report on message and order (referred
today) transferring §1,000 from Personal Service
item in the Budget Department to Service Other
than Personal in the Auditing Department — ■
recommending that same ought to pass.
President DOWD — The question comes on
acceptance of the report of the committee on all
tour orders.
Coun. ROBERTS— I would like to have those
items separated. I would like to have the item of
$2.5,000 for transfer from Public Works Depart-
ment voted on separately.
President DOWD — Unless there is objection
the Chair will order that the item of $25,000 be
voted on separately. If there is no objection to
the other three items, the question comes on the
passage of the other three orders and the clerk
will call the roll.
Coun. ROBERTS -Is that on the $25,000
order?
President DOWD — On the other three orders.
The reports were accepted and the orders were
passed, yeas IS, nays 0.
President DOWD The question now comes on
the passage of the $25,000 transfer.
Coun. KOISKKTS 1 don't know whether this
transfer has any merit or not, but I don't think
289
CITY COUNCIL.
we have enough information to vote on it today.
The Public Works Commissioner was here today
and couldn't tell us how much money was to be
spent for equipment and whether or not the work
usually done by contract will now be done by
labor of the Public Works Department, and if so,
whether any of the old employees will be reinstated
or new names taken from the rolls of the Civil
Service, or whether the work will be done by the
Welfare. Therefore, in the absence of this in-
formation, I move at this time that this transfer
lay on the table.
The motion was carried to lay on the table.
ARC LIGHT ON WEST THIRD STREET.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install an arc light on West Third street, near
E street, adjoining St. Vincent de Paul's Church,
Ward 6.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALKS ON WEST THIRD STREET.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along West Third street,
entire length, both sides, Ward 6, in front of the
estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk to be
from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining, to
be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built of
granolithic, with granite edgestones, under the
provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of
1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RE HOSPITAL COl'.VIL.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That, the Mayor of Boston, through
the Trustees of the Boston City Hospital, be
requested to consider the advisability of a
"Hospital Council" for Boston so that private
hospitals giving free service to citizens of Boston
would cooperate with city hospitals and thereby
coordinate the work.
Coun. NORTON -I understand that among I lie
hospitals in Boston, in bo far as free service is
concerned, out-patient it ward, there is no co-
operation whatever. That is to say, a patient can
go to the Massachusetts General and to the Beth
Israel and then to the City Hospital, It seems
we should have a cooperative body in order thai
these various hospital units can cooperate instead
of entering into what is known as competitive
spirit.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ST1 DY OF LOCATION OF VOTING
BOOTHS.
Coun. NORTON offered Hie following:
Ordered, That the Hoard of Election Com-
missioners, through his Honor the Mayor, bo
requested to consider the advisability of having
a study made of the present location "f voting
booths in Boston with a view to relocating many
of them in the interests of the convenience "I
Coun. NORTON — There is time between now
and the primaries in September to have a study
made of the location of voting booths and preci net B
in Boston. A mill living near Cleary square,
Hyde Park, is living across the street from a voting
booth, but he lias to go to the Fairmont School to
vote. In Charlestown within 400 yards there are
fourteen voting precincts and booths. Now, they
may be necessary, but in certain sections where
they have ho many there may be a question as to
whether or not. that number is necessary and out
in the suburban areas where people have to walk,
due to the poor location of I he booths, a mile or
more, in order to vote, it would seem I here in .in
opportunity here to save money for I he city and
also to obtain a higher percentage of citizens
who would vote by I he proper location of the
voting booths.
Passed under suspension of tho rule.
REPAVING CUMSTON PLACE AND
CUMSTON STREET.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Cumston street
and Cumston place, Ward 9.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALKS ON CUMSTON STREET.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Cumston street,
entire length, both sides, Ward 9, in front of the
estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk to be
from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining,
to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built of
granolithic, with granite edgestones, under the
provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of
1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALKS ON CUMSTON PLACE.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Cumston place,
entire length, both sides, Ward 9, in front of the
estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk to be
from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining,
to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built of
granolithic, with granite edgestones, under the
provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of
1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ANONYMOUS LETTERS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor instruct
the Overseers of the Public Welfare that the
status of Welfare recipients shall not be affected
by the receipt of anonymous letters informing the
Welfare Department of financial resources of such
recipient.
I'h it the Welfare Department act on such cases
only when the facts contained in such anonymous
lei ters hi vc been pro\ ed to lie ft ue.
Coun. GOLDMAN — I am introducing this order
in order to prevent injustices which have been
practised upon the Welfare recipients. If any-
one bus :i complaint against a Welfare recipient or
dislikes him, all he has to do is write a letter to
Howling saying he is a crook and the welfare is
stopped, and some ten, twelve or fifteen weeks
may elapse before the department determines
whether that letter is worthy of attention. I
think it is unfair and it has been called to my
attention at. least in eight or ten cases where a
landlord has not gotten his rent on time and has
i Ii certain charges against a tenant, and as a
result they stopped immediately his welfare.
The doctrine of presumption that a. man is guilty
ernviii" Hiieh a communication seems to be in
Dowling's mind. If he gets a complaint, whether
true or untrue, aid stops, in the meantime hard-
ship falls upon the members of that recipient's
I Ij and I ask permission of this body to have
this order passed at this lime.
Coun. Hl{\< 'K.MAN -I am glad the councilor
introduced this order because about three weeks
ago I introduced a similar order and o reply was
received by the Council that this practise was not
going on in the Welfaro Department. It just
confirms what I originally knew,— that this
practise is going on, Upon receipt, of any kind
of information, regardless of the source, apparently,
a man's aid is stopped pending investigation and
usually it turns out to lie nothing more lhan an
idle rumor and yet a great, hardship iH passed on to
I his family.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REVOCATION OF LICENSE TO EASTERN
MASSACHUSETTS STREET RAILWAY
COMPANY.
Coun. BELVITELLA, GOLDMAN and
KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the license granted by the
I 'il\ i ' i il \piil ' I'.'.M, and roved b.v the
JULY 30, 1934.
290
Mayor April 3, 1934, to the Eastern Massachu-
setts Street&Railway Company to operatelmotor
vehicles for the carrying of passengers between the
Boston-Revere boundary line and the Boston
exit of the East Boston Traffic Tunnel, over
state highway lay-outs, Bennington street, Saratoga
street, Chelsea street, Porter street and the East
Boston Traffic Tunnel, be, and hereby is, revoked.
Referred to the Committee on Jitneys.
Coun. NORTON — I rise on a point of informa-
tion. Just what does this mean, — referred to the
Committee on Jitneys?
President DOWD — In view of the fact that the
Committee on Jitneys has to give a hearing on
revocation of any license already granted, the
matter will have to be referred back to them.
Coun. NORTON — Is there any time limit when
the committee reports back to the Council on this
matter?
Coun. ROBERTS— May I say any day the
Council would like to have that hearing set down,
I will be pleased to set it down for a hearing,
or within two weeks or so if that would be satis-
factory.
Coun. NORTON— I think time is rather of the
essence and I believe the sooner the better.
Coun. SELVITELLA — I ask unanimous con-
sent to make a statement. I suppose that the
members ought to be acquainted with some of the
facts regarding that order. On April 2 a license
was granted to the Eastern Massachusetts to use
the new East Boston Tunnel to run buses through.
The Revere City Council have had a series of
public meetings and after those hearings were
held the Eastern Massachusetts Railway Com-
pany filed a request for leave to withdraw that
particular license and in view of that I feel at
least that the Boston City Council ought to take
concurrent action with the Revere City Council,
because at those hearings it developed that the
Railway Company was using this petition as a
means of increasing their carfares from Revere
to Boston and inasmuch as the Railway Company
has already withdrawn their petition with the
Revere City Council, it is of no advantage or any
value to them, so we ought to take similar action
when the time arrives.
REMOVAL OF SLOT MACHINES AT
FIELDS CORNER STATION.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston
Elevated Railway Company be requested, through
his Honor the Mayor, to remove the automatic
pay-as-you-enter slot machines at the Charles
street entrance to the Fields Corner Station.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAYING WEST NINTH STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth paving West Ninth street,
Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAIRING OF BOSTON BRIDGES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of having the Boston
Transit Commission employees cooperate in the
repairing of the bridges of Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NEXT MEETING.
Coun. NORTON— When is it thought we will
meet again, when we adjourn today, Mr. President?
President DOWD — That is within the province
of the members of the body. It will be necessary
to meet in fourteen days on the Chelsea Bridge
loan order.
Coun. FISH — I move when we adjourn today
we adjourn to meet two weeks from today. The
motion was carried.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. GALLAGHER,
at 3.45 p. m. to meet on Monday, August 13, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DHPARTMRNT
CITY COUNCIL.
291
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council
Monday, August 13, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.,
President DOWD in the chair. AJbsent, Coun.
Fish, Murray and Norton.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn, under the law, Coun.
ROBERTS presiding at the box in the absence
of his Honor Mayor Mansfield, as follows :
Eighteen traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear September
4, 1934:
Frank E. Barker, Ward 1 ; Nicholas Cen-
tracchio, Ward 1 ; Joseph Nathan, Ward 3 ;
Michael F. Faulkner. Ward S ; Robert A.
Harnden. Ward 8 ; Alfred F. Gerow, Ward 9 ;
Timothy D. Shea, Ward 10 ; William C. Kelly,
Ward 11 ; Frank Woelfel, Ward 11 ; Louis
Singer, Ward 12 ; James L. Devine, Ward
13 : Daniel Koch, Ward 14 ; John N. Starrett,
Ward 17 ; Charles E. Lindsey, Ward 18 ;
Thomas H. Guy. Ward 19 ; John A. P. Gilman.
Ward 20 ; Frank W. Ryan, Ward 20 ; Patrick
Scollard, Ward 22.
Twenty-five traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Third Session, to appear Septem-
ber 4, 1934:
Earl J. Donovan, Ward 1 ; Frank J. Rich,
Ward 1 ; John S. McAdams. Ward 2 ; Joseph
E. Murphy, Ward 2 ; John D. Matheson, Ward
3 ; John J. Breadmore, Ward 6 ; Charles J.
Connors, Ward 6 ; Otis M. Maloney, Ward 6 ;
Walter T. Mason, Ward 6 ; John O'Hare, Ward
6; Charles E. Wentworth, Jr., Ward 7:
Benedict J. Wyse, Ward 7 : Harry Druker,
Ward 12 ; James G. Shelton, Ward 12 ; Francis
Willard Power, Ward 13 ; George K. Bleakley,
Ward 15 ; Peter W. McHugh, Ward 16 : Harry
A. Sterling, Ward 16; W. Russell Crump, Ward
17: Theodore Fennessey, Ward 18; Thomas J.
Harris, Ward 18 ; William F. James, Ward 18 ;
Oscar W. Alberti, Ward 19; Harry H. Hull,
Ward 19; Edmund B. Snow, Ward 22.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fourth Session, to appear Sep-
tember 4, 1934:
Paul J. Datow, Ward 1 ; John F. Gallivan,
Ward 1: William G. LaPage, Ward 1; Alex-
ander Whelan, Ward 1 ; John E. Counihan,
Ward 2 ; Edward F. DuRocher, Ward 5 ; Jo-
seph M. Carney, Ward 6 ; Joseph A. Bersig.
Ward 7 ; John L. Harper, Ward 7 ; John W.
Pendergast, Ward 9; John G. Donovan, Ward
in; Anthony J. Henry. Ward 10; Victor Kauf-
man, Ward 12; Thomas A. Scott, Ward 12;
Joseph F. Doherty, Ward 13; Edward A. Doh-
crty. Ward 15: Roscoe L. Potter, Ward 16;
Erm i A. Cherry, Ward 17: Charles B. Mac-
Pherson, Ward 17; Frederick H. Peatfield.
Ward 17; Ralph W. Marshall. Ward IS; Edwin
N. Neill. Ward 18; Arthur J. Jolly. Ward 20;
Ernes! I. Martin, Ward 21 ; Samuel P. Aborn,
Ward 22: Elmer N. Evans, Ward 22.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court. Fifth Session, to appear September
1. 1984:
Patrick Henry
Bu] wood, Ward 2
2 : Timothy J. D
Maurer. Ward 3
1 : Harrold W. H
■ . Ward 7 ;
Harold P. Dakin
Ward I" ; John
Blair. Ward 11 ;
Franklin !•'.. IF, ski
Sullivan. Ward 1 ; Ernest
; Edward I Eliggins, Ward
ris, ill. Ward 8 : George W.
Charles n. St. John. Ward
iggins, Ward 7 ; Thomas C.
I .1. Roddy. Ward S:
Ward 8 : Alfred T, Marlor,
P. Roche. Ward Hi; \l:n
William W. Fox. War, I 1 i ;
ns. Ward 12 ; Joseph F. Con-
nelly. Ward 11; Henry C. Kingman, Ward 14;
Joseph Rosen. Ward 14 ; Myron D. W. Currie.
Ward 15 ; Henry Sprissler, Ward 15 ; William
F. Maier, Ward 16 ; Joseph E. Gilmartin,
Ward 18 ; Walter Jackson, Ward 18 ; Joseph
C. Dolan, Ward 19 ; Charles C. Rothfuchs, Jr.,
.Ward 20 ; John F. Wagner, Ward 20.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, July Sitting, to appear
September 10, 1934:
William J. Perkins, Ward 2 ; Thomas Free-
man, Ward 4 ; John J. MacDougall, Ward 4 ;
Charles A. Dodge, Ward 5 ; Frank W. Whitty,
Ward 7 ; James R. Wagner, Ward 9 ; Clarence
H. Garland, Ward 11 ; Clarence C. Lang, Ward
11 ; Paul Richter, Ward 11 : George J. Free-
man, Ward 12 ; Herbert V. Mitchell, Ward 12 ;
Joseph Dubow, Ward 13 ; Samuel Banks, Ward
•14 ; Irving Olans, Ward 14 ; Chester E. Bate-
man, Ward 15 ; Leo F. Donovan, Ward 18 ;
August Hall, Ward 18 ; Thomas Howitt, Ward
18 ; Raphael DiPasquale, Ward 19 ; Everett L.
Dorr, Ward 19 ; Herbert G. Evans, Ward 21 ;
Herbert J. Hanna, Ward 22 ; Charles W. Oliver,
Ward 22 ; Leland S. Young, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fifth Session, July Sitting, to appear
September 10, 1934:
Anthony Albert DeDeo, Ward 1 : William S.
Ranahan, Ward 1 ; Michael F. Crotty, Ward 2 ;
James McCaU, Ward 2 ; John J. Sullivan,
Ward 2 ; Roger C. Hatch, Ward 5 ; John J.
Courtney, Ward 7 ; Hugh F. McDevitt, Ward 7 ;
Nathaniel Tarry, Ward 9 ; Michael DiGregorio,
Ward 11 ; Richard Gibbons, Ward 11 ; Charles
F. MoMorrow, Ward 11; Frank J. Paradis,
Ward 11 ; Aaron E. Freeman, Ward 12 ; Harry
Kalis, Ward 12 ; Herbert L. Parker, Ward 13 ;
James A. Mullare, Ward 17 : Edward E.
Whidden, Ward 17; Frederick W. Hiatt, Jr.,
Ward 18; Charles F. Bere, Ward 19; Walter
H. Eldridge, Ward 19; Arthur L. W. Fifield,
Ward 20 ; James J. O'Neil, Ward 22 ; Russell
Z. Yates, Ward 22.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Sixth Session, July Sitting, to appear
September 10, 1934:
George A. Magee, Ward 1 ; Albert Mansfield,
Ward 3 ; Michael Rago, Ward 3 ; Frank P.
Tock, Ward 3 ; Richard D. Chase, Ward 5 ;
Lawrence G. Gordon, Ward 5 ; Frank H.
Henriksen, Ward 7 ; Thomas G. Bowen, Ward
10 ; George F. Donovan, Ward 11 ; Frank Ben-
net, Ward 12 ; Charles J. McCarthy, Ward 13 ;
John Moriarty, Ward 13 ; Lawrence P. Trainor,
Ward 13 ; Louis Spinner, Ward 14 : Morris
Zussman, Ward 14 ; Thomas J. McDonough,
Ward 15; Charles M. Ruemaker, Ward 15;
Walter N. Sharp, Ward 16: James E. Young,
Ward 17 ; Peter J. Lynch, Ward 18 : Frederick
B. Guild, Ward 20 ; Neil C. McLeod, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Seventh Session, July Sitting, to appear
September 10, 1934:
William J. Moore, Ward 1 ; Thomas J. Shea,
Ward 1 : Dennis O'Neill. Ward 2 : Frederick A.
Stewart. Ward 2; Charles Dudley, Ward 4;
George M. Allen. Ward 5; John N. Tracey,
Ward 6; Joseph E. Murphy, Ward 8: William
.). Tronson, Ward 8; John O'Rourko. Ward 10;
Louis Sordon, Ward 13; Morris Brickman.
Ward 11: Marks Green, Ward 11: Stephen .1.
Fleming, Wan] IS: John M. G. Ilnar. Ward
18; EM win J. McGowan, Ward 18; Frank W.
Henderson. Ward 19; Harry A. Sullivan. Ward
19; K.nst Weineck, Ward 19; Robert F.
Could. Ward 20; Henry (',. Jones. Ward 20;
Waldo A. Barber, Ward 22: Lorenzo Fioren-
tino. Ward 22; Joseph W. Hood, Ward 22.
WITHDRAWAL AND APPOINTMENTS OF
CONSTABLES.
Tin- following was received:
Oitj of Bo
Office of the Mayor, August 13. 1984.
Tb lb,' City Council.
Gentlemen. I wing names arc with-
292
CITY COUNCIL.
drawn from the list of Constables submitted
by me to your honorable body on April 16,
1934 : ^ vr a.
Harry Reinherz, David A. Donahue. Nathan
Farber, , ,,
Subject to confirmation by your honorable
body I hereby appoint the following-named
persons Constables in the City of Boston
authorized to serve Civil Process upon filing
bonds : T , _
Harry Meltzer, Charles Horowitz, John t.
Welch, Benjamin Jacobson, John Milgroom.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Severally laid over one week under the law.
DRINKING FOUNTAIN IN BUCKLEY
PLAYGROUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 6, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen— I herewith transmit a letter
from the Boston Park Department, relative
Hour order of July 23, 1934. concerning
the installation of a drinking fountain in the
Reverend Thomas W Buckley ground.
South Boston, to be paid for out of E. R. A.
funds ; also to install settees therein.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, August 3, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir _T am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Commission
L requested to install a drinking fountain
in the Reverend Thomas W. Buckley Play-
ground, South Boston, to be paid for out ot
ERA funds ; also to install settees in same.
'investigation shows that a drinking fountain
;« needed very badly in this area, but it
cannot6 be paid for out of E. R. A fund-
The Park Department employees will install
a drinking fountain, connect same up with
the sewer, and if funds will allow, construct
K P"t t G 6S
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
REPORT ON LICENSES AND PERMITS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 11, 1934.
To the City Council. .
Gentlemen, — The information requested in
the order adopted by your honorable body on
July 2 relative to the kinds of licenses and
permits now being issued by the various city
departments, has already been furnished by
the department heads in response to Circular
Letter No. 7 from the office of the Mayor,
dated March 23, 1934.
I am transmitting herewith a copy of the
circular together with copies of replies from
all city departments containing the information
desired.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
(Appended were the communications re-
ferred to.)
Ordered printed as a city document and
placed on file.
ANONYMOUS COMPLAINTS AGAINST
WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 6, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Overseers of the Public Welfare,
relative to your order of July 30, 1934, con-
cerning action on anonymous complaints
against aid recipients.
■Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield. Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
August 3, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear 'Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt
of your communication of August 1, 1934,
inclosing the following order from the City
Council :
"That his Honor the Mayor instruct the
Overseers of the Public Welfare that the status
of welfare recipients shall not be affected by
the receipt of any anonymous letters informing
the Welfare Department of financial resources
of such recipient. That the Welfare Depart-
ment act on such cases only when the facts
contained in such anonymous letters have been
proved to foe true."
I beg to say that this department does
not act on complaints until all the facts in
the case have been definitely checked. Then,
and only then, is the recipient dropped from
the rolls.
If Councilor Goldman has any cases in mind
where action has been taken contrary to the
above rule, we shall be glad to receive the
names and addresses in such cases and report
promptly.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
CONSTRUCTION OF SEWER IN PHILLIPS
PLACE.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Commissioner of Public Works rela-
tive to your order of April 30, 1934, concerning
the construction of a sewer in Phillips place,
Ward 7.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
July 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge City
Council order dated April 30, 1934, reading:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to construct a sewer in Phillips place,
Ward 7."
This office has a petition dated January 17,
1934, requesting that a new sewer be built
by the city to replace an old private sewer
in Phillips place, said Phillips place being a
private way. The private sewer has given
considerable trouble in years gone by and is
now giving trouble. Said private sewer is
shallow, too small in diameter and is not
satisfactory for the purpose for which it was
constructed.
The estimated cost to build the new pro-
posed sewer is $1,600 ; said cost calling for
the installation of 160 linear feet of 10-inch
pipe sewer.
The taking for sewerage purposes has al-
ready been made.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven.
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
AUGUST 13, 1934.
293
WATER SUPPLY IN BAY VIEW SECTION.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from th2 Commissioner of Public Works,
relative to your order of July 23, 1934, con-
cerning condition of the water supply for
the use of residents in the Bay View section
of South Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
August 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge re-
ceipt of an order of the City Council dated
July 23, 1934, and reading:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to take such immediate steps as may
be necessary to furnish clean and safe water
for the use of residents in the Bay View sec-
tion of South Boston, and to inform the City
Council as to what action he proposes to take
in the matter," —
and to state that the water pipes in the Bay
View section of South Boston are in good
condition, giving an ample supply of water
and after the complaints were received of
dirty water, etc., a bacteriological examination
of the water was made by the Board of Health
and the examination showed the water to be
excellent and of the same quality as other
water now being delivered to the other sections
of the city.
Occasionally, due to the heavy draft of
water and the probable reversal of the flow
of water, pipe repairs of one kind or another,
the little sediment which accumulates on the
inner perimeter of the pipe, becomes dislodged
and causes a discoloration in the water which
is absolutely harmless and after a day or two
disappears.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carvbn,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
VETO— CAR STOP IN BOYLSTON STREET
SUBWAY.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, August 2. 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith, without my
signature and with my disapproval, the order
passed on July 23. 1984, whereby your honor-
able body accepted chapter 26S of the \, •■
of 1934, providing for the construction of a
car stop in the extension of the 1:
Street Subway under Beacon street.
I estimated that the cost of building this
station would be at least $300.000 — a sub-
stantial sinn Eor the city to pay for any
purpose in it ; present financial condition.
Undoubted}) the proponents of this mi
whom I heard at great length, would
better Elevated service if a car stop were
to be built as provided in this act, and the
i sect ion of the city would un-
doubtedly be benefited e. This
being admitted, the point to be decided is
whether the city as a v. Hole should assume
this additional burden when the benefits to
be derived would be limited to a verj
portion of the community and no appr
benefit would be derived bj the
i whole
l am not convinced, as was so forcibly
■ ii the hearing lief.. re me, that the
vacancies in apartment houses and the
depreciation in real estate values in this par-
ticular district have been caused by failure
to provide a car stop at or near the place
indicated in this bill ; nor am I convinced that
the establishment of such a stop would fill
the vacant apartments and restore real estate
values. Neither am I affected by the gloomy
vaticinations of the dire ruin of that section
of the city if the station is not built. Whether
or not the establishment of such a station
would have the effect claimed for it by the
ardent proponents of this measure is wholly
problematical.
On the other hand, when the subway was
extended under Governor square the necessity,
advisability and relative advantages of car
stops at various places were discussed and a
proposal to provide for a car stop such as is
contemplated by this act was considered and
rejected at that time. It must be obvious that
a mutiplicity of car stops in a rapid transit
subway defeats the very purpose of such sub-
ways.
In this particular case the farthest point
from a station is about 1,600 feet and only
persons living in the vicinity of this farthest
point are very greatly affected by the distance
between car stops, and these persons are not
wholly without Elevated service between sta-
tions because a bus service has been installed
by the Boston Elevated Railway Company.
It was forcibly urged upon me that the
expense involved would be slight and would
not add very much to the tax burden. But
that is not a xsound argument. It would not
take many such projects to amount to a great
deal in the tax rate and the plight in which
the city finds itself at the present moment
is largely due to an accumulation of ap-
parently small amounts added to the tax
burden at different times. Furthermore, it
was assumed by those speaking for the measure
at the hearing before me that the station
would not pay for itself and over 80 per cent
of the cost of maintaining it would fall
ultimately on the tax payers of the city.
Yesterday at twelve o'clock, three hours be-
fore the hearing on this matter, the Metro-
politan Transit Council met in my office to
consider whether or not fares should be raised
by the Boston Elevated Railway Company in
order to meet a deficit for the year ending
June 30. 1934. of SI. 551. 631. 97. The Council
decided that the fares should not be raised
which means that the deficit must be paid
for out of taxes. A proposal to add another
substantial sum to be the deficit already exist-
in'-.- ought not 'to be seriously entertained.
With a probable tax rate for 1934 of about
S37.50 and for 1935 of over $40 it is perfectly
plain to me that this additional burden ought
not to be loaded upon the already groaning
taxpayer.
This measure may well be deferred for con-
sideration at some future time. The city can-
not afford it now.
Respectfully,
Frederick \v. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
RESCISSION OF BALANCES OF LOANS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor. August 13. 1934.
To the City Council.
men. — At the .suggestion of thi
Auditor I submit herewith four orders limit-
i row money for four specific
projects, granted in previous yours by the City
Council, to the actual amount, borrowed to
dale under each project. The passage of these
in the n of that
portion of each of the original loans which
has never been issued and will permit the
auditor to close out on the books of h
four Inactive lo:\n accounts. The projects
ire as follows:
l. Fire Station, Brighton.
294
CITY COUNCIL.
2. Automatic Traffic Signal System on
Commonwealth Avenue, from Arlington Street
to Governor Square.
3. Courthouse, Brighton.
4. New Charities Administration Building.
The loans covering these projects were au-
thorized by the City Council between 1928 and
1931, and the work originally contemplated in
each has long since been completed. The
unissued balances of the original loans are
therefore no longer required and should be
cancelled or rescinded. In order to accomplish
this result I recommend adoption of the ac-
companying orders.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the right to borrow money
for Fire Station, Brighton, under loan order
passed November 13, 1928, and approved by
the Mayor on November 14, 1928, be limited
to $66,000, and that the authorization to
borrow in excess of said amount, for said
purpose, be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the right to borrow money
for Automatic Traffic Signal System on Com-
monwealth Avenue, from Arlington street to
Governor Square, under loan order passed
December 16, 1929, and approved by the Mayor
on December 18, 1929, be limited to $40,000,
and that the authorization to borrow in ex-
cess of said amount, for said purpose, be,
and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the right to borrow money
for Courthouse, Brighton, under loan order
passed March 3, 1930, and approved by the
Mayor on March 4, 1930. be limited to
$120,000, and that the authorization to
borrow in excess of said amount, for said
purpose, be, and the same hereby is, rescinded.
Ordered, That the right to borrow money
for New Charities Administration Building,
under loan order passed March 2, 1931, and
approved by the Mayor on March 3, 1931,
be limited to $275,000, and that the authoriza-
tion to borrow in excess of said amount, for
said purpose, be, and the same hereby is,
rescinded.
Referred to Executive Committee.
LOAN FOR WELFARE EXPENDITURE.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under the provisions of chapter
49 of the Acts of 1933 municipalities are au-
thorized, with the approval of the State Emer-
gency Finance Board, to borrow from the Com-
monwealth for ordinary maintenance expenses,
said borrowing not to exceed the total amount
of tax titles held by the municipalities. In
the preparation of this year's budget plans
were made to take advantage of this au-
thorization and appropriations provided in the
budget for relief disbursements by the Public
Welfare Department were purposely kept be-
low the amounts which it was estimated would
be required on a full year basis.
In accordance with my recommendations
your honorable body has appropriated uip to
date $8,600,000 for relief payments by the
Public Welfare Department. In the opinion
of the Executive Director of this department
the grand total of relief expenditures during
the year 1934 will be $12,400,000, an amount
$3,800,000 in excess of appropriations already
provided in the budget. Actual expenditures
for relief in 1933 totaled $13,618,223.54.
According to the records of the office of
the City Collector the city now holds tax
titles to the amount of $4,049,240.21. These
holdings are more than sufficient to cover the
additional amount required to balance estimated
relief expenditures in the Public Welfare De-
partment. In view of this fact I propose
to secure the additional amount required by
negotiating a loan from the Commonwealth
in the amount of $3,800,000 and pledging
against this loan the tax titles now held by
the city.
Under the provisions of chapter 49 of the
Acts of 1933 it is necessary for the City
Treasurer to petition the State Emergency
Finance Board for authority to make a loan
of this character. I submit herewith an order
authorizing the City Treasurer to proceed
in the manner required and respectfully re-
commend its adoption by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under the provisions of sec-
tion 2, chapter 49, of the Acts of 1933, the
City Treasurer be authorized to secure the
approval of the Emergency Finance Board to
an issuance of $3,800,000 in bonds or certifi-
cates of indebtedness of the city, said bonds
or certificates to be sold at their face value
to the Commonwealth and the proceeds to
be used for relief disbursements by the Public
Welfare Department, as set forth in the fol-
lowing table :
Public Welfare Department.
F. Special Items $3,800,000
9. Care of Dependents, $3,000,000
10. Mothers' Aid 400,000
14. Old Age Assistance.. 400,000
Referred to Executive Committee.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS AT DAY AND HEATH
STREETS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Boston Traffic Commission, relative
to your order of July 23, 1934, concerning
the installation of an automatic traffic signal
at the intersection of Day and Heath streets.
Ward 10.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, August 8, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of a communication from your office
dated August 1, 1934, ordering submission of
a report as to the necessity and cost of in-
stalling an automatic traffic signal at the
intersection of Day and Heath streets, as
requested in Council order dated July 23,
1934, which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install an automatic traffic signal at the inter-
section of Day and Heath streets, Ward 10."
The records of this office show that four
motor vehicle accidents involving personal in-
juries have occurred at this intersection from
January 1. 1929, to date. These were divided
by years as follows :
1929. 0; 1930, 0; 1931, 2; 1932, 0; 1933, 1;
1934, 1.
One of the above listed accidents, which
occurred on June 20, 1934, resulted in a
fatality. This unfortunate accident was caused
by a boy riding a bicycle into the rear of an
automobile. The bicyclist was the victim. It
is our opinion that no form of traffic control
can prevent accidents of this 'type.
This intersection is one of a type which
is described, as a T intersection, that is, there
are no serious cross movements of vehicles.
Furthermore the two corners are cut back on
such large radii that excelflent vision is
afforded to motorists using the intersection
in any direction.
AUGUST 13, 1934.
295
It is* the opinion of our engineers that
the layout of this intersection and the ac-
cident records do not justify the installation
of a signal. The approximate cost of such in-
stallation would be §1,900.
Very truly yours,
Owen A. Gallacher,
Acting Commissioner.
Placed on file.
DUMPING NEAR OLD COLONY
BOULEVARD.
The following was received :
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, August 9. 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Health Commissioner, relative to
your order of July 23, 1934, concerning the
dumping of banana stalks adjacent to the
Columbia Station and along Old Colony Boule-
vard.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Health Department, August 3, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Answering the following order of
the City Council, July 23. 1934:
"To prevent further dumping of banana
stalks adjacent to the Columbia Station and
along Old Colony Boulevard."
This department had already ordered the
discontinuance of such dumping and will see
that it is stopped.
Respectfully yours,
F. X. Mahoney, M. D.,
Health Commissioner.
Placed on file.
CATCH-BASIN IN BAY STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 1. 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Commissioner of Public Works.
relative to your order of April 2, 1934, con-
cerning the installation of a catch-basin on
the lower end of the alleyway which is a
continuation of Bay street connecting through
to Circuit street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Public Works Department. July 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir. — I beg leave to acknowledge an
order of the City Council, dated April 2,
1934, and reading:
"Ordered, That the Department of Public
Works arrange for the installation of a
catch-basin on the lower end of the alley-
way which is a continuation of liny street
connecting through to Circuit street in order
to prevent water from flowing into and
flooding private property bordering the said
alleyway" —
and to state thai Hi,' city does not usually
provide for the drainage in private land in
which this basin has been ordered built, but
in this particular location a sewer easement
is in progress in which the Maywood
surface drain is to be constructed under a
P. W. A. program, and a catch-basin can lie
and will !»• included in tin' contract when
the Maywood brook construction is undertaken.
Re: pectful
I J. C UM i n.
Commissioner of Public \\
Pla :ed on tile.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS. COLUMBUS AVENUE
AND DARTMOUTH STREET.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Boston Traffic Commission, relative
to your order of July 2, 1934. concerning the
installation of traffic lights at Columbus ave-
nue and Dartmouth street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, August 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated July 2, 1934,
which reads as follows :
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested
to install traffic lights at Columbus avenue
and Dartmouth street."
There are no funds available at the present
time for the installation of the above signals.
As soon as funds become available this inter-
section will be given immediate consideration.
Respectfully yours,
Owen A. Gallagher,
Acting Commissioner.
Placed on file.
REPAVING CUMSTON STREET AND CUM-
STON PLACE.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Commissioner of Public Works,
relative to your order of July 30, 1934, con-
cerning repavement of Cumston street and
Cumston place, Ward 9, with smooth pave-
ment.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Public Works Department,
August 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge re-
ceipt of an order from the City Council, dated
July 30, reading:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor tin-
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavement Cum-
ston street and Cumston place. Ward 9."
Cumston street, from Rutland street to \\ i
Concord street, has a length of 190 linear feel ;
has. at present, a macadam roadway, block
stone gutters, granite edgestone and brick
sidewalk. The present road surface is in fair
condition. An asphalt pavement on a 6-inch
concrete base will cost approximately
Cumston place, from Cumston street to Shaw-
mut avenue, a length of 110 linear feet, has
a macadam roadway, block stone gutters,
granite edgestone and brick sidewalk and is
in fair condition. An asphalt pavement on a
6-inch concrete base will cost approximately
is no money available for construction
Street or Cumston place this
year.
Ro p. vt fully.
C. -i. Cakvbn,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on tile.
296
CITY COUNCIL.
PROPOSED RAZING OF ELIZABETH
PEABODY SCHOOL.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Superintendent of Public Schools,
relative to your order of July 23, 1934, con-
cerning the proposed razing of the Elizabeth
Peabody School in order that the land may
be devoted to playground purposes.
Respectfully,
'Frederick W. Mansfield. Mayor.
City of Boston,
School Committee, August 3, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore. Jr.,
Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Mr. Gilmore, — In reply to your inquiry
concerning the order passed in the Council
recently with reference to the Elizabeth Pea-
body School on Poplar street, I have the honor
to report that the six rooms in this building
are completely occupied and at present there
seems no possibility of transferring them to
other quarters, in order that the land may be
devoted to playground purposes.
Sincerely yours,
Patrick T. Campbell.
Superintendent of Public Schools.
Placed on file.
• TRAFFIC OFFICER, ALLEN AND
CHARLES STREETS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 10, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Police Commissioner, relative to your
order of July 2, 1934, concerning the placing
of traffic officers at the junction of Allen
street and Charles street, from 8 a. m. to
11 p. m., and at the circle at the junction
of Leverett and Charles streets at the same
time.
Respectfully,
FREDERICK W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Police Department, August G, 1984.
Mr. John F. Gilmore. Jr.,
Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — In reference to your memorandum
dated July 12, 1934, with which you forwarded
to this office an order of the City Council
directing that his Honor the Mayor request
the Police Commissioner to place traffic officers
on duty at the junction of Allen street and
Charles street and at the junction of Leverett
and Charles streets, at the circle, observation has
been made by the supervising officers in charge
of traffic in this department and I am send-
ing you herewith copies of their reports. You
will note that arrangements have been made
to have these points covered by traffic offii
as much as possible in order to provide
greater safety for pedestrians using these
crossings.
I am returning the order of the City Council,
copy of which has been kept for the files of
this office.
Very truly yours,
E. C. HlILTMAN,
Police Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Police Department, August 1, 1934.
To the Superintendent.
Sir, — With reference to the attached com-
munication from John F. Gilmore. Jr., as-
sistant secretary, office of his Honor the
Mayor, in relation to request of the City
Council to place traffic, officers on duty at
the junction of Allen and Charles streets,
and at the circle, at the junction of Leverett
and Charles streets, I respectfully report that
I directed Lieut. Thomas F. Harvey, of this
Bureau, to make an inspection and study of
the traffic condiions at the junction of Allen
and Charles streets, and also at the circle,
at the junction of Leverett and Charles streets,
for the purpose of learning at what time dur-
ing the day and evening traffic was at its
peak, and that after learning as td these
conditions that Lieutenant Harvey take up
with Captain Mullen of Division 1, in whose
territory both of these points are located, any
deficiency in traffic conditions that require
correction, with particular attention to the
placing of traffic officers at these two points
during the busy hours of the day.
You will please note in the second para-
graph of Lieutenant Harvey's attached report
to me that he conferred with Mr. O'Connor,
of the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to
traffic conditions at these interesections, as
mentioned in the afttached communication
from the Mayor's office, and that Mr. O'Con-
nor assured the lieutenant he would have
white lines, designating a pedestrian lane,
painted across Charles street, from the corner
of Allen street to the reservation in the center
of Charles street, and from the reservation
across to the Charlesbank Park ; also that
he took up with Mr. O'Connor the matter of
installing traffic lights at this location, Charles
and Allen streets, and Mr. O'Connor informed
Lieutenant Harvey that the Traffic Commis-
sion was unable to install lights at this time
but that Traffic Commissioner Hickey had had
a talk with his Honor the Mayor of Boston
during the last few days, and that the Traffic
Commissioner had assured the Mayor that
when money was available a traffic signal
light would be installed at this intersection.
You will further note in the third para-
graph of Lieutenant Harvey's attached report
that he observed from 7.45 to 9.15 a. m. and
again in the afternoon, from 4 to 6 p. m.,
traffic was very heavy at the corner of Leverett
and Charles streets, and required the services
of one officer to keep traffic moving freely :
further on in the fourth paragraph you will
please note that Lieutenant Harvey conferred
with Captain Mullen relative to placing an
officer at this intersection from 8 to 9.15 a. m.
and from 4 to G p. m., and Captain Mullen
assured the lieutenant that he would do every-
thing possible to keep this crossing covered
at the hours mentioned above and also during
evenings when persons were going to and
coming from the Esplanade to attend the con-
certs, and with this assurance carried on, in
the opinion of Lieutenant Harvey, this will
take care of traffic conditions at that point
very nicely.
I therefore respectfully recommend that, these
reports containing the action taken by the
Police Department in the matter of the order
of the City Council, under date of July 2,
1934, be forwarded to John F. Gilmorq* Jr.,
assistant secretary to his Honor, the Mayor of
Boston, to be referred to the City Council as
an answer to their order passed July 2, 1934.
Respectfully submitted,
John T. O'Dea.
Lieutenant, Commanding Bureau of Traffic.
City ol' Boston,
Police Department, July 31, 1934.
Lieut. John T. O'Dea,
Commanding Bureau of Traffic.
Sir, — With reference to the attached order,
passed Iby the City Council Jully 2, 1934, to
the effect that the Mayor request the Police
Commissioner to place traffic officers on duty
at the junction of Allen and Charles streets,
and at the circle, at the junction of Leverett
and Charles streets, from 8 a. m. to 11 p. m.,
I respectfully report lh.il I took this matter
up with Captain Mullen, of Division 1, who
stated to me that he had an officer assigned
to traffic duty at the intersection of Charles
and Allen streets, but that, at the present
time, this officer was absent on account of
AUGUST 13, 1934.
297
sickness but that he expected he would re-
turn to duty within a short time when he
would replace him on this traffic post.
I also conferred with Mr. O'Connor, of the
Boston Traffic Commission, relative to traffic
conditions at the intersection named above and
he has assured me that within a few days
he will have white traffic lines, designating
a pedestrian lane, painted across Charles street,
from the northerly corner of Allen street to
the reservation, and from the reservation
across to Charlesbank Park. Puring our con-
ference I took up with Mr. O'Connor the
matter of installing a traffic light at this
location and he stated to me that owing to
a shortage of funds, at this time, the Traffic
Commission was unable to comply with this
request, and that Traffic Commissioner Hickey,
during a talk that he had with the Mayor
of Boston within the last few days, had as-
sured the Mayor that when the money was
available a traffic signal light would be in-
stalled at this intersection.
Relative to placing an officer in the traffic
circle at the corner of Leverett and Charles
streets, I respectfully report that after ob-
serving conditions at this location, I find that
in the morning, from 7.45 to 9.15 a. m., and
again in the afternoon, from 4 to 6 p. m.,
vehicular traffic is very heavy and requires
the services of one officer to keep it flowing
smoothly. During the other periods of the
day traffic is not extremely heavy and the
circle, being so large, it is well able to take
care of all traffic which passes through with-
out any congestion. Pedestrian travel, at this
point, is very light, with the exception of
evenings when large numbers of persons come
from the West End and North End and cross
at this point to attend the concerts on the
Esplanade.
I conferred with Captain Mullen relative
to placing an officer at this intersection from
8 a. m. to 9.15 a. m. and from 4 to 6 p. m.
and he assured one that he would do everything
possible to keep this crossing covered at the
hours mentioned above, which, in my opinion,
will be all that is necessary. Captain Mullen
further stated that during evenings when con-
certs are held on the Esplanade he will have
the route officer take care of this crossing,
while persons are going to and coming from
these concerts, in order that they may cross the
street in safety and without undue hindrance.
In view of the action taken by the Police
Department to safeguard the intersections
enumerated above, I would respectfully rec-
ommend that this matter be placed on file
for future reference.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas F. Harvey,
Lieutenant, Bureau of Traffic.
Placed on file.
USE OF BASEBALL DIAMOND ON BOSTON
COMMON.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 6, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Boston Park Department, relative
to your order of July 23, 1934, concerning a
permit for the baseball team known as the
Boston Agawam A. A. to use the baseball
diamond on Boston Common one evening a
week.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield. Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, August 3, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from
the City Council that the Park Departmenl
allow baseball Irani known as Boston Agiawam
A. A. In use the baseball diamond on lie Ion
Common one evening a week.
In order for this -baseball team to use
Boston Common it will be necessary for them
to join the Park Department Baseball League.
We have 14,000 in our league at the present
time and our diamonds are used to the fullest
extent. Our schedules are prepared and it
would disorganize our league to allow a permit
of this kind.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
GRANOLITHIC SIDEWALKS ON WEST
THIRD STREET.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my
signature and with my disapproval the order
adopted by your honorable body on July 30,
1934, for the making of granolithic sidewalks
on both sides of West Third street in Ward 6.
I am informed that there are brick side-
walks on both sides of West Third street at
the present time which are in good condition
and that the estimated cost of complying with
this order for the installation of granolithic
sidewalks is $16,000. There being no ap-
propriation for the construction of granolithic
sidewalks no money is available for this proj-
ect at the present time.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
GRANOLITHIC SIDEWALKS ON CUMSTON
STREET.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return without my sig-
nature and with my disapproval the order
adopted by your honorable body on July 30.
1934, for the making of granolithic sidewalks
along both sides of Cumston street in Ward 9.
I am informed that Cumston street has at
present granite curbstones and brick sidewalks
on both sides which are in fair condition and
that the estimated cost for compliance with
this order would be approximately $600. There
being no appropriation for the construction
of a granolithic sidewalk no money is available
for this project at the present time.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on lile.
GRANOLITHIC SIDEWALKS ON CUMSTON
PLACE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return without my sig-
nature and with my disapproval the order
adopted by your honorable body on July 30,
1934, for the making of granolithic sidewalks'
with granite edgestones along Cumston place
in Ward 9.
I am informed that at the present time
Cumston place has brick sidewalks with granite
edgi tones which are in fair condition and
that the estimated east of installing granolithic
■■•id. -walks in compliance with this order would
be $300. There being no appropriation for
the construction of granolithic sidewalks no
money is available tor this projeel at the
present time.
Respectfully,
Frederick \v. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
298
CITY COUNCIL.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the Committee on Claims, viz. :
Laurence Alibrandi, for compensation for
damage to property at 35 Woodeliff street,
Roxlbury, caused by defective catch^basin.
Abraham Black, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 249A Harvard street, caused
by water from street.
Robert F. Brennan, for reimbursement of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as an employee of the Fire Department.
Jeremiah C. Bresnahan, for reimbursement
of judgment issued against him on account
of his acts as an employee of the Public Works
Department.
William Burehill, for refund on victualer's
license.
Alfred A. Byron, for compensation for dam-
age to car by city team.
'Cambridge Paper Box Company, for com-
pensation for damage to truck by ferryboat.
James E. Carney, for compensation for dam-
age to car caused by employee of Park De-
partment.
Dino Comparetti, for compensation for dam-
age to car by police car.
Mary L. Decelle, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 104 Elm
street, Charlestown.
Nicholas DeSimone, for refund on refuse
tickets.
Katherine Leahy, for compensation for dam-
age to clothing caused by auto of Water Service.
Isaac Epstein, for compensation for dam-
age to car by ball thrown from Healy Play-
ground.
Sahda 'Hadge, for compensation for damage
to property at 226 Shawmut avenue, caused
by bursting of water main.
R. George Mongrain, Assignee of R. Dun-
kel, Inc.. for refund on ash tickets.
Edward Murphy, for reimbursement of judg-
ment assued against him on account of his
acts as an employee of the Public Works De-
portment.
John F. O'Donoghue, for compensation for
damage to clothing caused by an alleged de-
fect in Summer Street Bridge.
iS. L. Phillips, for compensation for loss of
garbage can taken by garbage men.
Nicola Rando, for compensation for damage
to property at 2 Sharon street, caused by city
truck.
Ward C. Rayfield, for refund on refuse
tickets.
Joseph H. Sanger, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Franklin
Park.
Patrick N. Shea, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 35 Austin
street, Charlestown.
Elizabeth Thomson, for compensation for
injuries caused by city cart.
Joseph Trachtenberg, for compensation for
damage to property at 251 Harvard street,
caused by water flooding cellar.
Mary E. Twomey, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Curtis
Hall, Jamaica Plain.
University Realty Company, for compensa-
tion for damage to property at 249-253 Harvard
street, caused by water flooding cellars.
Henrietta Wells, for refund on amount of
bill paid City Hospital under duress.
Mabel E. Wolf, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 21 Dwight street, caused
by breaking of water main.
CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The bonds of the foil owing- named con-
stables, having been duly approved by the
City Treasurer, were received and approved,
viz. : Abram Bornstein, Henry G. Dalquist,
Andrew B. DeCourcey, Salvatore Maffei, Max
Rabinovitz.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommend-
ing passage of the order for payment of aid
to soldiers for the month of August, 1934.
Report accepted ; order passed.
RULING ON SHORTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Park Commissioner to revoke its ruling
banning the wearing of "shorts" when partici-
pating in any outdoor sports.
Referred to Committee on Parks and Play-
grounds.
CUTTING AID OF WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of the Public
Welfare, through his honor the Mayor, be
instructed to discontinue the practice of cut-
ting the aid of recipients when a member of
the family is in the hospital.
Coun. DOHERTY— If one of the recipients
of aid in a family is injured by an automobile
and confined to the hospital for a couple of
weeks, for those two weeks aid is stopped.
I feel that is the time it should be continued
and I would like to have that order passed
under suspension of the rule.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NOTICE OF APPLICATIONS FOR
GASOLENE PERMITS.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Street Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested
to notify tihe councilor representing any dis-
trict wherein application is made for the
storage and sale of gasolene and oils, by regis-
tered mail as soon as possible after said ap-
plication is made.
Coun. DONOVAN — On many occasions we
find application is made for the storage of
gasolene and fuel oils in our district. Only
last week an application was made in my dis-
trict and 1 knew nothing about it. The hear-
ing was called for today and it didn't give
me time enough to call various people who
might be interested in an appeal before the
Board to stop the issuance of the permit.
I find it to be about the same in every district,
so I am asking his Honor the Mayor to in-
struct the Street Commissioners to inform every
councilor by registered mail when there is a
subject of this matter before the Board of
Street Commissioners.
Coun. SELVITELLA — I happened by chance
to learn last week there was a petition for
120,000 gallons of gasolene to be stored in
my district and the hearing came up this
morning and if it had not been for a chance
remark I heard on the street I would not
have been present at the hearing this morning.
I think every councilor here ought to be pro-
tected. When a petition for the storage of
petroleum products is made, courtesy ought to
dictate that the councilor from, that district be
notified.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ANDREW J. GLEASON CIRCLE.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to
name the circle at Castle Island in memory of
the late- Andrew J. Gleason.
The order was passed under a suspension
of the rule.
AUGUST 13, 1934.
299
Coun. GLEASON— Mr. President
President DOWD — For what purpose does the
councilor rise?
Coun. GLEASON — I ask unanimous consent
to make a statement.
President DOWD — Councilor Gleason asks
unanimous consent to make a statement. Is
there any objection? All right. Councilor
Gleason.
Coun. GLEASON — There will not be any
vote against this Gleason. I want to say
nothing whatsoever about the Richard Gleason,
the councilor. I aim proud to hear that the
Gleasons are getting ahead in Boston and it
is a pleasure to hear that great name of
Gleason mentioned in the Council.
REINSTATEMENT OF DAVID I. BARRY.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commis-
sioner, through his Honor the Mayor, be in-
structed to reinstate David Barry as an em-
ployee of the Public Works Department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS AT HOMESTEAD AND
HAROLD STREETS.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install automatic traffic signals at the junction
of Homestead and Harold streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INVESTIGATION OF TELEPHONE, ELEC-
TRIC AND GAS RATES.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to intercede with the proper E. R. A.
officials for sufficient funds to investigate and
prepare the people's case on telephone, gas
and electric rates in the City of Boston.
Coun. BRACKMAN— I think by this time it
must be obvious that the public utilities in
this state are mulcting the public when it
comes to telephone, gas and electric rates.
I think many are in accord on this proposition,
but the main difficulty seems to be that the
case against the utilities is difficult to prepare.
We realize that a great deal of bookkeeping
and special accounting must be done in order
to check up the business affairs of so large
an institution as these public utilities are.
The city has never been able to bear the
expense of making a complete check-up
and a careful study of matters like deprecia-
tion and obsolescence where these utilities
are able to cover up a great deal of the
money they received, and so I am asking the
Mayor to attempt to secure funds from the
United States Government, and they have been
invest i Kali ilk' sonic work along this line, of
investigating utilities throughout the country,
and I believe that the officials in charge of
the disbursement of this fund would be eager
and anxious to help out a city like Boston in
trying to put their finger on those utilities
who have been dragging these large sums of
money out of the public and 1 am asking the
Mayor to apply for this fund so the Corpora-
tion Counsel's office can make a complete
check-up and study with experts and ac-
countants and prepare a ease to go before
the Commission and lay the cities' case be-
fore them properly.
Coun. WILSON — I see no objection to thai
order as to its wording and agree with much
that the councilor from Roxbury has said,
. tcepf from past experience it would appear
thai a reduction in the telephone rate . even
properly handled, would menu the reduction of
wages for every employee of the American
Telephone Company and the saving, if any,
effected for the public, — a few cents or dollars
in each case, that the corporation, the public
utility following their usual procedure will
be again recovered by reducing the wages of
their employees, and so I would prefer such
an order, if there were no objection, bearing
an amendment, something to the effect that all
due protection be given to the employees of
the Telephone Company and that there be no
reduction of wages incident to any such
investigation.
Coun. BRACKMAN — I have no objection to
that amendment, but I think that a careful
check-up of the books of the company made
by experts, they would find it would not be
necessary to reduce anybody's salary and yet
cut the rates because of the tremendous
profits these utilities are making.
Coun. GLEASON — I believe when any con-
cern gets bigger than the City of Boston the
government should step in and protect the
people of this city, like the electric company,
gas company, or any other company that the
City of Boston isn't able to buy out. I believe
that the government should come in here and
protect us people and I believe Councilor
Brackman's order is perfectly O. K. When
any concern is bigger than the City of Boston,
then the government should step in here and
protect us people.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RELEASING LAND AT CORNER OF EAST
BROADWAY AND N STREET FROM
RESTRICTIONS.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Whereas, The City of Boston by deed dated
November 30, 1877, and recorded with Suffolk
Deeds, Book 1401, page 164, conveyed a certain
parcel of land situate on the northerly side
of East Broadway, making the northerly cor-
ner of said East Broadway and the easterly
side of N street, in that part of Boston called
South Boston, and conveyed the said land
subject to certain condition and restrictions,
two of said restrictions being numbered 3 and
4 and in the following words, namely:
"3. The building which may be erected on
said lot shall be of width of at least twenty-
two feet.''
•'4. No dwelling house or other building
except the necessary out building shall be •
erected or placed on the rear of said lot unless
it be a stable for private use."
Whereas, A portion of said parcel of land
above described was conveyed to Catherine
F. Santry by deed dated November 14, 1921,
and recorded with Suffolk Deeds, Book 432S,
page 298, subject to the same restrictions or
conditions in so far as the same are now in
force and applicable : and
Whereas, The owners of said last mentioned
premises desire to have the said premises
released from the said conditions and restric-
tions : now, therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
he hereby is, authorized, in the name and be-
half of the City of Boston, by a written in-
strument, in form satisfactory to the Law
Department of the City of Boston, to release
the said land from the said restrictions in so
far as the City of Boston legally can without
interfering with the legal or equitable rights
of others.
Referred to committee on public lands.
IMPROVEMENTS, BOYD STREET,
W UtD 15.
Conn. TOB1N offered the following:
Ordered. That the Public Works Commis-
sioner be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to resurface and repair the street and
sidewalk of Boyd street. Ward 1">.
Passed under .suspension of the rule.
300
CITY COUNCIL.
DISCONTINUANCE OF ELEVATED
BUSES ON BRENT STREET.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston
Elevated Railway be, and they hereby are,
requested to discontinue operation of buses
through Brent street, Dorchester.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING NORTH AND CHARDON
" STREETS.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be
instructed to repave with smooth paving
North street, Ward 3, and Chardon street,
Ward 3.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INVESTIGATION OF FORECLOSED AND
REMORTGAGING OF PROPERTY.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Bank Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed
to investigate foreclosures of property and the
remortgaging of the same property.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CLAIMS REPORT.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted a report on the petition of
Patrick H. McLaughlin (referred July 2) to
he reimbursed for execution issued against
him on account of his acts as a policeman —
recommending the passage of the following:
Ordered, That the sum of $42.80 be allowed
and paid to Patrick H. McLaughlin in reim-
bursement for amount of judgment issued
against him on account of his acts as a police
officer of the City of Boston, October S, 1933.
Report accepted : order passed.
REDIVISION OF WARDS.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Council committee on re-
districting the wards of Boston be increased
to nine members.
Passed under suspension of the rule, and
the President appointed Coun. Englert and
Donovan as additional members of the com-
mittee.
Coun. GLEASON— Mr. President, I would
like to have you name the nine members.
President DOWD — The clerk will read the
nine members appointed by the Chair.
The clerk read the names of the members as
follows :
Coun. Gallagher, Murray, McGrath, Roberts,
Green, Fitzgerald, Wilson, Englert, Donovan.
Coun. SKLVITKLLA — 1 ask unanimous con-
sent to make a statement.
President DOWD — Is there any objection to
Councilor Selvitella making a statement? All
right, Councilor Selvitella.
Coun. SELVITELLA — There occurred an
item in one of the Bast Boston papers attempt-
ing to iput me on the spot on the question
of rerlist riding the wards and it appeared I
was ducking the committee or that I ran out
on the committee to avoid any part in the
committee's work in redisricting the line:
so in order that it may go into the record I
want to make a statement now that I was
never asked to Ibe on the committee so that
the editor of this newspaper will take notice
of it.
Coun. GLEASON — I ask unanimous consent
to make a statement. Only a week ago, Mr.
President, you told me that if you named
two men, that I would be one of them and I
am going to make an order to ask you to
name the whole City Council to represent
every district. We all want to be protected
the same as you want to be protected. Let
us protect ourselves and if you want to be fair
and square you -will name the whole Council
here and I am asking you to do it, and I am
asking you now — didn't you tell me you would
appoint me on that committee, — yes or no ?
Mr. President, I am asking you to name the
whole City Council to represent every ward
and be fair with us all.
President DOWD — The Chair will state the
councilor can introduce any order he desires
naming the entire City Council and if it
passes the body, the Chair will recognize it.
Coun. GLEASON— Then I will do it before
the meeting is over.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 3 p. m., on motion of
Coun. WILSON, to take a recess subject to
call of the Chair. The members reassembled
in the Council Chamber and were called to
order by President DOWD at 3.55 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Commit-
tee, submitted the following :
1. Report on message and order (i-eferred
today) for loan of $3,800,000 for Public Wel-
fare Department — recommending order ought
to pass.
Report accepted ; said order given its first
reading ; yeas 17, nays — €oun. Shattuck, Wil-
son—2.
2. Report on message and orders (referred
today) for the rescission of balances of var-
ious loans, that same ought to pass.
Report accepted ; said orders passed, yeas 19,
nays 0.
3. Report on the message and orders (re-
Eerred July 2) for transfers to the Hospital
Department, Kitchen Building and Laundry
Building, Furnishing and Equipping — recom-
mending orders ought to pass.
Coun. GLEASON — I have suffered in that
hospital for two years and I found that
Doctor Dowling and Mr. Smith, -who runs the
kitchen, are perfect gentlemen. Whatever
stories get into the paper saying there is
some rotten deal or other, I do not believe
either gentleman knows anything about it,
and whether you do or not, I don't know,
but both Doctor Dowling and Mr. Smith, when
I was up there sick and suffering, were per-
fect gentlemen and I am asking the Council
today to be fair with them, and if there is
anything rotten about this dead or crooked,
then I don't know about it and I am asking
the Council to pass the order.
Report accepted ; orders passed, yeas 19,
nays 0.
LOAN FOR CHELSEA BRIDGE.
President DOWD called up No. 3 on the
calendar, as follows:
3. Ordered, That under the provisions of
chapter 312 of the Acts of 1934 the sum of
$84,000 be, and hereby is, appropriated, to
1 xpended by the Commissioner of Public
Works, for Chelsea North Bridge, Repair and
Strengthening, and that the City Treasurer
be authorized to issue, from time to time,
upon requestor the Mayor, bonds or certificates
of indebtedness of the City of Boston to said
amount, the same io be issued outside 1 he
statutory limit of indebtedness.
On July 30, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 18, nays 0.
The order was read a second time and
again passed, yeas 19, nays 0.
AUGUST 13, 1934.
301
REDIVISION OF WARDS.
Coun. GLEASON, KERRIGAN, FINLAY.
GOLDMAN and DOHERTY offered the follow-
ing:
Ordered, That the special committee on
redistricting the wards of Boston be increased
from nine members to twenty-two members,
so that the committee will consist of the en-
tire membership of the Boston City Council,
thereby giving each councilor full representa-
tion at special committee hearings.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
President DOWD — The Chair will appoint
without reservation the entire twenty-two mem-
bers of the Council. The Chair will state in
connection with that order that he appoints
the chairman of the original seven, Councilor
Gallagher, to be chairman of the committee.
TRANSFER FOR SEWER EQUIPMENT.
Coun. TOBIN moved to take No. 4 on the
calendar from the table, viz. :
4. Ordered, That under authority of chap-
ter 261 of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor
be, and hereby is, authorized to make the
following transfer in the appropriation for
Public Works Department, Sewer Division :
From the appropriation for B, Service Other
than Personal, $25,000, to the appropriation
for C, Equipment, $25,000.
The motion of Coun. Tobin to take No. 4
from the table was declared lost.
Coun. TOBIN — I would like to ask unani-
mous consent to make a statement.
President DOWD — Councilor Tobin asks
unanimous consent to make a statement. Is
there any objection ? The Chair hears none.
Coun. TOBIN — Mr. President, I am anxious
to have this matter taken from the table be-
cause I believe that we should not adjourn
today without taking some action on this
matter one way or the other. If this idea
is not satisfactory then the order should be
rejected. If, however, the Council feels that
the order is satisfactory, then we should accept
it and pass> it today. This order calls for the
transfer of $25,000 in the Public Works De-
partment, in the Sewer Division, for trans-
fer from the Item B to Item C equipment.
The purpose of this order is to purchase
four machines so that the city employees can
clear and clean the catch-basins of our city.
We have at the present time in the City of
Boston 15,000 catch-basins. We have in the
Sewer Division five districts covering this
work. Since last year in each division there
have not been more than one hundred basins
cleaned by the men in that department. For
many years the city has been in the habit
of allowing this matter of cleaning the catch-
basins to be let to contractors. Last year
the item was $40,000 for contract cost to the
City of Boston. Every official that I have
ever heard speak, with reference to the
matter of contract labor and city labor, has
always advocated instead of contract labor
the matter of day labor and work for city
employees. We have, if this order is adopted,
men in the City of Boston paid by the city
to do this work. It will give us the op-
portunity to use more men in these depart-
ments. In the Gibson street district, cover-
ing the Dorchester area, at one time they
employed four hundred men in the Sewer
Division for this type of work. At the pres-
ent time there is a mere handful. With this
equipment the city men can take care of the
sewers and it may also result in the reinstate-
ment of several street inspectors who were
dismissed, to take care of this work. I think
there is considerable merit to the passage of
this order with reference on the one issue
alone of giving work to the city employees.
There is also considerable merit to the pas-
sage of this order with reference to any losses
that might come upon the City of Boston.
If the catch-basins are not cleaned, many of
these basins are in front of stores and prop-
erty that can be damaged, and our Committee
on claims will have to pay out thousands of
claims to the abutting owners for destruction
of property. It seems whatever action the
Council wishes to take, they should take definite
action one way or the other. Either the order
should be rejected and let the work go to the
contractors, or the order should be adopted,
buy the equipment through the Supply De-
partment after advertising by the city, so
this work can be done. I think we ought
to take action. The main issue is that the
work should be done. This work is one of
the governmental functions of our city affecting
the property and health and cleanliness of
our city and the streets and its people and for
that reason I ask once again that this order
be taken from the table.
President DOWD — The Chair will rule that
motion to take from the table for the second
time without further business intervening is
out of order.
Coun. TOBIN — I ask for a roll call on my
original motion to take from the table.
Coun. GLEASON — I ask unanimous consent
to make a statement.
Coun. TOBIN — I have no objections to his
making a statement, if I do not lose any rights
on my motion of asking for a roll call.
Coun. GLEASON — Mr. President, this order
is O. K. I am not talking about the veterans
because I happen to belong to the same post
with you, 44 of Roxbury. Of course, I am
not recognized as you were at one time, but
I happen to be a veteran. I think also the
other people of Boston want to work also and
the only way they can get work is through
a contractor. I do not believe the Mayor of
Boston has put this order in here. I think
we should consider the men with five or six
children as well as a veteran, and I am
talking as a veteran, and I believe the Coun-
cil today will reject the order, and I believe
the Mayor of Boston never sent the order
up here, and I am asking the Council to
defeat this order today, as a veteran, to give
someone else a chance to work also who has
five or six poor children starving. Give them
a break, and if I am wrong, I can be de-
feated. I am asking you to vote against this
order to give other men a chance to go to
work. The veteran has first position up in
civil service and I myself, as a veteran, think
when a man has five or six children he
should be given some work also. That is
my opinion and if you want to defeat the
order, go ahead.
President DOWD — Councilor Tobin doubts
the vote and asks for a roll call.
Coun. GREEN — So that we can vote in-
telligently on this order, Mr. President, I would
like to know just who is representing the
Mayor on the floor of the Council. One mem-
ber will say he doesn't want it and another
will say he does want it and I would like to
have somebody stand up and be counted as
representing the Mayor to find out whether
the Mayor does or doesn't want it. Before we
vote on it I would like to find that out.
Coun. GOLDMAN — I ask unanimous con-
sent to make a statement. I should like to
know who sent that order up.
President DOWD— The Chair will state the
Mayor of Boston sent the order up.
Coun. GOLDMAN — I trust that will answer
my colleague's queries.
President DOWD— The clerk will call the
roll.
The motion to take from the table was lost.
Yeas — Coun. Brackman, Shattuck, Tobin, Wil-
son—4 ; nays — 15.
COUNTY APPROPRIATIONS.
Coun. WILSON— 'Mr. President. while
gathering ourselves together, might I ask
with reference to assignment No. 5 on the
calendar, that we pass B, Service Other than
Personal, $900, in the Superior Court. Civil
Session, and under the Superior Court. Crim-
inal Session, D, Supplies, $6,500, and under
302
CITY OOUNC1JL.
Probate Court, B, Service Other than Per-
sonal, $8,250, and under Registry of Deeds, B,
Service Other than Personal, $600. Even
though some (members of the Council are in
favor of tying up Suffolk County so far as
printing and stationery is concerned, at least
we can furnish the courts with sufficient
money to pay their telephone bill, stenographic
service, typewriter repairs and food for jurors ;
and having that in mind I make that motion
concerning those items and those amounts
under 5 on the calendar.
Coun. GOLDMAN — I should like to amend
that and have all the items appearing in No. 5
voted on together and I so move.
No. 5 on the calendar was as follows :
5. Ordered, That to meet the current ex-
penses payable during the financial year be-
ginning with the first day of January, 1934,
for performing the duties and exercising the
powers devolved by statute or ordinance, or
by vote of the City Council during the year,
upon the County of Suffolk or the departments
or officers thereof, the respective sums of
money specified in the tables and schedules
hereinafter set out be, and the same are,
hereby appropriated for the several depart-
ments and for the objects and purposes here-
inafter stated, that said sums be raised by
taxation upon the ipolls and estates taxable
in the City of Boston, and that all orders
heretofore passed by the City Council relating
to appropriations and taxes and the interest
thereon apply to the taxes herein provided for.
Superior Court, Civil Session, Clerk's Office.
B. Service Other than Personal $9,900 00
D. Supplies 13,000 00
Superior Court, Criminal Session.
D. Supplies $14,500 00
Probate Court.
B. Service Other than Personal $9,650 00
D. Supplies 8,000 00
Registry of Deeds.
B. Service Other than Persona] $1,600 00
D. Supplies 4,000 00
President DOWD — The greater sum comes
first and the question is on Councilor Gold-
man's motion and the passage of the order,
No. 5 on the calendar. The question comes
on the passage of the entire order and the
clerk will call the roll.
Order passed. Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Brack-
man, Doherty, Dowd, Englert, Fitzgerald, Gal-
lagher, Gleason, Goldman, Green, Kerrigan,
McGrath, Roberts, Selvitella — 14. Nays — Coun.
Donovan, Finley, Shattuck, Tobin, Wilson — 5.
CLERKS' SALARY AT BOSTON CITY
HOSPITAL.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Trustees of the City
Hospital be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to increase the maximum of clerks'
salary from fifteen hundred to sixteen hundred
dollars per year.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAYING EAST SIXTH STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Street Commission,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed
to repave with smooth paving, East Sixth
street, South Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
Coun. BRACKMAN moved that when the
Council adjourn it be to meet two weeks from
today.
The motion was adopted and the Council
voted, at 4.15 p. m., to adjourn, to meet on
Monday, August 27, 1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
303
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, August 27, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.. President
DOffD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Fish, Norton,
and Wilson.
EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS.
Communications were received from the Mayor
making the following appointments:
Raymond O. Grant, S Drew avenue, Weymouth,
as a weigher of coal.
Louis C. Tigar, ,130 Nichols street, Everett, as
a weigher of coal.
Hazel Latham, 167 Devon street, Dorchester,
as a weigher of coal.
Martin A. Callinan, 22 Lincoln Parkway,
Somerville, as a weigher of goods.
Albert P. McCann, 16 Saxton street, Dor-
chester, as a weigher of goods.
Lsid over for one week under the law.
INSTALLATION OF TRAFFIC SIGNALS.
The following were received.
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of July 23, 1934, concerning the installation
of automatic traffic control signals at Porter and
Chelsea streets, Ward 1.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, August S, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of a communication from your office dated
August 1, 1934, ordering submission of a report
as to the necessity and cost of installing an auto-
matic traffic signal at the intersection of Chelsea
and Porter streets. East Boston, as requested in
City Council order passed July 23, 1934, which
reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic control signals at Porter street
and Chelsea street. Ward 1."
The records in this office show that thirty motor
vehicle accidents involving personal injuries have
occurred at this intersection from January 1, 1929,
to date. These were divided bv vears as follows:
1929, 4; 1930, 5; 1931, 11; 1932, 4; 1933, 4;
1934, 2.
One of the above listed accidents, which occurred
on June 19, 1931, resulted in a fatality.
The approximate cost of installing a signal at
this location would be $2,300. There are do funds
available for this installation at the present time.
Very truly yours,
Owen A. Gallagher,
Acting Commissioner.
Placed on file.
Citv of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, August 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
•■mi Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of July 23, 1934, concerning the installation
of automatic traffic signals at the corner of Colum-
bia road and Quincy street. Ward 15.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, August 8, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of a letter from your office dated August
1, 1934, ordering submission of a report as to the
cost of installing an automatic traffic signal at the
corner of Columbia road and Quincy street, as
requested in Council order dated July 23, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to fur-
nish the City Council as soon as possible with an
estimate of the cost of installing automatic traffic
signals at the corner of Columbia road and Quiney
street. Ward 15.
The approximate cost of such an installation
would be S3. 000. There are no funds available
for this installation at the present time.
Very truly yours,
Owen A. Gallagher,
Acting Commissioner.
Placed on file.
HOSPITAL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT —
WITHDRAWAL OF ORDER.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 27, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlenem, — Since submitting to your honorable
body transfer orders for kitchen equipment for
the Boston City Hospital which was ordered to a
first reading on August 13, 1934, I have received
a report from the Finance Commission suggesting
the advisability of a survey by a kitchen equip-
ment expert before such transfer should be made,
and also from the Health Commissioner a letter
informing me that as a result of the dismantling
of the various cafeterias in the Health Units a
large quantity of modern kitchen utensils suitable
for use in the Institutions and Hospital Depart-
ments is available.
It being possible that such a survey by an expert
with this additional equipment now available
may make the appropriation unnecessary, I desire
to withdraw the order transferring £45,000 for
kitchen equipment in the Hospital Department
and therefore the order is withdrawn.
Respectfully,
Frederick W . M.asskield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
REPORTS FROM PUBLIC WELFARE DE-
PARTMENT.
The following were received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mavor, August 22, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
Mr. John C. L. Dowling, Executive Director,
Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to your
order of May 2S, 1934, in regard to advising your
honorable body whether the re-registration of all
recipients of public welfare has been completed, if
so, the date; and the total number of active cases
on the rolls of that department as of said date.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare, August 8, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear - is to acknowledge receipt of
your letter of June 13, 1934. inclosing the following
order from the City Council:
"That the Overseers of Public Welfare be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to advise
the City Council whether the immediate re-
registration of all recipients of public welfare,
requested by City Council order of April It'., 1934,
has been completed, and if so. as of what date;
also the total number of active cases on the rolls
of said department as of said date."
i is the intention of this department to re-
register all cases on our rolls as soon as the matter
of decentralization is completed, which work is now
in pro|
For your further information there were
active cases on the welfare rolls as of April 16, 193 1.
:rs truly,
.ions C. I.. Doi
cutive Dirextor.
304
CITY COUNCIL.
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 22, 1934.
To the City Council
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith a letter from
Mr. John C. L Dowling, Executive Director, Over-
seers of the Public Welfare, relative to your order
of May 21, 1934, in regard to forwarding each week
to the Statistics Department notice of any and all
changes in the status of public welfare recipients.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare, August 11, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of your
communication of June 13, 1934, inclosing the
following order from the City Council, dated
May 21, 1934:
"That his Honor the Mayor be, and hereby is,
requested to direct and require the Overseers of
Public Welfare to forward promptly each week to
the Statistics Department notice of any and all
changes in the status of public welfare recipients."
The above request is being given our attention
and reports forwarded to the Statistics Depart-
ment.
Yours very truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Severally placed on file.
WITHDRAWAL OF CONSTABLES.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The following names are with-
drawn from the list of constables submitted by
me to your honorable body on April 16, 1934:
Arthur Glass, Francis L. Hannigan.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
HOUSING AND SLUM CLEARANCE.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 27, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am submitting herewith a letter
from the State Board of Housing of the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts with an inclosure show-
ing the result of a survey of a certain area in the
city of Cleveland, and a proposed form of resolu-
tion which the State Board of Housing submits
for the consideration of your honorable body with
a view to its immediate adoption if it meets with
approval.
It wrill appear from the accompanying com-
munication that there are certain areas in Boston,
as well as in all other large cities, containing real
estate which are expensive to maintain and which
pay a very small proportionate return in the form
of taxes. Such areas may be cleared and new
buildings erected substituting for these old and
unproductive properties new developments which,
beside improving the neighborhood and the city,
decreasing crime and the tendency to crime, and
improving the general health, will actually yield
substantial financial returns.
The example of a twenty-four acre plot in South
Boston shows an actual income to the city in
taxes of $25,000 as against the cost of maintenance
of schools, welfare, fire and other forms of public
service and protection, of many times that amount.
Clearance of such a plot and the erection of new
buildings would employ about 2,500 men for from
one to two years. Federal funds would be avail-
able for projects such as these and I earnestly urge
your consideration of the advisability of adopting
the resolutions. I am heartily in favor of these
housing projects for the many reasons enumerated
above such as the betterment of public health,
beautifying the city, the tendency to decrease
crime, the change from a non-productive to a
productive tax paying property, the giving of
work to a large number of men, and the increase
in business caused by the purchase of building
materials necessary to such projects.
I strongly recommend the adoption of these
resolutions as an important and necessary step in
the procurement of Federal aid for the proposed
projects.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
Department of Public Welfare,
State Board of Housing,
Statler Building, Boston,
August 24, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
My dear Mr. Mayor, — May we call to your
attention the desirability of securing some expres-
sion of opinion from the Boston City Council
relative to the necessity of bringing about some
government action to promote, through the
Federal Emergency Housing Corporation, an
allotment of funds for slum clearance within the
City of Boston.
During the year just passed, since the National
Housing Act has been in operation under Secre-
tary Ickes, no funds have been expended within
this state for this purpose. Many agencies have
been at work through this time tending to restore
conditions, but little or nothing has taken place to
restore or to improve the field of building con-
struction.
Studies made by the State Board of Housing
through this time tend to indicate additional
arguments favoring this action. For example, a
study of a twenty-four acre plot in South Boston
indicated an actual income to the city from taxes
of $25,000, whereas, the maintenance of school,
welfare, police and other forms of public service,
cost the city a great many times that amount.
Further studies of large, low-cost housing projects,
both at home and abroad, show conclusively that
rebuilding these areas tends to increase the cities
income, while it lessens the direct expense — to
say nothing of the wider benefit to health, reduc-
tion of crime, and other social evils. Such an
undertaking becomes a tremendous stimulus to
the general neighborhood or district where such
construction takes place.
The fact that labor alone derives a larger per-
centage of benefit through this type of construc-
tion, as against other forms of public works pro-
grams, almost two for one, indicates what might
be the benefit to any community which under-
takes such work — particularly with a well-rounded
program.
We are inclosing herewith a summary sheet of
civic costs for a similar area in Cleveland, where
the government is now at work. We take the
further liberty of suggesting the type of resolve
that might be presented to the City Council, and
are also inclosing a copy of Mr. Hoopingarner's
letter about his proposed visit to Boston the
latter part of next week.
May we take this opportunity to thank your
Honor for your interest in this matter of provid-
ing low-cost living accommodations — a field that
does not invite private enterprise.
Sincerely yours,
Sidney T. Strickland.
RESOLUTION FOR SLUM CLEARANCE.
Be it Resolved, That the Boston City Council
request the Federal Emergency Housing Corpo-
ration of the Federal Government to give a por-
tion of the same cooperation and monies which it
has given to other large cities of our country in
the field of slum clearance and rehabilitation of
sub-standard areas; and be it further
Resolved, That, in the event of such coopera-
tion, the City Council offer their full cooperation
to the end that construction in this field can be
started without undue delay.
Referred to Executive Committee.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
severally referred to the committees named:
Claims.
Minnie Abramson, for compensation for damage
to car by city wagon.
Angelo Borrelli, for compensation for damage
to car by city team.
AUGUST 27, 1934.
305
John J. Curt in, for refund on refuse tickets.
Morris Davidson, for compensation for damage
to property al 224 Harvard street, caused by
overflow of sewer.
George L. Fenderson, to be reimbursed for
judgments issued against him on account of
his acta as a police officer.
The Fenwood, for refund on ash tickets.
Frank Fichera, for compensation for damage to
property at 12(i State street, caused by bursting
ut water main.
Mary Indelicalo, for compensation for iniuries
caused by an alleged defect at 70 and 72 Salem
street, Boston.
Teresa W. Leonard, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 136 Rosseter
street, Dorchester.
Mary A. Madden, for compensation for iniuries
caused by an alleged defect at !) Cambridge street.
Joseph Montemagno, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 26 Harris
street.
Jacob Pollen, for compensation for damage to
truck by city wagon.
Marry Quirk, for compensation for iniuries
caused by an alleged defect at 112 Tremonl street.
Anna Reynolds, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in alley on Dartmouth
street.
Richardson Sales Corporation, for refund on
refuse tickets.
Benjamin Swetzoff, for compensation for dam-
age to garbage receptacles by employees of Sanitary
Department.
Harry Ward Tyler, for compensation for in-
juries by city truck.
Lenna H. Whitehall, for compensation for
injuries caused by defect in sidewalk on Washington
street, near corner of State street.
MINORS' LICENSES.
President DOWD submitted applications for
minors' licenses from one hundred newsboys and
six bootblacks, and it was voted that the licenses
be granted on the usual conditions.
RESCISSION (IF LOAN ORDERS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, Nos. 4, .*>, (> and 7 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Ordered, That the right to borrow money for
Fire Station, Brighton, under loan order passed
November Li, 1928, ami approved by the Mayor
,,i, November 14, 1928, be limited in (66,000 and
thai the authorization to borrow in excess of said
amount, fur said purposes, he, anil the same hereby
is. rescinded.
5. Ordered, That the right to borrow money
for Automatic Traffic Signal System on Common-
wealth avenue, from Arlington street to Governor
square, under loan order passed December 16,
1929, and approved In i he Mayor on Decembei u,
1929, he limited to 840,000 and that the authoriza-
tion in borrow in excess of said amount, fur said
purpose, l>e. and the same hereby is, rescinded.
6. Ordered, That the right in borrow money
for Courthouse, Brighton, under I order i d
March :{, 1930, ami approved bj the Mayor on
March l, 1930, be limited to $12 1 that
the authorization to borrow In excess of said
amount, for said purpose, be, and the same herein
is, i escinded.
7 Ordered, l hat the right in borrow money
for New Charities Administration Building, under
loan order passed March 2. 1931, and approved
l>y the Mayor mi March :;, 1931, !"■ limited in
S27.r),000 and ihat the authorizt in borrow in
ii ,,| s.i.l amount, for said purpose, he, and
the sa herein is. rescinded.
on \ugust 13, 1934, the inn lers were
read once and passed, e L9, 0
The orders were read a second time and
passed, j eas 19, nc 0
I i >\\ I in: ft t'.l K Wit I Vl.T
Presidonl imun called up. under unfinished
business, No 8 on i he calend r,
8. i irdered, I hat under the pi
a •. it. iptei m, ,.i the \. is ..I 1983, I
in i n'l'i It mil -i.t 1. 1 ecure the approval of
the Emergency Finance Hoard to an issuance of
83,800,000 in bonds or certificates of indebtedness
of the city, said bonds or certificates to be sold at
their face value to the Commonwealth and the
proceeds in be used for relief disbursements by the
I'ublic Welfare Department, us set forth in the
following table:
Public Welfare Department.
F. Special Items $3,800,000
9. Care of Dependents.. 53,000,000
10. Mothers' Aid 400,000
14. Old Age Assistance... 400,000
On August 13, 1934, the foregoing order was read
once and passed, yeas 17, nays 2.
The order was read a second time and again
passed, yeas 10, nays — Coun Shattuck — 1.
TRANSFER OF APPROPRIATION.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 10 on the calendar, viz.:
10. Ordered, That under authority of chapter
2G1 of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Hospital Depart-
ment, Pathological Building, $4,087.22; Laundry
Building, $2,867.95; Kitchen, Equipment, etc-.,
$1,044.83, to the appropriation for Hospital De-
part nt, Laundry Building, Furnishing and
E ping, $8,000.
On August 13, 1934, (he foregoing orders were
read once and passed, yeas 1(1, nays 0.
Conn. SELyITELLA— Mr. President, a point
of information on that.
President DOWD — We are passing now on the
SS.O00, the $45,000 having been withdrawn by
order of his Honor the Mayor today. We will
vote now on No. 10.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Do I understand that is
separate from i he $45,000 order?
President DOWD — That is separate from the
The order was read a second time and again
passed, yeas 10, nays 0.
SUMNER TUNNEL Tolls.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Whereas, A survey was made of the leading
business firms in Boston, including cities and
towns north of Boston, In determine she extenl
and manner in which the Sumner Tunnel is used
by them in connection with their business, together
with whatever comment, suggestion or criticism
relative to the present rates; and
Whereas, An individual poll was made of opera-
tors of pleasure motor vehicles, residing in com-
munities adjacent in and approaching the Sumner
Tunnel; and
Whereas, The result of the survey and poll
clearlj indicates that lack of use of the tunnel is
due mainly to Ihe present high schedule of rates;
Whereas, Ihe present rales arc unattractive,
Uninviting to all classes nt molnnsls and causing a
deficit of approximately $500,000 per annum;
Resolved, The Boston City Council being of the
opinion that a lower loll rale will in all probability
reduce and obliterate the present increasing
deficit, approves, in pan. a revision nt the present
schedule of tunnel toll rates as follows;
ption. Rale,
JO 10
Passenger cars, one-wni 15
Round ' rip 25
Book of thirty-ride tickets per i il . :'. no
All truck-trailers
Funeral procession iter car 10
Buses with it without passengers 20
I '""I. "i thirty-ride truck tickets per month, 6 on
I "in nmi with the resolution Coun. SEL
\ I l I hi I submitted the following communication:
I rule,
P. 1 1. H,.\ .'i,i Boston,
Vugusl -'I. 19 i
-e!\ ilell-i,
Citj Hull, Boston
M dear Councilor, \t a recent meeting of tin'
■ I lirectora ..I the Baal Host. .a B
306
CITY COUNCIL.
Trade, it was unanimously voted to indorse and
approve a revision of the present schedule of
Tunnel Toll Rates as outlined by you.
The present high rates have "proven unjust,
unfair and injurious not only for the best interests
of the city but to the merchants and manufacturers
of East Boston as well.
Several business firms with trucks making many
trips to Boston daily have advised of their intention
to locate elsewhere on account of increased cost
of transportation.
We believe a lower rate will encourage more
frequent use of the tunnel by pleasure cars as well
as trucks.
Respectfully yours,
William L. Hirshberg,
Secretary.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, as we
are all familiar and acquainted with the ever-
increasing deficit of the East Boston Traffic Tun-
nel, or the Sumner Tunnel, we are amazed to
find that up until the close of business last night
there has been a deficit of close to S84.000 since
the opening of the new tunnel. Since the tunnel
was opened it has been the consensus of opinion
among motorists as well as among leading traffic
engineers that in order that this tunnel's deficit
might be reduced, that a lower toll rate more
attractive to the public would have to be put into
effect. I have given this matter considerable
study. At the time of the first issuance of the
rates on June the 14th, I appealed to the Public
Utilities Board for a revision of the rates and after
a hearing the rates as submitted by the Commis-
sioner of Public Works were approved, with the
understanding that the proponents of lower rates
would have an opportunity of later asking for a
revision of the rates if they were found to be too
high. Now, I do not pretend to know anything
about the mechanical operation of the tunnel.
Nor do I place much faith in traffic managers or
efficiency- experts, because in the final analysis it
is up to the motoring public to patronize the tun-
nel. So that I sent out 200 letters in the form of
questionnaires to the leading firms in Boston and
the cities and towns north of Boston asking for
their comment, criticism or suggestions, and I
have received back replies from many houses em-
ploying large fleets of trucks and in every single
instance they have advised me that they are not
using the tunnel at the present time due to the
excessive and prohibitive rates that have been
established; and these firms include some of the
largest coal dealers in and about Boston, express
companies, small merchants, and so forth. And
I also have a letter of indorsement from the East
Boston Board of Trade which desires to go on
record as opposed to these excessive rates and
picturing a situation that, unless some more at-
tractive rates are submitted by the Commissioner
of Public Works, the merchants in East Boston
will move out of there. I am not going to take
the time of the Council in reading the letters
that I have here, but I am just going to
mention a few names of companies employing at
least fifty trucks and who would have used the
tunnel with their entire fleets if the rates had been
lower: The City Fuel Company; the R. S. Brine
Transportation Company, who have sixty-five
trucks; the Economy Stores, who have twenty-
two large trucks going in and out of East Boston
and who, at the present time, are not using the
tunnel. The City Fuel Company, which I men-
tioned first, has twenty trucks. Then there are
also the George H. Ball Company, operating a
large fleet of trucks, and the Marks Dispatch, the
H. B. Church Truck Service, and other individuals.
I also have a petition signed by 2,800 motorists
in and around Boston, objecting to the present
high rates. Now I am just going to amplify, by
way of comments on my proposed suggestions.
I want to say first that I am just as much inter-
ested as any public official in the successful opera-
tion of the tunnel, and I do hope that those in
charge of the tunnel will give this plan their care-
ful consideration. I do not make it as a threat
but as a warning that unless due consideration is
given, that the boycott will continue and increase
in its present standing. I am asking that they
consider the passenger car rate of 15 cents. Now
there are many, many motorists in and about
Boston who object to a 25-cent one-way fare, and
I earnestly and sincerely believe that if 15 cents
is charged for passenger cars, that they will get
at least 300 per cent more car riders than they
are getting at the present time. I would also ask
that a round trip ticket of 25 cents be issued to
those that go in and out of the tunnel, as an in-
ducement and as an invitation to use the tunnel.
There is also a suggestion of issuing a so-called
commuter's book of thirty rides to those motor-
ists who have occasion to use the tunnel from two
to half a dozen times a day, and it is only fair
that they should get a little more consideration
than the person using the tunnel but once or twice.
The next item is that of the trucks. At the pres-
ent time there is a schedule of rates calling for
25 cents for trucks of two and one half tons or
less; 35 cents for two and one half to five tons;
and 50 cents for ten-ton and SI. 50 for fifteen-ton
trucks. It does not seem to me very clear why
more than 25 cents should be charged regardless
of the weight of the tonnage of the trucks, and
it is on that question that a great many firms in
Boston that have from twenty-five to seventy-five
trucks are not using the tunnel and it is that class
of business that we ought to attract into using
the tunnel, because an analysis of the figures
shows that 95 per cent of the automobiles going
through the new tunnel are passenger cars and
only 5 per cent are firms using the trucks. Now,
will you have in mind that this tunnel opens up
or leads into the market district, and you will
then see that we are not getting our percentage
of the traffic that would ordinarily use this tunnel
if the rates were reduced to 25 cents per truck
regardless of the weight of it, and those firms that
contemplate using the tunnel, as stated by them
in their letters, at least twenty times a day, they
certainly ought to — as an additional inducement —
be able to purchase strips of tickets at 20 cents
each. Then we would make it inviting to them,
and at least try to increase the revenue from the
tunnel and decrease the deficit that is now in-
creasing daily. Now then, coming to the question
of funeral car processions. At the present time
it costs 25 cent for each funeral car passing through
the tunnel and, to my knowledge, I do not believe
that there has been a funeral procession that has
gone through the tunnel, and when we stop to
consider that each funeral procession has at least
twenty-five cars in it, I think that the rate of 10
cents per car would be low enough and attractive
enough. Next we come to the question of buses.
The present rates call for 50 cents, and the Boston
Elevated Railway Company and the Eastern
Massachusetts Street Railway Company abso-
lutely refuse to use the tunnel under the present
rates. They have stated that if the rates were
reduced to 20 cents for each passenger bus, that
they will put in operation, or at least the Boston
Elevated Railway will, a 5-cent fare from Hay-
market square to Central square, East Boston,
and -I have been given figures that the Boston
Elevated Railway Company will operate 15,000
trips within a period of three months and the East-
ern Massachusetts Street Railway Company will
operate 8,000 trips in a period of three months.
Now those are revenues that we are losing at the
present time, and it is but a small detail matter
to arrange whatever mechanical devices they may
not have at the present time, in order that the
present schedules will be changed to conform with
the suggested rates that I am presenting here
today. It has been too long, those two long months
of effort on my part, and I have the indorsement
not only of the East Boston Board of Trade, as
I stated before, but Mr. W. L. O'Brien, chairman
of the transportation committee of the Revere
Chamber of Commerce, and Mr. George E. Lund,
the president of the Revere City Council; and I
hope that those in charge will consider fast dimes,
rather than slow quarters.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, this is a
very important question because it deals with a
considerable amount of revenue or a considerable
amount of loss to the City of Boston. It not
only affects the district of the councilor from
East Boston, but every member of the Council.
And I would like to suggest to him that he seek
to have a committee of this Council appointed to
investigate the situation and make a report to the
Mayor, or a recommendation, which I feel would
be far more effective than the present schedule of
rates as now in force.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I do not
know what the purpose of the proposal of the
gentleman is with reference to action on this
order, but I certainly think that we should not
snap it through at the present session. This
question of rates is a very important one. It is
important, as the gentleman who has last spoken
said, to every district of the city, because we all
bear the burden of this deficil ; but it is a matter
of very considerable study to determine what
ATJOUST 27, 1934.
307
rales will bring the most revenue. Tlie rates
suggested in the pending order are about an
mirage, I should say, of about half the present
rates, and some are less than half while others
are a little more than half, but an average of
about half the present rates. In other words, if
those rates were adopted before gelling more
revenue, it would be necessary to gel over twice
as much automobile traffic through the tunnel.
It is a question for considerable study whether
we ean hope to get twice as many automobiles
through there if we were to make these reductions
in rates. Certainly this mailer should not be
considered in a snap judgment way if, by doing
it, we make ourselves ridiculous, as everybody
knows. It is not a matter that one can snap off
in a few minutes. It is an exceedingly difficult
matter and one on which we do not perhaps get
sufficient information to judge whether the rates
ought to be clianged, and if so, how they ought
to be changed. Therefore I hope, sir, that this
matter will be referred to a committee of the
Council for further consideration.
(nun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I agree
with Councilor Shattuck that this is ridiculous,
and il is most apparent to you that since June HO
the city has operated the tunnel under a loss of
$84,000. Now, when you bear in mind that this
loss, or this huge deficit, occurred at the height of
a summer season, when the tunnel was a novelty,
and when the summer vacations were opening up,
and when people were going to and from the
beaches, and if you consider thai that $N4,000
deficit was created during the height of the season,
I do not want even to imagine what is going to
happen in the first four months of next year when,
on account of the high automobile insurance rates,
people are going to store their cars so that, instead
of having a probable deficit of $500,000, we are
going to have one of nearly $800,000. These
rales have been carefully studied. Where we are
getling on an average of 6,500 cars at the present
time, I honestly and sincerely believe that there
will be close to 13,000 or 14,000 cars under the
new schedule of rates. We are going to take care
of the smaller rates by the increased patronage of
the motorists and especially the trucking concerns
and business houses in and about Boston. We
have lost that business up to now because the
rates have not been sufficiently attractive and
inviting. Now, T am interested, of course, in
lowering the deficit and reducing the deficit.
The tunnel will never pay for itself. There is no
d.mlit of that, and that is the general consensus
of opinion of everybody. Our duty is to try to
reduce that deficit in order to keep it at a minimum
and unless you do something now that the summer
season is waning, we are going to increase thai
deficit. My only purpose is to save the taxpayers
of the City of Boston as much money as possible.
We are guided In precedent and an experience
of two months' operation of this tunnel. Are we
going to sit idly by and watch that huge deficit
grow' At least put this plan into operation;
give it a trial. I understand that there is going
to be a reduction anyway; 15 cents is a popular
amount, and '_'"> cents round trip is still popular
If you don't wani a continued boycot t of the! unnel
l»\ the people of East Boston and Revere, then it is
your salvation or your privilege t<> say otherwise.
There is nothing selfish in this for me. It is
merelj to keep down to a minimum the deficit
that is constantly increasing.
C GREEN Mr. President, I heartily
agree with everything the councilor from East
Boston has si. well said in regard to the tunnel
lolls, but 1 do nut think we can use snap judg
nieni here this often n, and if lie is agreeable,
I would like tn have 'In" proposed schedule of
rates referred i" the Executive Committee and
bring down the Transit Commissioner, Mr. Sulli-
van, or Mr. ( 'arven.
i .urn SHATT1 CK Mr. President, the gentle-
from East Boston says this deficit has been
astounding. I suppose he means it has been
astounding in the sense thai it has been so low.
I think ii is astounding thai il has not been larger,
so l dn nni think anybody expected certainly
in the last year or bo thai this tunnel would pnj
for itself. Some of us, when II Mas pending ill
the Legislature, Voted against n because we fell
certain then thai it would not poj for itself, or
anywhere near pnj for itsell l was one of those,
anil 1 nave not seen an\bod\ since I hive served
in the Council with whom i have talked, who
thought that the tunnel, when opened, would paj
for itsell. To raj mind it is astounding thai il
has .'on.,- i i,r o | ■■ foi 11 ell I il I' i \oW ,
on the question of what rates will bring the most
revenue, that is, of course, exceedingly important;
and so far as the purpose of the gentleman's order
is concerned, I am in entire sympathy with it,
but so far as speed in revising these rates is con-
cerned, I think we ought to move carefully and
with the greatest consideration.
( Irder referred to Executive Committee.
EXCLUSION OF TRUCKS FROM WEST
CANTON STREET.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
exclude heavy trucks from West Canton street,
Ward 4.
Order passed under suspension of the rules.
EMPLOYMENT OF NONRESIDENTS.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Committee on Ordinances be
directed to consult with the Corporation Counsel
for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not it
is possible to provide legally by ordinance:
1. That all employees of the city shall be
citizens of the United States and residents of Boston
and that the nonresidence of an employee shall by
thai fact terminate his employment.
2. That no city contract shall be made except
on the condition that all the employees of the
contractor and subcontractor shall be citizens
of the United States and residents of Boston and
that violation of the said condition shall by that
fact abrogate the contract.
And if it is determined that such ordinances
or either of them can be drafted so as to be legally
effective, to report such draft or drafts to the
City Council.
Coun. FINLEY -Mr. President, my purpose in
introducing this order is to see if some definite
action cannot be taken to prevent nonresidents of
the City of Boston from working on contract and
subcontract work given out by the City of Boston.
It must be apparent to every member of this
Council that there is a decided agitation from the
residents of Boston who are being discriminated
against when they apply for work in the sub-
urban cities and towns around Boston; and when
they see nonresidents coming into the City of
Boston and working at jobs on which, in all fairness,
they should be given first consideration. I believe
that this Council should make some determined
effort to sec thai the ordinances of the City of
Boston should protect the interests of the residents
of Boston who are seeking work, and that if the
same situation should prevail, that the contractors
who receive work from the City of Boston should
be compelled to give preference to residents of
Boston who apply for that Work, At the present
time, in the various departments of the city, when
Contracts are given out, il is a fact that the con-
tractors thai receive those jobs employ men who
live as far away as Marlboro, Mass. [n Cambridge,
Quincy, Somerville, and all the suburban cities ami
towns, it is absolutely impossible for a Boston man
to secure a job on any work thai is given out under
contract in those places. Now, if the surburban
.Hies around Boston are protecting then- own
residents in that way, I think the City of Boston
should do likewise. 1 believe this order that I have
introduced is the proper procedure in tin1 matter,
to find out, through the committee of ordinances
and through our Corporation Counsel, if we
cannot in some legal manner lind some was to
amend or create or pro\ ide ordinances which would
the residents of Boston who are Seeking
work
Order passed under suspension of the rules
I i: \IH< i [QHT AT SOU I'll STREE i
VND \i;boi;\\ Ci
Coun Ml i:i; Ci and ENG1 t i; r offered the
follow I
ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to insl ill
I ii 'tli. light :il the corner of South street ami the
\i t'oi w i\ . ,i a. Plain,
Ordei pa -*,.,! under suspension of the rules.
308
CITY COUNCIL.
RECESS.
On motion of Coun. TOBIN, the Council voted
at 2.50 p. m. to take a recess, subject to the call of
the Chair. The members reassembled in the
Council Chamber and were called to order by
Pres dent DUWD at 3.50 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. GALLAGHER, for the Executive Com-
mittee, submitted the following:
1. Report on communication and resolution
from the Mayor requesting cooperation from Fed-
eral Housing Corporation in the rehabilitation of
substandard areas, recommending new draft as
follows:
Be it Resolved, That the Boston City Council
request the Federal Emergency Housing Corpora-
tion of the Federal Government to give a portion
of the same cooperation and monies which it has
given to other large cities of our country in the
field of rehabilitation of sub-standard areas, pro-
vided that each project be approved by the Mayor
and City Council.
And Be It Further Resolved, That in the event
of such cooperation, the City Council offer their
full cooperation to the end that construction in
this field can be started without undue delay.
Report accepted; said order passed.
2. Report on resolution of Coun. SELVI-
TELLA for reducing toll rates through the Sumner
Tunnel — recommending reference to a special com-
mittee.
Report accepted.
REPAVING OF NEWMAN STREET,
WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth paving Newman street,
Ward 7.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
BETTER PROTECTION OF BATHERS.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Whereas, The recent unfortunate drowning at
Carson Beach of Mary Durant, who gave her life
in order to save the life of her younger brother, has
demonstrated that the facilities and service at the
South Boston Beaches for the saving of life should
be augmented,
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston favor
immediate steps by the Park Department for the
placing of signals or signs in sufficient number to
warn unsuspecting bathers of unseen dangers; and
be it further
Resolved, That the City Council favor the draft-
ing of a bill by the Corporation Counsel to be
presented to the next Legislature, to authorize the
payment of a certain sum of money to the mother
of Mary Durant.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
MARANVILLE DAY.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Resolved, That the members of the City Council
of Boston hereby express their approval of the pro-
posed celebration of Maranville Day, Sunday,
September 2, by the Boston National League Base-
ball Club, and tender their cooperation in making
the day a success.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
ACCEPTANCE OF JUNIPER TERRACE.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Juniper terrace,
Ward 9, as a public highway.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
JEWISH HOLIDAYS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor grant all
those employees of the City of Boston who are
of the Jewish faith, a leave of absence, without
any loss of pay, on the three Jewish High Holidays.
Ordered, That his Honor the 'Mayor request
the authorities of the E. R. A. and the P. W. A.
to arrange for a leave of absence, without any
loss of pay, for all those of the Jewish faith, who
are employed on the E. R. A. or the P. W. A._
projects, during the High Holidays.
Severally passed under a suspension of the rule.
CLAIMS REPORT.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted a report on the petition of
Daniel F. Flood (referred July 2), recommending
the passage of the following:
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred dollars
be allowed and paid to Daniel F. Flood in reim-
bursement for the amount of execution issued
against him on account of his acts as a member
of the Boston Police Department, said sum to be
charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
COMMITTEE ON TUNNEL TOLLS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That a special committee of five
members of the City Council be appointed to
consider and report on the subject of such schedule
of tolls for the Sumner Tunnel as would be best
adapted to obtain the most revenue for the opera-
tion and maintenance of said Tunnel.
The order was passed and the President ap-
pointed as members of the Committee, Coun.
Selvitella, Green, Shattuck, Brackman and
Goldman.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor August 13, 1934, of Constables authorized
to serve civil process, as follows:
Harry Meltzer, Charles Horowitz, John F.
Welch, Benjamin Jacobson, John Milgroom.
To this list on motion of Coun. MURRAY, the
name of John B. Blotto was added. Question
came on confirmation.
Coun. Green and Goldman were appointed to
receive, sort and count the ballots.
Whole number of ballots, 14; yeas 14, and the
appointments were confirmed.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. GOLDMAN,
at 4. 05 p. in., to meet on Monday, September 17,
1034, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
309
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council
Friday, September 7, 1934.
Special meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber. City Hall, at 2 p. m., pur-
suant to the following call:
Office of the Mayor, September 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — You are hereby requested to
assemble in the City Council Chamber, City
Hall, on Friday, September 7, 1034, at two
o'clock p. m., to take action on the proposed
grant agreement between the United States
Government and the City of Boston for repair
of Northern Avenue Bridge; for the additional
purpose of drawing jurors, and for such other
business - as may come before your honorable
body at such meeting.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
President DOWD presided, and all the mem-
bers were present except Coun. Fitzgerald and
Fish.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn under the law, Coun.
BRACKMAN presiding at the box in the
absence of the Mayor, as follows:
Twenty-six traverse jurors. Superior Crimi-
nal Court, Third Session, to appear October 1,
1934:
Thomas H. Cunningham. Jr.. Ward 1 : Morris
Finkelstein, Ward 1 : Herman D. Sanders,
Ward 1 ; Edmond A. Graves, Ward 2 ; Abraham
Cohen. Ward 3: William A. Riley. Ward 3;
Herbert E. Patrick. Ward 4; John L. McGuire,
Ward 6 : Thomas F. O'Neill, Ward 7 : Alton W.
Dolan. Ward '.) : Arthur W. L. Swan, Ward 9;
Carl Schmidt. Ward 10; Daniel L. Sulli-
van, Ward 11: John R. Bullard. Ward 12;
dense Miller: Ward 13: Cornelius V. Murphy,
13: Hiram Mustasky, Ward 13: William
J. Davidson. Ward 17: W. Raymond Hewes,
Ward IS; Lawrence W. F. Oberacker, Ward
18; Thomas Jones. Ward IS: Thomas Burke,
Ward 19; Mini C. Gover, Ward 20: Harry
( . UcMunn, Ward 20: William G. Rinn, Ward
20; Herman Miller. Ward 21.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crimi-
nal Court. Fourth Session, to appear October
1. 1934:
John J. Davidson. Ward 1 : Edmund \\
Ward 1; Harry T. Wright. Ward 2: Leo Fava,
War.l 3: Leo 1-. Frank. Ward 3; Frank J.
Ward 3; Arthur S. Kicker. Ward 3;
Peter E. Bock. Ward I : Michael O'Neill. Ward
6; James E. Condon, Ward 7: Frank C. Mc-
Leod, War.l 7: Daniel McAuley, Ward S: John
E. Prendergast, Ward 10; Victor M. D
Ward 11: John L. Tost. Ward 11; Harry
Allman. Ward 12; Roy S. Clark. Ward 12:
Charles W. Rufuae, Ward 12; Charles
: Gorman, Ward 14; Joseph Sherman.
Ward 11: Leonard Varnerin, w.n.1 IB; Fred
M. Driaco, Ward It;: William Keenan, Ward 17;
Bernard H. Levine, Ward 18 ; I Ware.
Ward 1-: Vllan W. Chad wick, War.l 20; Oil..
llolIVr. Ward 20; Wilfred A. Ouimet, Ward 20;
Charles C. Barr. War.l 22.
Twenty-nine traverse juror-. Superior Crimi-
nal Court. Fifth Session, to ill'l
1. I"
Benjamin F. Gallagher, Ward l: Thomas
i, Ward i . Henry .1. Landry, Ward 1: John
W. Son I m \'. I'd 1 ; John J. I
2 : Jos. Ward 2 : Posquale Ro-
mano, Ward 3; Henry R. Dudley, Ward 4;
Clarence L. Lewis, Ward 6; Ross (hark;,
Ward S: Robert R. Rines. Ward 8; Forest C.
Marsh, Ward 9 : Thomas W. Clasby, Ward 10 ;
John Joseph Galvin, Ward 11 ; Franklin D.
Hulse, Ward 11: Arthur Rubin, Ward 12;
John E. Foley. Ward 13 ; James Leo Hasse,
Ward 13 ; Benjamin Barnett. Ward 14 ; Ben-
jamin Kimball, Ward 14 ; Louis I. Lewis, Ward
15; Raymond A. Brown. Ward 16; Harry J.
Woods, Ward 16: John W. Bowen, Ward 17;
Frederick N. Rae, Ward 17; Howard S. Allen.
Ward IS; John A. Lanata. Ward IS: William
S. Farrow, Ward 19; James Sullivan, Ward 20.
Twenty-four traverse jurors. Superior Civil
Court, First Session, October Sitting, to appear
October 1, 1931:
Peter J. Mulholland, Ward 1 ; John J.
Austin, Ward 7: Charles F. Corcoran. Ward
7: Perry E. Day, Ward 8; George W. Gordon.
Ward 9 ; Charles B. Heintz. Ward 9 ; Henry
Bohmback. Ward 10: Louis Prevost, Ward 10;
Francis C. Veasy, Ward 10 ; Thomas J. O'Brien.
Ward 11 ; Thaddeus J. McDonough, Ward 13 ;
Oliver L. Plunkett. Ward 13 ; Raymond Little-
wood, Ward 15 ; James J. Mahoney, Ward 16 ;
Benjamin M. Black. Ward 17; Henry J. Smith,
Ward 17: Charles E. Marsh. Ward IS: Henry
Boone, Ward 19; Frank W. Coleman. Ward 19;
Francis Colwell, Ward 19; William R. Denny,
Ward 19 ; John S. Goodway. Ward 19 ; John
L. Kellv, Ward 19 ; George H. Stewart.
Ward 20.
Twenty-four traverse jurors. Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, October Sitting, to ap-
pear October 1, 1934 :
Florence J. Driscoll, Ward 1 : Edward F.
Walsh, Ward 1 ; Joseph Bernstein, Ward 3 ;
Anthony Notaro, Ward 3 ; James M. Fennelly,
Ward S ; Arthur Wentworth. Ward S : Patrick
J. O'Neal, Ward 9: Thomas Greeley. Ward 10;
Herman R. Green, Ward 10 ; Martin S. Brod-
eriek, Ward 11; Barney Smokier, Ward 11;
Lester A. Gordon, Ward 12; James W. Car-
ruthers, Ward 13: Arthur Davidson, War.l 13;
George J. Higgins. Ward 13 : Alexander S.
Thomson. Ward 13: Robert A. Hurley. Ward
1 I : John EC. Murray. Ward 15 : Joseph H.
Coburn. Ward IS: Clark Waters. Ward IS;
John A. Furst. Ward 19; Samuel MacDonald,
Ward 19: Louis F. Wall, Ward 19; Sewall P.
Payson, Ward 20.
Twenty-one traverse jurors. Superior Civil
Court. Fourth Session. October Sitting, to ap-
pear October 1, 1934 :
Dominick Magiio. Ward 1 : James C. O'Shea.
Ward 1 : Patrick J. Powers, Ward 1 : George
F. Battos. War.l 2: Walter J. Lang. Ward 2:
Patrick C. Sullivan. Ward 2: James F. Lara-
sey, Ward 3; John Porcella. Ward 3: Charles
F. Clark. Ward I: Patrick Moloney. War.l 6;
W. Stark. Ward 7: Peter II. Bradley.
Ward 10: Francis X. Brown. Jr.. Ward 12;
John D. Harris. Ward 12 ; David I,. Bobbins,
War.l 12: John R. Kehoe, Ward 13: James
Murray. War.l 15; George II. Oilman. Ward
1.;: David O. Hallstrom, Ward 17: Leon G.
Dannenholfer. Ward 19 : Nathan Segal, Ward
teen traverse .jurors, Superior Civil
October Sitting, to ap-
■ - 1. 1934 :
Edward Mullen. Ward 1; Edward .1. Leary,
Ward 2: Frederick .lame, Masucci, Ward 3;
Cornelius I. Garrity, Ward 6; Thomas F.
Fahey, Ward 8; Charles Cavaliere. Ward II :
I>. McPhcrson, Ward II : John B.
Hickey, Ward 13: Louis Berg, Ward II;
Harold F. Boynton, Ward 16: Frederick R.
Gardner, Ward 16: Herbert Ward
16 : Frank I I 16 : Harry
Ward IT ; Elwyn C. Porter, Ward
I-: Harold I. Bartlctt, Ward 18; Nathan J.
Goldman, Ward 21: Alexander It. S!.
Ward 22.
310
CITY COUNCIL.
Seventeen traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Sixth Session, October Sitting, to ap-
pear October 1, 1934:
William M. Shea, Ward 1 ; Jeremiah IMc-
Sweeney, Ward 2 ; Salvatore Genovese, Ward
3 ; Frederick Rhodes, Ward 3 ; Robert Yorston,
Ward 4 ; Patrick Conlon, Ward 6 ; Walter H.
King, Ward 7 ; Joseph R. Hurley, Ward 10 ;
John S. O'Hare, Ward 10; Harry Willis,
Ward 10; Duncan Maclsaac, Ward 11 ; William
J. Booth, Ward 13 ; George E. Emerson, Ward
14; Morris Rosenfield, Ward 14; Leo E.
Hauser, Ward 16 ; John F. McGovern, Ward
20 ; Thomas F. Horrigan, Ward 21.
Twenty-one traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Seventh Session, October Sitting, to ap-
pear October 1, 1934 :
Patrick F. Sullivan, Ward 3 ; John J. Ryan,
Ward 6 ; Joseph L. Pott, Ward 7 ; Patrick J.
Horgan, Ward 9 ; Robert Jenkins, Ward 9 ;
George E, A. Smith. Ward 9 ; James E. Blood,
Ward 11 ; Joseph N. Dahl, Ward 11 ; Thomas
J. Loughan, Ward 11 ; Henry M. O'Brien,
Ward 12 ; Joseph Schulman, Ward 13 ; Carl
E. Birch, Ward 14 ; Chester H. Stockemer,
Ward 14 ; John M. Jacobsen, Ward 15 ; Henry
R. Walmsley, Ward 16 ; Louis Woods, Ward
16 ; John F. Iverson, Ward 18 ; Collin F.
Kell, Jr., Ward 18; Chester L. Nason, Ward
18; Patrick Campbell, Ward 19; Henry F.
Smith, Ward 20.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
The Mayor submitted the appointments of
Herbert Paresky, 4 Leicester street, Brighton,
and Joseph F. Ryan, 25 Teragram street, East
Boston, to be Weighers of Goods, and William
F. Nover, 49 High street, Somerville, to be a
Weigher of Coal.
Severally laid over one week under the law.
ANDREW J. GLEASON CIRCLE.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, August 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The order adopted on August
13 requesting the Park Commissioner to name
the circle at Castle Island in memory of the
late Andrew J. Gleason was referred by me to
Park Commissioner Long for consideration and
report. I have just received a letter from
Mr. Long in which he reports that the land
in question is under the jurisdiction of the
United States Government and as it is Govern-
ment land that there would be some difficulty
in obtaining permission to name it after any
person. He also calls attention to the fact
that it has been the policy of the Park Depart-
ment to name its areas "only for those paying
the supreme sacrifice or for outstanding per-
sonages of by-gone days."
He adds that he has no information as to
whether or not Mr. Gleason was in the World
W'ar or was wounded or what his history is,
and that he would like to obtain more informa-
tion before taking up the matter with the War
Department at Washington.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
RECONSTRUCTION AND REPAIR OF
NORTHERN AVENUE BRIDGE.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 7, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — On April 16, 1934, your honor-
able body passed the following order :
"Ordered, That in accordance with the pro-
visions of section 2, Part 1, of chapter 366
of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof or in addition thereto, the City of
Boston shall engage in the following public
works project:
Reconstruction and repair of Northern Ave-
nue Bridge at an estimated cost of $375,000."
This order was approved by me on April
18, 1934.
I have recently received from the Federal
Emergency Administration of Public Works,
with letter of transmittal dated August 29,
1934, forms of grant agreement between the
City of Boston and the United States of
America relating to the project approved by
the above order, and I submit herewith one
copy of said agreement. Said agreement pro-
vides for a grant to the City of Boston by
the United States of America, upon the terms
and conditions therein set forth, of an amount
not to exceed 30 per cent of the cost of the
labor and materials employed upon the proj-
ect and not to exceed $103,000.
I also submit herewith an order approving
said grant 'agreement and authorizing me to
execute and deliver to the United States of
America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston three counterparts of the same.
I recommend prompt consideration and pas-
sage by your honorable body of this order,
because of the limited time 'available for the
execution and delivery of this agreement, and
because of the desirability of commencing
work upon this project without delay.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby
is, authorized to execute and deliver to the
United States of America for and in behalf
of the City of Boston three counterparts of
the grant agreement between the City of
Boston and the United States of America,
relating to the Public Works Project of the
reconstruction of the Northern Avenue Bridge
over the Fort Point channel, P. W. A. Docket
No. 9177, and providing for the grant upon
the terms and conditions in said grant agree-
ment set forth to the City of Boston by the
United States of America of an amount not
to exceed 30 per cent of the cost of the
labor and materials employed upon said proj-
ect and not to exceed $103,000, one copy of
which grant agreement has been submitted to
this meeting, and is • made a part of the
minutes hereof, and that said grant agree-
ment ' be and the same hereby is approved.
'Referred to the Executive Committee.
REPAVING EAST SIXTH STREET.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 6, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Commissioner of Public Works, rela-
tive to your order of August 13, 1934, con-
cerning the repaying of East Sixth street,
South Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, September 4, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge re-
ceipt of City Council order passed August 13,
reading :
"Ordered, That the Street Commissioners,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed
to repave with smooth paving East Sixth
street, South Boston."
East Sixth street, G street to Farragut
road : G to K streets, macadam and artificial
stone sidewalks. Macadam is in poor con-
dition. The artificial stone sidewalks in good
condition. K to L streets, granite blocks
with gravel base, abandoned car tracks. Arti-
ficial stone sidewalks in good condition. Gran-
ite blocks are of no value. L street to
Farragut road, granite blocks with gravel base.
Car tracks abandoned from L to P streets,
SEPTEMBER 7, 1934.
311
and from P street to Farragut road the tracks
are in service. Brick sidewalks, granite blocks
are of no value.
The entire roadway is in very poor condi-
tion and should be constructed with smooth
pavement on 6-inch concrete base with arti-
ficial stone sidewalks where needed at an ap-
proximate cost of $75,000. There is no money
available in any budget item this year for
the repaying of East Sixth street.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
REPAVING NORTH AND CHARDON
STREETS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September G, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter
from the Commissioner of Public Works,
relative to your order of August 13, 1934, con-
cerning the repaving of North street, Ward 3,
and Chardon street, Ward 3.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
September 4, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge re-
ceipt of City Council order passed August 13,
reading :
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be in-
structed to repave with smooth paving North
street, Ward 3, and Chardon street. Ward 3."
North street, from Ferry street to Com-
mercial street is now paved with large blocks
on concrete base and artificial stone sidewalks.
The roadway is in very poor condition. The
granite blocks should be recut and concrete
base built up. to conform to the new grade,
at an estimated cost of $20,000. This street
should not have a smooth pavement.
Chardon street, from Merrimac street to
Green street, is now paved with large granite
blocks with some concrete base. The roadway
is in poor condition. The blocks should be
recut and relaid with concrete base at a
cosl .if about $10,000. This street should not
have a smooth pavement as the blocks are in
good condition and could be recut.
No money is available in any budget item
this year for the repaying of either North or
Chardon streets.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carvbn,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
TRANSFER OF FUNDS.
The following was received :
.City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor. September 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
( liiil lemon, — I submit herewith an order pro-
viding tor ,-l transfer of funds within the
budget appropriations of the Municipal Court.
South Boston. This transfer is necessary to
cover a deficit in the library account of the
Court occasioned by the purchase of additional
laiW books for the ii I he court.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the
accompanying order by your honorable body.
Re iirl fully,
i i I- i. w. M insfibld, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter
261 of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor he.
and hereby is. authorized to make the follow-
ing transfer in the appropriations for Munici-
pal Court. South Boston :
From the appropriation for A, Personal
Service, $24, to the appropriation for C,
Equipment, $24.
Referred to Executive Committee.
TRANSFER OF FUNDS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — 1 submit herewith an order pro-
viding for a transfer of funds within the
budget appropriations of the Collecting De-
partment. This transfer is made necessary
by the retirement of an employee of that de-
partment who is eligible for a pension under
the veterans' pension act. Since this re-
tirement was not anticipated at the time of
the preparation of the Collecting Department
budget no provision was made for an ap-
propriation to cover the pension payments
which must be made during the balance of this
year.
I respectfully recommend the adoption of the
accompanying order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter
261 of the Acts of 1S93 the City Auditor be,
and hereby is. authorized to make the follow-
ing transfer in the appropriations for Collect-
ing Department :
From the appropriation for A, Personal
Service, $333.33, to the appropriation for F,
Special Items, 7, Pensions and Annuities,
$333.33.
Referred to Executive Committee.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE ON JEWISH
HOLIDAYS.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Upon receipt of the order
adopted by your honorable body on August 27.
193 1, requesting me to ask the authorities of
the E. R. A. and P. W. A. to arrange for a
leave of absence without loss of pay for all
those of the Jewish faith who were employed
on those projects during the Jewish High Holi-
days, I wrote Joseph P. Carney. Ad-
ministrator of the Federal Emergency Relief
Administration in Massachusetts, a letter, a
copy of which is attached, in which I recom-
mended that the request be honored and that
Mr. Rosweir G. Hall he authorized to promul-
gate an order to that effect.
I have received a letter from Mr. B. F.
McElligott, in the absence of Mr. Carney, in
reply to my communication, a copy of which
I inclose herewith ami which is self-explana-
tory. Apparently under federal regulations
have cannot be granted without loss of pay
i rwish faith who do not work
during the Jewish High Holidays may be al-
lowed to make up the time by extra work on
other d
K pi vt fully.
Frederick w. Mansfield, Mayor.
\ I -ust 29, 1984.
I'. Carnej . i: n., E. R. A. Director,
49 Federal Stri i in, Ma
Dear Mr. Carney, <>n Monday i
Council of Boston adopted an order thai 1
the authorities of the E. R. A. and
P. vv. A. for leave of absence
without any loss of pay for all those of the
i Faith who are employed on the E R \
on P W. \. during the Jewish High Hi
which I understand are three in number. If
312
CITY COUNCIL.
this can be done I would recommend it and
request that Mr. Roswell G. Hall be authorized
to promulgate an order to this effect.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Federal Emergency Relief Administration of
Massachusetts,
49 Federal Street, Boston,
Joseph P. Carney, Administrator,
Work Division,
September 4, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — In the absence of Mr.
Carney I am taking the liberty of answering
your letter of August 29, 1934, with reference
to leave of absence without loss of pay for
those of Jewish faith during their High Holi-
days.
Unfortunately there is no way in which
employees of work projects can be granted
leave of absence with pay. However, you will
be interested to know that all local Emergency
Relief Administrators have already been ad-
vised by a letter dated August 18, 1934, from
Mr. Carney to plan to- give people of Jewish
faith the opportunity to 'work their twenty-
four hours on days other than the ones on
which the Jewish Holidays occur, so that
they will not suffer any loss of pay.
We trust that this provides you with the
information you desire.
Very truly yours.
Emergency Relief Administration of
Massachusetts,
B. F. MoElligott.
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following were received and referred
to the committees named, viz. :
Claims.
Joseph Bennett, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Warren
street.
Percy L. Fordham, to be reimbursed for exe-
cution issued against him on account of his
acts as a police officer.
Thomas J. Mulhern, to ibe reimbursed for
expenses incurred in digging up street and
sidewalk at 147 Willow street, West Roxbury.
Thomas J. Murphy, for compensation for
damage to clothing by car of Park Depart-
ment.
Edward F. O'Brien, for compensation for
damage to car by city team.
A. C. Ratshesky rl al., for compensation for
damage to property at 171 Hanover street,
caused by negligent maintenance of sewer.
Cyrus Sargent, for compensation for damage
to property at GO State street, caused by
police officer.
Standard Cafeteria, Inc., for compensation for
damage to property at 103 Dover street,
caused by bursting of water main.
Joseph K. Sullivan, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in bridge,
West Rutland street to Durham street.
Zina Synadinos, for compensation for damage
to property at 1379 Blue Hill avenue, caused
by broken water pipe.
Antonietta Tenaglia, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 55^
Sudbury street.
Charles Torrielli, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 171 Hanover street, caused
by negligent maintenance of sewer.
Rose Volpini, for compensation for damage
to clothing on South Ferry.
Ella E. Breslin, for compensation for damage
to property at 52 East Springfield street,
caused by water leaking from service pipe.
D. Salvato, for refund on refuse tickets.
Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway Com-
pany for license to operate motor vehicles be-
tween the Brookline-Boston line at Huntington
avenue and Kenmore square.
COMMUNICATION OF THANKS.
The following was received :
80 Robey Street,
Dorchester, Mass.,
August 13, 1934.
Boston City Council, City Hall, Boston, Mass.
Honorable Members of the Boston City Council.
It is with a great deal of pleasure and
satisfaction that the United Polish Societies of
South Boston and the citizens of Polish ex-
traction in general, learned of your adoption
of Councilor John E. Kerrigan's order to name
the circle on the Strandway in South Boston
"Thaddeus Kosciuszko Circle."
At a meeting of the representatives of all
societies, a motion was made and unanimously
passed, authorizing the writer to send a letter
of thanks and appreciation, and to assure you
that persons of Polish extraction throughout
the City of Boston are greatly pleased in hav-
ing your honorable board name this circle after
this Polish patriot.
Respectfully yours,
Alex. Damiecki,
President of the United Polish
Societies of South Boston.
Placed on file.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz. :
3. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor August 27, 1934, of Hazel Latham,
Louis C. Tigar and Raymond O. Grant, to be
weighers of coal ; and Martin A. Callinan and
Albert P. McCann, to be weighers of goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee. Coun. Agnew and Tobin. Whole num-
ber of ballots 16; yeas 16, nays 0, and the
appointments were confirmed.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to
soldiers and sailors and their families in the
City of Boston for the month of September,
1934.
Report accepted ; said order passed.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for Committee on
Claims, submitted the following :
1. Report on the petition of Thomas P.
Killion (referred July 23), recommending the
passage of the following :
Ordered, That the sum of thirty dollars be
allowed and paid to Thomas P. Killion in
reimbursement for the amount of an execution
issued against him on account of his acts as
operator of a snowplow belonging to the
Sanitary Service of the Public Works Depart-
ment, said sum to be charged to the Reserve
i' un-
Report accepted , order passed.
2. Report on the petition of David F. Kiriby
(referred July 23), recommending the passage
of the following:
Ordered, That the sum of two hundred and
nine dollars be allowed and paid to David F.
Kirby in reimbursement for amount of judg-
ment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of a motor vehicle belonging
to the City of Boston, Water Division, Public
Works Department, said sum to be charged to
the Reserve Fund.
Report- accepted ; order passed.
SEPTEMBER 7, 1934.
313
3. Report on the petition of David F.
Kirby (referred July 23), recommending the
passage of the following :
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred and
twenty-four dollars be allowed and paid to
David F. Kirby in reimbursement for amount
of judgment issued against him on account of
his acts as operator of a motor vehicle belong-
ing to the City of Boston, Water Division,
Public Works Department, said sum to be
charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted ; order passed.
PAYMENT OF CITY HALL EMPLOYEES
FOR FULL TIME OF VACATION IN
ADVANCE.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered. That the City Treasurer, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to compen-
sate all city employees at the time of their
leaving for vacation, for the full amount of
their due vacation.
Coun. DOHERTY— Just a word about this
order. It has been called to my attention that
the city employees, some of whom have gone
on their vacation to the Cape or to New
Hampshire, did not get their pay until they
came back. I believe it can be arranged so that
the < 'ity Treasurer can pay them when they
leave and they can have the money to spend
while they are gone.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 2.55 p. m., on motion
of Coun. DONOVAN, to take a recess, subject
to the call of the Chair. The members reas-
sembled in the Council Chamber and were
called to order by President DOWD at 3.30
I), m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. GALLACHER, for the Executive
Committee, submitted the following:
1. Report on message and order (referred
today) approving; grant agreement between
United States and the City of Boston for the
reconstruction and repair of Northern Avenue
Bridge— recommending order ought to pass.
2. Report on message and order (referred
today) for transferring funds within the
budget appropriations of the Municipal Court,
South Boston — recommending order ought, to
pass.
3. Report on message and order (referred
today) for transferring funds within the
budget appropriations of bhe Collecting Deport-
ment— recommending order ought to pass.
Tbe reports wen' accepted and the qui tion
came on the passage of the three orders.
Orders were severally passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
ADVISABILITY OF CANCELING ALL
FURLOUGHS IN THE PUBLIC WORKS
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor >>i Bo ton be re-
qm ited i" immediately consider the advisability
of canceling all furloughs in the Public Works
Department al once
Coun. NORTON — I am one of those who
feel this matter of furl hs and extra day's
pay ai i he present lime is being handled for
political reasons only with the proxim
the primary ami election. I understand an
order has been, or is supposed to be. intro-
duced ill other words, the men have .'!>' iin.,1
the impression, although the Public Works De-
partment has been unable to Btate whether
or noi it was o. thai the furloughs would i"-
canceled on October I. Now. as I undei
it, there are men in the Public Works Deparl
ment who are not drawing salary for one or
two or three weeks due to this furlough, and
an order has gone forward, although denied in
certain quarters, that furloughs be taken all
at once : instead of one day, take two or three
weeks now. I do not like this manner of deal-
ing with this problem and I think the matter
is being handled from a political standpoint and
can only redound after primary and election
against the city employees and the best
interests of the city.
Coun. URACKMAN — I am sorry I have to
disagree with my colleague on this matter.
After many weeks of furlough many of these
city employees who are entitled to. come back
into their own are going to meet that piece of
justice. I think it is inappropriate and un-
fortunate that we should attempt in any way
to interfere with the Mayor's plans in restoring
these people to their full-time work and I am
opposed to the order.
President DOWD — Councilor Norton moves
suspension of the rule and passage of the
order.
After a voice vote being taken President
DOWD said that he was in doubt as to the vote
and asked for a showing of hands.
Coun. NORTON— If I may repeat the order.
This order merely requests the Mayor to consider
the advisability of immediately canceling the
furloughs in the Public Works Department. My
contention is this is a very important matter
that is being handled at a difficult time.
Coun. MURRAY — Last July I introduced an
order to the effect that all the days' pay taken
from the laborers be given back and stop the
furloughs, and the Mayor agreed at that time
to take care of it on October 1. After further
consideration he said he would do it on Sep-
tember 15. Last July there was no thought
of politics, but the thought was to try
and bring them back so everybody would be in
the same happy family spirit once more and
get their full-time pay.
President DOWD — Those in favor will signify
their intention by raising their hand.
(Ten hands raised in favor.)
President DOWD — Will those opposed to the
order signify their intention by raising their
hands?
(Five hands raised in opposition to the
order.)
President DOWD — Ten in favor and five
opposed and the order is passed.
USE OF BOSTON COMMON AND PARK-
MAN BANDSTAND BY MASSACHU-
SETTS REAL ESTATE OWNERS ASSO-
CIATION.
Coun. WILSON offered the following :
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor he. and
he hereby is, requested, to at once grant re-
quested permit for use of the Boston Common
and the Packman Bandstand by members of
the Massachusetts Real Estate Owners Associa-
tion, on He- afternoon of September 1(1. 1934.
Coun. WILSON — Speaking about that order,
Mr. President , as to which 1 would ask passage
it tin time without reference to the com-
mittee, it was called to my attention that
the Massachusetts Real Estate Owners Asso-
ciation bad made one of the frequent and
usual requests that are made by various organi-
zations in the City of Boston, and many with-
out more merit, to use the Boston Common
and the Packman Bandstand for a mass meot-
the afternoon of September 16, ami 1
understood that there was more or less back-
Mi filling for no particular reason in the
Id office; one of the alleged reasons for
refusal being there was a musical concert
being held at the I'arkman Bandstand on the
afternoon of September 16. That real or al-
leged objection was easily overcome by the
organization volunteering to postpone their
meeting until after the music had ceased on
the Common. Their request was for the use
of tin- Packman Bandstand and the i
Common, Personally, without committic
elf or anj member of the Council or agreeing
314
CITY COUNCIL.
100 per cent witih all of the projects that they
may or may not advance, the fact remains
that I cannot conceive of a more appropriate
organization to take advantage of the con-
stitutionally guaranteed right of public as-
sembly and free speech on Boston Common at
the Parkman Bandstand than an organization
composed of ten or twelve thousand taxpayers
of Boston, who pay the salary of the Mayor
and the salaries of the Council, pay for the
imr/rovements that the city has had and help
support the Boston Common. I understand
a statement has gone from the Mayor's office
something to the effect that there was a
rule of the Park Department back in the
happy days of 1911 to the effect that public
speaking should not be permitted in that part
of the Common near the bandstand, but if
there is such a ruling it has been honored
more in the breach than in the observance of
it, and haw unfortunate it is that any such
rule should suddenly, out of a clear sky, with-
out any well explained reason, be adapted to
■the taxpayers of the City of Boston. Now as
I said before, I urge the passage of this order
on the members of the Council. The order
requests the Mayor to grant that permit.
That organization, I am assured, is 100 per
cent taxpayers and is composed of twelve
thousand taxpayers of the Oity of Boston.
They want the right granted all organizations
practically without exception, the right granted
on the first of May on more than one occa-
sion to communists in the City of Boston to
hold meetings under police supervision. They,
as taxpayers, ask the right to assemble on a
Sunday afternoon at the Parkman Bandstand
and this order urges the Mayor to grant
that right.
Coun. McGRATH — I expect that there is a
deeper significance to the denying of the Park-
man Bandstand to any organized group in the
City of Boston. I feel that if Mr. Parkman
were alive he would be the first one to say
that Boston Common with all its historical
background was the one place where free
speech should not 'be denied. I understand on
Labor Day his Honor the Mayor spoke from
that bandstand and advocated a further cut
in wages of city employees and I understand
that there is such a popular demand for him
to come there and reiterate that statement
that he is selecting September 16 to again
appear on the Common and make another
speech against restoring salaries and also for
a further pay cut. In this city today there
is no question but what the popularity of
his Honor the Mayor has brought about a
situation that there is a public demand for
him to appear in places like the Parkman
Bandstand and address his constituency and
I am certain that in his own mind he feels
that there is no organization in the city, even
the organization representing the sacred homes
of our city, 'which can have a message of
such significance as to offset a message that
he would have and knowing that this great
leader of the masses, this man who had a
slogan in the campaign that "You need a big
man for a big place," this man who is rep-
resenting all branches of the people in our
community, is going back there on September
IB, even though his Excellency the Governor
sent for him within two days and gave him
this message: "Mr. Mayor: I am deeply
concerned in the candidacy of Charles Cole.
I do not want you to speak in favor of him.
I want no indorsement from you. On Labor
Day you ruined another clean young man in
this city and I will consider it a favor in so
far as our candidate is concerned if you will
keep absolutely quiet." But listening to no
dictators, being a man without any man's
collar around his neck, he is going back there
to deliver the message again of further pay
cuts to the already overburdened twenty thou-
sand men and women who have worked for
the city and county for many years.
Coun. SHATTTJCK— This order, if I under-
stand it, is in the form of a request that
a license or permit be granted. Now I do
not believe this body ought to make a request
without hearing both sides and without fully
informing itself on the question. I do not
believe in ex-parte action and action without
a hearing in passing requests of this kind.
I don't know what action I should favor if
I had all the facts. Without the facts I am
opposed to the order at the present time.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
COUNCIL'S ORDER CONCERNING WEL-
FARE DEPARTMENT.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Wel-
fare be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to advise the City Council in detail
at once with reference to City Council's orders
passed concerning the Welfare Department:
(1) On May 7, with reference to work
card stamps ;
(2) On May 21, concerning number and
names of visitors in Wards 9 and 13 and the
date of personal check-oip of cases ; aind
(3) On May 28, with reference to com-
pleting date and result of complete registra-
tion of all Boston Welfare cases, originally
requested in Council order of April 16.
Coun. WILSON — I do not want to worry
the Council along the welfare lines, except
to remind this body, which perhaps does
not require reminding, of the Council order
introduced by Councilor Fitzgerald on March
19 for a special committee of the Council to
investigate the Public Welfare Department ;
and the order of Councilor Agnew requesting
the reconsideration of all cases as one of the
most important methods of purging the Wel-
fare lists of those manifestly improper cases
which we all know are on the list and have
no right there. I have also in mind the feel-
ing letter from the Mayor under date of
April 23 when he wrote to the City
Council : "May I venture to inquire what
progress has been made by this committee.
I am intensely interested in the Public Wel-
fare Department and would like to have what-
ever information may have been obtained by
the committee. If I may have this information
at the earliest convenient time I will be greatly
obliged to you" ; and so taking that letter
on its face value the members of the Council
realized that from then on they would have
the 100 per cent cooperation of the Mayor of
Boston in cutting down this item of the
department which costs $7.50 out of $37.\10
tax rate, we passed those orders at the request
of the members of the committee asking for
what we felt was important information. I
do not blame the new man who went in there
following the dismissal of the man at the head
of the department. I blame the lack of co-
operation in the Mayor's office despite the let-
ter of April 23, and I do not want to make a
statement like that unfairly, and I do not want
to make it unbacked up 'by facts and so I will
point out two instances illustrating the manner
in which the orders have been handled in the
Mayor's office, and I refer to the minutes
of the meeting of July 2, 1934, at which time
there came into the Council from the (Mayor's
office under date of June 18, — and I am
going into this in detail because I want it on
the record, — under June 18 communications
that had passed between the Mayor's office and
the Welfare Department, and on page 248
of the minutes of this year for July 2, 1934,
it appeared on the record that the City
Council order of May 21, asking for certain
information was not even forwarded to Mr.
Dowling at the Welfare Department until
the 13th of June. I also point out the minutes
of July 23 which showed the first order of
record, that City Council order of May 21
asking for important information incident to
this investigation of the Welfare Department
was not so much as forwarded to the Welfare
Department until the 13th of July ; meaning
that we waited almost two months from the
SEPTEMBER 7, 1934.
315
introduction of the order to receive the reply
from the Welfare Department ; and so I have
offered these orders again [insisting on this in-
formation. I think it is important to the
Council and I think it is important to the
investigating committee. This thing so far
as the members of the Council are concerned,
including myself, has not died a natural death
by any means. There came to my attention
during the past week some cards, — and we
are all acquainted with the stamp whereby
the work cards are stamped in the various
yards, and we are well aware although we
do not get the information officially, of the
fact that the work cards are stamped sup-
posedly with a different stamp for each divi-
sion of each yard, and yet I am shown four-
teen different cards for the same division of
the same yard of the Public Works Depart-
ment, for the same day, with eleven different
numbered and colored stamps ; and Ave are all
aware of the system whereby in case of illness
or some peculiar circumstance a man does not
need to get a stamp on his card but can get
somebody in authority at the Welfare Depart-
ment to O. K. it and that an opportunity is
afforded for an immense amount of graft and
corruption to creep in. I was shown twenty-
three cards all for the same day this year, all
before Mr. Dowling was appointed, all bear-
ing various indorsements for payment but
without a single stamp and on those twenty-
three cards there appeared nineteen different
names. One, for example, a case where am
East Boston visitor 0. K'd work done on the
golf course in West Roxbury ; another case
where a South Boston visitor O. K'd for a
man doing work in the Charlestown yard.
Therefore, I say it is important that we get
this information and I ask the passage of
these orders and I hope the Mayor will not
merely recall this letter to us, this letter of
April 23, but that he will cooperate with the
Council and committee to clean out the situa-
tion that exists in the Welfare Department.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
DANGER SIGNALS AT DORCHESTER
AVENUE BRIDGE.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install danger signals at each end of the center
span on the Dorchester Avenue Bridge, be-
tween Power and Kemp streets. Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REMOVAL OF PRECINCT OFFICERS.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Resolved. That (he Boston City Council of
Boston assembled go on record against the
proposed wholesale removal of precinct
iicers in the different wards of Boston by the
present chairman of the Board of Election
Commissioners.
Coun. GREEN — I understand that the chair-
man of the Election Commissioners intends
to call in certain precinct officers from dif-
ferent sections of the city and these men and
women are to be subjected to the delinquency
test, but I understand he is only taking them
from certain precincts in Boston and I would
like to have this order passed under suspension
of the rule.
Adopted under suspension of the rule.
REPAIRS ON G. A. R. BUILDING AT
46 JOY STREET.
Coun. GLEASON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Superintendent of Public
Buildings be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, 'to complete the repairs which were
started some time ago in the building at
46 Joy street, Boston, which is occupied by
Robert A. Bell Post, No. 134. G. A. R.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
INSTALLATION OF ARC LIGHT AT WEST-
OVER AND WELD STREETS.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, >to install an arc light at the corner
of Westover and Weld streets. Ward 20.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ACCEPTANCE OF DWINELL STREET AS
PUBLIC HIGHWAY.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Dwinell street.
Ward 20, as a public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ACCEPTANCE OF BOGANDALE ROAD AS
PUBLIC HIGHWAY.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay out Bogandale road.
Ward 20. as a public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
NEXT MEETING.
On motion of Coun. AGNEW it was voted
that when the Council adjourns it be t" meet
again op Monday, September 2 1. 1934
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. DONOVAN,
at I p. m. to meet on Monday, September 24,
i'.»;; i, at 2 p. m.
CITY Of BOSTON rRINTINO UBTAJITMBNT
CITY COUNCIL.
316
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, September 24, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., Coun.
Dowd. Fish, Green and Shattuck absent, and
Coun. GALLAGHER presiding in the absence of
President Dowd.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments,
viz.:
Weighers of Coal: H. N. Matthews, 60 Carlton
road, Waban; W. G. Harder, 929 Main street,
Maiden; Walter E. Burke, 386 Riverway, Boston.
Weighers of Goods: Norman P. Kennedy, 2261
Dorchester avenue, Boston; Leo J. Dooley, 19
Union street, Everett.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
REPAIRS AT JOY STREET BUILDING.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 15, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Superintendent of Public Buildings, relative to
your order of September 7, 1934. concerning the
completion of repairs started in the building 46 Joy
street, Boston, which is occupied by Robert G.
Bell Post, No. 134, G. A. R.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Buildings Department,
September 13, 1934.
Joseph F. Mellyn,
Secretary to the Mayor.
Dear Sir, — Referring to the attached order of the
City Council regarding the completion of the
repairs at the Robert G. Bell Post, 46 Joy street,
Boston, I have to inform you that at the lime
this work was undertaken it was proposed to use
this building for administration work for the
E. R. A. with the consent of the tenants. After
the work had been partially completed the consent
of the tenants was withdrawn and consequently
the work stopped.
There are three similar propositions contem-
plated at this time, one for the Polish Legion Post
at the old Leverett Street Fire House, who have
agreed to supply all material if the work can be
done as an E. R. A. project.
There is a similar proposition for the Columbia
Post, A. L., at South Boston, and it is our under-
standing that the Federal Government will supply
i lie material in this instance.
We therefore feel that it would set a bad prec-
edent for the City of Boston to supply material
for one project on leased premises and ask tin-
tenants of other leased premises to supply their
own material. If the Hell Post will guarantee the
material, we would be very happy to Bubmil a
project to complete the work to Federal Street for
their approval.
Respectfully yours,
RosweiiL <i. Ball,
Superintendent of Public Buildings.
Placed on file.
DANGER SIGNALS, DORCHESTER AVENUE
BRIDGE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
i iffioe "i the Mayor, .sei.ienii.er 15, i11 1 1
I .. the City Council.
Gentlemen, I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative I
order of September 7, 1934, concerning the installa-
tion of danger signals at each end of the center
span on the Dorchester Avenue Bridge, between
Power and Kemp streets. Ward 7.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, September 14, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
Council order passed September 7. 1934, which
reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
danger signals at each end of the center span on
the Dorchester Avenue Bridge, between Power and
Kemp streets, Ward 7."
Orders will be issued to erect two reflector signs,
which will be taken from our stock and will not
entail any additional expense.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
APPROPRIATION FOR MUNICIPAL
EMPLOYMENT BUREAU.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the director of the
Municipal Employment Bureau that the appro-
priation authorized for the running expenses of
the Bureau last June will be exhausted on or about
the end of the current week.
In my opinion the Bureau is doing a worth-while
work and in order that it may continue I submit
herewith an order providing for a further allotment
from the Reserve Fund of $2,500. It is estimated
that this amount will be sufficient to continue the
activities of the Bureau until the end of the year.
I respectfully recommend adoption by your
honorable body of the accompanying order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the sum of $2,500 be, and hereby
is, appropriated, to be expended by the Municipal
Employment Bureau, under the direction of the
Mayor, in the prosecution of its duties, said sum
to be charged to the Reserve Fund, when made.
Referred to Executive Committee.
RESIDENT C. W. A. WORKERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, September 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen,- I herewith transmit a letter from
i Im ( herseors of the Public Welfare, relative to your
order of February 19, 1934, concerning the number
of C. W. A. workers resident in Boston actually
working and receiving C. W. A. pay during De-
cember, 1933, and January. 1934.
Respectfully,
Frederick \\ . .M insfield, Mayor.
( lity of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare.
September is. 1934.
Mr. Joint F. Gilmore, Jr..
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir. This is to acknowledge receipt of
your letter of February 21. 1931, inclosing the
following order from the City Council, dated
February 19, 1934:
"Thai Walter V. McCarthy, through his Honor
the Mayor, be. and hereby is, respect fully re-
quested i" advise the Citj Council forthwith .'is to
the number of C. W. A. workers resilient In Boston
actually working and receiving C W, \. pay:
(a) during December, 1933, ami (b) during Janu-
ary. 1934
A lister-
ia) 10. MS workers during December, I I
tbi 14,805 workers during January, 1934.
Yours truly.
1 i\\i ]. \ M\ n in v . Auditor.
Placed on Tile.
317
CITY COUNCIL.
TRANSFER FROM PARKMAN FUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attached
communication from the Board of Park Com-
missioners requesting the transfer of the sum of
$60,000 from the income of the George F. Park-
man Fund to the maintenance and improvement
of the Common and Parks in existence on January
12, 1887.
I submit herewith an appropriation order and
respectfully recommend its immediate passage by
your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the sum of $60,000 be, and hereby
is, appropriated from the income of the George F.
Parkman Fund, to be expended, under the direction
of the Park Commissioners, for the Maintenance
and Improvement of the Common and Parks in
Existence on January 12, 1887, as follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on
January 12, 1887, Maintenance and
Improvement of $60,000
City of Boston,
Park Department, September 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — By vote of the Board of Park Com-
missioners, you are respectfully asked to request
the City Council to transfer from the income of
the George F. Parkman Fund the sum of $60,000,
which is now available, to be expended under the
direction of the Board of Park Commissioners as
follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on
January 12, 1887, Maintenance and
Improvement of $60,000
When the budget estimates were made up for
the year 1934, a sum equal to the total yearly
income of the George F. Parkman Fund was
deducted from Item A-l Permanent Employees,
with the understanding that this deduction was
to be replaced by the'' total yearly income of said
Parkman Fund for 1934, to be transferred as it
accrued from time to time during the year to the
regular maintenance appropriation of the Park
Department.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Referred to Executive Committee.
MONTHLY REPORT OF WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to the
order adopted by your honorable body, concerning
a monthly report of certain statistical information.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
September 17, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
requesting that the Board of Overseers of the
Public Welfare be requested to furnish the City
Council monthly, as soon as may be after the end
of each month beginning with the month of Jan-
uary, certain statistical information, the following
statement is respectfully submitted.
1.
Case Load at the End of August.
Number of cases being aided at end of August:
Dependent Aid 23,448
Mother's Aid 1 ,461
Old Age Assistance 3,780
Total 28,689
2.
Number of recipients dropped from the rolls
during the month, 2,273.
3.
Number of recipients of aid added to rolls during
the month, 2,134.
4.
The expenditures for the month (a) Care of De-
pendents; (b) Mothers' Aid; (c) Old Age
Assistance.
Expenditures for August:
Dependent Aid $791,022 75
Mothers' Aid 96,370 00
Old Age Assistance 1 14,420 00
Total $1,001.812 75
Respectfully,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
USE OF WELFARE STAMPS AND CARDS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 7, 1934, concerning the number
assignment and use of welfare workers' stamps
and cards.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
September 18, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your letter of May 10, 1934, regarding order from
the City Council dated May 7, 1934, reading as
follows:
"That the Public Welfare Department, through
his Honor the Mayor, advise the City Council
forthwith.
a. The total number of stamps for use on
Public Welfare work cards ordered and received
by the department.
b. The name of the present custodian of each
stamp, together with the official number of the
stamp in the possession of each person.
c. The total number of official welfare stamps
now outstanding, for the stamping of so-called
work cards, of men assigned to some form of work
for the city by the Welfare Department.
d. The total number of such authorized stamps
outstanding as of January 1, 1934.
e. The name of each and every city official or
employee having possession on April 1, 1934, of an
authorized stamp for the stamping of Welfare
work cards.
f. The official rating or city position held by
each of said persons so named as having possession
of a Welfare Department stamp as of April 1, 1934.
g. The official number of the stamp in each case,
h. Reporting with reference to each stamp by
number, state for each of the four weeks during
April, 1934, how many separate cards bearing each
of the beforementioned numbers were presented
to the Welfare Department and payment made.
i. The numbers of any and all stamps reported
lost or stolen, missing or replaced since January 1,
1933.
j. The name of the person employed by the
city reporting the loss, or requesting a replacement
or duplicate stamp, in the cases of such city stamps
as have been lost or reported missing."
Answers.
a. 150 stamps.
b. See list attached.
c. 114 stamps.
d. 114 stamps.
e. Same as "b" above.
f. See list, "b," attached.
g. See list, " b, " attached,
h. See list attached.
i. See list attached.
j. See list, "i," attached.
Yours truly,
Daniel A. MuRniY, Auditor.
SEPTEMBER 24, 1034.
318
Person in Charge
Stamp N
umber. OF Stamp.
Title.
City Department.
1
James E. Phelan
Foreman
Franklin Park
2
Bernard Conley
Foreman
Franklin Park
3 (missing, repl
aced by 69)
P. M. McManus
Foreman
Franklin Park
4
J. M. Griffin
Foreman
Franklin Park
5
W. F. Driscoll
Foreman
Franklin Park
6
M. V. Dailey
Foreman
Franklin Park
7
.1. C. Dunne
Foreman
Franklin Park
8
Frank McCarthy
Foreman
Old Colony Ave. and Preble St.
9 (stolen,
replac
•ed by SO and 68)
Eugene Corbet t
Foreman
Wood Island
10 (stolen,
replac
■ed by 120)
Patrick Monahan
Rose Garden
11
E. L. Raft us
Foreman
Franklin Park
12
Patrick Malia
Foreman .
West Roxbury Parkway
13 .
P. J. Callahan
Foreman
Wesl Roxbury Parkway
14
Patrick Mulvey
Foreman
Back Bay Park
15
John Donovan
Custodian
1. Si. Baths
16
John Kelly
Custodian
Cabot St. Baths
17 (stolen,
replac
•ed by 99)
Joseph Denton
X. Bonnet St. Baths
IS
R. J. Kelly
Custodian
Williams Building
19
Thomas Flannagan
Custodian
Curtis Hall
20
W. J. Johnson
Foreman
West Roxbury Golf Course
21 (worn out, replaced by S3)
Captain Edson
Airport
22
F. Donovan
Foreman
Fairview Cemetery
23
H. Dolan
Foreman
Evergreen Cemetery
24
E. McNeil
Foreman
Mt. Hope Cemetery
25
J. McGinn
Foreman
H St. and Columbia Rd., Dist. 1
26
J. Coyle
Foreman
E. Eagle Paving. Dist. 2
27
J. McElanev
Foreman
Rutherford Paving. Dist. 3
28
M. Burke
Foreman
Chestnut Hill Paving, Dist. 4
29
Mr. Gilmore
Foreman
Child St. Paving, Dist. 5
30
M. J. McLean
Foreman
Hancock St. Paving, Dist. 6
31
P. Fallon
Foreman
Highland St. Paving. Dist. 7
32
Mr. Comfrev
Foreman
636 Albany St., Dist. 8
33
A. T. King '
Foreman
Gibson Paving. Dist. 9
34
D. O'Riordon
Foreman
Dana Ave. Paving, Dist. 10
35 (stolen.
replaced by 82)
James Strong
Foreman
624 Albany St.
36 (stolen,
replaced by 86)
James Guthrie
Foreman
36 H St.
37
Thomas Flannagan
Foreman
36 H St.
38 (lost, replaced by 87)
Michael Pumphret
Foreman
E. Eagle Sanitary
39
J. O'Meara
Foreman
Rutherford Sanitary
40
Francis Dowd
Foreman
Gibson St. Sanitary
41
James Pendergast
Foreman
Highland St. Sanitary
42
Al Brown
Foreman
650 Albany St.
43 '
John Carey
Foreman
850 Albany St.
44
Patrick Logan
Fore
6o0 Albany St.
45 (stolen.
replaced by 7i
6.")0 Albany St.
46
Patrick McNulty
Foreman
\. Grove SI . Sanitary
47
Cornelius Scanlan
Foreman
650 Albany St.
4S
James Crowley
Foreman
Fori Mill Wharf
49
Al Brown
Foreman
650 Albany St.
50
William Griffin
Forei i
650 Albany St.
51
A.J. Rolfe
Foreman
710 Albany St.
52
Mr. Phipps
Foreman
1 [ancock St. Garage
53
-Mr. Neville
Foreman
3 1 5 Western Ave., Water
54
J. Kerrigan
Superintendent
Room 101, City Hall
55
P. Kelly
Foreman
Tufts and MedfordSts.i Water
56
J. J. Walsh
Foreman
Gibson St. Water
57
Mr. Lynch
Traffic Div.,8 Atkinson St.
58
.1. < >'( 'onuor
Traffic 1 [eadquarters
59
E. .1. Kaveney
Foreman
Charlesbank
60
Mr. Carlson
Foreman
Bosl on < lommon
61
Mr. Hogan
1 >eputy
Franklin Park
62
Joseph 1'. Ho« <
Foreman
Franklin Park
63
Mr. Pumphret
1 oi '-man
680 Ubanj St.
64
Mr. McDonald
1 reman
Child St. Sewer
li.r>
Mr \l c( iann
l reman
Gibson St. Sewer
66
Edward Kei
1 'i ireman
Cow Pasture
67
Mr. McDonald
Foreman
Child St. Water
68 (replacing 9)
Eugene ( lorbetl
1 oreman
U 1 Island
69 (replacing
P. M. McManus
inklin Park
70
Frank Kelly
( lustodian
North End Park
71
John J. liurke
Gusl
500 Columbia Rd., Dor. Munic-
ipal Bldg.
72
1 ' ird llartigan
t lustodian
l':ms St. Gym.
73
James 1 '' linen
( lustodian
Vine Si . Gym.
71
Mr. ( 'as%s rll
( lustodian
Freeport St.
75
George Frasei
( luBtodian
Tenean Beach
76
It. F. Kell
( lusl I
Dover St. Baths
77
John Connors, auxiliary
Stamp m, A list on
78 (repli
Btolen)
Mr. Carmodj
i oreraan
650 Ml..,
.1
Thomas Kerrigan
1 •man
\ Gi ovc SI Sanitary
80 (replai u
Fun-man
Wood Island
81
William Griffin
1 : .nian
Q50 \lb..n.\ St,
319
CITY COUNCIL.
Stamp Number.
Person in Charge
of Stamp.
82 (replacing 35)
James Strong
83 (worn out, replaced by 124)
Captain Edson
84
85
86 (replacing 36)
87 (replacing 38)
A. J. Rolfe
Mr. MoCauley
James Guthrie
Michael Pumphret
Cornelius Scanlan
89 Mr. McCauley
90 T. N. Griffin
91 Mr. Hogan
92 Mr. Hogan (P. M. McManus)
93 William F. Driscoll
94 Mr. Hogan
95 Mr. Hogan
96 Mr. Hogan
97 Mr. Hogan
98 Mr. Hogan
99 (replacing 17, stolen)
Joseph Denton
100 William W. Quhm
101 Mr. Balfe
102 Mr. Mulvev
103 Mr. Sheehan
104 C. O'Brien
105 Mr. Hackett
106 Mr. Conroy
107 J. J. O'Malley
108 Mr. Murphy
109 Mr. McCargle
110 Mr. Kelly
111 Mr Hogan
112 Thomas Barry
113 Joseph Goode
114 Thomas Flannagan
115 Mr. Segal
116 Joseph Norton
117 (stolen, replaced by 119)
D. Sullivan
118 Mr. Connors
119 (replacing 117, stolen)
D. Sullivan
P. Monahan
Mr. Hartigan
Dr. Bogan
Mr. Norton
120
121
122
123
124 (replacing 83)
125
Title.
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Foreman
Custodian
Clerk
Custodian
Custodian
Custodian
Clerk
Custodian
Custodian
Custodian
Custodian
Custodian
Custodian
Foreman
Foreman
Custodian
Captain Edson
Mr. Whalley
Clerk
Superintendent
City Department.
624 Albany St.
Airport
710 Albany St.
Hyde Park Waterworks
36 H St.
E. Eagle Sanitary
Deer Park, Boston Common
Hyde Park Water
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park
N. Bennet St. Baths
Boston Public Library
Statistical Dept., City Hall
Registry Dept.
Old City Hall
Charlestown Municipal Bldg.
Hyde Park Municipal Bldg.
Municipal Bldg.
Charlestown Municipal Bldg.
Election Dept., 458 Broadway
Boston City Hospital
Dorchester Municipal Bldg.
Franklin Park
South Boston Municipal Bldg.
Roxbury Court House
Curtis Hall
Roslindale Gym.
Boston City Hospital
City Hall
Atkinson St. Bridge Service
City Hall
Park Drive Fens
Brighton Court House
Mattapan Sanatorium
739 Boylston St.
Wood Island Airport
Boston Police
H.
Number of Cards.
Week of
Week of
Week of
Week of
4-2-34
4-9-34
4-16-34
4-23-34
Stamp No.
4-6-34
4-13-34
4-20-34
4-27-34
1
17
15
12
13
2
23
27
30
37
4
8
fi
1
3
5
0
0
0
0
6
6
5
5
5
7
5
9
8
10
8
0
0
0
0
11
35
35
36
38
12
9
8
7
6
i :
26
24
30
33
14
0
0
0
0
1.,
CO
64
71
83
16
7
8
9
8
18
23
24
26
25
19
3
3
3
3
.'u
14
14
28
84
22
57
59
56
41
23
5
5
5
4
24
99
109
123
101
25
176
184
203
158
26
265
260
285
263
27
61
62
63
59
28
144
125
129
129
29
128
127
122
121
30
205
195
225
219
:;i
307
298
355
347
32
392
370
421
402
33
186
178
190
193
34
116
114
113
71
37
188
197
210
213
39
349
329
325
350
40
63
59
61
57
41
402
344
404
406
42
168
171
189
186
43
109
106
112
121
44
536
501
528
551
Number of Cards.
Week of
Week of
Week of
Week of
4-2-34
4-9-34
4-16-34
4-23-34
Stamp No.
4-6-34
4-13-34
4-20-34
4-27-34
46
638
673
639
620
47
380
329
330
363
48
0
0
1
0
49
10
11
11
7
50
1
2
7
8
51
280
329
512
489
52
12
12
10
11
53
41
42
46
46
54
9
8
7
11
55
12
14
14
13
56
18
23
28
27
57
0
0
0
0
58
1
3
4
4
59
2
2
2
3
60
53
56
71
74
61
0
0
0
0
62
3 '
5
5
7
63
26
27
37
37
64
27
27
36
34
65
28
38
38
35
66
8
6
8
8
67
15
18
21
18
68
47
46
52
56
69
0
0
0
0
70
10
9
10
9
71
7
8
8
9
72
15
14
12
12
73
6
6
6
8
74
0
0
0
3
75
3
3
1
3
76
13
12
15
20
77
22
15
17
18
78
627
555
675
504
79
86
104
83
78
80
0
0
0
0
81
34
28
38
27
82
38
37
35
35
SEPTEMBER 24, 1934.
320
Number of Cards.
Number of Cards.
\\
eek of
Week of
Week of
Week of
Week of
Week of
Week of Week of
4-2-34
4-9-34
4-16-34
4-23-34
4-2-34
4-9-34
4-
-16-34 4
-23-34
Stamp No. 4-6-34
4-13-34
4-20-34
4-27-34
Stamp
No. 4-6-34
4-13-34
4-
-20-34 4-
-27-34
83
230
246
232
289
104
6
7
6
6
84
0
67
0
0
105
10
7
7
11
85
0
0
0
0
106
3
5
5
5
86
98
95
109
104
107
10
9
11
11
87
316
400
396
365
108
1
1
1
1
88
199
215
269
224
109
3
5
7
8
89
66
0
11
36
110
5
5
4
5
90
136
0
126
141
111
0
0
0
0
91
0
0
0
0
112
20
19
20
19
92
156
158
173
138
113
2
2
3
3
93
30
20
39
34
114
11
8
10
11
94
0
0
0
0
115
10
13
15
14
95
51
0
0
0
116
109
112
125
123
96
0
0
0
0
118
12
13
11
11
97
0
0
0
0
119
41
34
38
36
98
5
19
6
4
120
111
86
96
125
99
26
26
25
25
121
2
4
3
2
100
10
9
9
8
122
8
10
7
7
101
0
0
0
0
123
65
62
85
87
102
7
7
7
9
124
0
0
0
0
103
20
20
21
14
125
155
145
172
163
Stamp
Replacing
Name of Person
Number. Reported.
Stamp No.
Reporting.
City
Department
3
Lost
09
P. M. McManus
General Foreman, Frank!
in Park.
9
Stolen
80 a
nd 6S
Eugene Corbett
Wood Island Park
10
Stolen
120
P. Monahan
Acting Foreman, Rose
Garden,
Back Bay
17
Stolen
99
Joseph Denton
N. Bennet Street Gym
21
Worn out
83 and 124
Captain Edson
Airport
35
Stolen
82
James Strong
Foreman, City Garage,
St.
Foreman, 3S6 H St,
624 Albany
36
Stolen
86
James Guthrie
38
Stolen
87
Michael Pumphret
Foreman, E
Eagle Sanitary
45
Stolen
78
J. Carmody
Foreman, 650 Albany St.
117
Stolen
119
D. Sullivan
Placed on file.
City Hall
ASSIGNMENT OF WELFARE STAMPS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of May 7, 1934, concerning the assign-
ments of welfare workers and welfare worker
stamps.
Hcpsectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
September 18, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your letter of May 10, 1934. regarding order from
the City Council dated May 7, 1934, reading as
follows:
"That his Honor the Mayor be, and hereby is,
respectfully requested to ascertain for and advise
the City Council forthwith as to each of the four
weeks in April, 1934:
a. What city departments had Public Welfare
workers assigned or working for them.
b. The number of Public Welfare recipients
working in each department so specified.
c. The official numbers of the various welfare
worker stamps in the possession of each depart-
ment so named.
d. The number of welfare workers actually
reporting for work each week in each department,
according to the records of each department.
e. Where more than one division or branch of
any of said departments has a record of welfare
workers, then state the official number of any and
all welfare stamps in the possession of each of said
divisions or branches.
f. Where more than one division or branch of
any said departments has a record of welfare
workers, then state the number of welfare workers
actually reporting for work each week in each of
said divisions or branches, as per the records of
said department."
Answers.
a. See list attached.
b. See list "a" attached.
c. See list "a" attached.
See list "a" attached.
See list "a" attached.
Sec list "a" attached.
d.
f.
Yours truly,
Daniel A. Murphy, Auditor.
Stamp
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1 I
12
13
It
15
It)
17
18
A.
Number ok Mf.n Reporter and Worked.
City Department. i 2 I 6 4/9-4/13 1/16-4 20 i 23-4 27
Franklin Park 17 15 12 13
Franklin Park 23 27 30 37
Franklin Park 7 0 0 0
Franklin Park 8 6 3
Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
Franklin Park 6 5 5
Franklin Park 5 9 b 10
Old Colony Ave. and Preble l> 0 0 0
\\.,,,,1 Island Park 0 0 0 0
Hose Garden " <> ° °
Franklin Field 35 35 30 38
West Roxbury Parkway '■' 8 7 t>
West Roxbury Parkway 26 24 30
Ha.k Bay Park '. <> " " "
l Street Baths CO 64 71 83
Cabol Si reel Baths 7 8
N. Bennet St. Baths o o o 0
WUliams Building 23 24 26 25
32 i CITY COUNCIL.
Stamp Number of Men Reported and Worked.
No. City Department. 4/2-4/6 4/9-4/13 4/16-4/20 4/23-4/27
19 Curtis Hall 3 3 3 3
20 West. Roxbury Golf Course 14 14 28 84
21 Airport 0 0 0 0
22 Fairview Cemetery 57 59 56 41
23 Evergreen Cemetery 5 5 5 4
24 Mt. Hope Cemetery 99 109 123 101
25 H St. and Columbia Rd., Dist. 1 176 184 203 158
26 East Eagle Paving Dist. 2 265 260 285 263
27 Rutherford Paving Dist. 3 61 62 63 59
28 Chestnut Hill Paving Dist. 4 144 125 129 129
29 Child St. Paving Dist. 5 128 127 122 121
30 Hancock St. Paving Dist. 6 205 195 225 219
31 Highland St. Paving Dist. 7 307 298 355 347
32 636 Albany St. Paving Dist. 8 392 370 421 402
33 Gibson Paving Dist. 9 186 178 190 193
34 Dana Ave. Paving Dist. 10 116 114 113 71
35 624 Albany St 2 0 3 3
36 386 H St 0 0 0 0
37 36 H St 188 197 210 213
38 E. Eagle Sanitary 0 0 0 38
39 Rutherford Sanitary 329 325 350 340
40 Gibson St. Sanitary 59 61 57 63
41 Highland St. Sanitary 402 344 404 406
42 650 Albany St 168 171 189 186
43 650 Albany St 109 106 112 121
44 650 Albany St 536 501 528 551
45 650 Albany St 1 1 0 1
46 N. Grove St. Sanitary 638 673 639 620
47 650 Albany St 380 329 330 363
48 Fort Hill Wharf 0 0 1 0
49 650 Albany St 10 11 11 7
50 650 Albany St 1 2 7 8
51 710 Albany St 280 329 512 489
52 Hancock St. Garage 12 12 10 11
53 315 Western Ave. Water 41 42 46 46
54 Room 101 , City Hall 9 8 7 11
55 Tufts and Medford St. Water 12 14 14 13
56 Gibson St. Water 18 23 28 27
57 8 Atkinson St.. Traffic Div 0 0 0 0
58 Traffic Headquarters 1 3 4 4
59 Charlesbank 2 2 2 3
60 Boston Common 53 56 71 74
61 Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
62 Franklin Park 3 5 5 7
63 680 Albany St 26 27 37 37
64 Child St. Sewer 27 27 36 34
65 Gibson St. Sewer 28 38 38 35
66 Cow Pasture 8 6 8 8
67 Child St. Water 15 18 21 18
68 Wood Island 47 46 52 56
69 Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
70 North End Park, Custodian 10 9 10 9
71 500 Columbia Rd., Dor. Mun. Lildg 7 8 8 9
72 Paris St. Gym 15 14 12 12
73 Vine St. Gym 6 6 6 8
74 Freeport St 0 0 0 3
75 Tenean Beach 3 3 1 3
76 Dover St. Baths 13 12 15 20
77 Auxiliary stamp in Allston 22 15 17 18
78 650 Albany St 627 555 675 504
79 N. Grove St. Sanitary 86 104 83 78
80 Wood Island 0 0 0 0
81 050 Albany St 34 28 38 27
.82 Air 38 37 35 35
83 Airport 230 246 232 289
84 710 Albany St 0 67 0 0
85 Hyde Park Waterworks 0 0 (I 0
86 36 H St 98 95 109 104
87 E. Eagle Sanitary 316 400 396 365
88 Deer Park, Boston Common 199 215 269 224
89 Hyde Park Water 66 0 11 36
90 Franklin Park 136 0 126 141
'H Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
92 Franklin Park 156 158 173 138
93 Franklin Park 30 20 39 34
94 Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
95 Franklin Park 51 (I 0 0
96 Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
97 Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
98 Franklin Park 5 19 6 4
99 N. Bennet St. Baths 26 26 25 25
100 Boston Public Library 10 9 9 8
101 Statistical Dept., City Hall 0 0 0 0
102 Registry Dept 7 7 7 9
103 Old City Hall 20 20 21 14
104 Charlestown Mun. Bldg 6 7 6 6
105 Hyde Park Mun. Bldg 10 7 7 6
106 3 5 5 5
107 Charlestown Mun. Bldg 10 9 11 11
108 Election Dept., 458 Broadway 11 1 1
109 Boston City Hospital 3 5 7 8
HO Dorchester Mun. Bldg 5 5 4 5
111 Franklin Park 0 0 0 0
112 South Boston Mun. Bldg 20 19 20 19
1 13 Roxbury Court House 2 2 3 3
SEPTEMBER 24, 1934.
322
St\mp Number of Men Reported \m> Worked.
No. City Department. 1 2 4 6 4/9 4 13 4 16 4 20 4 23-4 27
114 Curtis Hall 11
115 Roslindale (ivm 10
116 Boston City Hospital 109
117 City Hall 0
118 Atkinson St. Bridge Service 12
1 19 City Hall 41
120 Park Drive Fens Ill
121 Brighton Court House 2
122 Mattapan Sanatorium 8
123 739 Boylston St 65
124 Wood Island. Captain Edson, Airport 0
125 Boston Police 155
Placed on file.
8
10
11
13
15
14
112
125
123
0
0
0
13
11
11
34
38
36
86
96
125
4
3
2
10
7
7
62
85
87
0
0
0
145
172
172
WELFARE INFORMATION IN RE WARD 1.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, September 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of April 30. 1934. concerning the number
of cases of aliens, of voters, and the number of cases
paid by check and by cash, in Ward 1.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
September 18, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary. Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your letter of May 2. 1934, inclosing the following
order from the City Council, dated April 30, 1934:
"That the Overseers of the Public Welfare be
instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to advise
the City Council forthwith with reference to the
2,935 active cases as of April 4, 1934. in Ward 1.
a. How many of said cases were aliens.
b. How many of said cases were registered
voters in the City of Boston.
c. How many of said cases were last paid by
check.
d. How many of said cases were last paid by
cash.
I.
Answers.
1.271 aliens.
1,382 registered voters.
616 cases paid by check,
d. 2,319 cases paid in cash.
Yours truly,
Daniel A. Murphy, Auditor.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC LIGHT, SOUTH STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor. September 7. 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Traffic Commission, relative to your order of
AAlgUSl 27. 1934, concerning the installation of a
traffic light at the corner of South street and the
Arborway, Jamaica Plain.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
( !ity of Boston.
Traffic (' mission. September 4. 1934.
Re; Communications of August 2S, 1934, and
August 30, 1931. ordering report on the
advisability of installing an automatic traffic
signal at the intersection of South street and
Arborway. Jamaica Plain, with cost ol same,
and whether or not funds are available,
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield.
Mayor of Hoston.
Dear Mr. Mayor. This commission lias a plan
for the installation of a traffic aignal at the inter-
section of South Btreel ami Irborway,
The approximate cosl ol Buch an installation
would be 12,500
l here arc no funds available at tins time,
As to the advisability of installing such .
were funds available, il is 'I pinion
irs thai because of the proximity of tins
intersection to the vers heavy intersection ol
Vrborway and Washington street, il is di
whether a signal at Vrborway ami South Btreel
would function satisfactorily.
The State Planning Department has prepared
tentative plans for the construction of an over-pass
which would bridge both the intersection of Arbor-
way and South street and that of Arborway and
Washington street. An over-pass would, in my
opinion, solve the traffic problems at both of these
intersections.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Carl J. Alquist, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect on ferryboat.
American-Hawaiian Steamship Company, for
refund on refuse tickets.
Minnie Baler, to be reimbursed for expenses in-
curred in repairing sewer drain at 4 Alvah Kittredge
park, Roxbury.
Walter H. Benson, for compensation for injuries
caused by defective gate at Boston Ventilation
Building of Sumner Tunnel.
Boston Can Company, for compensation for
damage to truck by city wagon.
Mrs. Delia Daft, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at B street and West
Fourth street.
John F. Doherty, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect on Clarendon
street.
Blanche Dubay, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 83 Bickford street.
R. Finkelstein, for compensation for damage to
property at 37 Joy street, caused by ash team.
Mary Fiore. for compensation for injuries caused
by an alleged defect in Winter street.
Elizabeth C. Giblin. for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Arborway.
Mildred Green etal., for compensation for damage
to property and personal injuries caused by city car.
James P. Hahesy, Inc.. for compensation for
damage to truck by city cart No. 1019.
Edward H. Howard, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in Boston
Common, near Parkman Bandstand.
Bridget I.ee. for compensation for injuries caused
by an alleged defect at 70 Geneva avenue.
James J. Lee, for compensation for damage to
car by ball thrown from Barry Playground.
Abram Lotto, for compensation for damage to
property al 983 Harrison avenue, caused by sewer
being blocked up.
John S. Mahigian. for compensation for damage
to ear by ash wagon.
Alice .1. Montague, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 31 Bromfield street.
Mary .1. Murphy, for compensation for d
■ ].i iperty al is w ilbur street. Dorchester, caused
by hacking up of se
Frank Policoff, for compensation for damage to
truck by city truck.
David Polsky, for compensation for dan
truck by city truck.
Walter .1. Prendergast, for compensation for
. to ,ar by city truck.
i dward .1. Rafferty, to be reimbursed for execu-
tion issued against him on account ol I
employee of Public Works Department.
Eidward i Rafferty, to he reimbursed for execu-
t ion issued againsl linn on account of his acts as an
employee "i the Public Works Department.
Ilailway Express - i compensation for
i.i i nnk caused by an alleged d<
457 Beacon street .
323
CITY COUNCIL.
Mrs. P. R. Waters, for compensation for damage
to ear by fire engine.
Carpenter-Morton Company, for refund on
license for underground tank.
Executive.
Petition of Ethel A. Prendergast, to be paid an
annuity on account of death of Maurice J. Prender-
gast, late a me.mber of Fire Department, who
died in May. 1934. from injuries received in per-
formance of his duty.
Petition of Blanche T. O'Leary, widow of Daniel
W. O'Leary, member of Fire Department, who
died November 28. 1933, as a result of injuries
caused by an accident to him on November 1,
1933, while in performance of his duty, for an
annuity.
COMMITTEE ON UNCLAIMED BAGGAGE.
Petition of New York, New Haven & Hartford
Railroad for permit to hold public auction sale
of unclaimed baggage during week beginning
October 29, at Huston Freight Terminal.
INTEREST IN CONTRACT.
Notice was received from Joseph A. Tomasello,
member of Board of Appeal, of interest in contract
of A. G. Tomasello & Son. Inc., with City of Boston
for furnishing and laying and relaying water pipes
in Arborway, West Hoxbury.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENT OF JOHN J. CAMPBELL.
Notice was received of appointment of John J.
Campbell, 27 Stellman road. Ward 19, as deputy
scaler of weights and measures.
Placed on tile
APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY CITY
AUDI I
Notice was received of the appointmi
September 7. 1934, of Daniel .1. Falvey to be
deputy city auditor at a salary of $4,200 per annum
Placed on file.
ABSENCE OF MA Vol!.
Notice was received from Mayor Mansfield of
Ins absence from the city from September 20 to
23, inclusive.
I'll, cd on file.
CON'S TABLES' BONDS.
The bonds of the following-named Constables,
having been duly approved by tin- City Treasurer,
were received and approved, viz.: John R Blotto,
Benjamin JacODSOn, Harry Mcltzcr, John Mil-
groom, John Iluggiero, Florian S. Small.
CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS.
Chairman GALLAGHER called up. under un-
finished business, No. :'. on the callenaar, viz.:
:; Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor September 7, 1934, of William E. Nover, to
In- a Weigher of Coal; and Herberl Paresky and
Joseph E. Ryan, to l,.- \\ eighers of Good
i question c no'- on i onfii mo I ion. ( lom-
mittee, Coun. Pinley and Selvitclla Whole num-
ber 'J ballots 12, yeas 12, and the appointments
were confirmed
Conn. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business. No 2 on i hi' calendar, i he appoint menl of
Walter E. Grignon on June i, 1934, as a constable
authorized to serve civil process.
The question came cm confirmation, Com-
mittee, Coun. Wilson unci Roberts. Whole num-
ber of ballots I .', yeas 1 2, and t In- appoint men I was
confirmed.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
LANDS.
in )N< i\ A N, for tin- ' lomn ic on
Public Lands, submitted reporl on message of
Mayor and order (referred July 23) approving
sale by City to Commonwealth of parcels of land
in East Boston for sum of S17.380.30, — recom-
mending that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed, yeas 15,
nays 0.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers
and sailors and their families in the City of Boston
for month of September.
Report accepted; said order passed.
SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION.
Coun. DONOVAN and Coun. KERRIGAN
offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Old Colony avenue,
from Dorchester avenue to Mt. Vernon street
(work to be done under P. W. A. Docket, 4205,
National Industrial Recovery Project), Wards 6
and 7, in front of the estates bordering thereon;
said sidewalk to be from 3 to 10 inches above
the glitter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in
width, and to be built of artificial stone, with
granite edgestones, under the provisions of chapter
196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along La Grange street
(northeasterly side), Centre street to Vermont.
street (work to be done under P. W. A. Docket
4205, National Industrial Recovery Project),
Ward 20. in front of the estates bordering thereon;
said sidewalk to be from .'> to 10 inches above the
gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feel in width,
and to be built of artificial stone, with granite
edgestones. under the provisions of chapter 196
ol i lie Special Acts of 1917.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Adams street,
South side, from Pierce square lo Gallivan Boule-
vard (work to be done under P. W. A. Docket
4205, bids opening September 6) , Ward 17, in front
of the estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk
to be from ,'i lo 10 inches above the gutter adjoin-
ing, lo be from 5 lo 12 feci in width, and to be
built of artificial stone, with granite edgestones,
under the provisions of chapter 196 of the Special
A. -Is of 1917.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
PLAYGROUND FOR EAST BOSTON.
Coun. SELVITELL \ offered the following:
Whereas, The stale of Massachusetts has taken
for highway purposes, land on Pope and Byron
streets acquired by the City of Boston for a play-
ground for Easl Boston;
Ordered, That the Bciard of Park C is-
sioners be requested to Submit to the City Council
of Boston at their earliest convenience an estimate
of I he eosl of obtaining a playground for East
Boston in place of i in e lost by said takings.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
"STOP" SK INS, V\ \UI> 19.
MURRAY and Coun. ENGLERT
offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through Ins Honor the Mayor, to place
"Stop" signs on all side streets entering Green
street, Ward 19.
Passed under suspension of I he rule.
HEP.W INC
OF CATHERINE STREET,
WARD 19.
i loun, MURP. V5 offered the following:
< lnlered, Thai I lie ( 'urn in issioner of Public Works
be requested, through his tlonot the Mayor, to re-
pave with smooth pavemenl Catherine Btreet,
Ward Ifl
Passed under suspension "I the rule
SEPTEMBER 24, 1934.
324
NATIONAL ANTHEM ON RADIO.
Coun.. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston is
of the opinion that, as a means of promoting and
preserving the spirit of patriotism, the radio broad-
casting stations of Boston, at the conclusion of their
daily broadcasts, cause the National Anthem to be
played; and be it further
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston is of
the opinion that permits issued by city authorities
for the occupancy or use of a public park or play-
ground, or building, should be issued only on con-
dition that the holder of such permit furnish and
display the Flag of the United States in a prominent
place during such use or occupancy.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIGNALS ON BOSTON STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automobile warning signals at each end of the
center span of the railroad bridge on Boston
street, between Ralston street and Blake terrace,
Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
On motion of Coun. WILSON, the Council
voted, at 2.26 p. m., to go into executive session.
The Council reassembled in the Council Chamber
at 3 p. m., Chairman GALLAGHER presiding.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) appropriating $2,500 for Municipal
Employment Bureau, — tha't same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed, yeas 15,
nays — Coun. Roberts — 1.
PAYMENT TO ROBERT F. BRENNAN.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted the following:
Report on petition of Robert F. Brennan (re-
ferred August 13) to be reimbursed for amount
of judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of a motor vehicle belonging to
the City of Boston Fire Department, — recom-
mending passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of four thousand five
hundred dollars be allowed and paid to Robert
F. Brennan in reimbursement for the amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of a motor vehicle belonging to
the City of Boston Fire Department, said sum
to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of investigating into
the matter of there being but 990 women employed
on P. W. A., E. R. A. and C. W. A. projects in
Boston at the present time out of a total employ-
ment of 11,681.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
AUTOMATIC LIGHTS, JAMAICA WAY.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic signal lights at the intersection of the
Jamaicaway, Riverway and Huntington avenue.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING OF SOUTHAMPTON STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave Southampton street.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRANSFER WITHIN SEWER DIVISION.
Coun. FINLEY moved to take from the table
No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Ordered, That under authority of chapter
261 of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to make the following transfer
in the appropriation for Public Works Department,
Sewer Division:
From the appropriation for B, Service Other
than Personal, $25,000, to the appropriation for
3, Equipment, $25,000.
The motion was declared carried.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, that order
was placed on the table some weeks ago pending
the receipt of information as to where the money
was to be spent. We have not as yet received
that information, and I do not think this is the
time to pass this particular order, not knowing
anything about where the money is to go.
Coun. GLEASON — Mr. President, some weeks
ago in the Council I opposed the passage of the
order at the time when it came up, but I will state
to the councilor from West Roxbury that I with-
draw my opposition and am willing to go through
on the order. I now believe the order is O. K.
Some weeks ago I thought there was something
funny about it, but I am now willing to withdraw
my opposition.
The order was passed, yeas 17, nays — Coun.
Roberts — 1.
Adjourned, at 3.06 p. m., on motion of Coun.
GLEASON, to meet on Monday, October 1, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
OITY OF BOSTON PRINTINQ DBTAHTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
325
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council
Monday, October 1, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.. President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Gleason and
Tobin.
JURORS.
Jurors were drawn under the law, Coun.
ROBERTS presiding at the box in the absence of
the Mayor, as follows:
Fifteen traverse jurors, Superior Criminal Courl ,
Second Session, to appear November 5, 1934:
William H. Hall, Ward 4; James A. MePhee,
Ward 9; Warren T. Reilly, Ward 9; Myer S.
Lowenstein, Ward 12; Abraham M. Aronson,
Ward 14; Hyman White, Ward 14; Charles F.
Dolan, Ward 16; Joseph F. Galli, Ward 16;
Thomas P. J. O'Learv, Ward 16; Herman F.
Whitcomb, Ward 16; Sidney S. Cohen, Ward 17;
Frank P. Hiltz, Ward 17; Harry Smith, Ward 17;
Nathan Cooper, Ward IS; John W. Lucas, Ward 20.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Third Session, to appear November 7, 1934:
Alphonse L. Peterson, Ward 4; John E. Clark,
Ward 5; James E. Murphy, Ward S; Helmar
Christensen, Ward 10; Joseph F. Connell, Ward
10; John Noon, Ward 10; Clement S. Gay,
Ward 11; George W. Caverlv, Ward 12; Jeremiah
Flynn, Ward 12; Joseph J. Hart, Ward 12 ; Joseph J.
Riley, Ward 12; Martin N. Crosby, Ward 14;
Philip Shore, Ward 14; Alexander Smith, Ward 15;
Edward J. Leahy, Ward 16; Frank E. Parsons,
Ward 16; John C. Weeks, Ward 16; Gardner W.
Schwartz, Ward IS; George Thomson, Ward IS;
Howard S. Fletcher, Ward 19; Alvin W. Krone,
Ward 19; John S. Frevberg, Ward 20; Ralph 1,.
Huse, Ward 20; John J. McGrath, Ward 20;
Frank A. Barrett, Ward 22; Harold A. Beaton,
Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Fourth Session, to appear November 5,
1934:
John J. Duffy, Ward 1; Thomas J. Conlon,
Ward 3; Lawrence A. Gushee, Ward 5; Harry M.
Staler, Ward 5i James J. Dunlap, Ward 6; Daniel
G. Kendrick, Ward ti; Patrick J. Wallace, Ward 6;
Ralph H. Mendell, Ward S; Leonard G. Brian,
Ward 10; John Christiansen, Ward 11; John
Malynn, Ward 11; Richard Sterling, Ward 11;
Samuel Horlick, Ward 12; .Joseph .1. McDermott,
Ward 12; Jeffrey McGrath, Ward 12; Jacob
Slutsky, Ward 12; Meyer Rosenberg, Ward 14;
David 6. Sandler, Ward 14; William Wellington,
Ward 16; Edwin Otis Brewer, Ward 17; John W.
Carlson, Ward 17; William J. Barry, Ward I'1
\le\ander F. Chisholm, Ward 19; .lames P.
Fennellv, Ward 19; William Haines, Ward 20;
John C. Hobbs, Ward 20; James T. Mulligan,
Ward 20; Andrew Duncan, Ward 21; John I'.
Sullivan, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, First Session, October Sitting, to appeal
November 5, 1934:
Antonio Coviello, Ward 1; Louis P. Grifonc,
Ward 1; Joseph .1. Pcnta, Ward 1; William II
Thornton, Ward 1; .lames Donahue, Ward 2;
William ,1. Home, Ward <•; Jeremiah O'Ki
Ward 6; Michael IV Finn. Ward 7; Herbert
Duxbury. Ward 8j Christopher Hudson, Ward B;
Hyman Cohen, Ward ll; Bernard A. O'Brien,
Ward 11; Gen— i n, tt ird I": Ro: I
Sewoll, w ird 15; John A. Holm, w ard 16;
Kaufman. Ward 16; < Ihnunc E. I 16;
Michael II. Donah te, Ward 17; G I ugh-
lin, W ard Is; I i | I I ■, \\ ,,nl Is;
Samuel DfVn. Ward 18; Benjamin Flax, Ward
18; Frederick K. Brewster. Ward 20; rhom
Fay, Ward 22.
Nineteen traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Third Session, October Sitting, to appear November
5, 1934:
John J. Dronev, Ward 1; Robert Ilillman,
Ward 2; Edward J. Mahoney, Ward 2; Charles
H. Cole, Ward 4; Thomas J. Langan, Ward 9;
Walter E. Lynch, Ward 9; John J. Weiler, Ward
10; Frank W. DeCoster, Ward 12; Nathan Katz,
Ward 12; George II. Smith, Ward 13; John P.
Fleming, Ward 14; Alfred ('. Harrington, W7ard
15; Charles H. Bartlett, Ward 17; John Conway,
Ward 17; Herman IT. Currier, Ward IS; Thomas
E. Marchant, Wrard 20; Samuel Williamson,
Ward 21; Leslie F. Ellsbree, Ward 22; Henry R.
Travis, Ward 22.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fifth Session, October Sitting, to appear
November 5, 1934:
James E. Crottv, Ward 1; Richard A. Mehegan,
Ward 2; John J. Brennan. Ward 3; William O.
Schwab, Ward 3; John J. Gagnon, Ward 4;
John J. Davison, Ward 7; Thomas H. Gorman,
Ward 7; Michael J. McDonough, W'ard 7; John
L. Graham, Ward 11; Thomas A. Shea, Ward 11;
Thomas J. Cummings, Ward 12; Benjamin
Suvalle, Ward 14; Thomas J. Boland, Ward 15;
James E. Donahue, Ward 15; Thomas H. Fitz-
gibbon, Wrard 16; Harold Shore, Ward 16; Henrv
W. Cahill, Ward 17; Robert C. Jordon, Ward 17;
T. Norton Prescott, Ward IS; Richard J. Coughlin,
Ward 20; Clarence W. Wallace, Ward 20; Edward
Clark, Wrard 21; Frank S. Pfleger, Ward 22.
Twenty-two traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Sixth Session, October Sitting, to appear Novem-
ber 5, 1934:
Francis L. Clarke, Ward 1; Patrick Indrizano ,
Ward 1; Leslie D. Logan, Wrard 1; Ellia H.
Yavanian, Ward 2; Fred J. McPherson, Ward 4;
George H. Harding, Ward 5; Joseph W. Bradeen,
Ward 6; Edward J. Balfe, WTard 7; Warren
Calder, Ward 9; Harry J. Williams, Ward 9;
Martin J. Kennedy, Ward 10; Michael J. Murray,
Ward 10; Alfred Bonier, Ward 13; William J.
Sheridan, Jr., Ward 15; Warner D. Smith, Ward
15; Raymond E. Peatfield, Ward 17; George J.
Wall, Ward 17; William R. Wrheeler, W7ard IS;
Frederick W. Herthel, WTard 19; Carl F. Gulat,
W7ard 20; John Henry Junior, Ward 21; Edward
F. Gately,WTard22.
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Seventh Session, October Sitting, to appear
November 5, 1934:
Peter Biggi, Ward 1; George C. Harris, Ward 1;
Jacob Hyman, Ward 3; John L. Murdock, Ward 5;
James M. Dorman, Ward 6; John F. Henneberrv,
Ward S; Thomas J. Hughes, Ward 10; Charles A.
Sprague, W'ard 11; James J. McCarthy, Ward 12;
Arthur V. McDermott, Ward 12; John J. Mollov,
Ward 16; Frank J. Thorn. Ward 16; William J.
Grimes, Ward 17; Robert II. Kchn, Ward 18;
Charles W. Lawrence, Ward 18; Henry W.
Maginot, Ward IS; Howard W. Morrison, Ward
Is; William E. Russell, Ward ls: Char!,
Maurer, Ward 20; Edmund A. Davis, Jr., Ward
21.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
submitted the following appointments, vis. :
\\ eigher of coal: Allan F. Knowlton, 40 Gould
field.
Laid over a week under the law.
TB Ml If SUR\ I \ . I REMONT WO WASH
INUTON STREETS,
The following was received:
City of Id
of the Maj or, September 24,
To the City Council.
Gentl i I herewith transmit a letter from
co Commissioner, relative to an order
i by your honorable body, concer
urvey on Tremonl and Washington
Fill I>1 mi K W M V%
326
CITY COUNCIL.
Boston, September 17, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mayor Mansfield, — In reply to communi-
cation from your assistant secretary, John F.
Gilmore, dated June 13, requesting a report in
connection with the order of the City Council
dated May 2S, 1934, which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission and the
Police Commissioner, through his Honor the
Mayor, be, and hereby are, respectfully requested
to make a check-up and survey for possible im-
provement of traffic conditions on Washington
street and on Tremont street, especially during
the hours, from 9 a. m. to 11 a. m., and from 4 p. m.
to 6 p. m.,"
I am sending you herewith copies of reports sub-
mitted to me by Superintendent of Police Martin
H. King which are self-explanatory.
Very truly yours,
E. C. Httltman,
Police Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Police Department, Bureau of Traffic,
August 16, 1934.
To the Superintendent.
Sir, — With reference to the attached communica-
tion from John F. Gilmore, Jr., assistant secretary,
Office of the Mayor, City Hall, Boston, in relation
to order of the City Council, May 28, 1934, which
order requests consideration and report, addressed
to the Police Commissioner and which reads as
follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission and the
Police Commissioner, through his Honor the
Mayor, be, and hereby are, respectfully requested
to make a check-up and survey for possible im-
provement of traffic conditions on Washington
street and on Tremont street, especially during
the hours from 9 a. m. to 11 a. m. and from 4 p. m.
to 6 p. m.,"
I respectfully report that I directed Sergt. Charles
J. Wallace of this Bureau to make an inspection and
study of the traffic conditions in Washington street
and Tremont street, during the hours of 9 a. m. to
II a. m. and 4 p. m. to 6 p. m., for the purpose of
learning as to whether or not he could find any
traffic conditions that needed correction, which
would result in an improvement in the movement
of traffic in Washington and Tremont streets,
especially during the hours, as mentioned above,
and to report to me the result of his check-up and
survey, as made by him and the other officers from
this Bureau, in conjunction with investigators of the
Boston Traffic Commission, and in such report to
give reasons, if any, that would better traffic con-
ditions in both of these streets.
Attached you will please find report of Sergt.
Charles J. Wallace of this Bureau with reasons
offered as to what, in his opinion, would be the
means of expediting traffic in both Washington and
Tremont streets, all of which I approve and recom-
mend be carried out.
One condition that I have observed recently is
that when persons proceeding along Tremont
street outbound and who wish to make a left turn
into Boylston street easterly are hindered from
entering Boylston street when it is cluttered up
with motor vehicles from Washington street to
Tremont street, thus impeding traffic inbound
when the signal lights are set to go ahead. This
has happened once or twice since traffic has begun
to pick up, of late. It is brought about by the left
turn from Tremont street into Boylston street,
and if this condition continues during the period
of heavy traffic that comes about in the fall, I
will make a recommendation that this left turn,
from Tremont street into Boylston street, easterly,
be abolished, but, as it is now in its trial period,
and which is in effect until October 31, 1934, I
will not offer any opposition to this rule at this
time.
I respectfully request that this report be brought
to the attention of the Mayor's office, as directed.
.Respectfully submitted,
John T. O'Dea,
Lieutenant Commanding,
Bureau of Traffic.
City of Boston,
Police Department,
Bureau of Traffic, July 10, 1934.
Lieut. John T. O'Dea,
Commanding Bureau of Traffic.
Sir, — In compliance with your orders, I re-
spectfully report that I made a survey and check-
up on the movement of traffic in Washington and
Tremont streets, during the hours of 9 a. m. to
11 a. m. and from 4 p. m. to 6 p. m. on the follow-
ing dates: June 25, 27, 29; July 3 and 5, 1934.
This was the result of an order passed by the
Boston City Council on May 28, 1934.
In cooperation with members of the Boston
Traffic Commission, the following is a check-up
of the movement of traffic in Washington and
Tremont streets, during the hours and dates
specified above.
June 25, 1934 — 891 taxicabs going south in
Tremont street, 308 taxicabs going north in
Tremont street, a total of 1,199 cabs; 883 taxicabs
going north in Washington street.
June 27, 1934 — 783 taxicabs going south and
310 taxicabs going north in Tremont street, a
total of 1,093 cabs; 977 taxicabs going north in
Washington street.
June 29, 1934 — 776 taxicabs going south and
287 taxicabs going north in Tremont street,
a total of 1,063 cabs; 942 taxicabs going north in
Washington street.
July 3, 1934 — 741 taxicabs going south and
289 taxicabs going north in Tremont street, a
total of 1,030 cabs; 1,027 taxicabs going north in
Washington street.
July 5, 1934 — 670 taxicabs going south and
381 taxicabs going north in Tremont street, a
total of 1,051 cabs; 967 taxicabs going north in
Washington street.
The above check on taxicabs was made at the
following intersections: Temple place and Tremont
street; Summer and Washington streets.
Of the above number of taxicabs, according to
our checking, approximately 17 per cent of these
cabs operating in Tremont street were cruising,
and on Washington street, approximately 15 per
cent cruising cabs.
On the above named dates, I also had test runs
made with department automobile, M-14, a
Plymouth sedan, over the following streets:
Starting at Washington and Stuart streets, thence
Washington Street North to Brattle street, thence
Scollay square to Tremont street, thence south on
Tremont street to Stuart street, east on Stuart
street to the point of beginning. These test runs
were made between the hours of 9 a. m. and 11 a. m.
and 4 and 6 p. m., which is considered to be the
busiest hours of the day for the movement of
traffic. The average elapsed time on the five
days was fourteen minutes and the distance cov-
ered was 7,650 feet or 1.45 mile.
On the same dates and hours, as the check-up
on taxicabs, the investigators of the Boston
Traffic Commission, working under the supervision
of Traffic Engineer Desmond, took a total count
of all vehicles, other than taxicabs, as follows:
June 25, 1934—1,964 vehicles north, 3,360
vehicles south in Tremont street, a total of 5,324
vehicles.
June 27, 1934—1,889 vehicles north, 3,086
south in Tremont street, a total of 4.975 vehicles.
June 29, 1934—2,119 vehicles north, 2,868
south in Tremont street, a total of 4,987 vehicles.
July 3, 1934—1,861 vehicles north, 3,203 south
on Tremont street, a total of 5,064 vehicles.
July 5, 1934—2,219 vehicles north, 3,267
south in Tremont street, a total of 5,486 vehicles.
This makes a total of 10,052 vehicles going north
in Tremont street for the five days, or an average
of 2,010 for each day; also a total of 15,784
vehicles going south in Tremont street for the five
days, or an average of 3,157 for each day.
June 25, 1934 — 4,270 vehicles going north on
Washington street.
June 27, 1934 — 3,993 vehicles going north on
Washington street.
June 29, 1934 — 3,884 vehicles going north on
Washington street.
July 3, 1934 — 3,801 vehicles going north on
Washington street.
July 5, 1934 — 3,852 vehicles going north on
Washington street.
This makeB a total for the five days of 19,900
vehicles going north on Washington street, or an
average of 3,980 vehicles each day.
I would recommend, for the facilitating of
traffic movement on Washington and Tremont
streets.
That all traffic regulation in Temple place be
abolished and a rule put into effect which would
prohibit parking in Temple place on the north side
for a distance of 100 feet back from Washington
street.
That the taxicab stands, which are now located
in School street, in front of the Parker House, and
OCTOBER 1, 1934.
327
now extend from Tremont street to the side
entrance of the Parker House on School street, be
moved down School street so that they would
extend from the School street entrance of the
Parker House to Chapman place.
That there be a strict enforcement of the parking
rules in Avery street and Haywood place.
Respectfully submitted,
Charles J. Wallace,
Sergeant, Bureau of Traffic.
Placed on file.
RESIGNATION OF CONSTABLE.
Notice was received from Gilbert I. Favor
tendering resignation as constable of City of
Boston.
Placed on file.
BOGANDALE ROAD, WARD 20.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of September 7, 1934, concerning the
acceptance and laying out of Bogandale road,
Ward 20, as a public highway.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners.
September 24, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am returning herewith copy of
City Council order requesting the acceptance and
laying-out ot Bogandale road, Ward 20, as a
public highway.
No plan of this street has been prepared by
our Engineering Division and, notwithstanding the
fact that there is some merit to the request, it is
a project which cannot be undertaken at the
present time owing to the fact that there is very
little money available for street construction,
and the further fact that there are many other
streets awaiting construction which should take
precedence.
Respectfully yours,
Owen A. Gallagher,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
DWINNELL STREET, WARD 20.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of September 7, 1934, concerning the
acceptance and laying-out of Dwinnell street,
Ward 20, as a public highway.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Board of Street Commissioners,
Seplemb, . .'I 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am returning herewith copy of
City Council order requesting the acceptance and
hiying-out of Dwinnell street, Ward 20, as a public
highway.
NO plan of this street has been prepared by our
Engineering Division and, notwithstanding the
ij'i that there is some merit totherequest.il is a
project which oannol be undertaken at t In- present
time owing to the fact thai there is very little
money available fur Streel construction, and the
further fact that there arc many other streets
awaiting construction which should lake pre-
cedence
Respectfully yours,
t >« i s A. Gall vqhbr,
( 'hainnan.
I'lari .1 -Hi 111.-.
WOMEN EMPLOYED ON FEDERAL
PROJECTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 1, 1934.
To the City Council:
Gentlemen, — Upon the adoption of the order by
your honorable body on September 24 that:
"The Mayor of Boston be requested to consider
the advisability of investigating into the matter
of there being but 990 women employed on P.W. A.,
E. R. A., and C. W. A. projects in Boston at the
present time out of a total employment of 11,681,"
a request for a report was sent to the Emergency
Relief Administration of Massachusetts, 49 Federal
street, of which Joseph P. Carney, Esq., is admin-
istrator, and to the local office at 80 Joy street, of
which Thomas F. Sullivan, Esq., is now admin-
istrator. I am inclosing copies of their reports,
and also a copy of a letter, dated June 1, 1934. from
Mr. Carney's office suggesting that a minimum
of 10 per cent of the money allotment be allocated
for women's projects after July 1. C. W. A.
projects are finished and there are no women
employed on P. W. A. The inclosed reports,
therefore, refer to E. R. A. only.
In the report from Mr. Carney's office, it will be
noted that for the week ending September 13, 1934,
out of a total of 11,192 persons employed in Boston,
9,808 were men and 1,384 were women — about
12.3 per cent of the whole number, and 14.11 per
cent of the number of men employed. That
report also shows that the amount of money paid
to the men for that week was $150,846.65 and to
the women $19 415.37, or about 1 1 J per cent of the
whole amount of $170,262.02.
The report from the local administrator's office,
however, brings the report up to and including
September 20. It shows a total of 1,528 women
employed during that week, instead of 990 men-
tioned in the above-quoted order from your
honorable body. It will also be noted that there
were assignments for 125 additional women which
I am informed were contemplated prior to Septem-
ber 20 but had not been completed so that they
could not be included in that week. These addi-
tional assignments would bring the total to 1,653
women employed in E. R. A. with a corresponding
increase in the percentage of women employed.
You will also find in the report from Mr. Carney's
office the comparative figures for the week ending
September 13 for twenty-two other cities in Massa-
chusetts. According to the information which I
have received it is the intention of the Federal and
local E. R. A. authorities to employ a larger per-
centage of women than have been employed
heretofore.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Emergency Relief Administration of
Massachusetts.
Boston, September 26, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mayor Mansfield, — In compliance with
your request relative to the number of women that
are employed on E. R. A. work projects in the
principal cities and towns of the Commonwealth,
we inclose herewith a summary transcribed from
the pay roll records for the week ending September
13, 1934.
Vmi will also find inclosed copy of our Bulletin
E. It. \.M. No. 41, dated June, 1 calling local admin-
istrator's attention to the fact thai needy women
are to have work opportunities provided for them,
in order that they may participate in this program
In establishing a minimum of 10 per cent that
would bo set aside from the monthly allotment for
towns and cities for women's \\ork we did so to
insure women receiving consideration, and beyond
the 10 pcT cent it must be determined on the total
number of men and women applying for work and
■ inn basis ol need.
We trusl 'hat this information will be of assist-
ance to you.
Yours very truly.
Emkiusf.m v Hbliki Administration o>»
Mass irimi; lis.
H. K Mi Ei i laoTT,
ExOOUtivO Director.
328
CITY COUNCIL.
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OCTOBER 1, 1934.
329
Emergency Relief Administration
of Massachusetts,
49 Federal Street, Boston, June 1, 1934.
To all E. R. A. Administrators.
In making the allotments to cities and towns
this month, we have made them on the basis that
women shall have consideration in all cities and
towns.
We do not at this time wish to lay down a hard
and fast rule in regard to this because we do not
wish to upset the present status of affairs in any
city or town, but, we do believe that a minimum of
10 per cent of the money allotment should go to
women's projects. We will not insist on this
amount for this month, but we wish you to take
this into consideration and by the first of July we
shall expect that a minimum of 10 per cent of your
allotment will be allocated for women's projects,
and that you therefore should be looking forward
to this and have them ready by that time.
Joseph P. Carney, Administrator.
•Federal Emergency Relief Administration,
Local Administrator's Office,
80 Joy Street, Boston, September 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
My dear Mr. Mayor, — I have your letter of
September 25 requesting the total number of
women employed on the E. R. A. in the City of
Boston, with their respective classifications and
hourly rates.
On the work projects the women work twenty-
four hours a week, and on the S-G-2 pay roll, or
the Administrative Group, they work thirty-nine
hours a week.
I am inclosing a classification list of women on
our pay roll up to and including September 20,
which shows a total of 1,528 employed, 1,497 of
which are on a relief basis and 31 on a nonrelief
basis.
In addition to the above, the following assign-
ments are being made, which will account for 125
more women on our pay roll.
22 Typists.
8 Cleaners.
56 Sewers.
3 Supervisors.
2 Stenographers.
25 Clerks.
5 Choral Conductors.
1 Power Operator.
1 Costume Designer.
1 Proofreader.
1 Mattress Worker.
This will make a sum total of 1,653 women
employed on the E. R. A.
Very truly yours,
William L. Hayes,
Assistant Administrator,
Local Emergency Relief Administration.
Project No.
2235.
Classification.
Hourly
Rate.
Total
Employees.
Relief.
Non-relief
$0 50
17
17
75
1
1
60
1
1
80
7
7
80
5
5
50
369
369
50
13
13
65
1
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8
8
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14
60
6
6
62J
1
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5
5
1 20
1
1
80 ■
15
15
75
8
8
60
9
9
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1
1
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1
1
1 00
1
1
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1
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75
2
2
60
29
29
1 00
1
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80
1
1
60
23
23
60
23
23
80
1
1
80
3
3
75
1
1
60
5
5
60
10
10
60
5
5
75
1
1
60
4
4
60
2
2
60
9
9
60
14
14
1 00
1
1
60
2
2
75
1
1
60
2
2
80
>>
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75
1
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3
3
1 25
5
5
76
2
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1 06
3
3
1 00
53
53
75
18
1^
84. e
90
90
60
55
55
75
2
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56
75
•>
2
B4-110. .
B4-147. .
C4-60B. .
D1W-20F
D5-134 . .
E3-123 . .
E4W-95A
E5W-120.
F2-104A .
F2-124. . .
F2-U3. . .
F4-37C
F4-67C. .
F4-130.. .
F4-141 . .
F4-U6. . .
F4-U7. . .
F4-U8. . .
F4-U9. . .
F4-U23..
F4W-12C
F4W-13C.
F4W-82C
F1W-105A
F5-102A .
F5-U17. .
Cleaners
Timekeeper
Clerk-typist
Supervisors
Supervisors
Sewers
Sewers
First-aid and cutter. . .
Sewers
Health educators
Clerk-typist
Assistant director
Instructor
Senior Draftsman. . . .
Enumerators
Stenographers
Typists
Field foreman
Skilled clerk
Clerk
Office supervisor
Stenographers
Clerical
Skilled clerk
Special clerk
Typist
Clerk
Special clerk
Special clerk
Stenographer
Cataloguers
Typists
Clerks
Stenographers
Clerk-typists
Cataloguers
Clerks
Typists
Supervisor
Typist
Stenographers
Typist
Special clerk
Stenographers
Typist-clerical
Assistant directors. . . .
Stenographers
Proofroom supervisor .
Skilled clerk
Checkers
Proofreaders
Cataloguers
Graduate nurses
Clerk
Supply clerk
Musician
Writer
Musicians
Stenographers
330
CITY COUNCIL.
Peoject No.
22.35.
( 'lassification.
F6-U11..
F7-U12..
F7-W61E
F8-G-2. .
Actresses
Stenographers
Skilled clerk
Supervisors
Cleaning women
Assignment supervisor
Secretary
Stenographers
Typists
Phone operator
Cleaner
Punch operator
Supervisors
Statistical clerk
Junior clerk
File clerk
Stenographers
Senior clerks
Typists
Assistant directors. . . .
Bookkeeper-typists . . .
Office supervisor
Hourly
Rate.
$1 00
75
1 00
75
50
30 00
24 00
21 00
18 00
20 00
18 00
18 00
24 00
18 00
21 00
18 00
18 00
24 00
15 00
21 00
20 00
18 00
Total
Employees.
Kelief.
39
9
36
1
1
2
6
1
1
1
14
3
1
1
1
39
9
36
1
1
2
6
1
1
1
14
3
1
1
1
Non-relief.
TRANSFER OF FUNDS, LAND COURT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith an order pro-
viding for a transfer of funds within the budget
appropriations of the Land Court. This transfer
is necessary to cover a deficit in the office equip-
ment account of the court occasioned by the pur-
chase of a new adding machine to replace one that
has been in use for about fifteen years.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the ac-
companying order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to make the following transfer in
the appropriations for Land Court:
From the appropriation for D, Supplies, $25.90,
to the appropriation for C, Equipment, $25.90.
Referred to Executive Committee.
TRANSFER OF FUNDS, CEMETERY
DIVISION.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I Bubmit herewith an order pro-
viding for a transfer of funds within the budget
appropriations of the Cemetery Division of the
Park Department. This transfer is necessary in
order to take care of bills contracted against the
stable equipment item which was eliminated from
the budget request; to provide markers for new
graves which have to be marked for identification;
and also to cover a deficit in the workmen's com-
pensation item of the budget due to the fact that
there have been more than the ususal number of
accidents this year.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the
accompanying order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to make the following transfer in the
appropriations for Cemetery Division, Park
Department:
From the appropriation for B, Service other than
Personal, $391.65, to the appropriation for C,
Equipment, $241.65; F-ll, Workmen's Compensa-
tion, $150.
Referred to Executive Committee.
REMOVAL FROM OFFICE OF
LOUIS C. TIGAR.
The following was received:
City of Boston
Office of the Mayor, September 26, 1934.
To the City Clerk.
You are hereby notified that I have this day
removed from the office of weigher of coal, Louis C.
Tigar, 130 Nicholas street, Everett, on account of
his conviction in the Brighton Court of attempted
fraud in the delivery of coal.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
WITHDRAWAL AND APPOINTMENT OF
CONSTABLES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 1, 1934.
Boston City Council, Council Chamber, City Hall
Boston.
Gentlemen, — The following names are withdrawn
from the list of constables submitted by me to your
honorable body on April 16, 1934: Lawrence F.
McEachern, Henry Markow, William Schneider.
Subject to confirmation by your honorable body,
I hereby appoint the following named persons as
constables of the City of Boston, authorized to
serve civil process upon filing bonds: Patrick J.
Ouinn, Alfred Blaustein, Eugene Blinderman,
David Bashitsky.
Respectfully yours,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Margaret A. Bee, for compensation for damage
to property at 67 Preble street, caused by firemen
Boston Baking Company, for refund on refuse
tickets.
Israel Cohen, for compensation for damage to
truck by city wagon.
Trustees of EBtate of James Collins, for com-
pensation for damage to property at 7 Bartlett
street, Roxbury, caused by city truck.
Kathryn M. Crowley, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 3928 Wash-
ington street, Roslindale.
John A. Donoghue, for compensation for dam-
age to car caused by an alleged defect in Gallivan
Boulevard.
Timothy Finn, for compensation for damage to
property at 27 Trescott street, caused by overflow
of sewerage.
OCTOBER 1, 1934.
331
Mary A. Foley, for compensation for damage to
property at 45 Pierce avenue, Dorchester, caused
by change of grade of street.
Horry A. Gilbert, for refund on fees paid for
signs at 15 and 25 Edgerly road, Boston.
Fannie Green, for compensation for damage to
garbage container by ashmen.
Edwin J. Harris, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 4320 Washington
street, Roslindale.
Morgan Brothers Creameries, for compensation
for damage to property at 10 and 12 Lansing
street, Roxbury, by leak in water pipe.
Evelyn M. Sherman, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at Northern
and Atlantic avenues.
Neptune Garage, for refund on refuse tickets.
APPOINTMENT OF MICHAEL J. BROPHY.
Notice was received from the Mayor of appoint-
ment on September 27 of Michael J. Brophy of
257 Webster street, East Boston, to be one of
Board of Assessors to take place of David B.
Shaw, who has been acting assessor.
Placed on file.
APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY ASSESSORS.
Notice was received from the Mayor of appoint-
ment on September 27 of William F. Morrissey
of 1636 Columbia road, South Boston and Francis
J. McFarland of 44 Melville avenue, Dorchester,
to be deputy assessors of City of Boston.
Placed on file.
SIDEWALK ASSESSMENTS.
Communications were received from the Com-
missioner of Public Works, together with orders
covering assessment of half of amount .of cost of
constructing sidewalks on owners of estates
bordering thereon, viz.:
Half Cost-
Blue Hill avenue, Wards 12 and 14 ... . 51,210 97
Westbourne street, Ward 20 41S 91
Woodman street, Ward 11 585 24
Summer street, Ward 20 1,484 95
Washington street, Ward 11 696 92
Orders severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
REPEAL OF NEW PARKING LAW.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Legislative Committee of
the City Council be requested to file a bill with
the incoming Legislature providing for the repeal
of the new parking law which becomes effective
today.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I think
that this new parking law is one of the worst
pieces of legislation that has been enacted during
the last year. It bids fair to cause no end of
trouble. One of its outstanding features is that
it places the police of Boston in the position of
being judge and jury on particular violations.
I believe it is going to work an undue hardship on
the people of Boston coming into the city to do
their business and their shopping, and it is also
going to react against the merchants of the City of
Boston in the transaction of their business. I
have spoken to some of the clerks of court and
captains of police in regard to this legislation,
and they practically unanimously agree thai it is
a bad law and that it should be repealed. There-
fore, I am asking that the Legislative Committee
of the Council be requested to file a bill with the
incoming Legislature providing for the repeal of
the law.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, il would
seem to me, sir, in a matter of thin kind, dealing
with a law that has just been passed and has not
yet gone into operation, that we would be a litilt*
quick on the trigger m passing at this lime under
suspension of the rules an order requesting its
repeal. Undoubtedly the present situat n
very unsatisfactory, and possibly under I lie law
it may be more unsatisfactory, We d ' know,
hut certainly the present situation is very im-
nry. the slrcets of the City of I
being largely used for the free parking of auto-
mobiles, with consequent interference to people
doing business in Boston through the blocking of
the streets and the difficulty that people have in
obtaining proper access to and egress from the
stores where they want to do business. People
are now parking all day in the streets cars that
should be placed in a garage or in an open parking
space. It seems to me a bad situation that we are
suffering from at the present time, a situation
I hut tins law was intended to alleviate or prevent.
I trust, therefore, that we will not act under sus-
pension of the rule on the present proposition.
The rule was declared suspended. Coun.
SHATTUCK doubted the vote and asked for a
show of hands. The Council, by show of hands,
refused to suspend the rule, and the President
declared the order referred to the Executive Com-
mittee.
CHANGE OF PARKING LIMIT HOURS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to change
the present parking limit of one hour to three
hours.
Coun. GOLDMAN — Mr. President, adding to
what Councilor Brackman has said, I wish to say
that I quite agree with him. I think it is time
that we grasped the seriousness of the situation
and took steps to stop quickly, even if it may be
considered that we are quick on the trigger, what
is now confronting the people of this city under
the new parking law. I think this order I have
offered is one that will change the whole situation
and remove the present difficulty. To change
the one-hour parking rule to three hours will
clarify the whole situation. I understand that
the law is not intended to be paramount to parking
regulations of the cities or towns, that it does not
contemplate changing the parking rules prevailing
in the different communities. We have here,
for example, a rule that allows in certain places
one hour parking. To allow three hours of park-
ing will not interfere with the law, and at the same
time will not work an injustice to those who are
coming in to Boston to do business. So, Mr.
President, I move, a suspension of the rule and the
passage of the order at this time.
President DOWD — The Chair feels, inasmuch
as the previous order dealing with parking has
been referred to the Executive Committee, that
this also should be so referred.
The order was referred to the Executive Com-
mittee.
AUTOMOBILE WARNING SIGNS, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to place
automobile warning signs reading "Look Out for
Children" in front of all schools in Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SIDEWALKS ON SOUTHAMPTON STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
To be done under P. W. A. Docket No. 4205,
National Industrial Recovery Project.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Southampton
Btreet (both sides), Andrew s. inure to Massa-
chusetts avenue. Wards 7 and 8, in Iront of the
estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk to be
from :S to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining,
to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built of
artificial stone, with granite edgestones, under the
provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of
1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PLACING OF E, K. \. MEN.
Coun SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the 1). H. A. administrator for
the City of Boston, Col. Thomas F. Siullvan, he
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
consider the advisability of assigning men to
E, li. \. projects nearest to their homes, whereevor
possible.
Coun. SEL\ ITEL1 v Mr. President, 1 have
in mind the great Dumber of projects now under
way in this city and the fact that in many eases
33'2
CITY COUNCIL.
men assigned to them are being sent to jobs at a
considerable distance from their residences, where
they could be assigned to something nearby.
In East Boston, for example, we have men from
West Koxbury and Hyde Park, and men from
East Boston are going to West Roxbury and Hyde
Park. I can cite a number of cases where men
are thus assigned and, in spite of the small pay
they are getting, S12 a week, suffer the burden of
additional carfare. Therefore, wherever possible,
I think it would be a good, practical idea to have
men in East Boston assigned to projects in East
Boston and men in other sections assigned to
projects near where they live. I believe such a
system could be equitably worked out. But
where men from different parts of the city are
sent to other sections of the city, it seems a little
unfair and unjust.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNAL, CHARLES AND
CHESTNUT STREETS.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner of the
City of Boston be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to install an automatic traffic signal at
the intersection of Charles and Chestnut streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
SETTLEMENT OF CLAIMS.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the assistants to the Corporation
Counsel and investigators of the Law Department
be empowered to settle any and all claims against
the City of Boston up to and including the sum of
fifty (50) dollars, such settlement being subject to
the approval of the Corporation Counsel.
Referred to the Committee on Ordinances.
SWIMMING POOL, FRANKLIN PARK.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request the
Emergency Relief Administration to establish as
an E. R. A. project the construction of a swimming
pool for children under sixteen years of age, using
as a location the subterranean reservoir recently
discovered in Franklin Park.
Coun. GOLDMAN— Mr. President, a sub-
terranean cavern was recently discovered in
Franklin Park. Subsequent investigation proved
that it was formerly used as a reservoir for the
storage of water. It is, of course, city property,
but has not been used for a number of years. As
a reservoir it is now unnecessary and obsolete.
The cavern is substantially constructed, and is, or
could easily be made, watertight. But no one has
yet suggested a practical use for it. Consulta-
tion with an engineer discloses the fact that it
would be a comparatively simple operation to
convert this unused cavern into a modern swim-
ming pool. A committee has been formed, headed
by the Blue Hills News and various organizations
in Dorchester who are continually endeavoring to
do something for the district, with a view to having
this idea put through. There is now no swimming
pool in that place, and it is felt that the children
in the vicinity and those visiting the place have as
much right to the wholesome, invigorating benefits
of a swimming pool as have the children of the
North and West Ends, who make such use of the
facilities afforded them at the Frog Pond on Boston
Common. We therefore make the suggestion that
this be dealt with as an E. R. A. project, as it
would provide in Boston just such a thing as the
E. R. A. administrator is looking for.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
REPAVING OF BEECH GLEN STREET,
WARD 11.
Coun. ENGLERT offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Department,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to
repave Beech Glen street, Ward 11.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ADDITIONAL LIGHTING, FALLON FIELD.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to provide
additional lighting facilities on Fallon Field,
Roslindale.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
STOP SIGNS, WARD 21.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to place
stop signs on/at Chestnut Hill and Wallingford
road, Ward 21.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 17.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner be, and
hereby is, requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to consider early recommendations either for
suitable traffic signals or traffic officer protection
in the Pierce square section of Dorchester, at the
intersection of Dorchester avenue and River
street, Ward 17.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ADDITIONAL POLICE AT VOTING
PRECINCTS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor, be, and he
hereby is, requested to provide one additional
police officer at each of the 367 voting precincts in
the City of Boston on November 6, such officers
to be sworn in as special officers for election day,
to be appointed from the present civil service list
of men eligible for appointment to the Boston
Police Department.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I am moved
to introduce this order for the placing of an addi-
tional police officer at each one of the 367 voting
precincts of the city first, because of what I believe
was fraudulent voting in many wards of the city
at the recent primary, which perhaps will be
explained at some length before the 6th of Novem-
ber; but chiefly perhaps because of the complaints
throughout the city that it was almost an impossible
job for the average woman, let alone the average
man, to get into the polling booths before the
close of the voting hour. I realize that this is not
a new situation, that under the present practice,
with the limited number of police officers available
for election duty, little can be done in preventing
voters from being unimpeded, so far as the police
are concerned. Additional police will be needed
for the purpose, for special duty at this particular
time, and the department would probably not be
in a position as things stand to furnish them. But
we certainly do not want to have the voters of
this city impeded on election day, and I therefore
suggest that 367 extra officers be sworn in on that
day. There would be naturally, in appointing
these officers, no suggestion of partisanship. It is
obvious that they would have to be appointed
from the civil service list of men eligible for
appointment to the department.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
REMOVAL OF SHADE TREES.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Department,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed,
having in mind statutory provisions relative to
the removal or destruction of shade trees, not to
remove shade trees on Adams street, Dorchester,
incident to any construction and sidewalk work
on said street.
Passed under suspension of rule.
RESCISSION OF SIDEWALK ORDERS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the action of the City Council
in passage of lien order for sidewalk along the
OCTOBER 1, 1934.
333
southerly side of Adams street, Dorchester, of
September 24, 1934, with approval by the Mayor
of said order, be, and the same hereby is, rescinded
and revoked, and that order for sidewalk on the
northerly side of Adams street passed by the
City Council July 31, 1933, and approved by the
Mayor, also be rescinded and revoked, and further
that order for sidewalks on both sides of Adams
street, passed December 19, 1932 and approved
by the Mayor, be rescinded and revoked.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, with reference
to these orders providing for rescission and revoca
tion of sidewalk orders on Adams street, un-
fortunately they have picked a street in my ward
where it will be" necessary, incidental to the con-
struction of sidewalks, to cut down shade trees
that have been growing probably for fifty to
seventy-five years. If they must resurface the
street, well and good, but the people of the street
have filed an almost unanimous petition against
the removal of these trees. To carry through the
contemplated work would mean largely the
removal of valuable trees, to no good purpose.
Some of the sidewalk, for instance, is near the
Cedar Grove Cemetery, and it is hardly to be
supposed that times are so bad even now that
the dead will turn over in their graves and come
out and use the sidewalk in the Cedar Grove
section of the city.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
RESTORATION [OF BUILDING DEPART-
MENT EMPLOYEES.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor, be and
he hereby is, respectfully requested to instruct
the Building Commissioner to restore to their
positions, civil service employees of that depart-
ment, whose restoration by October 1 was promised
prior to City Council passage of order permitting
requested step-rate increases for the year 1934.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, if my memory
serves me correctly, before the great majority of
the Council passed the order requested by the
Mayor for the step-rate increases — which, as
explained at the time, primarily concerned men
receiving less than 51,600 a year, we were ab-
solutely assured by representatives of the Mayor's
and Budget Commissioner's offices that furloughs
were to be called off, and that men in the employ
of the Building Department, supposedly protected
by civil service for many years, would be restored
to their positions. I, for one, and I think other
members of the Council, felt that we were assured
that men who had held those jobs in the Building
Department and who had been thrown absolutely
out of work, would be restored to their positions
by October 1, that the furloughs would lie called
off and the men would be placed back at work by
that time. They will tell us perhaps that the
Building Department is not doing any business,
but I am assured by builders in this city that,
because of the fact that the department is short-
handed, it is necessary to keep plumbers and
others in the department around until live or
six o'clock in the afternoon, in order to reach
the various buildings. I feel now, in view of
what was promised to us in Executive Commit tee,
that the men who were on furlough in that depart-
ment would be placed back in theil positions
by the first of October, that that time lias now
arrived and that the promise should be kept.
Therefore, I have introduced this order.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
VALIDITY OF REVOCATION OF LICENSES.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel, through
his Honor the Mayor, be, and he hereby is, re-
spectfully requested to advise the City Council
forthwith whethei ill sets and findings oi thi
Licensing Board for the Citj of Ho.it on during the
past month, particularly with reference to
tion of licenses, and having in mind the reported
physical incapacity ol one member of the Bo rd
during paid period, are valid under chapter I II) of
the General Laws, chapei 284 ol ''" lol ol L933,
and any amendments therein.
Coun. WILSON Mr. President, my purpose in
introducing tins ordei is because I have learned,
I regret to state, thai ol the three members of the
Licensing Board who havo been acting upon these
licensing matters during the past month, one has
been absent because of the condition of his health
He has been incapacitated for at least a month, and
I believe, in view particularly of some of the drastic
steps that have been taken in the last month or
two in the matter of revocation of licenses, the
Corporation Counsel should advise the City
Council whether the acts of the Board, in view of
the said physical incapacity of one of its members
during that time are valid. While I suppose the
member received notices of the meetings, the fact
is that at that time he was incapacitated and in the
hospital.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
VOTING REGISTRATION AND LISTING.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Election Commis-
sioners be, and hereby is, requested, through his
Honor the Mayor, to furnish the City Council
with the following information forthwith, viz., as
of April 1 for each year from 1924 to 1934, inclusive
in each of the twenty-two wards of the City of
Boston, (1) the number of registered Democrats,
(2) the number of registered Republicans, (3) the
number of registered voters having no party
designation, and (4) the total number of registered
voters, and further
Ordered, That at the early convenience of the
Board the above information be furnished the
City Council by wards with reference to each of
the 367 voting precincts in the city.
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to advise
the City Council forthwith with reference to the
following:
1. Under the provisions of chapter 254 of the
Acts of 1933, must the annual police listing in the
various wards and precincts of Boston be made on
January 1 rather than April 1, 1935?
2. Must the annual police listing for 1935 be
made on January 1 irrespective of whether the
City Council makes a new division of the city into
wards during 1934?
3. Must the City Council, prior to December
31, 1934, make a new division of the city into
wards?
4. If the City Council makes a new division of
the wards in Boston, must such new division be for
1935, or may 1936 be made the effective date?
5. Must the registrars, under section 15 of
chapter 254 of the Acts of 1933, prepare voting
lists by wards and precincts in Boston as of January
1, 1935, if a new divsion of wards is made by the
City Council prior to December 31, 1934?
6. With reference to the real estate tax bills
recently sent out to property owners in Boston, is
the amount of each tax bill at the rate of S37.10
per thousand for the entire calendar year of 1934,
or for the final nine months of the current year,
with a new tax bill to be rendered for the entire
calendar year of 1935.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, with regard
to the sixth paragraph in the second order, I have
my own opinion as to the facts, but I have received
so many comments from constituents, who have
alleged that they are receiving a tax bill for nine
in. mi lis merely, that I would like to have the thine
settled once and for all as a matter of public
records. So far as the other points upon which
information is asked are concerned. I think they
request information upon which the Council should
have — and I believe the other members will agree
with nil — in view of questions that will arise m
this body. As I understand the law, it will not
only bo necessary for the Assessing Department to
make its assessments as of January 1 of ne\ i year,
ol \pril l, but the Police Department will
also he expected In do the police listing B8 "I New
Year's Day instead of the first of April. 1 under
stand thai the I',. lire Department IB supposed to
Bend OUl 355,000 postcards, and thai they anil the
Assessing Department must repair a list of all the
polls of the Citj ol Boston is of January 1. by
wards and precincts. So it "ill be an inter
thing at leas- i what pro,,, lure will be
followed by the City oi Boston if we are possibly
le the city into wards and preemets before
tiie 31 of December, with the problem of making
all the data and maps available for not only the
Assessing Department bill the Police Department
to do their work before the first of January.
i ■■ order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
334
CITY COUNCIL.
SALE OF UNCLAIMED BAGGAGE.
Coun. WILSON, for Coun. FITZGERALD,
submitted report on petition of New York, New
Haven & Hartford Kailraod (referred September
24) to sell unclaimed baggage — recommending
passage of the accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the New York, New Haven and
Hartford Railroad be authorized to sell at public
auction, on or before November 15, 1934, the
articles remaining unclaimed in the possession of
said railroad in the City of Boston.
Report accepted, order passed.
FURNIVAL ROAD, WARD 19.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to accept and lay our Furnival road,
Ward 19, as a public highway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
STOP SIGNS, WARD 11.
Coun. ENGLERT offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to
place stop signs at the corner of Amory street and
Boylston street, Ward 11.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE, AMERICAN LEGION
DELEGATES.
President DOWD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Boston City Council request
the Mayor to grant leave of absence with pay to
the delegates and alternates, to attend the Annual
Convention of the American Legion to be held in
the City of Miami, Florida, from the 18th of
October to November 2, inclusive.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of requesting the
Federal authorities to employ at least 2,000 women
out of the total of 11,500 odd now working on
P. W. A..E.R. A. andC.W. A. projects in Boston.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, a week or
two ago I drew the attention of his Honor the
Mayor to the fact that, according to the figures I
had in my possession, but 900 out of about 11,500
now working on P. W. A., E. R. A. and C. W. A.
projects in Boston, were women. My figures came
from the United States Census Bureau dealing with
these projects, and were as of January 1, 1934.
As reported in the Boston newspapers of September
2, 1934, it seems that the Mayor has found that the
number of women so employed, instead of being
900, is 1,300 odd. But I certainly think that even
1,300 odd is a very small proportion of women out
of the 11,500 odd so employed. I believe that is
particularly so when we consider the large number
of women all over this city who are bringing up
their little families and who are struggling to do
their best in destitute circumstances. Conse-
quently, I feel that the Mayor should be requested
to consider the advisability of asking the Federal
authorities to employ at least 2,000 women out of
the total of 11,500 odd now working on P. W. A.
E. R. A and C. W. A. projects in Boston. I feel
that that is very little to ask.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
STUDY OF ADDITIONAL REVENUE.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of ordering an imme-
diate study to be made of possible methods of
obtaining additional revenue by the City of Boston
so that a comprehensive, well thought out plan can
be presented to the Legislature.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, within a few
months we will be going to the Legislature and
there will be a great hulls balloo as to how the city
is going to get more money. Now is the time to
prepare the ground work so that a comprehensive,
well thought-out plan may be presented to the
Legislature.
The order was passed, under suspension of the
rule.
R. F. C. AID IN TAX PAYMENTS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston consider the
advisability of conferring with Jesse H. Jones,
chairman of the Reconstruction Finance Cor-
poration on a plan whereby the R. F. C. would aid
City of Boston property owners in meeting their
real estate tax payments.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, at the present
time some of the leading financial men in the
principal cities of America are importuning Mr.
Jones to help out their cities in the matter of taxes.
I understand that no representative of Boston is
on the ground to approve or join in any such plan
as may be presented. It seems to me that Boston
should have somebody there, since we; have an
immense volume of unpaid taxes today and are
facing a very serious situation in this respect.
Boston should have somebody working with that
group from other cities.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
FAIR TRIAL FOR NEW PARKING LAW.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of doing all
possible to give the new "parking tagging" law
a fair trial and thorough trv-out.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, the Mayor
should do all in his province to see to it that the
new Boston "parking tagging" law be given a
fair try-out. A great furore goes up whenever any
new traffic law is put into effect. It soon dies
down. The commotion caused by this new
parking law will soon die down. The law may
have to be changed, revised, but let's give it a
fair trial. The problem is not. easy of solution.
Boston haB the smallest area of streets in the
"down-town" congested area of any large American
city, less than 25 per cent of our total street area
being in the "down-town" area. We have space
for 2,300 autos to park at one time in the down-
town area; 25,000 would like to park. If autos
were allowed to park everywhere, we could only
park 3,700 autos. The last traffic count shows
90,000 autos coming into the down-town area
of Boston on a business day. Today in this
area we have "open air" parking spaces for about
5,000 cars, and garages that, will park 15,000
more. We soon will have "open-air" parking
spaces, ample for all. Buildings unable to pay
high taxes are being pulled down right and left,
to make way for "open-air" parking spaces.
The Massachusetts Judicial Council, the Special
Crime Commission, the National Safety Council
and others have recommended laws somewhat
similar to that just put into effect in Boston.
Let's give it a fair trial.
The order was referred to the Executive Com-
mittee.
PAYLESS FURLOUGHS IN HEALTH
DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Health Commissioner of the
City of Boston, through his Honor the Mayor, be
requested to send to the Council a copy of his
order of September 28, 1934, continuing payless
furloughs in his department and rescinding a
previous order.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, it is un-
fortunate that the financial structure of the City
of Boston should have been injected as it was into
the recent campaign. The order went out a few
days before election that all furloughs were to be
eliminated. Those of us who questioned that
order, knowing the financial condition of the city ,
were denounced. A few days ago, September 28,
an order came from the Health Department to
the effect that in that department the furloughs
OCTOBER 1, 1934.
335
were still in effect. That was eight days after
the primary. Now, get me right. I am not
objecting to the furloughs, but I am objecting
to the singling out of one department, covering
nurses and others, while such furloughs are dis-
continued in all or most of the other departments.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
TEN PER CENT CONTRIBUTION BY
CERTAIN OFFICIALS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of advising the Council
as to who the high-salaried city officials were who
voluntarily contributed at the request of the
Mayor, an extra 10 per cent or more of their
salaries for unemployment relief.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, the Mayor of
Boston has issued a public statement, in effect
that, while he requested the high-salaried city
officials to pay an additional 10 per cent into the
city treasury, most of them refused, or, as a
matter of fact, did not do so. The newspapers
carried the statement from the Mayor that certain
high-salaried officials had contributed. I am
going to ask who they were, — not who the others
were who did not do so, — with 100,000 or more in
Boston destitute.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
CHARLESTOWN IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request the
new housing director, Harold Ickes, Secretary of
the Department of the Interior, to appropriate a
sum sufficient to remove all buildings, as a housing
project for Boston, on the lefi-hand side of Main
street, Charlestown, running from City square, to
Sullivan square. Also to include this with the
proposed widening of Rutherford avenue. In this
program could also be included the removal of the
Elevated, which is now standing over thirty years.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LAND FOR PARKING SPACE.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to consider the feasibility and advisability of
securing, within the city limits, land for a free
municipal parking space, as near to the heart of
the business district as possible.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted the following:
1. Report on petition of George L. Fenderson
(referred August 27) to be reimbursed for amount
of judgments issued against him on account of
acts as a member of Boston Police Department, —
recommending passage of the accompanying order,
viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of six hundred and four
dollars and four cents be allowed and paid to
George L. Fenderson in reimbursement for the
amount of judgments issued against him on ac-
count of his acts as a member of the Boston Police
Department, said sum to be charged to the Reserve
Fund.
Report accepted; order passed.
2. Report on iii'liliou of Jeremiah < '. liresnaliaii
(referred August 13) to be reimbursed for amount of
judgment issued against him on account of acts as
operator of motor truok belonging to City of
Boston, Public Works Department, Sanitarj
Division, — recommending passage of t ho acoom
panying order, viz. :
1 'i dered, That the sum of fortjr-1 luce dollars and
seventy cents bo allowed and paid to Jeremiah ('.
I '.i '"in ili i ii in reimbursement for the amount ol
judgment issued against him on aocount of his
arts as operator of : tor truck belonging to the
i ity "i Boston, Public Works Depart ment . Sani-
tary Division, said sum to be charged lo the lie
serve Fund.
Report accepted; said order passed.
3. Report on petition of Edward Murphy
(referred August 13) to be reimbusred for amount
of judgment issued against him on account of acts
as operator of motor vehicle belonging to City of
Boston, Public Works Department, Sewer Divi-
sion,— recommending passage of the accompany-
ing order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of sixty-eight dollars
and ninety cents be allowed and paid to Edward
Murphy in reimbursement for the amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of a motor vehicle belonging to
the City of Boston, Public Works Department,
Sewer Division, said sum to be charged to the
Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; said order passed.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 3.16 p. rn., on motion of
Coun. DONOVAN, to take a recess subject to the
call of the Chair. The members reassembled in
the Council Chamber and were called to order by
President DOWD at 4.33 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following reports, viz.:
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred September 24) requesting transfer of sum
of $60,000 from income of George F. Parkman
Fund to Maintenance and Improvement of the
Common and Parks in Existence on January 12,
1887 — recommending that same be passed.
Report accepted; said order passed, yeas 16,
nays 0.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) providing for transfer of funds
within appropriations of Cemetery Division of
Park Department, from appropriations for B,
Service Other than Personal, $391.65, to C, Equip-
ment, $241.65, and F— 11, Workmen's Compensa-
tion $150, — recommending that same ought to
pass.
Report accepted; order passed, yeas 16, nays 0.
3. Report on message of Mayer and order
(referred today) transferring $25 in Land Court
appropriation from D, Supplies, to C, Equip-
ment,— recommending that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; order passed, yeas 16, nays 0.
4. Report on order (referred today) relative to
municipal parking spaces, recommending passage
of accompanying new draft, viz.:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to consider the feasibility and advisability of
securing, within the city limits, land for municipal
parking spaces, as near to the heart of the business
districts as possible.
Report accepted; order passed.
5. Report on order (referred today) that the
Mayor request the Police Commissioner to cancel
and destroy all tags issued for violation of parking
laws which have not been filed in court prior to
October 1, 1934, — recommending that same ought
to pass.
Report accepted; order pased.
COMPLAINTS IN RE NEW PARKING LAW.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor tile Mayor, lo keep a
record of all complaints received by them regard-
ing the enforcement of the new parking law, con-
sisting of t he name and address of the complainant
and whether said complainant is employed in
Boston or visiting Huston for tho purpose of
.shopping.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
i "I I MB1 3 PARK.
Coun, KERRIGAN offered the following:
l 'ni. i.il. i in i his Honor the Mayor be requested
to include in his P. \\ . \. program n sum sufficient
to provide for the erection of BO indoor gymnasium
"ii Columbus Pork, South Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
336
CITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to furnish
the City Council with an estimate of the cost of
erecting and equipping an indoor gymnasium on
Columbus Park.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
EMPLOYMENT OF CITIZENS.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to confer with the Federal authorities having
charge of the P. W. A. projects in which the City
of Boston is a party, and urge the insertion of con-
ditions in all contracts to provide that the con-
tractor shall not make any subcontracts except
with citizens residing in Boston and that subcon-
tractors shall employ only citizens and residents
of Boston.
Coun. DOHERTY— Mr. President, just a word
on that order. I believe it is about time that the
contractors and the citizens of the City of Boston
were protected against outside contractors coming
into the city. On the P. W. A. contract at the
City Hospital I know that the Ouincy Wrecking
Company and other outside concerns are working,
while contractors of the City of Boston are left
outside. Therefore, I move a suspension of the
rule and the passage of the order.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
EXEMPTION OF DOCTORS FROM
PARKING LAW.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be in-
structed, through his Honor the Mayor, to make
all doctors immune from the new parking laws.
Referred to the Committee on Rules.
ELECTION RETURNS.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Messenger be directed
to make arrangements for receiving election re-
turns on the day of the state election, the expense
attending the same to be charged to the appropria-
tion for City Council, G-3, Election Keturns.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
It was voted, on motion of Coun. FISH, that
when the Council adjourn it be to meet on Mon-
day, October 15, 1934, at 2 p. m.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. ENGLERT, at
4.46 p. m., to meet on Monday, October 15, 1934,
at 2 p. m,
CITY Of BOSTON PRINTING DBTARTMBNT
CITY COUNCIL.
337
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, October 15, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Brackman
and Green.
REPORTS FROM PUBLIC WELFARE
OVERSEERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit reports from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare for the months
of February, May, June and July, in accordance
with your order of January 22, 1934.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
October 2, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
requesting that the Board of Overseers of the
Public Welfare be requested to furnish the City
Council monthly, as soon as may be after the end
of each month, beginning with the month of Jan-
uary, certain statistical information, the following
statement is respectfully submitted:
1.
Case Load at the End of February.
Number of cases being aided at end of February:
Dependent aid 24,723
Mothers' aid 1,501
Old age assistance 3,771
Total 29,995
2.
Number of recipients dropped from the rolls
during the month, 843.
3.
Number of recipients of aid added to rolls
during the month, 1,473.
4.
The expenditures for the month: (a) care of
dependents, (b) mothers' aid, (c) old age assistance.
Expenditures for February:
Dependent aid $798,499 04
Mothers' aid 99,613 00
Old age assistance 113,244 00
Total $1,011,356 04
Respectfully,
John C. L. Dowi.ino,
Executive Director.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
August 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
dated January 22. 1934. requesting thai the Hoard
of Overseers of the Public Welfare be requested
to furnish the City Council monthly, as soon as
may be after the end of each month, beginning
with the mouth of January, certain statistical
information, the following statement is r
fully submitted:
I.
Case Load in the End of May.
Answer.
Number of caseB being aided at end of May;
Dependent aid 24 I i8
Mothers' aid 1,408
Old age assistance 3,840
Total 20,805
The number of recipients of aid dropped from
the rolls during the month.
Answer.
3,662.
3.
The number of recipients of aid added to the
rolls during the month.
Answer.
2,017.
4.
The expenditures for the month for (a) care of
dependents, (b) mothers' aid, and (c) old age
assistance.
Answer.
Expenditures for the month of May:
Dependent aid $888,256 50
Mothers' aid ' 109,096 00
Old age assistance 108,162 00
Total $1,105,514 50
Respectfully,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
August 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
dated January 22. 1934, requesting that the Board
of Overseers of the Public Welfare be requested
to furnish the City Council monthly, as soon as
may be after the end of each month, beginning
with the month of January, certain statistical
information, the following statement is respect-
fully submitted :
1.
Case Load at the End of June.
Answer.
Number of cases being aided at end of June:
Dependent aid 23,878
Mothers' aid 1.496
Old age assistance 3,838
Total 29,212
2.
The number of recipients of aid dropped from
the rolls during the month.
Answer.
2,037.
3.
The number of recipients of aid added to the
rolls during the month..
Answer.
1,444.
4.
The expenditures for the month for (a) care of
dependents, (b) mothers' aid, and (c) old age
assistance.
Answer.
Expenditures for the month of June:
Dependent aid $759,470 52
Mothers' aid
Old age assistance lOT.'.itiii on
Total »957,76i
Respectfully,
John ('. 1.. DOWLING,
I xecutive 1 (irector.
< !ity of Boston,
i Iverseore of the Public Welfare,
August 27. 10 i
1 1 ■ i rederick \\ . Mansfield,
M iyor of Boston .
Di Sir, Replying to the City Council order
dated January 22, 10 ing that the Board
n| Overseers of the Public Welfare be requested
to furnish the City Council monthl
maj be after the end of each month beginning
338
CITY COUNCIL.
with the month of January, certain statistical
information, the following statement is respect-
fully submitted.
1.
Case Load at the End of July.
Answer.
Number of cases being aided at end of July:
Dependent aid 23,560
Mothers' aid 1,459
Old age assistance 3,810
Total 28,838
2.
The number of recipients of aid dropped from
the rolls during the month.
Answer.
2,567.
3.
The number of recipients of aid added to the
rolls during the month.
Answer.
2,193.
4.
The expenditures for the month for (a) care of
dependents, (b) mothers' aid, and (c) old age
assistance.
Answer.
Expenditures for the month of July:
Dependent aid $751,584 29
Mothers' aid 97,741 00
Old age assistance 105,646 00
Total $954,971 29
Respectfully,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
EXCLUSION OF TRUCKS, WEST CANTON
STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of August 27, 1934, concerning the exclusion
of heavy trucks from West Canton street, Ward 4.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Boston Traffic Commission,
October 8, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated August, 27, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be in-
structed, through his Honor the Mayor, to ex-
clude heavy trucks from West Canton street,
Ward 4.
After investigation, our Engineering Depart-
ment and the Police Department both disapprove
of excluding trucks from this street, and at a
regular meeting of this commission held Thursday,
October 4, 1934, this matter was discussed and it
was voted to reject the request.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
SIGNAL LIGHTS, JAMAICAWAY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of September 24, 1934, concerning the in-
stallation of automatic signal lights at the inter-
section of the Jamaicaway, Riverway and Hunt-
ington avenue.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Boston Traffic Commission,
October 5, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated September 24, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be in-
structed, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic signal lights at the intersection of the
Jamaicaway, Riverway and Huntington avenue.
The above intersection will be the Boston
terminal of the Worcester Turnpike wrhen it is
completed.
I am advised by the State Department of
Public Works that the proposed plans for the
Worcester Turnpike in this area contemplate
drastic physical changes at this intersection.
It is obvious, therefore, that the ends of economy
would not be served by installing a traffic signal
at this point.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
COMPLAINTS IN RE NEW PARKING LAW.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 11, 1934.
To the City CounciJ.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of October 1, 1934, concerning records of
complaints received by them regarding the en-
forcement of the new parking law.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Boston Traffic Commission, October 9, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 1, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to keep
a record of all complaints received by them regard-
ing the enforcement of the new parking law,
consisting of the name and address of the com-
plainant and whether said complainant is employed
in Boston or visiting Boston for the purpose of
shopping.
This commission will keep a record of all com-
plaints received in this office in accordance with
the above request.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
COST OF INDOOR GYMNASIUM,
COLUMBUS PARK.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 11, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Park Department, relative to your
order of October 1, 1934, concerning an estimate
of the cost of erecting and equipping an indoor
gymnasium on Columbus Park.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, October 9, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of October
6 with inclosiire, order from the City Council
requesting that the Park Commission furnish
estimates of the cost of erecting and equipping an
indoor gymnasium on Columbus Park.
To erect an indoor gymnasium with locker
and shower facilities would cost approximately
.$250,000. South Boston has no gymnasium.
I regret to inform you there are no funds available
for this purpose.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed in file.
OCTOBER 15, 1934.
339
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, CHARLES AND
CHESTNUT STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 11, 1934.
To the City" Council.
Gentlemen. — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of October 1, 1934, concerning the installation
of an automobile traffic signal at the junction of
Charles and Chestnut streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Boston Traffic Commission,
October 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 1, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner of the
City of Boston be requested, through his Honor
the Mayor, to install an automobile traffic signal
at the junction of Charles and Chestnut streets.
The installation of this signal would cost ap-
proximately $2,800. No funds are available at
the present time.
Our engineers report that while they are cogni-
zant of the difficulty pedestrians experience in
crossing Charles street at this intersection they
feel that a signal at this point could not be operated
successfully in conjunction with the near adjacent
signals at Beacon street and Charles street and
at Charles street and Mt. Vernon street.
Charles street is one of the most heavily traveled,
if not the most congested street in the downtown
area.
The short blocks in the area between Beacon
street and Revere street make it exceedingly
difficult to majntain even a proximate progression
in the signal system.
The addition of the signal requested would
therefore interfere with the orderly movement of
traffic through Charles street.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed oh file.
CLEANING OF CATCH-BASINS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith without my
signature and with my disapproval the order
adopted by your honorable body on September 24,
1934, appropriating for the Public Works Depart-
ment. Sewer Division, $25,000 by transfer from
B. Service Other than Personal, to C. Equipment.
This order was originally submitted by me to the
City Council on July 30, 1934, where it was
referred to the Executive Committee, and although
the Executive Committee reported that the order
ought to pass on that same day the matter was
held in the City Council and was not passed until
September 24 as above stated.
The purpose of this order was to purchase
catch-basin cleaning equipment so that (he clean-
ing of catch-basins might be done by City of
Boston employees instead of by contract, and it
was thought that the money might better be
expended for the purchase of equipment which
would then lie permanently the property of the
eily, than to expend substantial Sums for cleaning
catch-basins which would have to be repeated
year after year while the city was without neci
machinery.
I have not ohai <1 the opinion which I expressed
in m\ imunioation to the City Counoil on
July 30 and 1 still think it would be advisable for
the city to expend $25,000 for the purchase of
catch-basin machinery, bul unfortunately the
matter has been delayed so long and the Beason
has advanced so far thai it would probably be
impossible to readvertise for bids on the machinery
and io consu ate the purchase ol it in time i"
be of use to the Public Works Deportment before
the weather becomes so eold that th ichinery
could ii"' be used.
Bids were called for by the Superintendent of
Supplies upon July 30, 1934, and he recommended
the letting of a contract to the lowest bidder, but
since the order making the appropriation had not.
been adopted by your honorable body it was
impossible to let the contract; and now under
the law all of these bids originally obtained are
obsolete and it would be necessary to readvertise
for bids for this machinery.
All of these considerations lead me to conclude
that it would be advisable to do whatever remain-
ing catch-basin cleaning is necessary, by contract,
and provide for the purchase of the machinery in
the new budget for 1935.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I ask
unanimous consent to make a statement in re-
gard to this matter.
President DOWD — If there is no objection ,
the councilor will proceed.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I am given
to understand by references in the press that
the City Council is being held responsible for
the holding up of the order referred to. As I
recall, some weeks ago I made a motion to table
the order for the sole reason that no informa-
tion had come to us in regard to this matter upon
which the Council could possibly act intelligently.
It was stated in the paper that with the passage
of the order some men would be put at work who
otherwise would be unemployed, but I would
specifically call attention to the fact that the
order as placed before us dealt with the purchase
of material entirely and had no reference to wages.
One reason also for tabling the order was that
there was no reference in it to the type of equip-
ment to be purchased. The question also oc-
curred to some members of the Council whether
the order as introduced would provide a sufficient
amount of money to purchase equipment for the
whole city, having in mind the old system of
dividing the city up into special districts for this
purpose and awarding contracts for particular
districts. I still am in doubt as to whether
money enough will be provided under the order
to purchase adequate machinery, and I would
suggest, secondly, that we have had no reply
from the Mayor or anybody representing him as
to the kind and type of equipment to be purchased.
The communication was placed on file.
HARMON STREET, WARD 18.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of July 23, 1934, concerning the ac-
ceptance and laying out of Harmon street, Ward 18.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
October 1, 1934.
Hon. Frederick \V. Mansfield,
\l:i\ or ,if Boston.
Dear Sir. — Inclosed please find copy of City
Council order requesting acceptance anil laying
out of Harmon street, Ward 18, together with rc-
quesl for consideration and rei
In reply I wish to state that this project would
cost iii the neighborhood of $10,000. This street
''lines within a class which may be con
favorably when money becomes available for new
st reel construction.
Harmon street is now being advertised for a
public hearing in order to determine the sentiment
ot the property owners with respect to their
willingness to assume betterment assessments.
Vftei I ' is rim " »tll be placed on the list for
ince and construction in the position which
;" 1 1 ir,l deems just and reasonable
the many similar demands coming from other
860| ions of the eily.
Reaped fully.
\ Gali VOHl K.
Chairman.
Placed "n bUe,
340
CITY COUNCIL.
RICHMOND ROAD, WARD 18.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of July 23, 1934, concerning the ac-
ceptance and laying out of Richmond road,
Ward 18.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
October 1, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Inclosed please find copy of City
Council order requesting acceptance and laying out
of Richmond road, Ward 18, together with request
for consideration and report.
In reply I wish to state that this project would
cost in the neighborhood of $15,000. This street
comes within a class which may be considered
favorably when money becomes available for new
street construction.
Richmond road is now being advertised for a
public hearing in order to determine the sentiment
of the property owners with respect to their
willingness to assume betterment assessments.
After the hearing it will be placed on the list for
acceptance and construction in the position which
the Board deems just and reasonable, considering
the many similar demands coming from other
sections of the city.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
REPAVING OF SOUTHAMPTON STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 6, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Acting Commissioner of Public Works, relative
to your order of September 24, 1934, concerning
the repaying of Southampton street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, October 5, 1934.
Mr. John J. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — In reply to your note of October 3
with attached order of City Council requesting
that the Commissioner of Public Works repave
Southampton street, I respectfully report that
this street is included in the list of ten main high-
ways upon which a grant was obtained from the
United States Government.
On September 24 a contract was approved for
the reconstruction of Southampton street for its
entire length and the work of reconstruction is
now in progress.
Respectfully,
Joshua Atwood,
Acting Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, HOMESTEAD AND
HAROLD STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 5, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of August 13, 1934, concerning the installa-
tion of automatic traffic signals at the junction of
Homestead and Harold streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, October 1, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated August 13, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Home-
stead and Harold streets.
Our records of accidents from January 1, 1929,
to date show two accidents at this intersection, both
taking place in 1934, one an Auto v. Taxi, which
happened at 6.30 a. m., another Auto v. Auto at
10 a. m. Comparatively speaking this accident
rate is very low.
To install automatic traffic signals at the inter-
section of Homestead and Harold streets would
cost approximately $2,000.
There are no funds available for the installation
of traffic signals at this location.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
TRANSFERS WITHIN DEPARTMENTAL
APPROPRIATIONS.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 8, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The attached requests for transfers
of funds within departmental budget appropria-
tions have been investigated and approved by the
Acting Budget Commissioner.
I submit herewith the necessary transfer orders
and respectfully recommend their adoption by your
honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to make the following transfer in the
appropriations for Public Works Department,
Central Office:
From the appropriation for D, Supplies, $370,
to the appropriation for B, Service Other than
Personal, $370.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to make the following
transfer in the appropriations for Soldiers' Relief
Department:
From the appropriation for F-8, Special Items,
State and Military Aid, Soldiers' Relief and
Burials, $100, to the appropriation for H, Emer-
gency Relief Projects, $100.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to make the following transfer
in the appropriations for Municipal Court of the
Charlestown District:
From the [appropriation for A-2, Personal
Service, Temporary Employees, $100, to the
appropriation for C, Equipment, $100.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to make the following transfer
in the appropriations for Auditing Department:
From the appropriation for A-l, Personal Serv-
ice, Permanent Employees, $500, to the appropria-
tion for A-2, Personal Service, Temporary Em-
ployees, $500.
Referred to Executive Committee.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
George Aronian, for compensation for injuries
caused by team of Park Department.
Harry Barth, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
Frieda Bielinki, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 86 Ruthven street,
Roxbury.
Rose C. Brooks, for compensation for damage
to property at 21 Florence street, Roslindale, by
blasting.
Earl DiCenso, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Orient avenue,
East Boston.
OCTOBER 15, 1934.
341
Robert A. Dillon, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Chesbrough
road, West Roxbury.
Michael J. and Mary E. Donahue, for compensa-
tion for damage to property at 21 and 23 Lauriat
street, caused by bursting of water main.
Margaret Elliott, for compensation for damage
to clothing caused by an alleged defect on Boston
Common.
Rubin Finklestein, for compensation for damage
to property at 37 Joy street, caused by aBh team.
Mary Foye, for compensation for injuries caused
by an alleged defect in City Hospital yard.
Jacob Gold, for compensation for damage to
property by bursting of water main.
Catherine E. Griffin, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 471 Weld street, West Roxbury,
by broken water main.
George E. Hamel, for compensation for damage
to car by horse van marked "Suffolk County."
Mary K. Henchey, for compensation for damage
to car by ball thrown from Franklin Park.
Daniel Hurley, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 24 Belvidere street.
EarlMacNevin, for compensation for damage to
ear by dump wagon.
John F. Maher et al., for compensation for
damage to property at 37 Hillside street, Roxbury,
by backing up of sewage.
Thomas F. McKenna, for compensation for
damage to car by pane of glass from windows of
Licensing Board, 1 Beacon street.
Rose G. McLaughlin, for compensation for
damage to property at 41 Wallingford road,
caused by water not being turned off.
Alice J. Montague, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect at 31 Bromfield
street.
Thomas J. Murphy, to be reimbursed for execu-
tion issued against him on account of his acts as
operator of city car.
Frank Nelson, for compensation for damage to
car caused by an alleged defect in Congress street.
Anthony Pingiaro, for compensation for injuries
received on ferry boat.
Florence L. Preble, for compensation for in-
juries caused by an alleged defect in City Hall
Annex.
Jennie Rosen, for refund on tax bill paid by
mistake.
Leo M. Slattery, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Cummins Highway.
Samuel Sriberg, for compensation for damage to
property at 1946 Washington street, caused by
break in water pipe.
Gertrude Winslow, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 564 Washington
street.
Henry Quast, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Chelsea Drawbridge.
Albert C. Stoltz, for compensation for damage
to car by city car.
Executive.
Petitions for children under fifteen years of age
to appear at places of public amusement, viz.:
R. H. White Company, R. H. White Hall,
October 6 and 13.
Petition of Mary E. Connelly to be paid an
annuity on account of death of her husband, late
member of Fire Department.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway for license
to operate motor vehicles between Cleveland ( 'irelc
and the Newton-Boston line on Beacon street,
over BeacOD streel (to be operated as required for
large gatherings at BoBton College Athletic
Grounds).
UM'Ui i\ \l UK i '< i\> I'ABI h 's li()\l).
The constable's bond of John F. Welch, having
been duly approved by the Citj Treasurer, was
received and approved.
RESIGNATION' OF DANIEL J. DONO\ W
Notice hum received of I « • -> I >-' 1 1 • i I I' Daniel .1 .
1 lonovan as constable
Placed on file.
ASSIGNMENT OF JUDGES.
Communications were received from Arthur P.
Rugg, Chief Justice of Supreme Judicial Court,
assigning judges as follows:
Arthur W. Dolan of Boston to service on
Administrative Committee of Probate Courts for
term of three years expiring October 1, 1937.
Frederick H. Chamberlain of Worcester as
chairman of Administrative Committee for term
of one year expiring October 1, 1935.
Jesse W. Morton, Reading, Northern District
Appellate Division of District Courts, for period
expiring October 1, 1937.
Philip S. Parker, Brookline, Southern District
Appellate Division of District Courts, for period
expiring October 1, 1937.
Charles L. Hibbard, Pittsfield, and Ralph W.
Robbins, Leominster, Western District Appellate
Division of District Courts, for period expiring
October 1, 1937.
Presiding judges for period expiring October 1,
1935, the following:
Charles L. Hibbard for Western District; Philip
S. Parker for Southern District; Nathaniel N.
Jones for Northern District; these three constitut-
ing the Administrative Committee of District
Courts, and Philip S. Parker designated as chair-
man of Administrative Committee.
Placed on file.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers
and sailors and their families in City of Bo9ton
for month of October, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
STATE ELECTION.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That meetings of the citizens of this
city, qualified to vote for state officers, be held at
the several polling places designated for the pur-
pose by the Board of Election Commissioners, on
Tuesday, the sixth day of November, 1934, for the
election of Governor, Lieutenant Governor, State
Secretary, State Treasurer, State Auditor, Attor-
ney-General, Senator in Congress, Representatives
in Congress, Councilors, Senators in the General
Court, Representatives in the General Court,
District Attorney, Register of Deeds, Clerk of
Supreme Judicial Court, Clerk of Superior Court
for Criminal Business, Clerk of Superior Court
for Civil Business, Board of Apportionment: also to
give in their votes "yes" or "no" on the following
questions:
Question No. 1.
Law Submitted Upon Referendum After Passage.
Shall a law described as follows:
This law amends General Laws, chapter 131, as
previously amended, by repealing section 105A
thereof and adding thereto three new sections,
105B, 10SC, and 114A.
Section 105B provides that whoever uses any
trap or other device for capture of fur bearing
animals, which is not designed to kill such animal
at once or to take it unhurt and which is likely to
cause continued suffering to an animal caught
therein, shall be fined fifty dollars, but traps or
other devices for protection of property, set nol
more than fifty yards from any building, cultivated
plot, or enclosures used for rearing poultry or
game birds, to the use of which the presence of
vermin may be detrimental, are excluded from the
application of this section.
Section 105C provides for the submission to the
voters at a 111 uniei pal elci'tion in am city or town
upon petition, of the question of whether the
operation of seotion L05B shall be suspt
has Keen already suspended, of the qu
whether it shall again lie operative in Such city or
town
Section lll\ pro', ides that the Commissioner
of Conservation may suspend the operation of
Hi ..I not exceeding thirty
days within any specified territory under the
control of m* department.
34'2
CITY COUNCIL.
The law also provides for the submission, by
the selectmen to the voters at a special town meet-
ing in the current year, upon petition, of the
question as to whether the provisions of section
105B shall be suspended in any town: and which
was approved by both branches of the General
Court by vote not recorded, be approved?
Question No. 2.
To obtain a full expression of opinion, voters
should vote on both of the following questions:
(a.) If a voter desires to permit the sale of
any and all alcoholic beverages in this city (or
town) he will vote "YES" on both questions.
(b.) If he desires to permit the sale of wines
and malt beverages only herein, he will vote " NO"
on question 1 and "YES" on question 2.
(c.) If he desires to prohibit the sale of any
and all alcoholic beverages herein, he will vote
"NO" on both questions.
1. Shall licenses be granted in this city (or
town) for the sale therein of ali alcoholic beverages
(whiskey, rum, gin, malt beverages, wines and all
other alcoholic beverages)?
2. Shall licenses be granted in this city (or
town) for the sale therein of wines and malt
beverages (wines and beer, ale and all other malt
beverages)?
Question No. 3.
1. Shall the pari-mutuel system of betting on
licensed hcrse races be permitted in this county?
2. Shall the pari-mutuel system of betting on
licensed dog races be permitted in this county?
Question No. 4.
Shall June seventeenth be made a legal holiday in
Suffolk county?
Question of Public Policy.
(In the Twentieth Suffolk Representative
District only.)
Shall the Representatives in the General Court
from the Twentieth Representative District for
Suffolk County be instructed to vote to request the
President and the United States Senate to enter
into full cooperation and membership in the League
of Nations, with the explanatory reservation that
the United States shall not engage in war with any
nation, except by vote of Congress, as provided in
the United States Constitution, and such other
reservations as they deem wise?
Question of Public Policy.
(In the Fourteenth Suffolk Representative
District only.)
Shall the Representatives in the General Court
from the Fourteenth Suffolk Representative Dis-
trict be instructed to vote in favor of abolishing the
power of the courts to issue injunctions in labor
disputes?
The polls at said meetings shall be opened at
eight o'clock a. m., and closed at eight o'clock p. m.
Ordered, That the City Clerk be hereby di-
rected to give notice of said meetings according to
law.
Passed under suspension of^the rule.
SECTIONS 55, 56 AND 57 OF CHAPTER 54.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the provisions of sections 55, 56
and 57 of chapter 54 of the General Laws be, and
hereby are, suspended and made inapplicable as to
the several questions to be voted upon at the state
election to be held on November 6, 1934.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BRANCH LIBRARY, WARD 15.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor confer with
the Library Trustees with reference to securing a
branch library at Bowdoin street in Ward 15.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APPOINTMENT OF ADDITIONAL
FIREMEN.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to make preparations to appoint at least
one hundred men in the Fire Department.
Coun. MURRAY— Mr. President, I understand
that on January 1 the department was eighty or
ninety men short. Since then, fifty men have been
pensioned in the Fire Department, making a
shortage amounting to in the neighborhood of
one hundred and fifty men. The Fire Department
is one of the most substantial and valuable depart-
ments of the City of Boston, and is under-manned.
I think, therefore, that at least one hundred
additional men should be added at once. In case
of a bad fire the city would be in a deplorable
condition. I hope that the Mayor will take
cognizance of the order.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
FOOTPATH BETWEEN ORMOND STREET
AND BLUE HILL AVENUE.
Coun. GOLDMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Street Laying-Out Depart-
ment be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to accept and construct a footpath between Ormond
street and Blue Hill avenue, the Ormond street
end being near to or opposite the intersection of
Ormond street and Outlook road.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APPOINTMENT OF PATRICK J. HURLEY.
Notice was received from Edward L. Logan,
Judge of Municipal Court of South Boston District,
of appointment as Chief Probation Officer for
Municipal Court of South Boston District of
Patrick J. Hurley, 229 M street, South Boston,
fixing compensation, subject to approval of County
Commissioners, at $3,000 per annum.
Referred to Committee on County Accounts.
RECESS.
The Council voted, on motion of Coun. FINLEY,
at 2.25 p. in., to take a recess subject to the call of
the Chairman.
The members reassembled in the Council
Chamber and were called to order by President
DO WD at 2.47 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions (referred to day) for
children under fifteen years of age to appear at
places of public amusement, viz.:
R. H. White Company, R. H. White Hall, Octo-
ber 6 and 13 — recommending that leave be granted,
under usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted under usual
conditions.
2. Report on message of Mayor and orders
(referred today) for transfer of funds within de-
partmental appropriations — recommending that
same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said orders passed, yeas 18,
nays 0.
CONFIRMATION OF WEIGHER OF COAL.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor October 1, 1934, of Allan F. Knowlton, to
be a weigher of coal.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Gallagher and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots 18; yeas 18, and the appoint-
ment was confirmed.
LAND FOR PLAYGROUND, EAST BOSTON.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Whereas, The Board of Street Commis-
sioners of the City of Boston by a resolve and order
approved by the Mayor of Boston March 1, 1930,
took for playground purposes two parcels of land
belonging to Florence J. McCarthy, containing
OCTOBER 15, 1934.
343
approximately 16,294 and 20,578 square feet of
land, respectively, situated on Pope street, in that
part of Boston called East Boston, and awarded
for said parcels the sum of S3, 892.52 and 84,732.94,
respectively, and settled suits brought in the
Superior Court for the County of Suffolk on ac-
count of said taking of said parcels of land for the
aggregate sum of $13,125.70; and
Whereas, By the same instrument of taking,
the said Board of Street Commissioners took for
playground purposes a parcel of land from Michael
Murphy heirs, containing approximately 12,156
square feet, situated at the corner of Pope street
and Byron street, in said East Boston, and awarded
as damages for the taking of said parcel of land
$2,795.88 and settled a suit brought in the Superior
Court for the County of Suffolk for damages on
account of the taking of said parcel of land for the
sum of $4,254.60; and
Whereas. There was recorded in the Regis-
try of Deeds for the County of Suffolk on August
29, 1933, a written instrument wherein the De-
partment of Public Works of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts purported to take for a state
highway, in behalf of the Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts, said land which the City of Boston had
taken for park purposes, situated on Pope and
Byron streets, in that part of Boston called East
Boston; and
Whereas, By the said instrument of taking the
said Department of Public Works of the Com-
monwealth of Massachusetts purported to take
for a state highway certain portions of streets
situated in East Boston and more particularly set
forth in said instrument of taking, excepting and
reserving from the rights taken therein all ease-
ments for wires, pipes, conduits, poles and other
appurtenances for conveyance of water, sewage,
gas and electricity and for telephone communica-
tion then lawfully in or upon the said premises
thereby taken, and all lawful rights of the public
to use those parts of the public streets and ways
of the City of Boston which were included in the
said taking; and
Whereas, The Board of Park Commissioners of
the City of Boston no longer needs the said parcels
•of land which had been taken for playground pur-
poses as above set forth for public purposes; and
Whereas, The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
is desirous of purchasing said parcels of land pur-
ported to have been taken as aforesaid; now,
therefore, it is, hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized, in the name and behalf of
the City of Boston, to convey to the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts, by an instrument in
writing satisfactory to the Law Department
of the City of Boston, the above-mentioned parcels
which have been taken by the Board of Street
Commissioners for playground purposes upon the
delivery to the said City of Boston of the sum of
$17,380.30.
( in September 24. 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 15, nays 0.
The question came on giving the order its
second and final reading and pa-
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I would
like to have the matter lie on the table until the
next meeting.
Coun. Selvitella's motion, that the order be
assigned to the next meeting of the Council,
prevailed.
APPOINTMEN I OF ASSISTANT
COLLECTOR.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
An Ordinance concerning the appointment of an
Assistant City Collector.
Be it ordained by the City Council of Boston, as
follows:
Chapter thirteen of the Revised Ordinances of
1925 is hereby amended by inserting after
six i he following:
Section 7. The city collector may appoint.
Subject to the approval of the mayor
in in-, office to the pos n of assistant city col-
lector. The assistant city collector so appointed
shall furnish a bond to the citar, subject to the pro-
mr oi chapter three
of the Revised Ordinances of 1925, in tne
S100,000; shall be sworn to the faithful di
of his duties and shall hold office until his successor
is appointed and qualified, I be i isistant city col-
lector shall perform such duties us may be B I
to him from time to time by the city collector, and
in the temporary absence of the city colic
assistant city collector shall perform the duties of
the city collector.
Referred to the Committee on Ordinances.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS.
Coun. SELVITELLA, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted the following:
1. Report on petitions of Edward J, Rafferty
(referred September 24, 1934) to be reimbursed for
amount of judgment issued against him on account
of his acts as operator of motor truck belonging to
City of Boston, Water Division, recommending
passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of one hundred fifty-four
dollars and seventy-five cents be allowed and paid
to Edward J. Rafferty in reimbursement for the
amount of judgment issued against him on ac-
count of his acts as operator of a motor truck
belonging to the City of Boston, Public Works
Department, Water Division, said sum to be
charged to the Reserve Fund.
Ordered, That the sum of fifty-nine dollars and
eighty cents be allowed and paid to Edward J.
Rafferty in reimbursement for the amount of
judgment issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of a motor truck belonging to the
City of Boston, Public Works Department. Water
Division, said sum to be charged to the Reserve
Fund.
Report on petition of Percy L. Fordham (re-
ferred May 1, 1933) to be reimbursed for amount
of execution issued against him on account of his
acts as operator of motor vehicle belonging to
Police Department of City of Boston, recom-
mending passage of accompanying order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of three hundred dollars
be allowed and paid to Percy L. Fordham in reim-
bursement for the amount of judgment issued
against him on account of his acts as operator of
a motor vehicle belonging to the Police Depart-
ment, City of Boston, said sum to be charged to
the Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; orders severally passed.
CONFIRMATION OF CONSTABLES.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz.:
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor October 1, 1934, of constables authorized
to serve civil process, as follows:
Patrick .1. W. Quinn, Alfred Blaustein, Eugene
Blinderman, David Bashitsky.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finley and Roberts. Whole number
of ballots 16; yeas 16, and the appointments were
confirmed.
TIMOTHY F. DONOVAN BOULEVARD.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners, through his Honor the Mayor of I
be requested to name the new state Highway in
East Boston Timothy F. Donovan Boulevard.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WELFARE DEPARTMENT DOCTORS IN
PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
Coun. NORTON ered the following:
i Irdered, rhat the Welfare Department, through
bis I Conor I he M ■■.■■. or, be requested
aion to send Welfare Department d
into the public schools to examine the children of
welfare recipients, if such a dc :ision has been made.
Coun. NORTON -Mr. President, the press
say that the Welfare Department is con-
sidering sending Welfare Department doctors into
the public schools to examine the children of
welfare recipients li would seem
school having its own doctors, such examina-
tions ehould be made bj the a 'hool pfa
that it would bo unfortunate to have tho ph
of the Welfare Department p
with the physicians of the schools in such
rder was passed under suspension of the
rule.
344
CITY COUNCIL.
PROTECTION OF PUBLTC IN DEPART-
MENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES RATE
CASES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of bringing together
the ablest legal and accountancy group available
to protect the interests of the people when rate
cases are being heard before the Massachusetts
Public Utilities Commission.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, we are
familiar with what happens at the present time
when matters are brought before the Public
Utilities Commission, that those appearing in such
cases are politicians and other people who may
voluntarily interest themselves in the matter of
being heard, but not necessarily experts. It
would seem as if it might be well to have experts
representing the consuming public before the
commission on such matters. This order, there-
fore, merely asks his Honor the Mayor to consider
the advisabilty of bringing together a group of
experts for this purpose.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
CATCH-BASIN CLEANING BY WELFARE
DEPARTMENT LABORERS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:'
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of having Welfare
Department laborers do the work of cleaning out
the catch-basins of Boston during the next three
months instead of having this work done by
private contractors.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, we have
21,000 catch-basins in Boston, and a year ago paid
$22,000 to have them cleaned by private contract
work. This autumn there will be much of this
cleaning business to do again, and the Acting
Commissioner informs me that the city forces
cannot accomplish all this work. It is approxi-
mately two and one-half months since we received
a message from the Mayor asking for the appro-
priation of 325,000 to purchase the machines for
this purpose, and I understand that each machine
costs about $5,500. The Mayor has sent back
to us today a message vetoing that order, which
we finally passed, on the ground that it is now
so late that practically nothing could be done
under it this year, and the press has been criticizing
the Council for delaying action until the time
when the cold weather is setting in. I am not
going to argue that question. I merely suggest
that, inasmuch as various other cities and towns
adjacent to Boston, who have the same kind of
catch-basins are having the work performed by
day labor and by welfare forces, there appears
to be no reason why we cannot do the work in
the same way, perhaps leasing the necessary
machines to help in doing the work. In that way
we can eliminate the contractor.
The rules were suspended and the order was
declared passed.
Coun. GLEASON doubted the vote and asked for
a roll call.
The order was rejected, the vote on its passage
being yeas 5, nays 14:
Yeas — Coun. Agnew, Doherty, Donovan,
Norton, Roberts — 5.
Nays — Coun. Dowd, Englert, Finley, Fish,
Fitzgerald, Gallagher, Gleason, Goldman, Kerrigan,
McGrath, Murray, Selvitella, Shattuck, Wilson
—14.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Department of Public Wel-
fare, through his Honor the Mayor, be requested
to look into the advisability of supplying milk to
welfare recipients at 8 cents a quart.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONDITION OF JEFFERSON
PLAYGROUND.
Coun DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the Park Commissioner and the Schoolhouse
Commissioners to investigate the condition of the
Jefferson Playground relative to the stones falling
from the foundation.
Coun. DOHERTY— Mr. President, just a word
on that order. In the foundations of the Jefferson
School there are quite a lot of loose stones, higher
than the sidewalk, which are frequently falling
and are a menace to the children who go there.
I am afraid that unless some action is taken there
will be serious accident. I am confident that
the Schoolhouse Commissioners and the Park
Commissioner can get together and through
E. R. A. work, or something of the sort, have
this matter taken care of, so that that menace
will not continue to exist.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
It was voted, on motion of Coun. FISH, that
when the Council adjourns, it be to meet on Mon-
day, October 29, 1934, at 2 p. m.
Adiourned at 3 p. m., on motion of Coun.
GOODMAN, to meet on Monday, October 29,
1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
345
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday. October 29, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Fitzgerald
and Green.
LEGAL OPINION IN RE LICENSING
BOARD ACTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 27, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Corporation Counsel, relative to your order of
October 1, 1934, concerning his opinion as to the
validity of the acts and findings of the Licensing
Board for the City of Boston in the month of
September, 1934, during the reported physical
incapacity of one member of the board.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, October 26, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — I have received a memo-
randum from your office with reference to an order
passed by the City Council on October 1, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel,
through his Honor the Mayor, be, and he hereby is,
respectfully requested to advise the City Council
forthwith whether all acts and findings of the
Licensing Board for the City of Boston during the
past month, particularly with reference to revoca-
tion of licenses, and having in mind the reported
physical incapacity of one member of the Board
during said period, are valid under chapter 140
of the General Laws, chapter 284 of the Acts of
1933, and any amendments thereto."
I assume that the order does not contemplate
the examination of all acts and findings of the
Licensing Board for the City of Boston during the
month of September, 1934. in order to determine
their validity; and I am directing myself, there-
fore, to the inquiry as to whether the concurrent
vote of two members of the Licensing Board for
the City of Boston in meeting assembled may
properly constitute the vote of the Board, if the
third member is physically incapacitated from
attending such meeting.
The Licensing Hoard for the City of Boston was
created by chapter 291 of the Acts of 19U6.
Section 1 provides as follows:
"The governor, with the advice and consent
of the council, shall appoint from the two prin-
cipal political parties three citizens of Boat
who shall constitute a licensing board
for said city and who shall be sworn to the faith-
ful performance of the duties of their office before
entering on the same.
One member of said board shall be designated
by the governor as chairman and two members
shall constitute a quorum. . . ."
Section 4 contains the following language:
" All licenses issued by said board shall be signed
by a majority of the members thereof. . . ."
In Williams v. School District in Lunenberg,
21 Pick. 7.5. 80 (1838), the Supn • Judicial
Court, per Shaw, ( '. J., stated:
"Where a body or board of officers is con-
stituted bj law to perform a trust for the public,
(ir to execute a power or perform :i dul i prescribed
by law, it is not necessary thai nil should concur
in the acl done, ["he act of it"' majority is the
acl "i i he bodj \ nd w here all ho i e due n :e
i>i the time and place ol mee in the manner
p i bed by law , i | ho rules
and regulations of the body itself, il there be iny,
otherwise it reas ble notice is given, and no
praotict oi unfait means are used to prevent all
i fom al tending and pat I icin it ing in I he proceeding,
ii is no objeotion thai :>ll the members ■!" nol
attend, it there bo a quorum. . . ."
See, also, Merrill v. Lowell, 236 Mass. 463, 467
(1920).
Based upon the foregoing it is my opinion
that the concurrent vote of two members of the
Licensing Board for the City of Boston passed at
a Hurling duly called and held upon due notice
constitutes a vote of the Board and that the
Board is not incapacitated from acting merely
because the third member is physically disabled
from attending, and does not attend its meetings.
Chapter 140 of the General Laws (Ter. Ed.)
and chapters 284 and 376 of the Acts of 1933
contain no provisions inconsistent herewith.
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
APPROPRIATION FOR ZONING BOARD.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the chairman ol
the Board of Zoning Adjustment that the authoriza-
tion of funds voted by your honorable body in
1931 to meet the necessary expenses of the Board
i9 practically exhausted, and that in his opinion an
additional authorization in the amount of S3. 500
should be made at this time. I submit herewith
the necessary order and respectfully recommend
its adoption by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Boa,rd of Zoning Adjustment,
October 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The Board of Zoning Adjustment
established under the provisions of chapter 488 of
the Acts of 1934 and amendments thereto, depends
for its administrative expenses on appropriations
which have been made from time to time from the
Reserve Fund. In the ten years during which it
has been in existence there has been a total appro-
priation of $17,000, of which a balance remains at
the present time of $233.39, against which there
has been deposited with the City Collector since
1927, when the law was amended to provide for
the charge of fees, the sum of $1,150.
The various items of administrative expense
include printing and office supplies, personal
services, verbatim records, advertising, transporta-
tion, maps and blueprinting, and messenger
service.
The Board in executive session on Tuesday,
October 23, voted to request your Honor at this
time for a further appropriation of $3,500.
Respectfully submitted,
Frederic H. Fay,
Chairman.
Ordered, That the Board of Zoning Adjustment,
established under section 20, chapter 488, of the
Acts of 1924, be authorized to expend, under the
direction of the Mayor, and in the prosecution of
its duties, a sum not in excess of $3,500, said sum
to be charged to the Reserve Fund.
Referred to Executive Committee.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Host on.
Office of the Mayor, Ootober 29, 1934.
Xo the I !ity I Sounoil.
Gentlemen,— I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of October 15. 1934, concerning the
advisability of supplying milk to welfare recipients
al s i mis a quart.
Respectfully,
Frederick W, Mansfield, Mayor.
a ton,
ra of i he Public Welfare,
October -'7. 1934.
Mi Fohn v. t iilmore, Jr.,
Vssistanl Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir. Tins is to ackni oipt of
your i ununics ion of October 24, 1934, inolosina
the following order from the City Counci
October 15,
346
CITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, That the Department of Public
Welfare, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to look into the advisability of supplying
milk to welfare recipients at 8 cents a quart.
I wish to advise that I have already commu-
nicated with the milk dealers in order to have a
reduction of 3 cents a quart in the price of milk
supplied to families in the care of this department.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
STATE HIGHWAY, SPRING STREET
TO DEDHAM LINE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 24, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The proposed state highway from
Spring street to the Dedham line is among the
projects which have just been approved by the
Federal Government.
In order for the Commonwealth of Massachu-
setts to lay out a state highway over land within
the limits of the City of Boston, it is necessary
to petition the Department of Public Works of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts to lay out and
take charge of such a highway.
I am submitting herewith an order authorizing
the Board of Street Commissioners, on behalf
of the City of Boston, to request the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts to lay out and take
charge of said highway as is set forth in said order
and to authorize me to waive a.ll rights which the
City of Boston may have under the provisions
of section 8 of chapter 81 of the General Laws to
enter into a contract for the construction of said
highway.
I respectfully recommend the adoption of this
order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Whereas, The City Council of the City of Boston
adjudge that public necessity and convenience
require that the Commonwealth should lay out and
take charge of, as a state highway, a highway on
a new location from Spring street, at its inter-
section with Brook Farm Parkway, in the City of
Boston, southerly to a point on a dividing line
between the City of Boston and the town of
Dedham, between the Charles river and the New
York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad; and
Whereas, The said City Council is of the opinion
that the city should waive its rights to contract to
build the said highway under the terms set forth
in section 8 of chapter 81 of the General Laws of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts;
Now, therefore, it is hereby ordered that the
Street Commissioners of the City of Boston be,
and they hereby are, authorized, with the approval
of his Honor the Mayor, to file on behalf of the
City of Boston with the Department of Public.
Works of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
in form satisfactory to the Law Department of the
City of Boston, a petition wherein it is set forth
that public necessity and convenience require
that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts should
lay out and take charge of, as a state highway,
the above-described premises, and it is hereby
further ordered that his Honor the Mayor be,
and he hereby is, authorized to waive all rights
which the said city may have under the provisions
of said section 8 of chapter 81 of the General
Laws to enter into a contract for the construction
of the said highway.
Referred to Executive Committee.
TRANSFERS WITHIN DEPARTMENTAL
APPROPRIATIONS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 22, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The attached requests for transfers
within departmental appropriations have been
investigated and approved by the Acting Budget
Commissioner.
I submit herewith the necessary transfer orders
and respectfully recommend their adoption by
your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to make the following transfer in
the appropriation for Registry of Deeds, County
of Suffolk:
From the appropriation for A-l, Personal Serv-
ice, Permanent Employees, $823.84, to the appro-
priation for A-l, Personal Service, Temporary
Employees, $823.84.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to make the following transfer in
the appropriations for Boston Port Authority:
From the appropriation for B, Service other
than Personal, $300, to the appropriation for D,
Supplies, $300.
Ordered, That under authority oi chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to make the following transfer in
the appropriations for Medical Examiner Service,
Southern Division, County of Suffolk:
From the appropriation for C, Equipment, $14,
to the appropriation for B, Service other than
Personal, $14.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to make the following transfer in
the appropriations for Municipal Court, South
Boston District:
From the appropriation for A-l, Personal Serv-
ice, Permanent Employees, $345, to the appro-
priation for B. Service other than Personal, $260;
C, Equipment, $10; D, Supplies, $75.
Referred to Executive Committee.
APPROPRIATION FROM PARKMAN FUND.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attached
communication from the Board of Park Commis-
sioners requesting the transfer of the sum of
$25,000 from the income of the George F. Park-
man Fund to the maintenance and improvement
of the Common and Parks in existence on January
12, 1887.
I submit herewith an appropriation order and
respectfully recommend its immediate passage by
your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, October 26, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — By vote of the Board of Park Com-
missioners, you are respectfully asked to request
the City Council to transfer from the income of
the George F. Parkman Fund the sum of $25,000
which is now available, to be expended under the
direction of the Board of Park Commissioners as
follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on January
12 1887, Maintenance and Improvement of,
$25,000.
When the budget estimates were made up for
the year .1934, a sum equal to the total yearly
income of the George F. Parkman Fund was
deducted from Item A-l, Permanent Employees,
with the understanding that this deduction was
to be replaced by the total yearly income of
said Parkman Fund for 1934, to be transferred
as it accrued from time to time during the year
to the regular maintenance appropriation of the
Park Department.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Ordered, That the sum of $25,000 be, and hereby
is, appropriated from the income of the George F.
Parkman Fund, to be expended under the direction
OCTOBER 29, 1934.
347
of the Park Commissioners, for the maintenance
and improvement of the Common and parks in
existence on January 12, 1887, as follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on January 12,
1887, Maintenance and Improvement of, $25,000.
Referred to Executive Committee.
ADDITIONAL POLICE OFFICERS AT
ELECTION.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Election Commissioners, relative to
your order of October 1, 1934, concerning provi-
sions for an additional police officer at 367 voting
precincts in Boston on election day, November 6.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Election Commissioners,
October 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — I am in receipt of order,
passed by the City Council under date of October 1,
1934, in which they request your Honor to provide
one additional police officer at each of the three
hundred 6ixty-seven voting precincts in the City
of Boston on November 6, the day of the State
Election. Such officers to be sworn in as special
officers for election day, and to be appointed from
the present civil service list of men eligible for
appointment to the Boston Police Department.
May I call your attention to sections 71, 72, 73,
74 and 75, of chapter 54 of the General Laws
(Tercentenary edition); particularly to section 72,
which I am setting forth below, and which relates
to the preservation of order at polling places:
Section 72. "The board or officer in charge of
the police force of each city and town shall detail
a sufficient number of police officers or constables
for each polling place at every election therein to
preserve order and to protect the election officers
and supervisors from any interference with their
duties and to aid in enforcing the laws relating to
elections."
May I also call your attention to a paragraph in
letter sent to the Police Commissioner by this
Board under date of October 22, 1934.
"We request, in accordance with an order of the
City Council passed under date of October 1, that
an additional police officer be detailed outside of
each of the three hundred sixty-seven (367) polling
places. This request is made to prevent continued
violations of the election laws relative to the dis-
tribution of campaign literature within 150 feet of
a polling place; and to adjust conditions at polling
places complained of by voters, that their entrance
and exit is hampered by campaign workers and
loiterers outside the polling places.
Yours very respectfully,
David B, Shaw, Chairman,
Board of Election Commissioners.
Placed on 61e.
\\ VRNING SIGNALS, WARD 7.
The following was received:
ii Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 17. 1931.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of September 24, 1934, concerning the
installation of automobile warning signals
end of the center span of the railroad bridge on
Boston street, between Ralston street and Blukc
terrace, Ward 7.
Rest t fully,
Frederick W. m vnsi ii i.i). Mayor.
1 1
Traffic ' lommission, < Ictobei 11
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
r ,,f Boston
Dear Sir. — I have the honor to ackno
receipt of Council Order, dated September 21,
1934, which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through Ins Honor the Mayor, to install
automobile warning signals at each end of the
center span of the railroad bridge on Boston
street between Ralston street and Blake terrace.
\\ ard 7.
Orders have been issued to erect reflector warn-
ing signs as requested.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
t), , „, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
STOPS SIGNS, AMORY AND BOYLSTON
STREETS.
Thejollowing was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 17, 1934.
lo the City Council.
Gentlemen,— I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of October 1, 1934, concerning the placing of
Stop signs at the corner of Amory street and
Boylston street.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, October 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir^— I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 1, 1934
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to place "Stop"
signs at the corner of Amory street and Boylston
street.
The requested installation would involve a cost
of approximately S40. We have none of this type
of sign in stock and no provision for their purchase
was included in the 1934 budget. Therefore, no
funds are available at present.
From the many requests received in this office
for installations of this type and from contact with
the reactions of many people on this subject, it is
my opinion that if requests of this type were granted
it would result in a flood of demands for this type
of sign from all quarters of the tit v.
It is conceivable that several thousand requests
of this nature might be received. Inasmuch as the
individual installation at an ordinary four-cor-
nered intersection costs S80, it is obvious that a
great deal of expense would be involved and it is
my further opinion that the multiplicity of these
signs which would result would detract from what-
ever warning value might appertain to installa-
tions at truly dangerous and strategic locations.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
-„, , ., Commissioner-
Placed on file.
STOP SIGNS, WARD 21.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 19, 1934
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of October 1. 1934, concerning the placing
ot "Stop" signs at Chestnut Hill avenue and
\\ allinglord road, Ward 21.
Respectfully,
Fredekick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, October 13 1934
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
.Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir.— I have the honi r to acknowledge
receipt pi Council order dated October 1, which
reads as follows:
ed licit the Traffic Commission be re-
- Honor the Mayor, to place
"Stop" t lestnut Hill avenue and Walling-
d, Ward 21.
The requested installation would involve a cost
of approximately 140, We have none ol this type
k and no provision for tlu-ir purchase
was included in l lie 103 I
re a\ nibble g I pn
From the man) requests received in this office
for ins l type and from .
with the reactions of many people on this -
348
CITY COUNCIL.
it is my opinion that if requests of this type were
granted it would result in a Hood of demands for
this type of sign from all quarters of the city.
It is conceivable that several thousand requests
of this nature might be received. Inasmuch as
the individual installation at an ordinary four-
cornered intersection costs $80 it is obvious that
a great deal of expense would be involved and it
is my further opinion that the multiplicity of these
signs which would result would detract from what-
ever warning value might appertain to installa-
tions at truly dangerous and strategic locations.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
FALLON FIELD LIGHTING.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 22, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
October 1, 1934, concerning additional lighting
facilities at Fallon Field, Roslindale.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Park Department, October 9, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of Octo-
ber 6 with inclosure. order from the City Council,
requesting that the Park Commission provide
additional lighting facilities on Fallon Field,
Roslindale.
The outdoor lighting conditions at Fallon Field
are not very good. This playground is used ex-
tensively by the people living in the vicinity and
is also used as a short cut by those desiring to
reach Belgrade avenue. The tunnel between the
playground and Belgrade avenue is lighted by
three 50-watt lights. The boys are continually
breaking these small lights. The few lights that
were on the playground were removed when the
bleachers were erected and the field enlarged.
The old underground conduit had to be removed
as it was located in the excavation.
It would be possible to install two or three
lights on the playground, one near the bleachers
at the playground end of the tunnel and the other
one or two lights along the walks leading to South
street. The street light on Belgrade avenue should
also be relocated.
The cost of this would be $2,010 for the Park
Department end of the work. The cost of the
relocation of the street lights on Belgrade avenue
and South street would come out of the Public
Works Department, Street Lighting Service.
This department has no funds available for this
work.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
REPAVING OF CATHERINE STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 17, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of September 24, 1934, concerning the
repaving with smooth pavement of Catherine
street, Ward 19.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, October 10, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of City Council order dated September 24, reading:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Catherine street,
Ward 19,—
and to state that the roadway of Catherine street
is in very good condition and does not require any
attention at this time.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
INFORMATION FROM PUBLIC WELFARE
DEPARTMENT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 17, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, containing
certain statistical information concerning De-
pendent Aid, Mothers' Aid and Old Age Assistance
cases, for the month of September, 1934, as re-
quested in an order passed by your honorable
body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of the Public Welfare,
October 4, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Replying to the City Council order
requesting that the Board of Overseers of the
Public Welfare be requested to furnish the City
Council monthly, as soon as may be after the end
of each month, beginning with the month of Janu-
ary, certain statistical information, the following
statement is respectfully submitted.
1.
Case Load at the End of September.
Number of cases being aided at end of September:
Dependent Aid 23,438
Mothers' Aid 1,453
Old Age Assistance 3,724
Total 28,615
Number of recipients dropped from the rolls
during the month, 1,279.
3.
Number of recipients of aid added to rolls during
the month, 1,205.
4.
The expenditures for the month (a) care of
dependents, (b) mothers' aid, (c) old age assistance.
Expenditures for September:
Dependent Aid $698,819 50
Mothers' Aid 86,353 00
Old Age Assistance 96,335 00
Total $881,507 50
Respectfully,
John C. L. Dowling, Executive Director.
Placed on file.
SWIMMING POOL, FRANKLIN PARK.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
October 1, 1934, concerning the establishment as an
E. R. A. project of a swimming pool for children
under sixteen years of age at the subterranean
reservoir in Franklin Park.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, October 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of October
11, with inclosure, order from the City Council
that his Honor the Mayor request the Emergency
Relief Administration to establish as an E. R. A.
project the construction of a swimming pool for
children under sixteen years of age, using as a
location the subterranean reservoir recently dis-
coveied in Franklin Park.
OCTOBER 29, 1934.
349
This old reservoir was not discovered lately, as
was reported; it was built in 1895 by the Park
Department employees and has been used as a
storage place for trees and shrubs for many years
when same were to be kept dormant. It stands on
Hagborne Hill in the Wilderness in Franklin Park,
is 168 feet long and approximately 70 feet in
width, and is 12 feet in depth. The Wilderness
is in a very isolated part of the Park System, far
away from any residences.
The reservoir is covered with earth and loam
and there are trees growing above the roof of the
reservoir, which is constructed of concrete and
brick. In order to construct a swimming pool at
this point it would be necessary to practically
rebuild the old reservoir, which is made of concrete,
and remove the entire hill, connect the swimming
pool with city water and build bath house and
sanitaries. The entire cost would be in the
vicinity of S300.000. It would also be necessary
to fence the entire area and light same. It would
spoil this entire section of the Park System, which
has many beautiful trees, and there is a serious
question in my mind, on account of it being so far
away from residences, whether it would ever be
used.
There is no way in which motor cars could get
to it, as we do not allow motor cars in this section
of the Park System. I strongly advise against the
utilization of this reservation for any such purpose.
I desire also to call your attention to the fact that
the E. R. A. administration does not supply
materials.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
INDOOR GYiMNASIUM, COLUMBUS PARK.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Park Department relative to your order of
October 1, 1934, concerning provisions for the
■ i of an indoor gymnasium on Columbus
Park, South Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, October 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick \V. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of October
11. with inclosure, Council order requesting that
the Park Department include in the P. \V. A.
program a sum sufficient to provide for the erection
of an indoor gymnasium on Columbus Park,
South Boston.
To creel an indoor gymnasium of this kind would
cost (250,000. This would not be a proper site,
as a gymnasium should be built nearer the resi-
dential section and considerations should be given
to the most central point which, in my estimation,
is around I) si reel .
Columbus 1'ark contains approximately severity
acres and was given over for the use of an athletic
field, parking area. Geld house, etc. I strongly
advise against the erection of a gymnasium at this
point.
Very respectfully yours.
\\ i i.i.i am P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
CANCELLATION OF PARKING TAGS.
The following was received:
( 'ii v of Boston,
■ tffice of the Mayor, October L9, 19 14
I 0 the I Tly Council.
Gentlemen, I herewith transmit a letter from
the Police Commissioner, relative to your order
uf October I, 1984, concerning the cancellation of
all tags issued prim < i viola-
tions of i he parking laws.
Respectfully,
FbeDERIi K W . M *ssi n i D, Mayor.
( lity of Host. ui.
Police Department. October !■"., 1934
Mr. John F. < iiluu.re. Jr.,
\ - el arj , M aj or's < Iffii
Dt ii Sir, i !" ■ to acknowledge receipt of your
communication of October 11, inclosing copy of
order of the City Council dated October 1, 1934,
requesting the Police Commissioner to cancel and
destroy all tags issued for violation of the parking
laws which have not been filed in court prior to
October 1, 1934, and would advise you that upon
the initiation of the recent law governing the park-
ing of cars in this city all outstanding tags prior to
October 1 were declared null and void by the
Police Department, with the consequent result
that prosecution would not prevail.
Very truly yours,
E. C. Hultman, Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
STOP SIGNS, WARD 19.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of September 24, 1934, concerning the plac-
ing of "Stop" signs on all side streets entering
Green street, Ward 19.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, October 15, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of your letter of October 3, 1934, inclosing
Council order dated September 24, 1934, which
reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to place
"Stop" signs on all side streets entering Green
street, Ward 19.
The installation requested in the above order
would require the erection of fifteen signs at an
approximate expenditure of S600.
We have no signs of this type in stock and no
provision for their purchase was included in the
1934 budget for this department.
I would anticipate requests for thousands
of these signs were the erection of any to be
countenanced at present.
In the opinion of the engineers of this depart-
ment these signs are not effective as warning
signs although most persons not conversant with
traffic signs are of the opinion that they are very
successful.
It is the experience of this office and of traffic
agencies all over the country that the erection of
9 of this type increases the speed of vehicles
in the main streets and increases accidents. Our
own Commonwealth avenue was an example with
its serious accident record when such signs were
in place on the streets entering the avenue.
Yours very truly,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
ii [TING OF PAVING AND SIDEWALK
CONT1J At I S.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
OHicc of the Mayor, October 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen,— I herewith transmit a letter from
l lie (' niSSioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of July '-'. 1934, concerning the letting
...ii of certain contracts under competitive bidding,
namely, permanent paving, smooth paving and
artificial stone sidewalks
Respectfully,
Frederick \\ . Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston.
Public Works Department, October 24, 1934.
lion. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor Of Boston.
1 l beg Lave to acknowledge your
let kt of . 1 1 1 1 > ' Council order dated
July '-'. 193 I . leading:
red, That tno Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through Ins Honor the
to let out the following contracts under
■ ■ potilive bidding, namely permanent paving,
smooth paving and artificial stone aidev
350
CITY COUNCIL.
and to state that specifications and contracts are
prepared and bids properly asked for by adver-
tising in the City Record and daily newspapers on
all granite block, asphalt and bitulithic pavement
and artificial stone sidewalks.
This year, due to the lack of appropriations for
artificial stone sidewalks, bids for such contracts
have not been asked for.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
ARC LIGHT, WARD 6.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 22, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of July 30, 1934, concerning the in-
stallation of an arc light on West Third street,
near E street, Ward 6.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, October 20, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your letter of August 1, 1934. inclosing City
Council order dated July 30, 1934, reading:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install an arc light on West Third street, near
E street, adjoining St. Vincent de Paul's Church,
Ward 6 —
and to state that an electric light was installed on
West Third street near E street, as requested and
has been burning since October 11, 1934.
The delay in not acting sooner on this matter
was due to the inability of the Edison Electric
Illuminating Company to obtain concrete posts
for a period of time.
Respectfully,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
PLAYGROUND FOR EAST BOSTON.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 23, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
September 24, 1934, concerning an estimate of
the cost of obtaining a playground for East Boston
in place of the one taken by the Commonwealth
for highway purposes.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, October 22, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of an order from the
City Council that the Board of Park Commis-
sioners be requested to submit an estimate of the
cost of obtaining a playground for East Boston in
place of the one lost by a taking.
The land purchased for a playground, located
on Byron and Pope streets, East Boston, was
never used as such, owing to legal difficulties and
no money being available for construction. The
cost of that playground was $17,772.80.
At least $10,000 should be made available to
properly construct a playground in this vicinity.
The former area was taken over by the Com-
monwealth for the purpose of building a state
highway; up to the present time they have not
paid for same. Furthermore, this money cannot
be used to purchase another playground as it
will have to be placed in the Sinking Fund.
If another playground is to be acquired to re-
place the one taken by the state authorities it can
be done only after the City Council makes the
necessary application to his Honor the Mayor.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
NEW CITY HOSPITAL KITCHEN.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, October 29, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Under date of August 27, 1934, I
caused to be withdrawn from consideration by
your honorable body an order providing for the
transfer of $45,000 to provide for the furnishing
and equipping of the new kitchen building at the
City Hospital. My purpose in having this order
withdrawn was to have a survey conducted by an
expert in kitchen equipment so as to determine
whether the amount of the transfer requested was
the proper and correct sum to provide for the fur-
nishing of the kitchen building.
Under date of the 15th instant the expert ap-
pointed to make this survey reported to the
chairman of the Hospital Trustees that in his
opinion an appropriation of $38,352.53 would be
sufficient to cover the purchase of all the required
equipment. He also suggested that utilization be
made of the surplus furnishings and utensils now
in storage at the various George R. White Fund
Units. Acceptance of this suggestion would mean
a saving of approximately $1,500 from his original
estimate.
In view of the findings in this report and the
urgent necessity of having this equipment in-
stalled as speedily as possible so that the kitchen
may be put into operation at an early date. I sub-
mit herewith an order providing for the transfer
of $35,000 from unexpended balances within
special appropriations in the Hospital Department
to the item for furnishing and equipping the new
kitchen building, being of opinion that this amount
will probably be sufficient. If it proves insufficient,
then an additional transfer of the necessary balance
may be made later. I am. also attaching copies of
the letter addressed to the Hospital Trustees by
the expert retained by them to make the pre-
viously mentioned survey. I respectfully recom-
mend immediate consideration of the attached
order by your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
W. G. Ouirk & Son Company,
Complete Store Equipment,
186 State Street,
Boston, Mass., October 15, 1934.
Hon. J. P. Manning,
Chairman, City Hospital Trustees.
Dear Sir, — We are submitting herewith our
analysis of equipment and miscellaneous utensils
required to complete the furnishings of the new
Boston City Hospital kitchen.
We have spent considerable time, energy and
expense in gathering the required information and
feel sure that our estimate in this matter is as
nearly correct as would be humanly possible.
In checking over a majority of the required items
we have been more than impressed with the pro-
nounced trend to rising prices, due in a large
measure to present code practices. For that
reason we ask that the analysis be seriously con-
sidered at the earliest possible moment so that
action can be started before the market assumes a
more unfavorable position.
As a result of our analysis we feel that an appro-
priation of $38,352.53 would be sufficient to cover
the purchase of all the required equipment.
Whereas our estimate of actual cost in this matter
came to the amount of $36,526.22 we felt it ad-
visable to include in addition 5 per cent of that
amount, or $1,826.31, to cover any unexpected
expense or emergency which might arise in the
purchasing, shipping or installing of the equipment.
In any comparison of this figure with those which
might have previously been submitted we would
ask that you bear in mind the above mentioned
rise in price of most commodities under National
Recovery policies.
It was suggested that we utilize some of the sur-
plus furnishings and utensils now in storage at the
various George Robert White Fund Units. From
our survey of this equipment it is our belief that
an approximate saving of $1,500 off the above total
estimate could be made by using those items which
would be serviceable for use at the hospital. A
detailed list of these items will be found attached
herewith.
Yours very truly,
W. G. Ouirk.
OCTOBER 29, 1934.
351
Estimated costs of additional equipment required
to complete furnishings of new Boston City
Hospital kitchen, classified by rooms or as
equipment for general use:
Ice cream room $264 12
Butcher shop 1,558 00
Vegetable room 1,850 00
Bake shop 8,719 00
Doughnut room 965 50
Kitchen 1.730 00
Fruit and salad room. ...... 450 00
Bread storage and cutting
room 1.275 00
Coffee room 1 .725 00
Diet kitchen 2,512 50
Can washing room 62 50
Dish washing room 750 00
Cafeteria 3,860 00
Free standing equipment — . 5,304 60
Office and receiving room
equipment 700 00
Dining room chairs and
tables 4.000 00
Silverware 800 00
836,526 22
Five per cent of actual estimated cost
added to cover any unexpected ex-
pense or emergency in purchasing,
shipping or installing of equip-
ment. .! 1.826 31
Total estimated costs S38.352 53
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and hereby
is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Hospital Depart-
ment, Children's Pavilion. Furnishing and Equip-
ping, S17.259.39; Burnham Memorial Building.
Remodeling, etc.. S16. 502.62; Tunnel for Hospital
Building, S549.86; New Medical Pavilion, Fur-
nishing and Equipping. S469.42; Power Plant.
Improvements, etc., $218.71, to the appropriation
for Hospital Department, Kitchen Building, Fur-
nishing and Equipping, $35,000.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments:
Constable authorized to serve civil process on
filing bond: Samuel Tarle, 360 Walnut avenue,
I: bury. ' .
Weighers of Coal: James L. Brown, Jr.,
1802 Massachusetts avenue, Cambridge; Ida
Lavien, 41 Gleason street, Dorchester; Edward F.
Condon, 66 Gardner street. West Roxbury; Daniel
U , Connors, 22 Bay State road. Atlantic, Mass.
Weighers ol I. Measurers of drain and
Weighers of G Is: Philip Sheridan. 70 Alder
street, Waltham; Daniel Lowney, 90 Tremont
street, Charlestown; John Leary, 1 Lawnwood
pi u . i Ihorlestown.
Si • Tally laid over a week under the law.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
< laims.
M. W. Bar:
property at 25 En n Hyde Park.
fay w ater being shut off.
Mini In B. Blood, for compensation tor .1
to propei B St. Stephen Btfeet, caused by
citv truck. . . .
George E. Byars, for compensation for injuries
i all .1 defeel in w estfield Btreet.
Stephen I i li irey, for refund on tax license.
John J. Crowley, to be rein bursed for judgment
issued against him on account of his acts an a police
officer.
Angelo P. I >' Igostino, for compi
damage tO car l>y City wagon.
Da I J, I (organ, to !"■ paid wages for work done
i si Boston < '"'in ha
I >\rr ik Co., In
n v at NT and 89 Neponsol av
linaale, in connection with repairs on I
Project 1193
Edmund E. Foderici, for refund on beer license.
Benjamin Ferrantino, for compensation for
injuries received on ferryboat.
Angelo Fiore, for compensation for injuries
caused by city truck.
Henry A. Gagin, for refund on ferry tickets.
Glens Falls Indemnity Company, for compensa-
tion for window broken at 13 Boston street, by fire
apparatus.
Margaret T. Horgan, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Harrison
avenue.
S. S. Kresge Company, for compensation for
damage to property at 223.5 Washington street,
caused by leak in water pipes.
Bradbury MacDonald, for compensation for
damage to car by city truck.
Suzanne Mailman, for compensation for damage
to property at 1 Goodway road, Jamaica Plain, by
blasting. .
Joseph A. Murphy, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Englewood
Betty Nuzzolo, for compensation for damage to
property at 2 Copp's Hill terrace, caused by water
in cellar.
David S. Rand, to be reimbursed for expenses
incurred in repairing sewer drains at 471 Brookline
avenue.
Mary J. Riley, for compensation for damage to
property at 44 Lamson street, by Building Depart-
ment.
Lawrence G. Rumrill, for refund on ferry tickets.
Edward P. Sands, for compensation for damage
to car by city truck.
Mrs. Margaret Scanlon, for compensation for
loss of clothing at City Hospital.
John J. Sheehy, to be reimbursed for execution
issued against him on account of his acts as operator
of city car.
N. Stone & Co., Inc., for compensation for
damage to truck by city truck. _ _
Elsie G. Sullivan, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Columbia road and
Dudley street.
Malvino Taioli, for compensation for damage to
property by sewer construction.
Phyllis and Mary Tangusso, for compensation
for injuries received on ferryboat.
Lawrence M. Tilton, for payment for overtime
work done for Transit Department and Public
Works Department.
S. F. Colbath, for refund on refuse tickets.
James F. Lacey, for compensation for damage to
car by city cart.
Monica and Edward Urbanowicz, for compensa-
tion for injuries caused by city truck.
Gertrude Meyers, for compensation for damage
to property at 14 Hazleton street, during con-
struction of public library.
WITHDRAWAL OF CONSTABLE.
Notice was received from the Mayor of with-
drawal of name of Mitchell ('aimer from list of
constables submitted on June 4, L934
Placed on file.
LIABILITY PoI.K'V OF JAMES J. DAVIS.
The liability policy of .lames J. Davis
for motor vehicles used for the transporta-
tion of school children was submitted.
Approved by the Council.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLES' Bonus.
The constables' bonds of Eugene Blinderman
and William II. Kenney, having been dub approved
i ity Treasurer, were received and approved.
ABSI Ni I OF M Willi.
■ ■ was received from the Mayor ,.f his ab
scn.c from the city from Thursday eve
her ll to Friday rning, October 19, both m-
i lllsive.
Placed on file.
STREET i: Wi.w \Y Pol [t 1
was received fr the city of Cambridge
of appointment by Mayor of Daniel Traccy, 100
352
CITY COUNCIL.
Brayton road, Brighton, as Street Railvvs
Officer on Boston Elevated Railway.
Placed on file.
Police
MINORS' LICENSES.
Minors' licenses were granted to 130 newsboys
and 6 bootblacks, on usual conditions.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending;
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers
and sailors and their families in the City of Boston
for the month of October.
Report accepted; said order passed.
TOLLS FOR SUMNER TUNNEL.
Coun. SELVITELLA, for the Special Committee
on Tunnel Tolls, to whom was referred August 27,
resolution concerning rearrangement of toll charges
for use of Sumner Tunnel, having held public
hearing on same, submitted report recommending
that the resolution ought to pass.
Said resolution is as follows:
Whereas, A survey was made of the leading
business firms in Boston, including cities and
towns north of Boston, to determine the extent
and manner in which the Sumner Tunnel is used
by them in connection with their business, to-
gether with whatever comment, suggestion or
criticism relative to the present rate; and
Whereas, An individual poll was made of opera-
tors of pleasure motor vehicles, residing in com-
munities adjacent to and approaching the Sumner
Tunnel; and
Whereas, The result of the survey and poll
clearly indicates that lack of use of the tunnel is
due mainly to the present high schedule of rates:
Whereas, The present rates are unattractive,
uninviting to all classes of motorists and causing
a deficit of approximately $500,000 per annum;
Resolved, The Boston City Council being of the
opinion that a lower toll rate will in all probability
reduce and obliterate the present increasing
deficit, approves, in part, a revision of the present
schedule of tunnel toll rates, as follows:
Description. Rate.
Motorcycles $0 10
Passenger cars, one way 15
Round trip 25
Book of thirty-ride tickets per month 3 00
All trucks, trailers 25
Funeral processions per car 10
Buses with or without passengers 20
Book of thirty-ride truck tickets per month, 6 00
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I under-
stand that from that committee report Councilor
Shattuek has dissented, and for purposes of the
record I so report. In connection with that re-
port I will say that your committee, on October 16,
held a public hearing here in the Council Chamber,
and as result representatives of Chambers of
Commerce as well as many leading citizens and
representatives of the cities and towns north of
Boston were present, and stated their views in
regard to the proposed revision of the tunnel
rates. For purposes of the record I will refer to
a few typical cases as shown by the record of the
hearing. We had present, for example, Mr. John
H. Smith, representing the Motor Truck Club of
Massachusetts, representing 50,000 trucks. He
stated that there are about 3,000 trucks in the
market district and that if the rates were lower a
large proportion of those trucks would avail
themselves of the lower rate and use the tunnel.
Representative Daniel J. Honan of Winthrop was
also in favor of a reduction in the tunnel tolls, as
well as James C. Doyle of Chelsea. Hyman
Kaplan, secretary of the Chelsea Chamber of
Commerce, said, "There is no question but what
there should be a revision downward in the rates
along the line that your resolution has indicated."
He stated that there is an immense amount of
traffic that might be easily diverted to the tunnel
with proper rates; that, for example, taking the
Chelsea Bridge, — which is going to be closed
within a week, — the City of Boston has an oppor-
tunity to get for the tunnel at least 50 per cent of
the seven million to eight million motor vehicles
a year now crossing Chelsea Bridge. We had also
the opinions of the Chamber of Commerce of
Lynn in favor of our proposed schedule, they feel-
ing that with a revision in the rates truck trans-
portation would increase 100 per cent. We had,
too, a statement from Mayor Casassa of Revere
that "something should be done to encourage
people to go through the tunnel. You should give
a lower rate." We had also the same opinion
expressed from Saugus, and from the Revere
Chamber of Commerce. Those places, Mr. Presi-
dent, comprise the greatest avenues through
which we expect use of this tunnel by motorists
and truckmen. This morning a test was made of
the running time between Haymarket square and
Orient Heights by the different routes. From
Haymarket square to Orient Heights via the
tunnel the distance is 3.3 miles, and the running
time ten minutes. From Haymarket square to
Orient Heights via Chelsea Bridge and Chelsea,
the distance is 4.2 miles and the running time
thirty minutes. From Haymarket square to
Orient Heights via Everett and the Parkway the
distance is 8.4 miles and the running time forty
minutes. There is now an opportunity afforded
the Mayor of Boston to attract these car riders
and truck drivers particularly, because of the
closing of the Chelsea Bridge. At the present
time the tunnel is capable of handling 700 cars
an hour. We could easily divert that traffic, with
the closing of Chelsea Bridge, by way of East
Boston, through the tunnel. I think I am making
a pretty conservative estimate when I say there
could be at least eight times the amount of traffic
that goes through the tunnel now. That would
not only bring additional revenue to the city but
would cut the deficit of $12,000 a week to half
that amount. This, Mr. President, is an im-
portant question. The Council selected a special
committee to look into it, and at the public hear-
ing that was held there was not a dissenting .voice
heard against revision of the tunnel toll rates. I
do not believe there is a councilor here who is not
interested in having the rates lowered, because by
lowering the rates we are going to reduce the
deficit, which means a lower tax rate for the
home owners of Boston, and also going to in-
crease the use of the tunnel. We have here a
report from the Boston Traffic Commission which
is very significant, showing the number of cars
that pass through the tunnel from the cities and
towns north of us. East Boston has 2,700 regis-
tered automobiles, and during the twenty-four
hours between 7.30 a. m., September 14, and
7.30 a., m., September 15, when this survey was
made, only 711 cars passed through the tunnel
from East Boston; from Winthrop, with 2,000
registered automobiles, 321; from Lynn, with
4,000 registered automobiles, 220; from Revere,
with 3,000 registered automobiles, 172; from
Chelsea, with 3,000 registered automobiles, 158;
from Marblehead, with 1,500 registered automo-
biles, 100; from Swampscott, with 1,000 regis-
tered automobiles, 95; and from Salem, with
2,000 registered automobiles, 77. So you can see
the small proportion of the registered automobiles
in these cities and towns that now pass through
the tunnel. We find that the average number of
automobiles from these cities and towns is less
than fifty cars per day. This is striking evidence
that the automobiles to the north of Boston refuse
to pay the present schedule of rates. There is
only one thing that can be done to attract these
motorists, get them to use the tunnel, and that is
to reduce the tunnel rate, as suggested in this
recommendation of the special committee to the
Mayor. At least, it is worthy of an experiment.
We have tried this thing out under present condi-
tions for the past four or five months, and have
been losing on the average $12,000 a week. I do
not hesitate to say that if this proposed schedule
is put into effect by the Mayor, together with the
Commissioner of Public Works, we will certainly
reduce that tunnel deficit. I do hope that the
Mayor of Boston will readily recognize the situa-
tion confronting us. If he does not, in view of
the closing of the Chelsea Bridge, do something
of this sort to induce motorists to use the tunnel,
I think he does not understand the real situation.
The motorists will then use the parkway, going
by way of Everett. I certainly feel that we should
at least try this proposed new schedule. I trust
that the Mayor of Boston will see the matter in
the same light as your committee, giving the
motorist a chance to use the tunnel on a reasonable
basis and at the same time helping out the tax-
pavers of the City of Boston.
Coun. SHAT'I (JCK— Mr. President, this is an
important question, and I regret that it has not
OCTOBER '29, 1934.
358
received more consideration by your committee.
We have had one public hearing and since then
have had no meeting. Today's action is only
taken upon a poll of the members about half an
hour ago. If we are to reduce the tolls as pro-
posed in this report, to substantially 50 per cent of
what they are now, we will have to get at least
twice the traffic in order to get as much revenue
as we are getting now, let alone getting any more
revenue. The toll of 25 cents that we are now
charging is a less toll than was under consideration
by any of the bodies that made the studies under
which this tunnel was built. I think it is half of
what is being charged in the Holland Tunnel in
New York, for example, where I think there is a
50 cent charge, if I am not mistaken. It is true
that at the hearing most of the people who ap-
peared expressed an opinion favorable to a reduc-
tion in rates, but when what they said was analyzed
it did not seem to me to have great weight. If
you ask a person whether he would rather pay
ten cents than twenty-five cents for a facility,
of course his answer will be "Yes." If you ask
a person from Revere whether he would like to
have this toll reduced, of course his answer is
"Yes," no matter what the effect on the City of
Boston may be, because those people do not
pay the bills. We pay the bills. Another piece
of characteristic testimony, loosely and irrespon-
sibly given in large part, was that of a man who
came here representing the Metropolitan Coal
Company. He said that 500 teams a day of
his company, or 500 trips a day, would be made
from their coal yard in Chelsea through the tunnel,
if the rates were cut in two. I asked him how
many trucks a day he was running now from that
point, and he said 200. He then tried to make out '
that this was not the normal time for coal deliv-
eries. Personally, I think it is a good average
time for deliveries, — in fact, I think more than
average, just when the cold weather is starting.
So I think he was giving us a lot of bunk when he
said there would be 500 trips a day. I don't
believe he has 500 trips in any day of the year.
That was the kind of testimony we had, irre-
sponsible, loosely thought-out testimony. I do not
believe we should act on testimony of that kind.
I do not believe we can place much reliance on
testimony from Hevere, Lynn, Winthrop and
Chelsea, because they do not care for what happens
to Boston. They would like to get through the
tunnel for nothing, if they could, and of course
they would like to come here and ask to have this
service for nothing. So I have dissented from
this report, and I hope, sir, that the report will
not prevail.
Coun. BRACKMAN — Mr. President, as a
member of the committee that sat in this matter,
I would like to make a statement giving my im-
pression of the information gathered by the
committee that has voted in favor of these lower
schedules. What impressed me more than any-
thing else was not the fact that these outsiders
came in here and said they ought to have a lower
rate, because I agree that they might be expected
to wish to benefit in a matter of this kind, par-
ticularly where their own tax rate is not affected.
Hut. I was impressed by the fact that people in a
position to know assured the committee of the
probability with a lower toll of much greater travel
through the tunnel, and it seems reasonable, in
view of what we were told, that that would be
the effect if the rates were placed at a point where
automobile and truck owners could use the tunnel
on a profitable basis, that there would be much
more travel. We know the present conditions.
We know that the tunnel is losing money day by
day, and that nothing 1ms been done to curtail
the losses. There is only one thing that we can
do, as I look at it. Of course, this body is only
noting, in any event, in an advise. ry capacity.
It is not up to us to solve the problem absolutely,
because we have no power to settle h . but wo can
merely stale our position, and 1 believe we arc
not harming anyone by trying to reduce the
schedule, so tar as people using the tunnel day
by day are concerned, to a lower point. II thai
is tried, we can easily tell whether the resulting
increased rate of travel is going to help the oity
financially, 1. for one. feel thai a reduced rate
would mean an increase m the amount ol travel
and an increase in the r< ipts from the tunnel.
t'oun WILSON Mi. President, I gather this
from the report of the committee, that the < 'ouncil
Ims no authority in the matter whatever, that in
taking the proposed acti t will be merelj making
a reci endation, and that ii is hoped as a
result of the adoption of the recommendation, if
it is adopted, there will be an increased return
from the increased use of the tunnel. On that
basis, while I come from a section of the city
that is not as much interested as the section that
the councilor from East Boston represents, I shall
grant my acquiescence in the recommendation of
the committee, which, I state again. I under-
stand looks to a test period of a limited time.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I did not
recall that the report looked to a test period of a
limited time, although I don't think it would
affect my opinion in the least if it did. I do
think, however, that if it is the intention to try
this for a limited time, it ought to be clear that
that is the recommendation.
Coun. MURRAY— Mr. President, I think inas-
much as this is a thing that was passed by the
Legislature for the City of Boston, and inasmuch
as it is a thing that is not only for the benefit
of the city but of other parts of the slate, it should
really be a question for state control and for state
financing, instead of placing the whole burden on
the taxpayers of Boston. I think the tunnel
should be state controlled.
The report was accepted, and the resolution was
declared not adopted.
Coun. SELVITELLA doubted the vote and
asked for a show of hands. The resolution was
adopted by a hand vote, 12 to 3.
Later in the session Coun. NORTON said:
Mr. President, I would ask unanimous consent
to make a statement in regard to the matter of
the East Boston Tunnel. I believe the question
of rates should be left to the Public Works Com-
missioner. What is to be considered a just return
is a very difficult question. If the traffic does
not increase, I believe personally that there is
only one alternative, and that is to lower the
rates. I might say, also, that, personally. I
believe the Commonwealth should operate this
tunnel with the gasolene tax.
EAST BOSTON TUNNEL LAND-TAKINGS.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered, That the Finance Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, in its
study of land-takings by the City of Boston to
give special consideration to the takings for the
East Boston Tunnel approaches, considering
among other things the extent to which settle-
ments were made in excess of the true value of
the parcels taken, as evidenced by bona fide sales
in the neighborhood, including sales by former
owners of lands so taken to persons who after a
short period of ownership or under option unloaded
on the city at large profits, and following these
profits so far as possible to the ultimate recipients.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President. As a
member of the Committee on East Boston Tunnel
Tolls I have had occasion to look into the estimated
and actual cost of the tunnel project. I find that
the Joint Board in 1021 estimated the cost of a
single-tube tunnel, such as has been built, and of
its approaches, at $8,300,000. The actual cost
bids fair to be over $19,000,000, or about. SI 1,000,-
000 in excess of the estimate, including a supple
mentary street widening program for which an
expenditure of 83,000,000 was authorized. Had
the actual cost been only $8,300,000, as originally
estimated, the tunnel would bo nearly self support-
ing. The huge annual deficit, probably amounting
to oyer S700.IMI0, is largely due to t hc'int crest, ami
sinking fund payments required on i his excess cosl
of about. $11,000,000. Having made this interest-
ing discovery, I proceeded to inquire as to where
all this money went. Il appears that Slso.:i
784 '■<■ has already been spent, and it. is believed
lieu unsettled land damage claims will require
about $750,000 to $1,000,000 more, or, taking the
largei figure, $19,639,784.36 in all. Of this total,
N~ .is mi ,i,r. Ims already been spent on land-
takings, with the prospect that the total required
foi thai purpose will be about $8. 500.000. or more
than l lie est Ued eosl of I he en l ire project, tunnel,
approaches and all. No wonder that we are now
fai in" a huge operating deficit, riie breaking-up
of the other figures is also of interest. Con-
struction costs under tl ontracl amounted to
VN [69,183.15; salaries, consisting mostly ol
engineering, stenographic and office services
amounted to SI. 31 1,327.."..',; and interesl on the
money advanced during const rilel ion amounted
to $1,427,408, Under tho salary item $202,738.21
354
CITY COUNCIL.
went for labor. The contract figure includes
materials, overhead, management and profit.
Possibly four to five millions of it went for labor
on the job. This would give about 25 per cent of
the total for the employment of labor. With all
the talk about "work and wages," while construc-
tion was going on little was said by those in au-
thority— and little was known to the public —
concerning the millions that were going mostly to
a small group of recent purchasers and option-
holders of the land to be taken. Practically all of
these transactions took place during the administra-
tion of ex-Mayor Curley. You will recall the
words cf Marcellus in the play of Hamlet. He
said, "Something is rotten in the state of Den-
mark." (I quote from the ex-Mayor's favorite
author.) I say that when these transactions were
taking place something was rotten in the City of
Boston. Let's have it out. That is the purpose
of my order. And I hope, Mr. President, that it
will be adopted by a unanimous vote. As servants
of the people and guardians of the public interest
and of the public purse, it seems to me that we can
do no less.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I had no
idea that this order was coming in, nor had I any
idea that the present Governorship fight would be
carried into the City Council. But now that the
gentleman has seen fit to bring the fight into this
body and get some publicity for it that he would
fail to get before an audience of ten or fifteen
people, let me say to you, sir, that my mind goes
back to the time when I took the floor of this
Council and fought against a Republican Legisla-
ture and against the widenings in the Haymarket
square section. Mr. President, eighteen Demo-
cratic members of this body and the four Repub-
lican members left this Council Chamber and
went to President Erland Fish of the Massa-
chusetts Senate and begged that Republican
President of the Senate to stop this great land
steal, but he laughed us to scorn and sent away
those elected officials of the Boston city govern-
ment, telling them that the Senate would reject
or pass the thing as they saw fit. We then went
over to Speaker Saltonstall and said to him,
"You are allowing a steal of practically the entire
$3,000,000, and we demand, as the elected officials
of the City of Boston, that this sort of thingcease."
And he also laughed us to scorn, saying, "We, in
this Republican Legislature, will tell you how Bos-
ton to is be run." In desperation we went to the
Democratic Governor of the Commonwealth. I
was selected as the spokesman and I said to Gover-
nor Joseph B. Ely, "The Legislature has passed this
great East Boston Tunnel project, a Republican
Legislature. You are the Democratic Governor
of the state, and Republican members of the
Legislature are directly interested, some of them
to the extent of being attorneys for the men who
own this property." The Governor said he would
look it over, and he practically told us that it
would not go through, even though a Republican
Legislature was attempting to steamroller it
through, that it would not go through with the
signature of a Democratic Governor, while there
was a Boston City Council of eighteen Democrats
and four Republicans, responsible members of the
body, who had gone up there to the State House,
representing the City of Boston, and protested.
But in the still hours ol the night certain Repub-
lican members of the Legislature and certain
Republican lawyers in this city who have benefited
far more than any others I know of in political
office, went to the Governor's office, and he there-
upon denied home rule to Boston. And so, sir,
men representing the banking element in this city,
Republican members of the Legislature, a Repub-
ican Speaker of the House, Mr. Saltonstall, and
Republican President Fish of the Senate, and
Republican and Democratic lawyers who repre-
sented special selfish interests, Governor Ely
turned down the request of this Council for home
rule, and we had, as a Republican piece of work,
these land-takings and steals. The amounts of
public money taken for that purpose in that way
were far greater than the amount spent by the
former Mayor of Boston on the Kenmore subway
and on tunnel work, in his work and wages cam-
paign, attempting to put men honestly at work and
to relieve the welfare rolls in this city, a work which
was seriously criticized by these same stock and
bond holders in our financial institutions, mil-
lionaries and multi-millionaires, who care little
for the army of the unemployed walking our
streets. But that thing was put through by a
Republican Legislature, then as alwayB interested
in property, headed by a Republican President
of the Senate and a Republican Speaker ot the
House, and the Governor of this Commonwealth,
who denied to the members of this Council, repre-
senting the citizens of Boston, the right of home
rule. It is a Republican baby, sir, and it belongs
right in their lap. I have hesitated during the
last twenty weeks to talk politics in this body,
because I did not believe that politics belonged
here. But when this issue of the East Boston
Tunnel is brought up here in the way in which it
has been injected into our proceedings, and when
I have in mind our appeal as members of the
body, Democrats and Republicans, to President
Fish of the Senate, to Speaker Saltonstall of the
House and to Governor Ely, I think it is time that
the facts should be stated here, the interest of
Republican attorneys in this matter, of bankers
who are very active in this city, men who are
always disregarding and always attempting to
defeat the will of the great majority in this city
who elect their official representatives to this body.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, I wish to
add just a word to the remarks made by the
gentleman from one of the Dorchester wards.
I was one of those who went up there to the State
House at the time he speaks of, and he has stated
the facts as to the way we were received. And
I would like to ask the councilor from the Back
Bay a question, — when this thing was going
through with the Legislature, were you with
Boston then or were you with the majority at the
State House.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I have
always opposed this East Boston bill. The leader
for the bill was Representative Hearn of East
Boston, a very persuasive gentleman. I fought
the thing for years, but was finally beaten in the
end. And when the gentleman refers to the
Republican support of the bill, the Democratic
members of the House, I think, were unanimously
for the bill.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, one more
question. Why have you waited for almost ten
months before making these statements about the
East Boston Tunnel? Why have you come in
here now, a week before election?
Coun. SHATTUCK — I was recently appointed
on a committee of this body to study the tunnel
situation with reference to tolls. That led into
the entire tunnel question. As a result, I made a
study of these figures, and am bringing them to
the attention of the Council.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, in order that
there may be no political heat, I would suggest
that the order be sent to the Executive Committee
until after election.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
WARD 15 ASSESSMENTS.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to in-
vestigate the assessed valuation of real estate in
Ward 15 with a view to making further reductions
in the valuations for 1933 and 1934.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 6.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of D street
and West Broadway, Ward 6.
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of D and
West Sixth streets, Ward 6.
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
"Stop" signs at the intersection of E and West
Third streets, Ward 6.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
ESTABLISHMENT OF UNITED STATES
SHOE FACTORIES.
Coun. SELVITELLA and DOHERTY offered
the following:
OCTOBER 29, 1934.
355
Resolved, That the City Council of Boston
hereby favors the establishment of shoe factories
by the United States Government as an E. R. A.
project in Boston, for the purpose of manu-
facturing shoes as a means of relieving the unem-
ployment situation among the shoe workers of
Boston.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, I under-
stand that the United States Government has under
consideration the appropriation of $25,000,000
to be used for the establishment of shoe factories
in various parts of the country. I feel, if such
is the case, that Boston should get its proportion-
ate share, because we have here in this city over
four thousand unemployed shoe workers, and
during the last few years shoe factories have been
continually moving out of the city and setting
up in business elsewhere. So, if the government
has under consideration the establishment of shoe
factories, it seem to me that is a good way of giving
employment to those men who need it most.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I do not
believe that setting up shoe factories in the City
of Boston would help the unemployment situa-
tion. I think, in general, it would rather tend
to lessen rather than increase employment, be-
cause it is not a very encouraging thing to persons
who have been conducting their own business to
see the Government going into competition with
them. The Government naturally would not have
the same cost accounting problems to meet, with
the result that private concerns would feel com-
pelled to draw in their horns and not add to their
pay rolls. It would knock private business en-
tirely out of gear, thus throwing out of private
employment, I believe, many more people than
would be employed as a result of that govern-
mental action.
Coun. DOHERTY— Mr. President, I agree
with the councilor from East Boston (Coun. Sel-
vitella) in this matter. Coming from a district
where there are many unemployed shoe workers,
I believe that an E. R. A. project of this kind
would take many of them off the welfare rolls.
For that reason, believing that this would help
many of the unemployed shoe workers in my dis-
trict, I think it is a good resolve.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I am in favor
of this resolve provided it is understood that
E. R. A. are, to designate the factory or factories.
We know what the Democratic candidate in Cal-
ifornia is trying to do along the line of the use of
factories, in order to relieve the unemployment
situation; we know what is being tried out in
Chicago; we also know, in regard to these E. R. A.
and other governmental projects, that Massachu-
setts gets very little in return for the amount that
it pays out for what is being done in other parts
of the country. Inasmuch, however, as we must
eventually pay the bill, because of the maelstrom
we are in, I think we should at least get the same
treatment as other cities. Therefore, I am in
favor of the resolve.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I shall vote
against the resolve, remembering, as I do, that if
there is one outstanding industry still left around
the City of Boston and in other cities and towns
of this state and of New Hampshire, one respect
in which we have stood out as the center of the
business, it is the shoe manufacturing industry.
So far we have been the center of that industry in
this country. I would, therefore, hesitate to see
any of the projects and plans mentioned by the
councilor from Hyde Park (Coun. Norton) adopted,
certainly in regard to an industry that so inti-
mately affects New England. Let us not shoot
at the heart of perhaps the chief outstanding in-
dustry of Massachusetts and New England, the
industry that places this section in the position
where she stands today.
C6un. ROBERTS Mr. President, I, too, wish
to add a word of protest against this resolve. II
it were a temporary measure, thai mighl be one
thing, but, in the Hrsl place, nothing worthwhile
could be accomplished in this line without organ-
izing the business and. in the second place, 1 would
certainly vote against putting the Government
into business. I do no! believe any man in this
Council wants to see what is prael i rally our leu, line
industry in New England ruined through action
by the I iiivminii'iii Therefore, I am against,
the resolve.
Coun DONOVAN Mr. President, I believe
that this is a Bubjeol thai can well be taken care
of in Washington. The whole thing is based on a
protective tariff, and any action taken involves
tariff legislation by the Government, For exam-
ple, we have shoes coming from Japan and Russia,
sold in competition with American shoes. For
that reason I believe consideration of this matter
belongs in Washington, where a protective tariff
should be enacted in the interest of the shoe
industry.
The resolution was referred, on motion of Coun.
AGNEW, to the Executive Committee.
PROPOSED NAVY YARD IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. SELVITELLA, for Coun. Green, offered
the following:
Resolved, That the Navy Department be re-
quested to include in its P. W. A. projects the
proposed addition to the structural shop at the
Boston Navy Yard, and the extension to the
shipbuilding ways at the same yard.
These projects are deemed essential to the Navy
Yard, besides being excellent objectives for the
P. W. A., namely, relieving unemployment in this
locality.
Both of these projects are indorsed by the
present Mayor of Boston, Frederick W. Mansfield,
and ex-Mayor James M. Curley, the officials at
the Navy Yard, and the general public in this
vicinity.
The estimated cost of both of these projects is
five hundred thousand dollars.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING OF BURNEY STREET.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth paving Burnev
street. Ward 10.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ARC LIGHTS, WARD 19.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to replace the present unsatisfactory arc
light at the corner of Clive and Boylston streets,
Ward 19, with a new and more efficient light.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install an arc light at the corner of
Beecher and Paul Gore streets, Ward 19.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install an arc light at the corner of
St. Peter and Paul Gore streets. Ward 19.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD. 20 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to replace the wooden feme along the railroad
bridge on Walworth street, Ward 20, which is
extremely dangerous in its present, condition,
with an iron railing.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works lie requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to immediately install catch-basins at the lower
end of Eastbourne and Westbourne streets. Ward
20. to remedy an unsanitary condition caused by
hi ni water.
Severally passed under suspension of the ride.
I'U I\G OF w \i;i) 21 STREETS.
Coun. AGNKW offered the following:
Ordered. Thai the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth paving Chiswick road,
Wud 21.
Ordered. Thai I he ( 'omniissioncr of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
io repa\ e with I ins Kilsyth road.
u ird 21.
Severally passed under suspension of I he rule.
356
CITY COUNCIL.
SIDEWALK ON HOBSON STREET.
Coun. GALLAGHER offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Hobson street, from
Faneuil street to Hobart street, Ward 22, in front
of the estates bordering thereon; said sidewalk to
be from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter adjoining,
to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to be built of
artificial stone, with granite edgestones, under the
provisions of chapter 196 of the Special Acts of
1917.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPAVING OF MERCER STREET.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Mercer street,
Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TRAFFIC LIGHT, WARD 12.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Walnut-
avenue and Warren street, Ward 12.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
COMPENSATION OF CHIEF PROBATION
OFFICER, SOUTH BOSTON.
Coun. NORTON, for the Committee on County
Accounts, to whom was referred October 15, 1934,
a communication from the Justice of the Municipal
Court of the South Boston District, with reference
to the compensation of the chief probation officer
of said court, submitted report, recommending
passage of the following:
Ordered, That the salary of the chief probation
officer of the Municipal Court of the South BoBton
District, as established by the justice of said
court, at $3,000 per annum, to date from October
15, 1934, be, and the same hereby is, approved.
Report accepted; said order passed.
SAVANNAH AVENUE, WARD 18.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to lay out and construct Savannah avenue,
Ward 18.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Welfare Department, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to consider
the advisability of supplying welfare recipients
with 8-cent milk.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I would like
to have included in the record a statement of the
Department of Public Welfare of New York City
in regard to the plan in operation in that city for
distributing milk to the inhabitants at 8 cents per
quart.
The letter submitted by Coun. Norton is as
follows:
Department of Public Welfare,
City of New York,
Food and Clothing Distribution Bureau,
October 8, 1934.
Mr. Clement A. Norton,
Boston City Council.
Dear Sir, — Replying to your inquiry of October
4, regarding 8-cent milk, we beg to advise you that
the milk companies are delivering milk to ninety
food depots (depots established for the distribution
of Federal surplus commodities), their wagon and
driver arriving in time to distribute milk from 7 to 9
a. m. Our food depots open for business at
9 o'clock.
Our depots furnish a man or two to help with
the handling of the cases, as it is all bottled in
quarts.
The applicant presents a ticket like the small
attached sample, which ticket has been issued to
him after he has signed the large attached sample.
The Milk Company's representative hands out the
milk and receives the money. We do not take any
part in the finances of the transaction.
The punching of the day of the month on the
small card prevents duplication. In addition to
the milk distributed through our depots, the Board
of Health also distributes in the same manner at
the Baby Health Clinics, numbering about fifty-
five.
The total daily distribution of the combined food
depots and baby clinics is about sixty-nine thou-
sand quarts.
Yours truly,
Carl Andebson,
General Manager.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
SLUM CLEARANCE IN BOSTON.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of appointing
a small number of his department heads to an
official City of Boston Housing Committee that
will have the authority to deal directly with
Federal and State authorities regarding the matter
of slum clearance in Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
COMPENSATION FOR CERTAIN CITY
EMPLOYEES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of establish-
ing a rule whereby any employee of the city who
comes in contact with a disease in line of duty
and becomes afflicted with said disease, shall be
given time off with pay sufficient to allow for
recuperation, provided, that in the opinion of the
commissioner in charge of the department in
which said employee is employed, such a pro-
cedure should be followed.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, we have a
Workman's Compensation Act applying to em-
ployees of the City of Boston. But I understand
that employees of the Health Department of the
city do not get the full benefit that might be
expected from such an act. Here is a case of a
nurse who worked for eight years for the Health
Department of the City of Boston among tuber-
culosis patients, who contracted the disease a few
weeks ago, and is now at the Boston Sanatorium
in my ward. Her name was stricken from the
pay roll after two weeks' leave, more or less.
I believe that any nurse afflicted in this manner,
in the line of duty, should be kept on the pay roll
for at least a reasonable length of time. Is it
just or fair to ask our city nurses to go among
patients with contagious disease, with the thought
in mind that if they catch the disease their names
will be stricken off the pay roll after two weeks'
sick leave? I do not think so. New York City,
Philadelphia and other large centers are very
liberal to their nurses jn such cases. Why not
Boston? After I had called attention to this
matter, the Mayor of Boston issued a statement
the other day, in substance as follows:
1. This girl did not contract this disease as a
result of her work.
2. She was perfectly satisfied with the way she
was treated at the Boston Sanatorium.
3. She did not like the publicity involved.
First, and in reply to the statement that she
did not contract this disease in the line of duty,
who can say that anyone working among tuber-
culous patients, who contracts the disease, did
not contract it in the line of duty? The American
Tuberculosis Association advises all tubercular
patients to "cover every cough," to guard all
sputum carefully, so as not to spread the disease.
What about this woman who worked right in with
unfortunate tubercular patients? What doctor,
be it Dr. Cleveland Floyd or others, can say that
(his nurse did not contract the disease in line of
duty? Why not give her the benefit of the doubt?
Second, in regard to the patient being perfectly
OCTOBER 29, 1934.
357
satisfied with the way that she was treated at the
Boston Sanatorium, of course, she is being prop-
erly taken care of there, but she is simply get ling
the same treatment that a plain corner loafer
would get, when taken off the street, if afflicted
with tuberculosis. She is entitled to more con-
sideration. An old father, nearly ninety years of
age, worries her. He must either get an old age
pension or go to the poor house while she is sick
and off the pay roll. At present, two other
city nurses who lived with this victim are caring
for the father. And, third, it is natural that she
should not care for the publicity, but let me say,
in that regard, that I have never mentioned to a
single soul the name of this woman. I simply
said this was a case where a woman engaged in
tuberculosis work was herself taken down with
the disease, and I might mention another case
where a woman engaged in tuberculosis work,
and contracting the disease, was sent to Saranac
for eighteen weeks, through the good offices of the
previous Mayor, and was cured. Fred O'Brien
of the Herald wanted the name of this woman.
I said, "Fred, that name should not be mentioned
in the papers," and the paper did not publish it.
Another newspaper, however, took the matter up,
found out who the individual was, and published
the name.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I am not
sure that I recall or that I heard the entire order
of the gentleman read. Probably I would favor
it. But the point I want to bring out is, whether
we should, one after another, pass under suspen-
sion of the rule orders on important questions,
expressing opinions on matters to which we have
given no real consideration. In many cases we do
not even know what the order is about, and when
we pass orders under such conditions anybody
knows that our opinion does not amount to any-
thing. Therefore, sir, I would move that this
order lie over for one meeting. If that motion
prevails, it will give an opportunity to everyone
to know what it is all about and to have a con-
sidered opinion on the subject.
(The order was re-read.)
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, the order
merely asks, first, that the Mayor consider the
matter and, second, if he does consider it favor-
ably, it must then be favorably considered by the
Health Commissioner.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, may I say
that men in the Fire Department and other depart-
ments, injured in the line of duty, receive a cer-
tain amount of money while they are out, until
they are able to go back into the service, and if
they are so seriously injured in the line of duty
that they cannot go back, they receive a pension.
It seems to me there is no reason why in this case,
as in other cases of the kind, that procedure should
not be followed.
President DOWD — Does the Chair understand
Councilor Shattuck to press the motion that this
lie over for one week?
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, I withdraw
the motion.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
GAS SERVICE FOR HYDE PARK.
< 'nun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider I lie advisability of having the
Corporation Counsel of the City of Boston,
together with competent assistants, take charge
..i tin- coming hearing before the Massachusetts
Department of Public Utilities on the matter ol
reducing the gas rates to that section of Ward 18
that now pays a higher gas rate than any other
section of Boston because <>f the tan that it is
served by the Dedham anil Hyde Pari, lei
Company, whereas other sen inns of Boston are
served by the Boston Consolidated Gus Company.
\lso. iha! i he Mayor of Boston consider the matter
of request the \Ia lui cits Department of
Public I lib ties to favor gas service being rendered
to all of Ward is by the Boston Consolidated
t his I 'omp '
Coun, NORTON Mr. President, the onl; pari
of Boston noi served by the Boston Coneolid ted
Gas Com 1 1' i oj i approximately oni half ol Ward 18,
i ho i seot ion being served bj I he J tadha m and
Hyde I 'ai k ( tas l po nj I I he gas ibi
i ha( seei ion pa ■. it. ■ i com idoi i bh hignei
gas than is paid in oiher parts of Boston, There
are continual objections and remonstrancos, but
the trouble is thai in the pasl re strants have
gone before the Department of Public Utilities at
the State House and asked for consideration, but
have been faced by able counsel, Robert Dodge,
and a group of experts produced by the gas in-
terests. People go up and protest, but thev are
not in a position to present their case as it should
be presented, and therefore their petitions fail.
It does seem as though, when citizens of Boston
have a grievance which is to presented to a public
tribunal, the city should assist to the extent of
furnishing the best legal talent available to argue
the case for the people, and that expert testimony
to offset that produced by the companies should
be furnished. What do remonstrants appearing
there have to face? Factual data produced by
the interested companies, and the Dedham and
Hyde Park Company, for example, is in a position
to produce arguments why their rates should not
be reduced, which arguments the petitioners are
not in a position to refute. It is the same with
the electrical companies. Petitioners in this city
for reductions in the price of gas and electricity
have never had proper representatives before the
Department of Public Utilities, have never had
representatives who could at all compare or
match up with the representatives of the gas and
electric companies. In the particular case I have
referred to, the Department of Public Utilities
has not yet set a date for hearing upon those rates.
There is yet sufficient time for the Corporation
Counsel to designate counsel to represent the
city, to make a study of the matter, and to be of
real help to citizens of Hyde Park, in Ward 18,
who now pay more for their gas than anybody
else in Boston.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted, on motion of Coun.
ROBERTS, at 3.25 p. m., to take a recess sub-
ject to the call of the Chair. The members re-
assembled and were called to order by the President
at 4.46 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COxMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and orders
(referred today) for transfers within departmental
appropriations — recommending that same ought to
pass.
Report on message of Mayor and order (referred
today) appropriating 825,000 from income of
George F. Parkman Fund to be expended under
direction of Park Commissioners — recommending
that same ought to pass.
Report on message of Mayor and order (referred
today) appropriating $3,500 to be expended by
Board of Zoning Adjustment, said sum to be
charged to Reserve Fund — recommending that
same ought to pass.
Reports severally accepted and orders passed,
yeas 18, nays 0.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) requesting Commonwealth of
Massachusetts to lay out state highway from
Spring street, at intersection with Brook Farm
Parkway, to a point on dividing line bet ween City
of Boston and town of Dedham — that same ought
to pasa.
Report accepted; said order passed.
w \KD 22 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. GALLAGHER offered the follow
Ordered, Thai the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, bo re-
quested to repave with .smooth paving M
si reel, Ward 22.
Ordered, Thai the Traffic Commissioner, through
hi Honor the Mayor, be requested to provide
in Ins budget for 1035 BufficiOQt money to install
traffic ' forth Harvard and Cambridge
streets. Ward 22.
Ordered, Thai the Commissioner of Public
through his Honor the Mayor, tie re-
quested to repave with smooth paving Sparhawk
. Ward 22.
358
CITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to repave with smooth paving, Foster
street, Ward 22.
Ordered, That the Street Commissioners, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to relocate
and reconstruct Faneuil street, from Oak square
to Arlington street, Ward 22.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to repave with smooth paving, Franklin
street, Ward 22.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
SALE TO STATE OF EAST BOSTON LAND.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz.:
2. Whereas, The Board of Street Commis-
sioners of the City of Boston by a resolve and order
approved by the Mayor of Boston March 1, 1930,
took for playground purposes two parcels of land
belonging to Florence J. McCarthy, containing
approximately 16,294 and 20.578 square feet of
land, respectively, situated on Pope street, in that
part of Boston called East Boston, and awarded
for said parcels the sum of S3, 892. 52 and $4,732.94,
respectively, and settled suits brought in the
Superior Court for the County of Suffolk on ac-
count of said taking of said parcels of land for the
aggregate sum of $13,125.70; and
Whereas, By the same instrument of taking, the
said Board of Street Commissioners took for play-
ground purposes a parcel of land from Michael
Murphy Heirs, containing approximately 12,156
square feet, situated at the corner of Pope street
and Byron street, in said East Boston, and awarded
as damages for the taking of said parcel of land
$2,795.88 and settled a suit brought in the Superior
Court for the County of Suffolk for damages on ac-
count of the taking of said parcel of land for the
sum of $4,254.60; and
Whereas, There was recorded in the Registry
of Deeds for the County of Suffolk on August 29,
1933, a written instrument wherein the Depart-
ment of Public Works of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts purported to take for a state high-
way, in behalf of the Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts, said land which the City of Boston had
taken for park purposes, situated on Pope and
Byron streets, in that part of Boston called East
Boston; and
Whereas, By the said instrument of taking the
said Department of Public Works of the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts purported to take for a
state highway certain portions of streets situated
in East Boston and more particularly set forth in
said instrument of taking, excepting and reserving
from the rights taken therein all easements for
wires, pipes, conduits, poles and other appur-
tenances for conveyance of water, sewage, gas and
electricity and for telephone communication then
lawfully in or upon the said premises thereby taken,
and all lawful rights of the public to use those
parts of the public streets and ways of the City of
Boston which were included in the said taking; and
Whereas, The Board of Park Commissioners of
the City of Boston no longer needs the said parcels
of land which had been taken for playground pur-
poses as above set forth for public purposes; and
Whereas, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
is desirous of purchasing said parcels of land pur-
ported to have been taken as aforesaid; now,
therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized, in the name and behalf of
the City of Boston, to convey to the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts, by an instrument in
writing satisfactory to the Law Department of
the City of Boston, the above mentioned parcels
which have been taken by the Board of Street
Commissioners for playground purposes upon the
delivery to the said City of Boston of the sum of
$17,380.30.
On September 24, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 15, nays 0.
The order was given its second reading and
passage, yeas 17, nays 0.
APPROPRIATION FOR EAST BOSTON
PLAYGROUND.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the sum of ten thousand dollars
($10,000) be, and hereby is, appropriated, to be
expended under the direction of the Park Com-
mission, for the establishment of playground in
that part of Boston called the Fourth Section of
East Boston, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from
time to time, upon the request of the Mayor, bonds
or certificates of the city to said amount.
Referred to the Finance Committee.
ELLERY STREET IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Ellery street,
Ward 7.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public Works
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
replace the present gas lamps on Ellery street,
Ward 7, with modern arc lights.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public Works
make a sidewalk along Ellery street, entire length,
both sides, Ward 7, in front of the estates bordering
thereon; said sidewalk to be from 3 to 10 inches
above the gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet
in width, and to be built of granolithic, with granite
edgestones, under the provisions of chapter 196
of the Special Acts of 1917.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
PAVING OF RIDGEMONT STREET.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth paving Ridgemont street,
Ward 21.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
The Council voted, on motion of Coun.
FINLEY, that when it adjourn it be to meet on
Monday, November 19, 1934, at 2 p. m.
Adjourned, on motion of Coun. ENGLERT, at
4.52 p. m., to meet on Monday, November 19,
1934, at 2 p. m.
OITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
OITY COUNCIL.
359
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council
SPECIAL MEETING.
Thursday, November 8, 1934.
Special meeting of the City Council, held in
the City Council Chamber, City Hall, at one
o'clock p. m. President DOWD in the chair
and a quorum present.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn, the Mayor absent, by
Coun. ROBERTS, as follows:
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear December 3,
1934:
Harry L. Barker, Ward 1; James J. Lynch.
Ward 2 ; Emilio Ciriello. Ward 3 : Frederick
D. Johnson, Ward 4 ; Herbert R. Williams.
Ward 4: Charles F. Freeman, Ward 7: Edward
Vallely, Ward 7 ; John Roddy, Ward 8 ; Walter
F. Bleiler, Ward 10; Frederick A. Conkey,
Ward 10; Arthur T. Dolan, Ward 10; Olaf
Anderson, Ward 11 ; Charles A. Ryan, Ward
11 ; Samuel Wiseman, Ward 12 ; Carl W. Lar-
son, Ward 15; Samuel J. Douglas, Ward 16;
Samuel J. Kelly, Ward 17; George C. Webb.
Ward 19 ; Henry A. Brunelle, Ward 21 ; David
P. Edgerton, Ward 21.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court, Third Session, to appear Decem-
ber 5, 1934:
Edmond W. Frazer, Ward 1 : Stewart Joyce,
Ward 1 ; John J. Norton, Ward 2 : Philip
Dumaresq, Ward 5 : Frank C. Miller, Ward 6 ;
George E. Cleary, Ward 10 ; Ernest J. Crisp,
Ward 10: Joseph Shuman, Ward 12: Edward
Burke, Ward 13 : Daniel J. Shea, Ward 13 ;
Jacob B. Novakoff, Ward 14 ; William Shapiro,
Ward 14 ; Michael F. Foley, Ward 16 : An-
drew F. Gallivan, Ward 16; John Graham,
Ward 16 : David H. Lane. Ward 16 ; William
B. Locke, Ward 16 ; Walter H. Milton, Ward
16 : James J. Corcoran, Ward 17 ; Peter H.
Mohr. Ward 18 ; Joseph C. Saunders, Ward
18 ; Frank H. Davidmeyer, Ward 19 ; Abbott
S. Hofier. Ward 19 : Frank E. Potter, Ward
21 : Frank A. Smith. Ward 22 : Thomas P.
Troy, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors. Superior Crim-
inal Court, Fourth Session, to appear De-
cember 3, 1934 :
Michael J. Cashman, Ward 1 : William H.
Boland, Ward 2; Charles J. Whitlock. Ward
2 : Laughlin J. Gillis, Ward 3 ; Willard L.
Harwood, Ward 5: John M. Lane. Ward 6;
Paul R. Reed, Ward 5 : Richard J. Shaugh-
nessy. Ward 6 ; George E. Call, Ward 7 : Dan-
iel J. Moynihan. Ward 7; Jeremiah F. Fahey,
Ward 8: John F. Flynn, Ward 10: Ambrose
T. Waul, Ward 10 ; James T. Cavanaugh, Ward
11; Russell M. Stockman. Ward 12; William
H. Craffey. Ward 13 j Clement F. Reardon.
Ward 13 ; Joseph F. Lyons, Ward 14 : Harold
Pass, Ward 15 ; John W. Fandrey. Ward 17 :
John Georgian. Ward 17 j Joseph R. Mac-
Donald, Ward 18; Selden F. Walker. Ward 18;
Leo A. Broad, Ward 20 : Berton C. Cummings,
Ward 20 : Robert H. MacKinnon. Ward 20 :
John Lake. Ward 21 : Richard Harold Me-
Kenna. Ward 21 ; Horace D. Williams, Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Crim-
inal Court. Fifth Session, to appear Decem-
ber 3, 1931 :
Charles F. Dagle. Ward 1 : Charles Palladlno.
Ward 1 : James J. Dooley. Ward 2 ; Philip J.
Gibbons. Ward 2 ; Thomas F. Maguire. Ward 2 :
Vernon R. Chesley, Ward 4 ; Albert E. Spring,
Ward 7; Thomas Carroll, Ward 9; Thomas
J. Jesso, Ward 11 ; George L. Runge, Ward
11 ; Frank S. Pruett, Ward 12 ; Henry S.
Chandler, Ward 13 ; George Warren Lord,
Ward 14 ; Joseph P. Granville, Ward 15 ;
C. Ford Sawyer, Ward 16 ; William F. Sears,
Ward 17 ; Frederick N. Weeks, Ward 17 ;
Laurence R. Clarke, Ward 18 ; Edmond A.
Suck, Ward 18 ; Francis W. Leavey, Ward
19 ; Frank Panarello, Ward 19 ; Alfred D.
Norley, Ward 20 ; Joseph H. Donnelly, Ward
21 ; William C. Phillips, Ward 21 ; George E.
Carmichael, Ward 22 ; Harry R. Davis, Ward
22 ; William Holmes, Ward 22 ; Charles H.
Russell, Ward 22 ; Louis M. Winslow, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, First Session, October Sitting, to ap-
pear December 3, 1934:
Duncan McKay, Ward 1 ; Emanuel Silva,
Werd 1 ; Sylvester B. Colbert, Ward 2 ; James
S. Billante, Ward 3; Walter C. Davis, Ward
4 : James D. Langdon, Ward 4 ; William H.
Sanford, Ward 4 ; James J. Swan, Ward 7 ;
Daniel F. Cremin, Ward 8 ; Frank McGee.
Ward 8; Patrick A. Flaherty, Ward 9; Albert
L. Farley, Ward 10 ; John H. Gardner, Ward
10 : Oscar Kumin, Ward 10 : Timothy Mc-
Carthy. Ward 10 : Ernest F. Brown, Ward
12 ; James C. Coles, Ward 12 ; Mark M.
Jeffrey. Ward 14 ; Samuel A. Ross, Ward 16 :
Joseph A. Blake, Ward 17 : Thomas Moriarty.
Ward 17: Eugene A. Toupence, Ward 18; John
McLeod Hogg, Ward 19 ; Norman H. Hastings,
Ward 20.
Twenty-three traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Third Session, October Sitting, to ap-
pear December 3, 1934 :
Charles E. Paterson, Ward 1 ; Clifford J.
Thibeau, Ward 1 : Bernard F. Tague, Jr.,
Ward 2 : William Moglia, Ward 3 ; James R.
Black, Ward 4 ; Charles A. Resig, Ward 5 ;
Thomas F. Fitzgerald, Ward 6 ; Oscar S. Wil-
liams. Ward 8 ; Daniel J. Sullivan. Ward 10 :
Joseph F. Coffin, Ward 11 : Lyman F. Harring-
ton. Ward 12 ; Eustace B. Hood, Ward 14 :
Arthur F. Hyder, Ward 15 ; Edward J.
Tierney, Ward 15 ; Edward Lanagan, Ward
17 ; Joseph W. McQuaid, Ward 18 ; August
C. G. Doering. Ward 19 ; Edward S. Holmes.
Ward 19 ; John N. Ryan. Ward 19 : Frank
N. Colton, Ward 20 : Fred E. Lincoln. Ward
21 ; Arthur H. Cox, Ward 22 ; Louis Huntley
Mclsaac, Ward 22.
Twenty-three traverse jurors. Superior Civil
Court. Fourth Session, October Sitting, to
appear December 3, 1934 :
Joseph F. Magee. Ward 2; Frank W. Mos-
chitto. Ward 3 ; William Locklin, Ward 4 :
John A. Hanson, Ward 6 : Dennis M. J.
Collins. Ward 7: Timothy J. Purcell. Ward
7 : Thomas G. Judge, Ward 8 ; Cornelius Mc-
Devitt. Ward 8 ; James M. Murray. Ward 8 ;
Jeremiah Quinn. Ward 8 : Gunnar Johnson.
Ward 9 ; Jacob F. Becker. Ward 10 : Henry
Hollenberg, Ward 10 ; Bartholomew McCarthy,
Ward 10; Martin Faurer. Ward 11: George
W. Waldman. Ward 12 : Edward C. Galvln.
Ward 14 : Wendall L. Turley. Ward 14 : Arthur
.7. Shea. Ward 16 : Charles Bulger. Ward 19 :
James Reay, Ward 20: Charles A. Reid. Ward
20: Walter E. Davis. Ward 22.
Twenty-two traverse jurors. Superior Civil
Court. Fifth Session. October Sitting, to ap-
pear December 3. 1934 :
Sebastiano DiMari. Ward 1 : William John
Friol. Ward 2 ; Peter Dentoni. Ward 3 : Philip
T-anger. Wnrd 3 : John J. Sullivan. Ward 3
Fred H. Bailey. Ward 4: Wilinm F. Mc
UUitl". W.'ird 9: Arnold P. Driscoll, Ward 10
Aloysius J. Ochs. Ward 10 : Thomas Prender
k'ust. Wnrd 10; Joseph F. Magee, Ward 11
Frank R. Kirehthurn. Ward 12: Lucia Marks
Ward 12; Benjamin P. Perry. Ward 12
Thomas Burns. Ward 13 : Frank G. Avery. Jr
Ward 14 : Ernest W. Woodward. Ward 16
360
CITY COUNCIL.
Harry W. Munson, Ward 16 ; Clayton H. Rob-
erts, Ward 16 ; John R. Dodd, Ward 17 ; Ernest
Burnce, Ward 22; Fred W. Petitit, Ward 22.
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Sixth Session, October Sitting, to appear De-
cember 3, 1934:
James Perieotti, Ward 1 ; Martin O'Malley,
Ward 2 ; Denis J. Slater, Ward 2 ; George E.
Emmons, Ward 3 ; Henry A. L. Giddens, Ward
4 ; Peter Lomax, Ward 4 ; Hugh MacLean,
Ward 6 ; Ed-ward J. Cummings, Ward 8 ; John
Cachelim, Ward 10 ; James M. Sullivan, Ward
10 : John E. Wheldon, Ward 12 ; Frank Matzar,
Ward 14 ; Thomas McCormick, Ward 16 ; John
D. Chisholm, Ward 17 ; James A. Nagle, Ward
17; Howard R. Scott, Ward 17; Albert Pear-
son, Ward 18 ; James C. Hermitage, Ward 20 ;
William J. Shephard. Ward 20 ; John J.
Griffin, Ward 22.
Fifteen traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Seventh Session, October Sitting, to appear
December 3, 1934:
Frank J. Keating, Ward 2 ; Frank J. Lever-
one, Ward 2 ; Stephen G. Wagner, Ward 2 ;
Michael J. Donahue, Ward 7 ; Maurice Schaf-
fer, Ward 8 ; Americus G. Watson, Ward 8 ;
John P. Cavanagh, Ward 9 ; Thomas J. Darcy,
Ward 9 ; Martin J. Mulkern, Ward 9 ; Edward
H. Johnson, Ward 11 ; Frederick Charles, Ward
14 ; Francis P. Ward, Ward 15 ; Frederick W.
Carroll, Ward 20 ; Joseph D. Norris, Ward 21 ;
Joseph A. McQuillan, Ward 22.
Adjourned at 1.45 p. m.
OITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DBPAJtTMBNT
CITY COUNCIL.
361
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council
Monday, November 19, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair and all the members present.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments, viz.:
Weighers of Goods: Emil Cacace, 79 Rutland
street, Boston; John A. Dunton, 30 Cummings
road, Newton Centre.
Weigher of Coal: Henry Steuterman, 23
Chandler street, Worcester; Margaret A. Steeves,
35 Spring street, Medford; John W. Jefferson, 816
River street, Mattapan.
Measurer of Hay and Grain: John Leydon, 20
Essex street, Charlestown.
Weigher of Goods, Measurer of Grain and
Inspector of Pressed or Bundled Hay and Straw:
James J. Colorusso, 20 Mystic Valley Parkway,
Arlington.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
VETO OF PROBATION OFFICER'S SALARY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 7, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith without
my signature and with my disapproval the order
adopted by your honorable body on October 29,
1934, which purports to fix the salary of the chief
probation officer of the Municipal Court of the
South Boston District at 83,000 per annum.
The only effect of this order, if approved, would
be to provide a salary increase for a member of
the probation staff of that court. In view of the
policy which has prevailed in city departments
for the last four years, that no salary increases
should be allowed except where an employee was
promoted to a position of greater responsibility
and more important duties, there is no apparent
reason why an exception to this policy should be
made in this instance. The probation officer
who has been appointed to the position of chief
probation officer by the presiding justice of the
South Boston District Court has been serving as
head probation officer since 1932 when he suc-
ceeded Clayton H. Parmelee. Mr. Parmelec
had been attached to the court for forty-three
years and his salary at the time of his retirement
was $2,500. His successor, if this order should be
approved, would be receiving a salary of $500
more than Mr. Parmelee received although he
has been attached to the court for approximately
only seven years.
It has not been called to my attention that any
material change has taken place in the work of
the Probation Department in the South Boston
District Court in the two years during which the
successor to Mr. Parmalee has been serving as
head probation officer.
From all of thoso considerations I am moved
to the conclusion that there is no necessity at
this time for establishing the position of chief
probation officer with B basic salary of $500 in
excess of that now reoeived by the head probation
officer of the court.
licspi'i-l lull' ,
Fiu:ihi.i< u \\ Mansfield, Major.
Placed on file.
VETO OF Cit dNOLITHIC sniliw \l K
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of tin- Mayor, November 14, 1034,
I □ i lie City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return horewith without my
signature, and disapproved, the order adopted In
your honorable body on October 29, 1934, for the
making of granolithic sidewalks along the entire
length of both sides of Ellery street in Ward 7. I
am informed that the cost of construction for
these sidewalks and of resetting the edgestoncs
would be approximately $2,200 and that there is
no money available for doing this work this year.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
STRUCTURAL SHOP, NAVY YARD.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of your order
dated October 29, 1934, that I request the Navy
Department to include in its P. W. A. projects the
proposed addition to the structural shop at the
Boston Navy Yard, and the extension to the
shipbuilding wavs at the same yard.
Under date of October 15, 1934, I took this
matter up with Secretary of the Navy Swanson
and Assistant Secretary of the Navy Roosevelt,
and as a result the project is now being considered
by Harold L. Ickes, Federal Public Works Ad-
ministrator.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
TEMPORARY LOAN OF $7,500,000.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am advised by the City Auditor
that in his opinion it will be necessary to borrow
before the close of this year in anticipation of the
taxes of the current year an amount exceeding the
total already authorized by your honorable body
for such borrowings. In the opinion of the Auditor
an additional authorization of $7,500,000 should
be granted by the City Council, thus making a
total authorization of temporary borrowings for
this year $52,500,000, the same amount as was
authorized in 1933 by your honorable body. In
conformity with the advice and opinion of the
City Auditor, I submit herewith the necessary
order and respectfully recommend its adoption by
your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That to provide temporarily money to
meet the appropriations for the financial year 1934,
the City Treasurer issue and sell at such times
and in such amounts as he may deem best, notes
or certificates of indebtedness of the City of Boston
not exceeding seven million five hundred thousand
dollars ($7,500,000) in the total, in anticipation ol
the taxeB of the current municipal year; that all
such notes or certificates of indebtedness be dated
the day the money for the same is received, be
made payable with the interest thereon, within
one year of their date, and bear interest from their
dato until the same are made payable at such rate
as the City Auditor, the City Treasurer, and the
Mayor, may determine.
Referred to Kxccutivo Committer.
KITCHEN AND LAUNDRY Hill, DINGS,
LONG ISLAND HOSP1 I'M
The following was received:
( 'it v of Boston,
i iffice of the Mayor, November 10, 10 14
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attaohed
communication from the Institutions Commis-
sioner m whioh be requests an appropriation ol
130,000 to make n re. led ilnpi o\ enieiit B in the
kitchen and laundry buildings ol the Long Island
Hospital, Because of the permanent nature of
these improvements, I am providing the required
amount by transfers from unexpended balances in
loan appropriations whioh are no longer required
362
CITY COUNCIL.
for the purposes for which the loans were issued.
I respectfully recommend adoption of the ac-
companying transfer order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Institutions Department, November 1, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
My dear Mr. Mayor, — It is important for the
proper administration of the kitchen at the Long
Island Hospital that it should be furnished with
certain new equipment, and that the old cracked
cement floor should be replaced by tile. I have
the honor to request that an appropriation of
sixteen thousand dollars ($16,000) be granted.
Laundry: It is important to move the ironing
room from its present location to a fireproof base-
ment to lessen the present risk A number of new
pieces of laundry machinery are urgently required.
An appropriation of fourteen thousand dollars
($14,000) is requested for these purposes.
Yours very sincerely,
F. A Washburn,
Commissioner of Institutions.
Ordered, That under authority of chapter 261
of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be and hereby
is authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Recreation Building,
Long Island Hospital, Establishment of, $5,380.28;
Steamer "Stephen OMeara" Alterations and
Additions, $313.83; Garage, Police Station 14,
$512.12; Dock Square and Faneuil Hall Square,
Improvement, $14,964.58; Kneeland Street, Im-
provement, $8,852.45, to the appropriation for
Long Island Hospital, Kitchen and Laundry
Improvements, etc., $30,023.25.
Referred to Executive Committee.
AUTOMOBILE WARNING SIGNS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to your
order of October 1, 1934, concerning the placing
of automobile warning signs reading "Look Out for
Children," in front of all schools in Ward 7.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 15, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 1, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
place automobile warning signs reading 'Look Out
for Children' in front of all schools in Ward 7."
There are eight schools in Ward 7. A survey
of the areas in the vicinities of these schools shows
that there are adequate signs near all of the im-
portant ones with the exception of the Michael J.
Perkins School in East Ninth street.
Orders have been issued to erect two signs
bearing the legend "Look Out for Children"
near the Michael J. Perkins School.
These two signs and the two posts which will
bear them will be taken from our stock and there
will be no new expenditure involved.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
REPAVING OF CERTAIN STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 16, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit letters from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
orders adopted by your honorable body on Octo-
ber 29, 1934, concerning the repaying with smooth
pavement of the following streets:
Mercer street, Ward 7; Ellery street, Ward 7;
Foster street, Ward 22; Sparhawk street, Ward 22;
Franklin street, Ward 22; Murdock street,
Ward 22; Burney street, Ward 10; Chiswick
road, Ward 21; Kilsyth road, Ward 21; Ridge-
mont street, Ward 21.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 1, with attached order
of City Council dated October 29, 1934, and
reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Mercer street,
Ward 7. ' '
The estimated cost of reconstructing Mercer
street. Ward 7, from East Eighth street to Colum-
bia road, with new sidewalks and roadway is
$4,500.
There are no funds available at the present
time for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 1, with attached order
of City Council dated October 29, 1934, and
reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Ellery street,
Ward 7."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Ellery
street, Ward 7, from Dexter street to Boston
street, with new sidewalks and roadway is $7,000.
There are no funds available at the present
time for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 1, with attached order
of City Council dated October 29, 1934, and
reading as follows:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth paving Foster street, Ward
22."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Foster
street, Ward 22, from Surrey street to Common-
wealth avenue, is $60,000.
There are no funds available at the present
time for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 1, with attached order
of City Council dated October 29, 1934, and
reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth paving Sparhawk street,
Ward 22."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Sparhawk
street, Ward 22, from Cambridge street to Market
street, with new sidewalks and roadway is $14,000.
There are no funds available at the present
time for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
NOVEMBER 19, 1934.
363
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant .Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — 1 beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 1, with attached order
of City Council dated October 29, 1934, and
reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth paving Franklin street,
Ward 22."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Franklin
street, Ward 22, from Cambridge street to North
Harvard street, with new sidewalks and roadway
is $20,000.
There are no funds available at the present
time for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 1, with attached order
of City Council dated October 29, 1934, and
reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth paving Murdock
street, Ward 22."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Murdock
street, Ward 22, from North Beacon street to
Cambridge street, with sidewalks and roadway is
S18.000.
There are no funds available at the present time
for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt of
your note of November 1. with attached order of
City Council dated October 29, 1934, and reading
as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, througli his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth paving Burney
street, Ward 10."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Burney
Street, Ward 10, from Tremont street to Delle
avenue, with new sidewalks and roadway is
$3,000.
There are no funds available at the present time
for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. .1. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department.
November l 1 . 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
ml Secretary, Mayor's Office.
i >. . r Si r. I beg leave to acknowledge receipl ol
your noli, of November l. with attached order of
City Council dated October 2!), 1934, and reading
as follows:
i 'n|. -red, That Mm- Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with Bmooth paving Chiswiek
road. Ward 21 ."
The esl imatod cot I of reconsl run ing I I
road, Ward 21. from Commonwealth avenue to
EDnglen I avenue, with new .sidewalks and
i .I-. H is sit. titiii.
There arc no funds available at tin- present lime
fur doing i hia « orl
Respect fully yours,
C. J, CARVEN,
(' ssioncr of I'ubl
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir. — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt of
your note of November 1. with attached order of
City Council dated October 29, 1934, and reading
as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth paving Kilsyth
road, Ward 21."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Kilsyth
road. Ward 21, from Brookline line to Lanark
road, with new sidewalks and roadway is 87,000.
There are no funds available at the present time
for doing the work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
November 14, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt of
your note of November 1, with attached order of
City Council dated October 29, 1934. and reading
as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to repave with smooth paving Ridgemont
street. Ward 21."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Ridgemont
street, Ward 21, from Gordon street to Eleanor
street, with new sidewalks and roadway is SS.000 .
There are no funds available at the present
time for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC SURVEY. TREMONT AND
WASHINGTON STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Traffic Commission, being a further
report in reference to an order adopted May 28,
1934, by your honorable body, concerning a traffic
survey on Tremont and Washington streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 16, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — With further reference to Council
order dated May 28, 1934. which was acknowledged
in my communication dated August 23, and which
reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission and
the Police Commissioner, through his Honor
the Mayor, I >r . and hereby arc. respectfully re-
quested to make a check-up and survey for pos-
sible improvement of traffic conditions on Wash-
igton street and on Tremont Btreet, especially
during the hours from 9 a. m. to 1 1 a. m. and from
■1 p, m. to 8 p. m.,
I mi inclosing herewith copy of report of our
Engineering Department on Council
order.
Very truly yours.
William P. IIickky, Commi
Subject : Communication of June 13, 1934, from
John F. Gilmore, Jr.. Assistant Secretary to the
Mavor, with attached order from the City Coun-
cil dated Maj 28, 1934, "That tho Traffic Com-
mission and the Police Department through his
Honor (he Mayor, be. and het
fully requested to make a checkup and survey, for
possible improvements of traffic conditions on
v ni'lon street and on l'rOmonl street, es|>r
cially during the hours from 9 a. m. to If a. in.
and from I p. in. to 0 p. m.
\ checkup and survey was made of Washington
street and Tremont Street in conjunction with the
uicnt during the past three weeks
364
CITY COUNCIL.
and the following suggestions are made for the
relief of traffic in these two streets.
Move the taxi stand from the west entrance of
the Parker House in School street to east of the
entrance.
Remove the six-cab taxi stand on the Common
side of Tremont street, between Winter street
and Temple place, and prohibit parking on the
Common side of Tremont street, from Temple
place to Park street.
Enforce the 20-foot corner restrictions at the
northwest corner of Park and Tremont streets,
and at the corner of State and Washington streets.
Enforce the parking restrictions in Tremont
street, between Boylston street and Stuart street,
and between Park street and Scollay square.
Enforce the parking restrictions in Washington
street, from Stuart street to Adams square.
The parking is particularly bad in that portion of
Washington street, from Stuart street to Boylston
street, and from Water street to Adams square.
Allow parking in both sides of Temple place
except on the north side, for a distance of 150 feet
easterly from Washington street.
Paint a center line in Temple place for its entire
length so as to encourage two lanes of traffic to
move through this street.
Abolish a special taxi stand in the east side of
Tremont street, near St. Paul's Cathedral. This
stand seriously interferes with northbound traffic
in Tremont street. A more strict enforcement of
the legal intersection restriction within this area
would speed up traffic, especially traffic entering or
leaving the connecting streets between Tremont.
street and Washington street.
The American Railway Express Company often
park their trucks in Washington street, one on
either side of the street, opposite one another, and
remain parked for considerable lengths of time so
that at least one lane of traffic is shut off by this
parking. Suggest that the American Railway
Express Company be requested to have their
trucks stop only on one side of Washington street.
Suggest that more taxi stands be established in
Washington street and some of the streets leading
into Washington street, and then prohibit cruising
cabs from picking up passengers in this area except
from an official stand. At the present time cruis-
ing taxis comprise from 15 per cent to 25 per cent
of the total traffic 'in Tremont and Washington
streets. On rainy days conditions are made
extremely bad on account of these cruising cabs,
crawling along at a snail's pace, stopping at an
intersection before the signals change and stalling
after the green "Go" signals show, thus slowing up
traffic so that jams are caused that affect the entire
area.
At the present time Washington street carries
from 10,000 to 12,000 vehicles between 8 a. m.
and 6 p. m. This is pretty nearly the capacity
of the street. On both of these streets we have to
consider the large pedestrian traffic at all inter-
sections. In the year 1933 we had only two
accidents in which persons were injured at Summer
street and Washington street. This is very
remarkable when you consider that on some days
there are over 200,000 pedestrians passing through
this intersection.
A police chauffeur made speed runs at 10 a. m.
and 4.30 p. m. on five different days, starting at
Stuart street and Washington street, going by
way of Washington street, Brattle street and
along Tremont street to Stuart street. The
average time of this run is about fourteen minutes.
This is at the rate of over six miles per hour during
the busiest hours of the day.
Parking in School street and in Newspaper row
causes delays in School street and Washington
street. There are times that it takes from ten to
twenty minutes to pass through School street.
Cars park in both sides of Newspaper row so that
only one lane of vehicles can get through. A
heavy left turn from School street and three lanes
of traffic from Washington street have to release
by one lane through Newspaper row. If this
condition was relieved by strict enforcement of the
present parking restrictions, conditions would be
greatly benefited.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, PIERCE SQUARE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 16, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Police Commissioner, relative to your order of
October 1, 1934, concerning recommendations for
suitable traffic signals or traffic officer protection
in Pierce square, Dorchester, at the intersection
of Dorchester avenue and River street, Ward 17.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Police Department, November 9, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — In reply to memorandum
received from your office, dated October 11, 1934,
together with City Council order passed October 1,
1934, regarding traffic conditions in the Pierce
square section of Dorchester, the supervising
officers in charge of traffic have made investigation
and I am sending you copies of reports containing
details of their observations. These reports have
my approval.
I am returning herewith the original order of the
City Council, copy of which has been kept for the
files of this office.
Very truly yours,
E. C. Hultman,
Police Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Police Department, Bureau of Traffic,
November 7, 1934.
To the Superintendent.
Sir, — With reference to the attached communica-
tion, under date of October 11, 1934, from the office
of the Mayor, City Hall, Boston, in relation to
order of City Council, October 1, 1934, which reads:
"Recommendation for traffic signals or traffic
officer protection in Pierce square section of Dor-
chester, at the intersection of Dorchester avenue
and River street. Ward 17,
and sent to the Police Commissioner on October
11, 1934, for consideration and report, I respect-
fully report that I directed Lieut. William P.
Gaffney, of this bureau, to give this intersection
in the vicinity of Pierce square a long hard study,
in regard to traffic conditions, for the purpose of
learning as to whether or not traffic signals or a
traffic officer were necessary in Pierce square for
the protection of pedestrians, as well as looking
after the welfare of the automobilist, and to report
to me the result of his investigation, which you will
please find attached.
I respectfully recommend that this communica-
tion be forwarded to the office of his Honor the
Mayor, City of Boston, as an answer to order of
the City Council, under date of October 1, 1934,
which you will also find attached.
Respectfully submitted,
John T. O'Dea,
Lieutenant, Commanding Bureau of Traffic.
City of Boston,
Police Department, Bureau of Traffic,
November 6, 1934.
Lieut. John T. O'Dea,
Commanding Bureau of Traffic.
Sir, — With reference to the attached communica-
tion from John F. Gilmore, Jr., Assistant Secretary,
Office of the Mayor, City of Boston, attaching
order passed by the Boston City Council October 1,
1934, that the Police Commissioner be requested
to consider early recommendations either for
suitable traffic signals or traffic officer protection in
the Pierce square section of Dorchester at the
intersection of Dorchester avenue and River
street.
I have investigated this location for some time
past at different intervals of the day and do not
find it dangerous. This space is quite wide, with
an island in the center, upon which is a fire alarm
box and a traffic sign, which reads "Slow," which
can be seen from Dorchester avenue going south,
and Washington street going east, coming into the
square. The vehicular traffic through here in any
direction is not very heavy and while some of it
proceeds fairly rapid it is the best Betf regulated
traffic square in Boston as the vehicles seem to
always go in a direct line and not sprawled all
over the roadway. There is very little heavy
trucking going through this point and what
trucking goes through here from Milton is either
slowed up by the grade from the bridge to the
Neponset River and the square or the drivers are
careful and this seems to be the situation on all
NOVEMBER 19, 1934.
365
the approaches through the square, that the
vehicular traffic keeps in line and on their own
space.
There are not a great many children crossing the
square, there being two schools located in the imme-
diate vicinity, The Gilbert Stuart School, on
Richmond Street, and the St. Gregory's Parochial
School, on Dorchester avenue, and there are about
thirty pupils altogether, who cross the square
going south and they do not have any trouble in
crossing. I have seen some women, with baby
carriages, crossing without any inconvenience or
any long halts before crossing and they cross
safely.
I have talked with some of the storekeepers
in this vicinity and while they say they would like
to have a traffic officer assigned to the square they
readily admit that traffic goes through there
without any interruption or any great incon-
venience to the pedestrians.
There is no record of any automobile accidents
in this square.
Considering the situation in this square, I do
not believe that a traffic officer is needed there and
I would respectfully recommend that this matter
be placed on file for future reference.
Respectfully submitted,
William P. Gaffxey,
Lieutenant, Bureau of Traffic.
Placed on file.
CITIZENS ON P. W. A. PROJECTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Corporation Counsel, relative to your order of
October 1, 1934, concerning a proposed require-
ment on P. W. A. projects, in which the City of
Boston is a party, that the contractor shall not make
any subcontracts except with citizens residing in
Boston and that subcontractors shall employ only
citizens and residents of Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, November 8, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor. — I have received a memoran-
dum from your office dated October 11, 1934,
requesting my consideration of and report with
reference to an order passed by the City Council
on October 1, 1934, which provides as follows:
"Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to confer with the Federal authorities
having charge of the P. W, A. projects in which
the City of Boston is a party, and urge the insertion
of conditions in all contracts to provide that the
contractor shall not make any subcontracts
except with citizens residing in Boston, and that
subcontractors shall employ only citizens and
residents of Boston."
The order, in substance, requests you to endeavor
to persuade the Federal authorities to permit the
insertion by the city in all Public Works contracts
of two provisions:
1. That contractors shall enter into subcon-
tracts only with citizens residing in Boston; and
2. That subcontractors shall employ only
citizens residing in Boston.
Under the terms of the grant agreements between
the city and the United States of America relating
to the P. W. A. projects, in which the city ia
engaging, the City, in order to receive grants from
the Federal Government, must comply with the
provisions and conditions of the gram agreements
and witli all rules ami regulations promulgated
by the Federal Emergen. Administration >i
Public Works, One of these rules requires the
approval by the State Engineer, l'. w . A., of till
public works contracts entered into by the oity.
If. therefore, the provisions in question are to bo
inserted in the city's public works contracts, the
approval of that engineer must be obtained ind
such provisions must conform with the provisions
of the grant agreement ami the rules ond regula-
tions "t the Federal Emergency Administration ol
Publio Works.
I.
Proposed Provision that Contractors Enter
into Subcontracts Only with Citizens
Residing in Boston.
Section 5 of Article II. of Circular No. 1 promul-
gated by the Federal Emergency Administration
of Public Works and entitled: ".The Purposes,
Policies, Functioning and Organization of the
Emergency Administration: the Rules Prescribed
by the President," contains the following provision:
"Bidding not to be confined to local contractors.
Bidding shall be open to all qualified contractors.
The State Engineer (P. W. A.) will determine
what contractors are qualified, pursuant to instruc-
tions to be furnished by the Administrator."
I have been advised by the State Engineer,
P. W. A., that the word "contractors" as used in
said section 5 has been interpreted by the Legal
Division of the P. W. A. to include subcontractors;
and certainly such interpretation is consistent
with the policy underlying the above-quoted rule.
In view of the interpretation of the Legal
Division of the Public Works Administration, it is
clear that the State Engineer, P. W. A., will not
approve contracts which provide that contractors
may enter into subcontracts only with citizens
residing in Boston, at least unless the rule above
quoted or its interpretation is changed. There
would seem to be not even a remote likelihood
that the interpretation by the P. W. A. Legal
Division would be changed without the approval
of the Administrator.
If, therefore, it is desired to have such a pro-
vision inserted in the city's public works contracts
the Administrator must be prevailed upon to
change the rule or to have the interpretation
changed.
The State Engineer, P. W. A., has advised me
that attempts nave heretofore been made in
behalf of other municipalities to cause the Adminis-
trator to amend section 5, above quoted, so as to
permit a limitation in contracts such as that
suggested by the City Council; but that the policy
behind said section has been considered so funda-
mental by the Administrator as to preclude any
change. Even the provisions for preference to
locally produced materials which originally ap-
peared in grant agreements and P. W. A. rules and
regulations have been stricken out. The Adminis-
trator appears to be definitely opposed to con-
fining bidding to local contractors or subcon-
tractors or to locally produced materials.
In view of the foregoing, it would seem highly
improbable, even should you call upon the Admin-
istrator to change said section 5 so as to permit
the insertion in the city's P. W. A. contracts of
the proposed clause, that such permission would
be given.
I submit for your consideration in connection
with the question of the desirability of inserting
such a clause, tut opinion dated July 20, 1927, of
Frank S. Deland, former Corporation Counsel,
to Malcolm E. Nichols, then Mayor of Bos
II.
Proposed Provision that Subcontractors Employ
Only Citizens Residing in Boston.
n 206 of Title II of the National Industrial
Recovery Act til R. 5755) provides in part as
follows:
"All contracts let for construction projects and
all loans and grants pursuant to this title shall
contain Buch provisions as are necessary to insure
(4) that in the employment of labor
in connection with any such project, preference
shall be given, where they are qualified, to ex-
service men with dependents, ami then in the
following onler: iV) To citisens of the United
states and aliens who have declared their inten-
tion of becoming citizens, who arebonafidt residents
of i lie polil ical subdivision ami or county 111 w hich
i;i- work is to he performed, ami (B) to citisens
of the United Slates and aliens who have declared
their intentions of becoming citizens, who are
■ e, territory, or dis-
trict in which the work is lo he performed: [Pro-
vided. I hat these preferences shall apply only
where such labor is available and qualified to
(1 the work to which tl OOnt re-
lates; ..."
366
CITY COUNCIL.
The Grant Agreements between the City of
Boston and the United States of America relating
to the various public works projects in which the
city is engaged, and the rules and regulations of
the Administrator contain provisions with refer-
ence to employment in accordance with this
section and these provisions apply equally to
employees of contractors and to employees of
subcontractors.
The only difference between the limitations on
employment imposed pursuant to the provisions
of said section 206 and the limitations on employ-
ment proposed by the City Council relating to
employees of subcontractors are the following:
(1.) The City Council order (in form at least)
requests a restriction on the class that may be
employed, whereas the limitations imposed pur-
suant to the provisions of section 206 are in the
nature of a preference and do not apply unless
the preferred class of labor is available and qualified
to perform the work to which the employment
relates; and
(2,) The City Council order contemplates the
employment only of citizens residing in Boston,
whereas the limitations imposed pursuant to the
provisions of section 206 require a prior preference
for ex-service men with dependents; place upon
the same preferential basis citizens of the United
States and aliens who have declared their intention
of becoming citizens; place upon the same prefer-
ential basis bona fide residents of Boston and bona
fide residents of the remainder of Suffolk County
and include in the final preferential class citizens
and aliens who have declared their intention of
becoming citizens who are bina fide residents of
the Commonwealth.
Whether or not these differences are so great
as to justify a request, if such request could be
granted, that the limitations suggested by the
City Council be substituted for the limitations
imposed pursuant to the provisions of section
206 of the National Recovery Act, it is my opinion
that such request could not be granted without
an amendment by Congress of the provisions
of said section.
Very truly yours.
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
WOODEN FENCE, WALWORTH STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Acting Commissioner of Public Works, rela-
tive to your order of October 29, 1934, concerning
the replacement of a wooden fence along the
railroad bridge on Walworth street, Ward 20.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department, November 6, 1934.
Mr. John Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — In reply to your note of November 1,
with attached order of City Council for replacing
the wooden fence along the railroad bridge on
Walworth street, Ward 20, I report that instruc-
tions have been given to the Bridge Service of this
department to make immediate repairs to same.
Very truly yours,
Joshua Atwood,
Acting Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
REPORT OF ELECTION COMMISSIONERS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a report from
the Board of Election Commissioners, relative
to your order of October 1, 1934, concerning the
number and political designation of registered
voters by wards.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Election Department, October 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I am in receipt of communication of
October 6, 1934, from your Assistant Secretary,
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr., together with an order
of the City Council, dated October 1, 1934, in
which it is requested that we furnish you with
the number and political designation of the
registered voters, by wards, and the same by
precincts.
In compliance with this request, I am sending
you at this time figures on the same — complete
figures on the years from 1925 to 1933, inclusive.
The figures for the year 1934, as you will note on
the bottom of page containing same, are based
on the registered voters contained in the First
Printed Voting List. The latest figures, as
resulting from the State Primary held on September
20, 1934, are in the process of being compiled, and
when completed will be fowarded to you.
A great deal of painstaking care has been
given in the preparation of these lists, and it is
assumed that they are to be used in the re-division
of the wards of the city.
Yours respectfully,
Board of Election Commissioners,
David B. Shaw, Chairman.
IQ25.
Ward.
Dern.
Rep.
No
Party.
Voting
List.
1
7,381
8,734
4,784
1,070
1,265
6,923
6,720
5,508
3,738
6,901
5,307
2,304
5,563
2,412
5,819
4,309
3,211
2,457
3,340
1,813
1,164
4,473
1,796
576
840
3,301
3,827
540
673
685
2,004
777
1,389
4,202
1,413
4,254
978
2,061
3,830
3,587
3,267
4,595
3,013
1,383
3, -739
2,928
4,207
5,274
4,973
2,994
3,248
3,297
3,950
2,996
3,543
4,030
4,024
4,727
4,038
4,141
4,359
5,201
4,047
4,405
5.224
3,522
12,616
2
12,238
3
9,833
4
9,645
5
10,065
6
10,457
7
10,641
8
9,490
9
9,692
10
10,674
11
10,239
12
10,536
13
11,000
14
11,393
15
10,835
16
10,511
17
11,400
18. .
11,245
19
10,654
20
10,813
21
9,401
22
9,378
1926.
Ward.
Dem.
Rep.
No
Party.
Voting
List.
1
8,322
9,322
4,901
1,292
1,408
8,442
7 ,465
5,612
4,024
7,331
5,727
2,544
6,256
2,755
6,842
5,579
3,662
3,552
3,510
2,235
1,513
4,822
1,831
530
723
3,562
3,429
557
722
658
2,066
826
1,381
4,663
1,485
6,008
1 ,076
2,091
3,899
3,713
3,402
4,949
3,564
1,372
2,693
2,057
3,751
4,208
4,495
2,572
2,469
2,459
3,074
2,289
2,868
3,201
2,985
3,165
2,864
3,223
3,845
4,648
3,944
4,315
4,499
2,893
12,846
2
1 1 ,909
3
9,375
4
9,062
5
9,387
6..
7
11,571
10,656
8
8,726
9
9,174
10
10,146
11
9,976
12
10,408
13
10,726
14
11,928
15
10,780
16
17
10,893
11,506
18
11,913
19
10,856
20
11.497
21
9,594
22
9,087
NOVEMBER 19, 1934.
367
1927.
Ward.
Dem.
Rep.
No
Party.
Voting
List.
1
7,515
8,496
4,564
1,090
1,207
7,529
6,901
4,821
3,469
6,673
5,312
2.3.s-
5,733
2,608
6,534
5,574
3,731
3.606
3,494
2,469
1,529
4,436
1,580
485
752
2,917
2,963
527
654
572
1,778
770
1,253
4,203
1,276
5,306
933
1,939
3,634
3,536
3,190
4,762
3,202
1,250
3.809
2,879
3,236
4,139
4,198
2,291
2,309
\.;r,:,
3,162
2,494
3,251
3,096
2,932
3,542
2,761
3,313
3,885
4,879
3,834
4,429
4,308
3,648
12,903
2
1 1 ,86Q
3
8,552
4
8,146
5
8,368
6
7
10,347
9,864
8
8,058
9
8,409
10
9,937
11
9,816
12
9,681
13
9,941
14
11,456
15
10,228
16
10,826
17
1 1 ,250
18. .
r-.o.-i
19
10,518
20
1 1 ,660
21
9,039
22
9,334
1928.
Ward.
Dem.
Rep.
No
Party.
Voting
List.
1
9,435
10,180
5,917
1,670
1,625
8,535
8,146
6,003
4,224
8,018
6,556
2,803
6,981
2,973
8,138
7,188
4,939
4,722
4,417
3,296
2,140
6,492
1,912
608
1,107
4,788
4,732
603
765
767
2,389
947
1,521
5,036
1,636
6,987
1,179
2,616
4,477
4,564
3,929
6,127
4,837
1,722
4,542
3,205
5,731
7,229
7,658
3,621
3,948
3,854
4,559
4,017
3,991
5,059
3,990
5,401
3,741
4,570
5,101
6,454
5,145
5,949
9,275
4,379
15,889
9
3
13,993
12,755
4
13,687
5
14,015
6
12,759
7
12,859
8
10,624
9
11,172
10
12,982
11. .
12,068
12
12,898
13 '.
12,607
14
15,361
15
13,038
16
14,374
17
14,517
18
15,740
19
13,491
20
15,372
21
16,252
22
12,593
I').").
Ward.
Dem.
Rep.
No
Party.
Voting
List.
1
8,563
9,111111
4.629
1.378
1.281
7,611
7,421
5,225
3,588
7,193
8,104
2,548
6,457
7,672
7.372
1,982
4,506
4,510
3 35.-,
1 ,99 1
8,023
1,721
546
899
3,979
4,002
559
731
630
2,048
829
1 ,395
4,503
1,470
6,305
1 ,053
2,195
4,131
4 .1 1 2
3.631
.'..'Hill
l , 1 57
i.i'.i l
4,862
3.639
5,654
5,880
8,207
3,520
4,079
3,994
4.342
3,752
4 . 1 26
5,222
3,959
5,179
3,630
4,906
4,955
6,485
•,,21111
8,249
7,380
1,688
15,146
2
13,185
3
11,182
4
11,237
5
11,490
6
1 1,690
7
12,231
8
9,849
9
9,975
10
11,771
11
1 1,625
12
12,273
13
11,880
14...
1 l,i,77
15
12,355
16
i 1,17:;
17
14,071
18
15,103
19
I 1,434
20
i 104
21
■ >•)
13,528
12,825
1930.
Ward.
Ward.
Ward.
Dem.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
I'M
21
22
',, -,',',
9,571
5,858
1 ,550
1,484
8,671
8,144
-,,v.i'.i
4,412
7,843
6,594
3,186
7,033
3,541
s.070
8,210
5.650
5.9SS
5,233
4,277
2,178
6,009
Rep.
Xo
Party.
1,707
3,668
562
2,305
890
3,886
4,015
4,694
3,997
4,907
581
2,579
710
2,956
617
2,627
1,942
3,223
853
2,479
1,419
3,448
4,874
4,036
1,460
2,908
6,594
4,594
1,051
2,943
2,179
4,134
4,267
4,240
4,693
5,370
3,324
4,824
5,900
5,734
5,115
5,960
1,629
4,415
\ Ol Hi;/;
List.
15,265
12,438
III 034
10,259
10,388
I 1,831
I 1.810
9,143
9,577
11,175
1 1,461
12,096
11,401
14,729
12,064
14,523
14,157
16,051
13,381
15,911
13.253
12,053
1931.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
is
19
20
21
22
Dem.
Rep.
Xo
Party.
9,055
1,517
4,239
8,745
510
2,188
4,953
760
4,327
1,381
3,353
4,583
1,262
3,454
4,376
8,016
550
2,757
7,729
629
3,138
5,234
604
3,059
3,881
1,686
3,556
7,169
779
2,787
6,173
1,313
3,662
2,928
4,285
4,406
6,497
1 ,338
2,896
3,453
5,860
6,134
7,384
946
3,060
8,371
2,028
3,641
5,566
4,081
4,489
5,846
4,513
5,481
4,819
3,583
4,638
4,371
5,649
5,753
2,181
4,268
5.423
5,801
1,554
3,994
Voting
List.
14,811
11,443
10,040
9,317
9,092
1 1 .323
11,496
8,897
9,123
10,735
11,148
11.619
10,731
15,447
1 1 ,390
I 1,010
14,136
15.S40
13,040
15.773
1 1 ,872
1 1 ,349
1932.
Dem.
Rep.
\,i
Party.
Vol ing
List.
1
2
3
4
6
6
7
8
0
10
11
12
13
It
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
13.212
1 .559
2.548
10,497
521
1,639
,.013
876
1,040
2,3.31
3,960
:, '.Hie,
2.033
3,812
8 in)
538
1 ,753
9,169
828
2,346
6,859
•
2.7S2
;,.53l
1,809
3,437
8.532
858
2,577
8,133
1,402
4,728
5,864
3.667
1,402
2,749
5,972
8.213
(fl
8,672
081
2,896
,, 085
2,099
3.777
7,454
I.O'. Ml
1.047
7. Mil.
1,837
8,968
4,155
0,412
6.205
3.226
I ; :
7,433
7.497
1,781)
17,349
12,657
12,959
12.200
12.309
I 2. INS
12,143
in.777
1 1,967
12,368
12, ISO
17.680
! 148
15.841
15,691
18,040
I I 675
18.240
l 1,990
368
CITY COUNCIL.
1933.
Ward.
Dem.
Rep.
No
Party.
Voting
List.
1
11,985
9,640
6,731
1,888
1,762
9,013
8,465
6,265
4,718
7,980
7,347
4,174
7,582
5,459
7,887
9,701
7,189
7,594
6,671
6,581
2,892
7,110
1:435
460
738
3,456
3,255
502
632
561
1,636
780
1,299
5,159
1,297
5.670
851
2,029
3,733
4,616
3,161
6,151
3,767
1,624
4,037
2,602
6,481
5,775
6,160
3,615
3,516
3,500
4,269
3,014
3,560
4,391
3,153
6,079
3,446
4,556
4,902
5,831
4.390
5,591
7,212
4,636
17,457
2
3
12,702
13,950
4
5
6
7
11,119
11,177
13,130
12,613
8
10,326
9
10,623
10
11,774
11
12,206
12
13,724
13
14
15
16
17
18
12,032
17,208
12,184
16,286
15,824
18,041
19
14.222
20
21
22
18,323
13,871
13,370
1934.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
I I
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
11,704
1,368
5,782
9,152
444
3,702
6,337
717
8,424
1,865
3,160
7,339
1,889
2,923
7,396
8,331
483
4,576
7,948
579
4,438
5,596
489
4,701
4,197
1,499
5,957
7,402
712
4,311
6,887
1,160
4,237
3,888
4,589
6,646
7,143
1,181
4,205
5,471
5,114
7,588
7,500
776
4,217
9,420
1,879
5,903
6,987
3,437
5,732
7,234
4,261
7,183
6,322
2,992
5,573
6,758
5,944
6,548
2,800
3,300
9,062
7,010
1,526
5,831
18,854
13,298
15,468
12,364
12,208
13,390
12,965
10,786
11,653
12,425
12,284
15,123"
12,529
18,173
12,493
17,202
16,156
18,678
14,887
19,250
15,162
14,367
These figures are based on the enrolled names
on the first printed list.
The latest figures on enrollment as the result of
the primary of September 20, 1934, are in the
process of being compiled.
Placed on file.
JEFFERSON PLAYGROUND FOUNDATION.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Park Department, relative to your order of
October 15, 1934, concerning stones falling from a
foundation at Jefferson Playground.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston
Park Department, October 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of October
24, with inclosure, order from the City Council,
that the Park Commission investigate the con-
dition of the Jefferson Playground relative to the
stones falling from the foundation.
The foundation in question is a retaining wall
built under the jurisdiction of the School Depart-
ment as it holds up their yard and iron fence.
I will, however, have the loose stones removed
by our own men.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS ON VARIOUS STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 9, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit five letters
from the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to
orders adopted by your honorable body on October
29, 1934, concerning the matters as follows:
1. Traffic lights at North Harvard and Cam-
bridge streets, Ward 22.
2. "Stop" signs at the intersection of E and
West Third streets. Ward 6.
3. Automatic traffic signals at the junction of
D and West Sixth streets, Ward 6.
4. Automatic traffic signals at the junction of
D street and West Broadway, Ward 6.
5. Automatic traffic signals at the junction of
Walnut avenue and Warren street, Ward 12.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 29, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
provide in his budget for 1935 sufficient money to
install traffic lights at North Harvard and Cam-
bridge streets, Ward 22."
No funds are available at the present time for
the installation of the above traffic signals.
The installation of automatic traffic signals has
never been paid from the departmental budget.
All signal installations have been paid for out of
loan appropriations.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 29, which
reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested through his Honor the Mayor, to install
"Stop" signs at the intersection of E and West
Third streets, Ward 6."
There are no funds available at the present time
for the installation of the above signs.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 29, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of D and
West Sixth streets, Ward 6.
There are no funds available at the present time
for the installation of the above signals.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 29, 1934,
which reads as follows:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
NOVEMBER 19, 1934.
369
automatic traffic signals at the junction of D street
and West Broadway, Ward 6.
There are no funds available at the present time
for the installation of the above signals.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 7, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated October 29, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at, the junction of Walnut
avenue and Warren street. Ward 12."
There are no funds available at the present time
for the installation of the above signals.
Very truly yours.
William P. Hickey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
HOUSING FOR UNEMPLOYED WOMEN.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — It has been represented to me by a
committee of the Massachusetts Section of the
Women's Department of the National Civic
Federation that unless decent housing accommoda-
tions are provided for unemployed girls and single
women their plight during the coming winter is
likely to be very serious.
A preliminary survey has been made of unused
city buildings to find suitable quarters and the
Convalescent Home owned by the City of Boston
and situated at 2150 Dorchester avenue has been
selected as a building well adapted for such pur-
poses. The home has not been used for three
years and is in need of slight repairs which will be
paid for by private funds under the control of the
Overseers of the Public Welfare. It will house
about fifty young women. I am informed that
the project meets with the approval of the Over-
seers of the Public Welfare.
To the end that these premises may be available
for this very worthy purpose I am submitting here-
with an order providing for the lease of the premises
to the Massachusetts Section of the Women's
Department of the National Civic Federation at
the nominal rental of $50 per year, the lease to be
terminable by the Mayor upon thirty days' notice.
I respectfully urge the passage of this order.
Respectfully submitted,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City, of Boston, City Council.
Whereas, The Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital has the care and custody of a certain
parcel of land belonging to the City of Boston and
situated on the easterly side of Dorchester avenue,
together with the buildings thereon, and being
numbered 2150 on said Dorchester avenue and
known as the Convalescent Home; and
Whereas, The said Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital has no present need of the said premises
for public purposes: now, therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be.
hereby is, authorized in the name and behalf of the
City of Boston, in consideration of fifty dollars
paid to the City of Boston by the Massachusetts
Section of the Women's Department of the Na-
tional Civic Federation, to lease, by a written
instrument satisfactory in form to tin' Lav Depart-
ment of the City of Boston, to the said
chusetts Section of the Women's Department of
the National Civic Federation, or its nominee, for
the purposes of using and operating the said pre-
mises as a home for unemployed single girls and
women having a settlement in Boston and for no
other purpose, for a period of five months begin-
ning with the day of November, 1934, and
ending with the day of April, 1935, the said
premises numbered 2150 Dorchester avenue,
situated on the easterly side of said Don
nw'iiu i hat part of Boston - ■ i i '
and it is hereby furl her
Ordered, That t he said lease contain a provision
authorizing the Mayor of Boston to terminate and
cancel the said lease by sending to the said Massa-
chusetts Section of the Women's Department of
the National Civic Federation a thirty-day notice
of his intention so to do, mailed to or delivered at
the above leased premises to the said Massachusetts
Section of the Women's Department of the Na-
tional Civic Federation.
Referred to Committee on Public Lands.
DATE OF POLICE LISTING.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I transmit herewith letter from the
Corporation Counsel relative to the order adopted
by your honorable body on October 1, 1934, con-
cerning certain matters arising out of a proposed
new division of wards.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, November 19, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — I have received a memo-
randum from your office submitting a copy of the
following order of the City Council:
"Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to advise
the City Council forthwith with reference to the
following:
1. Under the provisions of chapter 254 of the
Acts of 1933, must the annual police listing in the
various wards and precincts of Boston be made on
January 1 rather than April 1, 1935?
2. Must the annual police listing for 1935 be
made on January 1 irrespective of whether the
City Council makes a new division of the city into
wards during 1934?
3. Must the City Council, prior to December
31, 1934, make a new division of the city into
wards?
4. If the City Council makes a new division
of the wards in Boston, must such new division
be for 1935, or may 1936 be made the effective
date?
5. Must the registrars, under section 15 of
chapter 254 of the Acts of 1933, prepare voting
lists by wards and precincts in Boston as of January
1, 1935, if a new division of wards is made by the
City Council prior to December 31, 1934?
6. With reference to the real estate tax bills
recently sent out to property owners in Boston
is the amount of each tax bill at the rate of S37.10
per thousand for the entire calendar year of 1934,
or for the final nine months of the current year,
with a new tax bill to be rendered for the entire
calendar year of 1935?"
You have asked my opinion with regard to the
matters inquired of in said order.
I.
" Under the provisions of chapter 254 of the
Acts of 1933. must the annual police listing in the
various wards and precincts of Boston be made
on January 1 rather than April 1, 19
Section 5 of chapter 254 of the Acts of 1933
amended section 4 of chapter 51 of the General
Laws O'er. Ed.) so that said section, as amended,
provides, in part, as follows:
"Except as otherwise provided by law, the
assessors, assistant assessors, or one or more
of them, shall annually, in January. February
or March, visit every building in their respective
cities and tonus and, after diligent inquiry, shall
make true lists containing, as nearly as they can
ascertain, the name. age. cocupation and residence
on January lirst in the current year, and the
residence on January first in the preceding year,
of every male person twenty years of age or older.
residing in their respective cities and towns, liable
to lie assessed for a poll tax, and of soldiers and
sailors exempted Irom the payment of a poll tax
under section live of chapter fifty-nine; and.
except in cities and towns having listing hoards,
shall also make true lists containing the same
facts relative to every woman twenty years ol
or older residing in their respective cities and
tow ns."
370
CITY COUNCIL.
Section 9 of said chapter 254 of the Acts of 1933
amended said chapter 51 of the General Laws
(Ter. Ed.) by inserting the following new section:
"Sec. 148. In cities and towns in which the
listing of residents for the purposes of determining
their liability to be assessed a poll tax and of
determining their right to vote is governed by
special law, and in cities and towns which have
accepted section fourteen A, the provisions of
this chapter relative to assessors and assistant
assessors shall apply to the officers performing
like duties in such cities and towns. In case
any such provision of this chapter contains a
date for the performance of an official act by a
board of assessors, assessor or assistant assessor,
which act by special law is to be performed in any
city or town by a listing board or by an officer
other than an assessor or assistant assessor, the
date for the performance of such act fixed by this
chapter shall prevail over the date fixed therefor
by special law, in case of difference. Where, in
any special law, April first is stated as the date
as of which the legal residence of any person shall
be determined, such residence shall be determined
as of January first instead of April first."
In Boston, the listing of residents for the pur-
poses of determining their liability to be assessed
a poll tax and of determining their right to vote is
governed by special law, namely, the provisions
of chapter 29 of the General Acts of 1917, as
amended, and the provisions of chapter 93 of the
Special Acts of 1918. Chapter 29 of the General
Acts of 1917, as amended, provides for such listing
by the Listing Board of the City of Boston and
requires the Listing Board, within the first twenty
week days of April in each year, by itself or by
police officers subject to the jurisdiction of the
Police Commissioner, to visit every building in
the city and make lists of residents therein on
April 1 of the year of visitation. Permission to
complete the visitation within an extended period
of ten week days is granted under certain con-
ditions. The Board is required to transmit
its list to the Board of Election Commissioners
and, by virtue of the provisions of chapter 93 of
said Special Acts of 1918, to the assessors.
In view of the provisions contained in section
148 of chapter 51 of the General Laws, above
quoted, that where, in any special law, April 1
is stated as the date as of which the legal residence
of any person shall be determined, such residence
shall be determined as of January 1 instead of
April 1 , it is my opinion that the date as of which
the legal residence of persons in Boston shall here-
after be determined by the Listing Board is
January 1 of the year of visitation.
Furthermore, in view of the provisions contained
in said section 148 to the effect that the provisions
of chapter 51 relative to assessors and assistant,
assessors shall apply to officers performing like
duties in cities and towns in which the listing of
residents for the purposes of assessment and voting
is governed by special law, and in view of the pro-
visions contained therein that in case any such
provision of said chapter contains a date for the
performance of an official act by a board of assess-
sors, assessor or assistant assessor, which set by
special law is to be performed in any city or town
by a listing board, the date for the performance of
such act fixed by said chapter shall prevail over
the date fixed therefor by such special law, in case
of difference; it is my opinion that, the listing board
of the City of Boston is hereafter required to make,
or have made, the visitation referred to in chapter .
29 of the General Acts of 1917, as amended,
annually, in January, February or March.
II.
"Must the annual police listing for 1935 be
made on January first irrespective of whether the
City Council makes a new division of the city into
wards during 1934?"
In view of the provisions of sections 5 and 9 of
chapter 254 of the Acts of 1933, the listing of
residents required by law to be made for the
purposes of determining their liability to be assessed
a poll tax and of determining their right to vote
must be made in January, February or March of
each year hereafter, and the date as of which the
residence of such persons must hereafter be deter-
mined is the first day of January. No exception
is made with regard to such listing for instances
in which a new division of a city into wards is made
in the preceding year.
See further in this connection the answer to
question IV.
III.
" Must the City Council, prior to December 31,
1934, make a new division of the City into wards?"
Section 1 of chapter 54 of the General Laws
(Ter. Ed.) provides as follows'
"In ninetwen hundred and twenty-four, and
every tenth year thereafter, in December, a city,
by vote of its city council, may make a new divi-
sion of its territory into such number of wards as
may be fixed by law. The boundaries of such
wards shall be so arranged that the wards shall
contain, as nearly as can be ascertained and as may
be consistent with well-defined limits to each
ward, an equal number of voters. The city clerk
shall forthwith give written notice to the state
secretary of the number and designations of the
wards so established, together with an official
description of said wards."
Section 4 of said chapter 54 provides as follows:
"For all elections held prior to the biennial
state primary following a redivision of a city into
wards, and for the assessment of taxes in the year
following such a redivision, the wards as existing
previous to such redivision shall continue, and for
such purposes the election officers shall be appointed
and hold office, and voting lists shall be prepared,
and all other things required by law shall be done,
as if no such redivision had been made. For all
other purposes the new division shall take effect on
December thirty-first of the year when made."
It is my opinion that, by virtue of the provisions
of said sections, the City of Boston is authorized,
by vote of the City Council, to make in December,
1934, prior to the thirty-first day thereof, a new
division of its territory subject to the limitations
to exercise this authority.
I am therefore of the opinion that the city is
not required to make a new division of the city into
wards, but that, if such new division is made, it
must be made in December and completed prior
to the thirty-first day thereof.
IV.
"If the City Council makes a new division of
the wards in Boston, must such new division be
for 1935 or may 1936 be made the effective date?"
Section 4 of chapter 54 of the General Laws
(Ter. Ed.) (quoted above in connection with my
opinion as to the answer to Question III), provides
that the wards, as existing previous to a redivision
pursuant to section 1 of said chapter, shall continue
for all elections held prior to the biennial state
primary following a redivision of a city into wards,
and for the assessment of taxes in the year following
such a redivision, but that, for all other purposes,
the new division shall take effect on December 31
of the year when made. The Legislature, there-
fore, has, in my opinion, fixed the effective dates of
redivision, if made.
It is therefore my opinion that, while the City of
Boston may make a new division of territory into
wards in December, 1934, such new division, if
made, will be effective
(1) for all elections and all things required by
law to be done in connection therewith, com-
mencing with (but not prior to) the biennial
state primary following such redivision;
(2) for the assessment of taxes and all things
required by law to be done in connection there-
with, after (but not in) the year following such
redivision; and
(3) for all other purposes, on December 31 of
the year when made.
V.
" Must the Registrars, under section 15 of chapter
254 of the Acts of 1933, prepare voting lists by
wards and precincts in Boston as of January 1,
1935, if a new division of wards is made by the
City Council prior to December 31, 1934?"
Section 18 of chapter 254 of the Acts of 1933
amends section 55 of chapter 51 of the General
Laws, so that said section 55, as amended, provides
as follows:
"Registrars shall, from the names entered in
the annual register of voters, prepare voting
lists for use at elections. In such voting lists
they shall place the names of all voters entered
on the annual register, and no others, and opposite
to the name of each his residence on January
first preceding or at the time of his becoming an
inhabitant of such place after said day. They
may enter the names of women voters in separate
columns or lists. In cities, they shall prepare
such voting lists by wards, and if a ward or a
town is divided into voting precincts, they shall
prepare the same by precincts, in alphabetical
NOVEMBER 19, 1984.
371
order, or by streets. Names shall be added thereto
or taken therefrom as persons are found to be
qualified or not qualified to vote."
There are in Boston no "Registrars" within the
meaning of that term in said section 55. By
virtue of the provisions of section 85 of chapter 835
of the Acts of 1913, as amended, the Board of
Election Commissioners of the City of Boston is
required to make street lists, by precincts, of the
voters to be used as the voting lists at elections.
These lists are required to set forth the residence
of voters on April 1.
Section 142 of chapter 51 of the General Laws,
as amended, contains the following sentence:
"Where, in any special law, April first is stated
as the date as of which the legal residence of any
Cerson shall be determined, such residence shall
e determined as of January first instead of April
first."
It is my opinion that, in view of the provisions
of said section 145, the voting lists required to be
made by the Board of Election Commissioners
mu3t in 1935 and thereafter set forth the residence
of voters as of Januarv 1.
The lists so required to be made must, as above
stated, be made by precincts. But, even if the
city makes a new division of its territory into
wards in 1934, by virtue of the provisions of section
4 of chapter 54 of the General Laws, for all elections
and the preparation of voting lists therefor, held
prior to the biennial state primary in 1936. the
wards as existing previous to such redivision
will continue as indicated in my opinion with
regard to the answer to question IV. I am,
therefore, of the opinion that in preparing voting
lists for elections prior to the biennial state pri-
mary in 1936, the residence of voters on January 1
should be stated and ward lines established and
now existing should be followed by the Board of
Election Commissioners.
VI.
"With reference to the real estate tax bills
recently sent out to property owners in Boston,
is the amount of each tax bill at the rate of $37.10
per thousand for the entire calendar year of 1934,
or for the final nine months of the current year,
with a new tax bill to be rendered for the entire
calendar year of 1935?"
Section 29 of chapter 254 of the Acts of 1933
amends section 11 of chapter 59 of the General
Laws (Ter. Ed.) so that said section as amended
provides in part as follows:
"Taxes on real estate shall be assessed in the
town where it lies, to the person who is either
the owner or in possession thereof on January
first ..."
The current year and in each of a number of
years prior thereto, real estate taxes in this Com-
monwealth have been levied upon persons who
were either the owners or in possession of real
estate on April 1. The taxes so assessed were,
in my opinion, imposed to meet appropriations
and obligations and expenditures of the fiscal
year in which said taxes were levied (see section 33
of chapter 59 of the General Laws (Ter. Ed.).
The real estate taxes, therefore, imposed upon
persons owning or in possession of real estate on
April 1, 1934, were, in my opinion, imposed to
meet appropriations, obligations and expenditures
of the entire fiscal (also calendar) year 1934.
Similarly it is my opinion that the taxes which
will be imposed upon persons owning or in pos-
session of real estate on January 1, 1935, will be
imposed to meet appropriations, obligations and
expenditures of the entire fiscal (also calendar;
year 1935.
The purpose underlying section 29 of said chapter
251 is not to increase the revenue of municipalities.
It does not impose an additional tax. Il merel]
changes the date for the determination of the
persons against whom the annual fax shall he assessed
and has for its purpose the earlier obtaining of
revenue lor municipalities, in order to lesson the
necessity ot borrowing in anticipation of taxes.
I am, therefore, of the opinion that the tax bills
rendered in 1934 were rendered to meet, appro-
priations, obligations ami expenditures of the
entire fiscal and calendar year 1934 ami noi merely
of nine months thereof and that tin' tax bills
which will lie rendered in 1936 should be rendered
to meet appropriations, obligations ami expendi-
tures of the entire fiscal and calendar year LOSS
Very truly yours.
1 1 1 \in i, Foley,
Corporation < !ounsel.
Placed on file,
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committee named, viz.:
( 'laims.
Estate of Melvin O. Adams, for compensation
for damage to property at 36 Beacon street,
caused by defective water main.
Bella Broad, for refund on license for storage
and sale of merchandise in public street at 1U
Roxbury street.
Ann Bortolin, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Massachusetts
Avenue and Haviland street.
Edna M. Brodrick, for compensation for damage
to car by falling tree.
Elizabeth V. Brooks, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 472 Broad-
way, South Boston.
W. Medville Bryan, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect in
Jamaicaway.
Eugene Calarese, for compensation for damage
to property at 45 Gainsborough street, caused by
city truck.
William T. Carey, for compensation for loss of
electric drill at Curtis Hall, Jamaica Plain.
Alice G. Carruthers, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect on Boston
Common.
Louis Collari, for compensation for damage to
car caused by an alleged defect in River street,
Hyde Park.
John J. Dwyer. for compensation tor coat
destroyed while assisting officer to make arrest.
Walter Manning Earley, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in Causeway
street.
Helen E. Gaffney, for compensation for damage
to coat caused by an alleged defect at Faneuil Hall
Market.
Myrtle Gardner, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Columbus avenue.
Catherine Hirtle, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 53 Dover street.
William Hooper, for compensation for loss of
clothing at City Hospital.
Fred L. Horner, for compensation for damage to
ear caused by an alleged defect at Marion and
White streets. East Boston.
Hubrite Informal Frocks, Inc., for refund on
refuse tickets.
Harold Hubert Jenkins, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect in
Victory road, Dorchester.
David H. Kimmel, for refund on dog license.
Rose Latorella, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 566 Washington
street.
Ralph Maglio, for compensation for damage to
property at 302 Warren street, Roxbury, caused by
defective sewer.
John A. Mellon, for compensation for damage
to water boiler at 95 Pierce avenue, Dorchester,
caused by water being shut off.
Margaret Nicholas, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at Adams and
Church streets.
Angelo O'Brien, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Saratoga and Putnam
streets.
Prince Macaroni -Manufacturing Company, for
i' pensation for damage to car by city wagon.
Bessie Rubin, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect :it 45 lOssex street.
Mrs. Antonette S, Sico, for compensation for
injuries caused by negligent operation of Municipal
( lourt van,
I bury Tarzeian, for refund on refuse tickets.
Charles Ward, for compensation tor damage to
car on ferryboat.
Edward !■' Weadlick, for refund on license For
sale of candy on Sunday,
Carl P. Anderson, (or compensation tor damage
to oar li\ fire apparatus.
Philip Minindcri, Jr., for compensation for
'I image bj fire app iratus,
Frank Cantor, to be reimbursed for expenses
inourred i ■■ for- Bewer connection at '.in
\\ ellington 1 1 ill Btreet.
Executive,
Boi tha J l laley, to be paid annuity
on account of death of her husbaud, thorns l \
l lalej . late member ol Police I lepartment,
372
CITY COUNCIL.
Petition of Alice M. Ralph, to be paid annuity
on account of death of her husband, John G.
Ralph, late member of Police Department.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway for license
to operate motor vehicles between junction of
Centre and La Grange streets and junction of
Centre and Mount Vernon streets, West Roxbury,
over Centre street.
Minors' Licenses.
Petitions for minors' licenses for forty-nine
newsboys and one bootblack were received.
Severally approved under usual conditions.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLES' BONDS.
The constables' bonds of David Bashitsky,
Patrick J. Quinn and Walter Edward Grignon,
having been duly approved by the City Treasurer,
were received and approved.
SIDEWALK ASSESSMENTS.
Communications were received from the Com-
missioner of Public Works together with orders
assessing half cost of construction of sidewalks
against owners of property, viz.:
Half Cost.
Union street. Wards 21 and 22 $2,160 09
Sheridan street, Ward 19 143 80
Cornwall street, Ward 11 1,530 70
Hano street, Ward 22 664 03
Newport street, Ward 13 613 44
The orders were severally passed.
SOLDIERS' RELIEE
Coun KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers and
sailors and their families in the City of Boston for
the month of November, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON
ORDINANCES.
Coun. FISH, for the Committee on Ordinances,
submitted the following:
1. Report on ordinance (referred October 15)
concerning appointment of an Assistant City
Collector — recommending that same ought to pass.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, owing to the fact
that the present City Collector is obliged to spend
much of his time before the Tax Appeals Board,
the office is left a good deal of Ihe time without
someone in authority. I understand that William
Gartland, who has been in the department for
twenty years, has been acting at such times as
Assistant City Collector. Because of existing
conditions in the department, which I have
pointed out, the committee thought that this
ordinance should be passed.
The ordinance was passed under suspension of
the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted, at 2.31 p. m., to take a
recess subject to the call of the Chair. The
members reassembled in the Council Chamber and
were called to order by President DOWD at
4.18 p. in.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred October 29) transferring 835,000 for
furnishing and equipping kitchen building — that
same ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the order was given
its first reading and passage, yeas 21, nays — Coun.
Selvitella — 1.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) that to provide temporarily
money to meet appropriations for financial year
1934 the City Treasurer issue notes or certificates
of indebtedness not exceeding $7,500,000 in total
in anticipation of taxes of current municipal year — ■
that same ought to pass.
The report was accepted and the order was given
its first reading and passage, yeas 20, nays 0.
3. Report on order (referred October 29) that
the Finance Commission be requested to investi-
gate East Boston Tunnel land-takings — that the
same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS.
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted report on petition of John J.
Sheehy (referred October 29) to be reimbursed
for amount of execution issued against him en
account of acts as operator of motor vehicle
belonging to Sewer Division, Public Works De-
partment— recommending passage of accompanying
order, viz.:
Ordered, That the sum of fifteen dollars be
allowed and paid to John J- Sheehy in reimburse-
ment for the amount of execution issued against
him on account of his acts as operator of a motor
vehicle belonging to the Sewer Division, Public-
Works Department, said sum to be charged to the
Reserve Fund.
Report accepted; said order passed.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of an additional order for payment of aid
to soldiers and sailors and their families in City
of Boston for month of November, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENTS.
Coun. GOLDMAN called up from the calendar,
under unfinished business, Nos. 2 and 3, viz.:
2. Action on appointment submitted by the
Mayor October 29, 1934, of Samuel Tarle, to be a
constable.
3. Action on appointments submitted by the,
Mayor October 29, 1934, of James L. Brown, Jr.,
Ida Lavien, Edward F. Condon, Daniel W.
Connors, to be weighers of coal; and Philip
Sheridan, Daniel Lowney, John Leary, to be
weighers of coal, measurers of grain and weighers
of goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Agnew and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots 20; yeas IS, nays 2, and the
appointments were confirmed.
AMENDMENT OF RACING BILL.
Coun. ROBERTS and McGRATH offered the
following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to petition the next Legislature for the enactment
of legislation amending the Racing Bill to provide
for approval by the Board of Selectmen in towns
and the Mayor and City Council in cities of any
site within the corporate limits of their respective
town or city where racing is to be allowed and that
in the City of Boston all profits over and above
running expenses, together with a fair return on the
investment, be turned over to the Department of
Public Welfare to defray the expenses of this
department.
Order passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 15 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to place
automobile warning signals at each end of the center
span of the railroad bridge on Columbia road, at
Ceylon street, Ward 15.
NOVEMBER 19, 1934.
373
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public Works
make a sidewalk along Ouincy street, between
Barry and Bellevue streets, both sides, Ward 15,
in front of the estates bordering thereon; said
sidewalk to be from 3 to 10 inches above the gutter
adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in width, and to
be built of granolithic, with granite edgestones,
under the provisions of chapter 196 of the Special
Acts of 1917.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works set edgestone on Duncan street, Granger
place to Leonard street, Ward 15, in front of the
estates bordering thereon, under the provisions of
chapter 196 of the Special Acts of 1917.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to include in his P. W. A. program a sum sufficient
to provide for the removal of the huge rock on the
sidewalk on Ouincy street, between Barry and
Bellevue streets, Ward 15.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
ASSESSMENTS IN WARD 15.
Coun. TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to instruct
all assistant assessors when they are assessing
properties in Ward 15 in 1935 to provide for a sub-
stantial reduction in valuations.
Ordered, That the Board of Assessors be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to investi-
gate assessed valuations on property in Ward 15
for the year 1934 with a view to obtaining reduc-
tions in same.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
EMPLOYEES OF JOSEPH P. McCABE COM-
PANY.
Coun. TOBIN and FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner- of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to take immediate steps to prevent the Joseph P.
McCabe Company from working its men over-
time, without extra pay, on its contract for the
collection of ashes and garbage in the Dorchester
district.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 13 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to resurface Monadnock street, Ward 13.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to resurface Virginia street, Ward 13.
Ordered, That the Trustees of the Boston Ele-
vated Railway Company be requested, through
his Honor the Mayor, to install a wailing room
on the new bus platform now being constructed
on South Sydney street, Ward 13.
The orders were severally passed under sus-
pension of the rule.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN* offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission bo
requested, through his Honor the Major, to install
automatic traffic signals al the junction of Old
Colony avenue and Preble .street, Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
iSSESSM] NTS, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board ol Assessors be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to inves-
tigate the assessed valuation of real
Ward 7. with a view to making further reductions
in the valuations for 1933 and
Passed undei o of the rule.
NIGHT CALLS FOR MEDICAL AID.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Hospital Trustees be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to con-
sider the advisability of assigning a sufficient
number of their staff to respond to night calls for
medical aid received from recipients of Public
Welfare or Soldiers' Relief and their families.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
BUS SERVICE, BAY VIEW LINE.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Trustees of the
Boston Elevated Railway Company be requested,
through his Honor the Mayor, to make a survey
of the bus service on the Bay View line in South
Boston, and on the line running from Andrew
square to East Cottage street, Dorchester, for the
purpose of increasing the service on both of these
lines.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
UTILIZATION OF VETERANS- HOSPITAL.
Coun. MURRAY and FINLEY offered the
following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to confer with the City Hospital Trustees and take
up with them the matter of utilizing the buildings
in West Roxbury, formerly occupied by the United
States Government as a veterans' hospital, for the
purpose of relieving the overcrowded condition of
the Main Hospital, and, if necessary, to request
funds from the Public Works Administration in
Washington to carry these plans through.
Further, Ordered, That, if this suggestion is not
feasible, his Honor the Mayor be requested to
take up with the City Hospital Trustees the
matter of allowing persons who are in destitute
circumstances to occupy these buildings during the
coming winter.
Coun. MURRAY— Mr. President, the property
here referred to includes a number of buildings in
West Roxbury which were used as a veterans'
hospital and have not now been used for eight or
ten years. If it is not desirable that they continue
to be used as a veterans' convalescent hospital,
it seems to me that something, as suggested in this
order, might be done with them, or, if not, that
possibly they might be torn down and homes
built for people, in line with what is now being
undertaken by the Federal Government. Certainly
there seems to be here an opportunity to do some-
thing for the poor unfortunates of the city.
Coun. FINLEY— Mr. President, I, too, would
like to say just a word alone the line upon which
we have just heard Council or Murray. Apparently,
there is no disposition on the part of the City
Hospital Trustees to utilize the buildings on those
grounds for any purpose whatsoever, i presented
an order some time ago asking that the trustees
give consideration to the idea of using the buildings
as a convalescent home, or for some other such
purpose. The response at that time was that it
was not now advisable to use the property for
hospital purposes, with a request that it be taken
off their hands. I feel that the grounds out there
and the buildings thereon are too valuable to
remain idle, as they have b°en for several years.
I believe an effort should be made to utilize the
in some way. I feel that, the order
presented by Councilor Murray and myself is one
that should be given a lot of consideration. For
that reason, I hope that it will be unanimously
passed, and that favorable consideration will be
given to it by his Honor the Major and the Hospi-
tal Tru-
The order wis passed under suspension of the
rule.
\\ \i;n 19 IMPROVEMENTS
Coun. Ml Ki; \Y offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner be in-
structed, through his Honor the Mayor, to assign
a police officer for duty during school hours in the
Arborway, opp 1 and Burroughs streets.
Ward 19.
374
OITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, That the Traffic'Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to install a
traffic light at Chestnut avenue and Boylston
street, Ward 19.
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to place a
traffic light at the Arborway, opposite Pond and
Burroughs streets. Ward 19.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
REMOVAL OF DILAPIDATED
STRUCTURES, WARD 2.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Building Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to take
immediate steps for the removal of the dilapidated
structures at Nos. 91, 93 and 95 Elm street,
Ward 2, which are a menace to the safety of the
public as well as fire hazards.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HORSE AND DOG RACING.
Coun. DO WD and NORTON offered the
following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council go on
record as favoring a nonprofit^making organization
to run horse and dog racing in Massachusetts as
originally sponsored by the Boston Post.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RACE TRACKS IN BOSTON.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of taking all possible
steps to see to it that one of the two race tracks
to be operated in Massachusetts be located in
Boston.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I understand
that Massachusetts is to have two race tracks.
Whereas 75 per cent of the money spent at the
horse racing tracks in Rhode Island and New-
Hampshire come from Boston, it does seem as if,
with two tracks to be established in the Common-
wealth, we should try to have one of them within
the boundaries of this city. We have at Readville
a nationally famous race track, a splendid mile
track which could be easily developed at small
expenditure. It is on the main line of a railroad
and within a short ride by way of railroad or
automobile of any part of Boston or the suburbs.
It was for many years one of the well-known
tracks of the country, and it is still there.
Coun. SELVITELLA — Mr. President, speaking
on that order, let me say that we have in East
Boston one of the finest available sites for a race
track, and I think we are entitled to as much
consideration as Readville, in Hyde Park. I don't
know of what consequence the passage of such
an order by this body may be; but, nevertheless,
for purposes of the record, I want the public of
Boston and the whole world to know that we have
land available for a good race track in East Boston.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, I am talking
about race tracks, not tidewater land.
The order waB passed, under suspension of the
rule.
INSPECTORS, BUILDING DEPARTMENT.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of conferring with the
Building Commissioner of Boston relative to
placing back in the department twenty or more
inspectors and other employees who are now out.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, one of the con-
spicuous departments where there are inspectors
and other employees now out and off the pay roll
is the Building Department It does seem as
though the commissioner of that department could
and should do what other departments have done.
I am not asking to have the appropriation for the
department increased one cent, but it does seem
as if something more should be done for such em-
ployees in this department than has been done.
There is one inspector who has served in the
department for forty years, and another one who
has been there for twenty-one years. They have
been off the pay roll since last March, some of them
men in my own ward, with large families and with
homes to support. I wonder if it is not possible
for us to ask the Building Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, if the thing cannot be arrived
at in any other way to divide up the work, so as to
put the men back on the pay roll, even if they are
not put back on full time.
Coun. SHATTUCK— Mr. President, the gentle-
man in offering this order has apparently not gone
into the question of whether these men are needed
in the work of the department. My impression
is that when they were laid off there were about
twice as many men as were needed to carry on the
work. It certainly seems to me that, if we are to
appropriate public money, we should consider the
question of whether or not the appropriation is for
employees who are needed.
Coun. MURRAY — Mr. President, I certainly
trust that these men will be put back. I cannot
understand why we should make fish of men in one
department and flesh of those in another. I
certainly believe these men should be put back,
and I believe there is work enough for them all.
Coun. GREEN— Mr. President, I would like to
ask the gentleman from Hyde Park (Coun. Norton)
to amend his order so as to include the fifty-seven
paving inspectors who are out.
President DOWD — Is that amendment ac-
cepted?
Coun. NORTON— I do not object, to it, Mr.
President. But let me say that this is no joke, and
that I am not asking the head of the department
to increase his appropriation one cent. I am asking
the head of the department, where a man has been
there for twenty years and in some cases for a
much longer period of time, not to lay him off
completely, with no charge that he has been un-
faithful or inefficient in his work, in favor of
youngsters of the department, one of whom has
been there only three years. It does seem to me
that at least the work might be split up, staggered
if you want to use that term— which I started to
use two or three years ago against some objections.
It does seem as if the head of the department might
use the services of these men, even if they are not
put on full time. I am not here to say anything
on behalf of men who are unworthy of employment,
but where there is nothing against these men who
have been dropped except lack of work, I do think
it would be better to have the work divided up, so
that there would be something for all. I don't
know why the idea of sharing the work might not
be applied here, as it has been in some other cases,
in the Health and other departments, why men
might not be put on at certain seasons, for example,
when there is work for them to do. I certainly do
not feel that men who have served in such a depart-
ment for many years should be laid off completely,
while others who have served a comparatively
short time should be retained. I think it would be
better to stagger the work, giving some to all the
employees. I do wish to reconsider my acceptance
of the gentleman's amendment in regard to the
paving inspectors. It seems to me that is a
matter that might well be considered separately,
dealing with another department, and that we
might talk it over with the Commissioner of
Public Works. I think it would be better to act
at this time upon my original order, which deals
with a matter that I have looked into sufficiently,
so that I feel safe in presenting it.
President DOWD— The Chair will rule that
Councilor Green's amendment is out of order,
referring to another department, and would
suggest that that be embodied in another order.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I would like to say
that I put in an order two months ago asking the
Mayor to reinstate those inspectors in the Public
Works Department,
Coun. NORTON'S order, as introduced, was
passed under suspension of the rule.
BLOOD TRANFUSIONS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the trustees of the Boston City
Hospital inform the Council, through his Honor
the Mayor, regarding the procedure that is followed
in cases requiring blood transfusions where the
patient has not got the $25 fee that is required in
advance.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, there was a
quaint, old figure, an old gentleman, who for a
number of years dwelt in the locality of Copley
NOVEMBER 19, 1934.
:;7r,
square, Prof. Gustave Laneau. He was like a
figure out of a story book, a character in old
Frencn life. He had been a professor through the
yenrs and used to teach students French. That
was his means of livelihood. I had missed him
around the library for the last few weeks, and last
week noticed that he had died. I looked up the
burial columns to make sure, and found out that
such was the case. I then examined iuto the
facts. Apparently he was too poor for the death
notice to be inserted in the newspapers. I called
up the City Hospital and asked last Friday what
had happened to the body of the professor, and
was told that it had gone out and into the hands
of an undertaker named Spencer in South Boston.
I asked Mr. Spencer if he would be kind enough
to tell me the facts, and 1 learned that the profes-
sor's home had been out alongside the Forest Hills
car barn. I went out there and was informed that
the professor had been taken to the City Hospital,
needing a blood transfusion but that in order to
have it the payment of $25 was necessary. Nobody
belonging to the professor had the S25. So he
went along eight hours, in a dying condition, with
no transfusion. Finally somebody who thought
well of the professor tried to see if S25 could be
raised for a blood transfusion, around Copley
square, which the professor had for years fre-
quented. Somebody suggested getting hold of a
man named Innes. Those interested did not
know where Mr. Innes was, but they finally went
to his office and asked for the S25 and he gave it to
them. Next day they asked for $25 more, and
he also gave that. The man was not even a
citizen or a voter. The story, as I learned it,
rather appealed to me. It may be that some poor
fellow will go to the hospital this week or next
week, needing a blood transfusion, and the money
for it. will be lacking and he will be unable to get it.
There are so many people today who are unable
to pay such costs. I wonder if it would not be
possible to make some arrangement so that men
coming to the hospital in that way and needing a
blood transfusion may be properly taken care of.
Here was this poor unfortunate waiting eight
hours until the money was produced, and if the
transfusion could have been given at once his life
might have been saved. The Lord only knows
whether or not it may be you or I next week.
I want to bring this matter to the attention of
the trustees. I think if this matter is made public
there may be charitable people in Boston who
would possibly get together and furnish a fund for
such purposes. I don't know that this is the way
to handle it. Perhaps I should remain quiet, but
something seems to tell me that if we can only
have these things known, brought out into the
light of day, some poor unfortunate may be saved.
Conn. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, the
remarks nf my colleague recall to my mind the
fact that only last night, as appeared in one of the
Boston newspapers, a young man from East
Boston, one of a family of eight, needed a blood
transfusion. He bad no influential friends or
means of supplying money, and it became necessary
for me to insert an item in the newspapers asking
thai somebody interest himself in this case at the
City Hospital in order that the life of this boy
might be saved. This is a matter that should be
taken very seriously, and I trust that it will be so
taken by somebody interested in this sort of thing
and able to furnish means for blood transfusions.
It may be the means of saving valuable lives in this
community. Certainly, Mr. President, something
should be done.
Coun. ROBERTS- Mr. President, I de
add iusl a word to what has been said. I bi
Professor Laneau t. night French in a back office
on Copley square. He was a citizen of tbi I oited
Slates and of the City of Boston. At the lime
councilor speaks of, his friends or rela lives
Kol ii' touch with Mr. Innes, who provided money
for the necessary transfusions. I certainly think
something should lie done to make provision for
cases of this kind, that the trustees should consider
the matter very seriously. Frequently quick
aition is necessary in order that a life m
saved.
Coun. MURRAY -Mr. President, I also know
nf e case thai happened oul mj waj four months
ago, where a blood transfusion was needed, and
there was some difficulty in the matter. I under-
stand that in the City Hospital thej only use
males i"r transfusion. Thai is one case thai I
know nt. and I wonder why something has qoI
■ done before this.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, next week I
propose to bring in an order asking the Welfare
Department to appoint, a certain number of
examiners and investigators to handle such cases
that may come up in our city. I don't think
there are enough investigators handling the number
of people who are being investigated. I don't
think this poor professor really had enough to eat.
He had a little class in French and paid $20 a
month for rooms to conduct the class. Being
greatly in need he applied for assistance, and a
girl came out to investigate his case. She asked,
"Why did you apply for help? You are a clean
man, have clean clothes, and so on.'' He replied,
"How can I get students in French unless I am
at least presentable?" The morning when the
professor died one of the girls working in the
Pierce store and happened to glance up and saw
a young woman who knocked on the professor's
door. She interested herself in the matter and
spoke to the young woman, who said, "I am from
the Welfare Department and have come to see
Professor Laneau." The girl, knowing the circum-
stances, from the Pierce Company said, "Well, I
am sorry, but it is too late." It certainly seems
to me, in matters of welfare that are so extremely
important, we need a far greater staff of examiners
than we have at the present time.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, I would like
to add one thing more to what Mr. Norton has said.
I personally happened to know something about
the application of the gentleman to the state for
old age assistance, and I know that some time
elapsed before action was taken, as they make a
point of investigating these eases very carefully
where the payment of old age assistance is involved .
Sometimes the investigatoin will take months.
Case after case has been called to my attention,
as must have been the fact with other members of
the Council, of old age cases which have been
under investigation and where there has been a
great delay. I think that sort of thing is very
lamentable. I understand, as a matter of fact,
that legislation will be sought in this coming
Legislature to remedy this sort of thing, where
people have no friends and no means of support.
I have no doubt that the death of Mr. Laneau, an
honorable gentleman, might have been prevented if
such cases could be acted upon more expeditiously;
that if speedier action could have been taken
there would have been no need of this gentleman's
confinement and death in the hospital.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
GOLDEN JUBILEE, CARDINAL ( >'('( iNNELL.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Whereas, the beloved Bishop of Boston.
William Cardinal O'Connell, has been signally
honored in the capital city of our nation on the
occasion of the Golden Jubilee of his ordination
to the priesthood, by the President of the United
nid leaders of church and stale in America,
Therefore, He it resolved, that the Boston
City Council, at a duly called meeting in session
assembled, takes official cognizance of thi
honors bestowed upon Boston's beloved spiritual
leader.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
FltLE BUS TRANSPORTATION FOR
SCHOOL CHILDREN
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered. Thai i he School Committee be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to furnish
free bus transportation for children in I he dishing
Ihll section of Dorchester to the Woodrow Wilson
Srln.nl.
Passed under suspension of tin- rule.
\\ \i;l) 21 IMPROVEMENTS.
i \t;\i \\ offered the following:
Ordered. Thai the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through Ills Honor lh,.
Mayor, to repave with smooth pavomonl
'. onuo, Ward -'1
376
CITY COUNCIL.
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
instructed, through his Honor the Mayor, to
install traffic lights in Union square, Ward 21.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
LICENSES FOR OUTDOOR PARKING
SPACES.
Coun. "WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested to provide that any and all
licenses to conduct outdoor parking spaces in the
City of Boston be specifically limited only to such
applicants as accept reasonable responsibility for
automobiles left in their possession and custody.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I introduce
that order at this time partly as a result of what
has gone before and partly in anticipation of what
is still to come. We remember that when the
new parking plan went into effect it was called
to the attention of the Council that apparently the
new traffic rules were merely a method of driving
cars off the street, primarily for the benefit of the
outdoor parking spaces, although those parking
Bpaces have refused to take responsibility for
the cars parked upon them, and in that connection
I would call attention to the fact that recently a
car was parked in such a space at 150 Stuart street,
at seven o'clock in the evening, fifty cents being
paid for the parking privilege, and the owner was
forbidden to lock the car or take the key, because
it might be necessary to move the car. When
he returned, however, a few hours later, the car
had been stolen and under the contract there
was no comeback. The proprietor of the parking
space pointed out that he refused to take any
responsibility beyond the fact that the car would
not be tagged. So I say that no further licenses
should be granted for such outdoor parking
spaces as are apparently merely being used as a
method of getting around possible tagging, the
applicants accepting no responsibility for the
cars left in their possession and custody. As a
member of the City Council trying to get money
for the city through various license fees, it is my
intention, if possible, to have reasonable license
fees charged in such cases and to have the licenses
granted under such rules that the parking of cars
will result in a fair income for the City of Boston
and will also place upon those conducting such
parking spaces reasonable responsibility for the
cars parked there.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
On motion of Coun. BRACKMAtf, the Council
voted that when it adjourn it be to meet on
Monday, December 3, 1934, at 2 p. m.
Adjourned, at 4.56 p. m., on motion of Coun.
AGNEW, to meet on Monday, December 3, 1934,
at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
OITY COUNCIL.
377
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council
Monday, December 3, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m.. President
DOWD in the chair and all the members present.
JURORS DRAWN.
Jurors were drawn under the law, Coun.
ROBERTS presiding at the box in the absence
of the Mayor, as follows:
Twenty-two grand jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, to appear January 7, 1935:
John H. Durham, Ward 2; David Smith, Ward
2; George Allan, Ward 11; Joseph E. Healy,
Ward 11; Neil McMasters, Ward 11; Edward J.
White, Ward 11; William P. Cahill, Ward 12;
Samuel Leavitt, Ward 12; Carl W. Nelson, Ward
12; James E. Taylor, Ward 12; Thomas J. Hart-
nett, Ward 13; William B. Hooper, Ward 13;
George A. Sheehan, Ward 13; Thomas L. Doyle,
Ward 14; Hyman Levine, Ward 14; Charles E.
Main, Ward 15; John J. Sullivan, Ward 16;
Ralph H. Gleason, Ward 19, Daniel M. Kay,
Ward 19; Frederick J. Morlock, Ward 19; Philip
M. Stoddard, Ward 21; Algernon L. Jewett,
Ward 22:
Thirty additional traverse jurors, Superior
Criminal Court, Third Session, to appear December
10, 1934:
Antonio Iannillo, Ward 1; Raffaele D'Elia,
Ward 3; Edward P. Devaney, Ward 7; George
Knott, Ward 7; Augustus L. Marks, Ward 7;
Martin J. Tully, Ward 8; Owen J. Doherty,
Ward 9; Frederick C. Bleiler, Ward 10; Thomas S.
Gilman, Ward 11; Samuel A. Katz, Ward 12;
Jack E. Evans, Ward 14; William Locke, Ward 14;
William Lewis, Ward 16; David Barron, Ward 17;
Arthur F. Chbate, Ward 17; George F. Fellows,
Ward 18; Samuel W. Haskett, Ward 18; Frederick
Jacobson, Ward 18; Ernest Vogelsang, Ward 18;
George A. York, Ward 18; Otto E. Zaugg, Ward
18; James P. Hayes, Ward 19; John M. Wells,
Ward 19; Roswell F. Childs, Ward 20; August A.
Pacht, Ward 20; Benjamin F. Green, Ward 21;
John R. Jones, Ward 21; John F. Linton, Ward 21;
Fred E. Simonds, Ward 21; Hobert W. Turner,
Ward 21.
Seventeen traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Second Session, to appear January 7, 1935:
Thomas H. Mealey, Ward 1; Daniel H. Mc-
Lellan, Ward 5; John J. Appel, Ward 8; Joseph E.
Callahan, Ward 9; Abraham Katzman, Ward 10;
William A. Keane, Ward 10; Albert J. Lacasse,
Ward 10; Benjamin Martin, Ward 11; David .1.
Buckley, Ward 14; John J. Carew, Ward 14;
Eugene J. McCarthy, Ward 15; Francis J. Graham,
Ward 17; Malcolm McLean, Ward 17; George H.
Priggen, Ward 18; Bentley Bradshaw, Ward 20;
John R. Johnston, Ward 21; William W. Wilson,
Ward 21.
Twenty-six traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Third Session, to appear January 14, 1935:
William R. Abbott, Ward 1; William S. Mc-
Kendry, Ward 2; William F. Woinbecker, Ward 2:
HenryjL. Goodwin, Ward 3; Enrico Maffca, Ward
3; John E. Garland, Ward 4; Frederick II. Perk-
ins, Ward 5; William H. Dermody, Ward (i; Ben-
jamin Flatc, Ward 8; James F. Mr \w.\ , Ward 8;
John J. Gordon, Ward 10; Daniel J. Sullivan,
Ward 11; Lorenzo R. Wright, Ward 12; Harry
Kingsbury, Ward 14; Claude D. Rhodes, ward 11;
Alexander McSwain, Ward 15; Harold J. Wall,
Ward 15; John 1'. ( 'urlin , Ward 17; Herman
Curtis Hazlett, Ward 17; David II Uuiim, Ward
19; Henry M. Brandley, Ward 20; George E,
II.'iri i, Ward 20; Charles E. Lawson, Ward 20;
\ incent E. Stuart, Ward 20; Abraham Jacob,
\\ aril 21; Israel Shannahoffski, Ward 21.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Fifth Session, to appear January 7, 1935:
Frank P. Congdon, Ward 2; John T. Smith,
Ward 2; Morris Krim, Ward 3; Timothy J.
O'Leary, Ward 3; James MacLean, Ward 4; Clif-
ford Wood, Ward 5; James J. Reid, Ward 6; Alfred
J. Harrold, Ward 7; James J. Sullivan, Jr., Ward
7; Frank O. Alsterberg, Ward 8; Daniel W. Mac-
Lean, Ward 9; Joseph Mangore, Ward 11; Louis
H. Booker, Ward 12; Max Leavitt, Ward 12;
Edward F. Devitt, Ward 13; Thomas J. Rice,
Ward 13; Ralph P. Lane, Ward 14; Frederick K.
Evans, Ward 15; Dominick J. Kaveney, Ward 16;
John W. McDonald, Ward 17; Thomas Tobin,
Ward 17; Robert W. Fiske, Ward 18; George H.
Stevens, Ward 18; Frank M. Moore, Ward 19;
Eric E. E. Peterson, Ward 19; William L. Friary,
Ward 20; Joseph A. Meyer, Ward 20; Herman W.
Kreppel, Ward 21; Frederick M. Thompson,
Ward 22.
Twenty-nine traverse jurors, Superior Criminal
Court, Fourth Session, to appear January 7, 1935:
William L. Dawson, Ward 1; Joseph A. Metcalfe,
Ward 1; Joseph Murphy, Ward 2; Harry J.
Myers, Ward 3; George L. Bartels, Ward 4; Wil-
liam J. Stockman, Ward 4; James J. Minot, Jr.,
Ward 5; William J. Bailey, Ward 6; John J.
Feeney, Ward 6; John Richard Davis, Ward 8;
Joseph E. Barry, Ward 10; Michael A. Kelleher,
Ward 10; William V. Mackenzie, Ward 10; Arthur
J. Baker, Ward 12; Frederick H. C. Kampe, Ward
12; Clarence W. Steele, Ward 13; Peter W. Mul-
vey, Ward 14; Charles J. Adams, Ward 16; Fred-
erick V. Chipman, Ward 16; Thomas C. Dean,
Ward 16; Harold H. Hargrave, Ward 16; Harold
J. Pummell, Ward 16; Charles H. Collins, Ward 17;
James W. Faulkner, Ward 19; Leland C. Pierce,
Ward 19; Paul F. Starck, Ward 19; Edward S.
Foster, Ward 20; Leo W. Huegle, Ward 20; Ger-
hardt W. Lang, Ward 21.
Eighteen traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
First Session, January Sitting, to appear January 7,
1935:
Harold J. McGinn, Ward 1; William F. Grose,
Ward 3; Frank R. Briggs, Ward 5; John J.
Welch, Ward 5; James J. Mahoney, Ward 6;
John A. Johnson, Ward 7; Peter Carbone, Ward 8;
"Frank S. Cooley, Ward 9; Thomas Lovett, Ward
10; William Voelker, Ward 10; Henry M. Mc-
Gough, Ward 13; David S. Schawbel, Ward 14;
Leon F. Durbin, Ward 18; Louis Daniel Rich-
mond, Ward 19; Carl M. Lundstrom, Ward 20;
DouglaB I. Mann, Ward 20; Robert A. Martin, Jr.,
Ward 21; John F. Burke, Ward 22.
Sixteen traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Third Session, January Sitting, to appear January 7,
1935:
Hugh A. McMuUen, Ward 1; Thomas J. McMor-
row, Ward 4; Henry M. Chamberlain, Ward 5;
George J. Moynihan, Ward 6; John J. Sullivan,
Ward 6; John E. Smith, Ward 9; Stephen M.
McDonald, Ward 11; James J. Nvhan, Ward 11;
Edward Gillis, Ward 12; Irving L. Field, Ward 14;
Daniel J. Dannahv, Ward 17; Paul N. Legendre,
Ward 18; Dennis J. Sullivan, Ward 20; George J.
Williams, Ward 20; Henry Merton Keefe, Ward
21; Maurice J. Lowenberg, Ward 22.
Twenty-four traverse jurors, Superior Civil
Court, Fourth Session, January Sitting, to appear
January 7, 1935:
Patrick Walsh, Ward 1; Herbert Farnsworth,
Ward 3; John J. Daley, Ward 4; William H.
Parker, Ward 4; John J. Sweeney, Ward 4;
George MacDonald, Ward 5; Herbert F. Rumble,
Ward 6; Thomas J. Tracy, Ward 8; Chrestos J.
George, Ward 10; Erik D. Larson, Ward 11;
Hector A. Mclsaac, Ward 11; John J. Curran,
Ward 12; Joseph F. Ward, Ward 14; Edmund J.
Glynn, Ward 15; John Maloncv, Ward 15; Wil-
liam II. Welch, Ward IS; Albert II. Bloomfield,
Ward 19; Clarence W. Stevens, Ward 19; Her-
bert 10. Clark, Ward 20; William C. Fitzgerald,
Ward 20; Geort;e A. Stewart, Ward 20; Benjamin
1 rrrilmati, Ward :' 1 ; llarrj Myers, \\ ird '-'2.
Percy A. Simmonds, Ward 22.
Fifteen traverso jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Fifth Session, January Sitting, to appear Janu-
ary 7, 1035
Patrick W. Quinlan, Ward 2; ichford,
W ird 2; William MoKenney, Ward 4; Hamilton
K. .lone*, Ward 12; Thomas V Riley, Ward 12;
Harry Smith, Ward 14; Dudloy Fottler, Ward 15;
378
CITY COUNCIL.
Arthur J. Keefe, Ward 15; William F. Brill,
Ward 17; Bernard C. Hoefer, Ward 18; Frederick
G. Sheehan, Ward 18; Carl L. Lunde, Ward 19;
Harry L. Tibbetts, Ward 20; Gerald Buckley,
Ward 21; Charles E. Holbrow, Jr., Ward 22.
Twenty traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Sixth Session, January Sitting, to appear Janu-
ary 7, 1935:
David J. Dobbins, Ward 1; James E. Roache,
Ward 1; George B. Walsh, Ward 2; James P.
Bowers, Ward 3; Charles F. Kimball, Ward 3;
Frank Packard, Ward 4; Stephen Leveroni, Ward
5; James J. Brady, Ward 8; John D. Flynn,
Ward 8; Frederick C. Fogarty, Ward 11; Joseph
B. Gill, Ward 14; Harry Nation, Ward 14; Henry
S. Caine, Ward 16; Henry P. S. Henriksen, Ward
16; Thomas F. Long, Ward 16; Glendon W. North,
Ward 18; George P. Rupert, Jr., Ward 19; Elmer
A. Schachrer, Ward 19; Daniel A. MacLeod,
Ward 20; William C. A. Stemmler, Ward 20.
Nineteen traverse jurors, Superior Civil Court,
Seventh Session, January Sitting, to appear
January 7, 1935:
Thomas M. Cassin, Ward 1; Peter L. Foley,
Ward 6; Joseph P. Curley, Ward 7; John M.
Dahill, Ward 7; William J. McDonough, Jr.,
Ward 9; Thomas J. O'Brien, Ward 11; Edward N.
Roach, Jr., Ward 11; Herbert C. Morse, Ward 12;
Didrick Christiansen Hagan, Ward 13; Israel
Kolikof, Ward 14; Ralph T. Pemberton, Ward 15;
James B. Thompson, Ward 15; Frederick W.
Pullman, Ward 16; James M. Heatherington,
Ward 17; Albert C. Johnson, Ward 17; John P.
MacDonald, Ward 17; Alexander P. Mont-
gomery, Ward 18; John B. Blotto, Ward 19;
Frederick W. Jewett, Ward 19.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments, viz.:
Weighers of Coal: Bruce West, 63 Grafton
street, Newton Centre; Daniel T. Cunningham,
268 River road, Winthrop; Louis Gordon, 21
Forrest street, Winthrop.
Weigher of Goods: Royal King, 630 Market
street, Paterson, N. J.
Severally laid over a week under the law.
HOUSING PROJECT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the State Board of Housing, relative to your order
of October 1, 1934, concerning a housing project
to include the removal of ail buildings on the
left-hand side of Main street going towards Sullivan
square, also the Elevated structure.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
To the Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield.
Report on the Boston City Council order
passed October 1, 1934, which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor request
the new Housing Director, Mr. Harold Ickes,
Secretary of the Department of the Interior, to
appropriate a sum sufficient to remove all build-
ings, as a housing project for Boston, on the left-
hand side of Main street, Charlestown, running
from City square to Sullivan square.
In this program could also be included the
removal of the Elevated, which is now standing
over thirty years and has destroyed the district
as a residential section."
Any housing project in this area must be pred-
icated on the removal of the Elevated structure
along Main street, as the blight which has been
created by this structure would be as detrimental
to any improvement as it is to the present condition.
A replanning of this area should also provide
for the widening of either or both Main street
and Rutherford avenue, and a rearrangement or
closing up of intermediate streets.
The suggestion implied by the Council order,
viz., that housing be provided along Main street
only, does not, in our judgment, provide a reason-
able housing plan. In any proper plan, large open
areas must be provided and the project definitely
bounded by streets so that at no point does it
abut undesirable properties. Therefore, we feel
that if housing is to be considered in this location,
the entire area between Rutherford avenue and
Main street must be included.
In the study of any housing project we feel
that the entire district of Charlestown must be
considered as a whole. Our study has indicated
that there are two major areas which are suitable
for rebuilding (see map) :
1. The area lying between Main street and
Rutherford avenue, from City square to Sullivan
square.
2. The area lying between Bunker Hill street
and Medford street, from Chelsea street to Fay
square.
Area No. 1 is a mixed industrial and residential
district and has a population density of forty-five
persons per acre. The assessed value of land
and braidings within this area is $2.80 per square
foot. Two schools and a small playground are
located at the end toward City square.
Area No. 2 is entirely residential and has a
population density of fifty persons per acre.
The assessed value of land and buildings within
thiB area is $1.64 per square foot. There are nine
schools and two large playgrounds well distributed
throughout the district.
In the consideration of housing possibilities in
Area No. 1, this Board feels that while the
proximity of industry to a residential district is
important, since it provides employment, the
indiscriminate mixture of the two is undesirable
and they should be segregated with definite
boundaries. The area should be divided into two
parts, and that portion between City square
and Dunstable street zoned for residence, while the
remainder of the area be given up to industry.
This would not prohibit the building of stores
along Main street in conjuction with housing.
That area immediately surrounding Harvard
square would be a suitable one for the rehabilita-
tion of existing houses instead of new housing.
In consideration of housing possibilities in
Area No. 2, this Board feels that any part of this
area is suitable for rehousing due to its permanent
residential character. It is well provided with
schools and playgrounds, and Bunker Hill street
offers abundant opportunity for local business.
This Board therefore recommends: (1), that due
to the higher land values, the uncertainty of
the removal of the Elevated structures and the
possible expansion of industry, Area No. 1 is
not a sound location for rehousing at this time;
and (2), that if money is made available it should
be spent to provide housing in Area No. 2 which,
in our judgment, is the one in which the greatest
good could be accomplished.
We believe the removal of the Elevated structure
to be highly desirable. This, however, could
only be arrived at through agreement with the
Elevated Trustees, and after a feasible substitute
method of transportation had been submitted.
(It is quite analogous to the Huntington avenue
problem, but it would be even more beneficial
towards the stabilization of property values.)
Respectfully submitted,
State Board of Housing,
by Charles P. Norton,
Executive Secretary.
November 26, 1934.
Placed on file.
REPORT ON VARIOUS TRAFFIC SIGNALS.
The following were received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — -I herewith transmit three letters
from the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to
orders adopted November 19, 1934, being respec-
tively as follows:
1. Installation of automatic traffic signals at
the junction of Old Colony avenue and Preble
street, Ward 7.
2. Installation of a traffic light at Chestnut
avenue and Boylston street, Ward 19.
3. Installation of automobile warning signalB
at each end of the center span of the railroad bridge
on Columbia road, at Ceylon street, Ward 15.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
DECEMBER 3, 1934.
379
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 28, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
• receipt of Council order dated November If), 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Old
Colony avenue and Preble street, Ward 7."
The intersection of Old Colony avenue and
Preble street presents a serious accident hazard.
The records in this office show that thirty-one
motor vehicle accidents involving personal injuries
have occurred at this intersection from January 1,
1928, to date, divided by years as follows:
1928, 2; 1929, 3; 1930, 6; 1931, 5; 1932, 4;
1933, 3; 1934, 8.
One of the above accidents which occurred on
August 9, 1932, resulted in a fatality.
At present Old Colony avenue is being resur-
faced with a smooth pavement. When this work
is completed undoubtedly motorists will maintain
higher speeds through this intersection than
formerly. It is my opinion that the area will be
even more hazardous under the new conditions.
Because of the great size of this intersection with
the resultant long stretches of conduit which would
be necessary for a signal installed, the engineers of
this commission estimate the cost of installing the
signal at this location at approximately four
thousand (4,000) dollars.
At present there are no funds available.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 28, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated November 19, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner-
through his Honor the Mayor, be instructed to
install a traffic light at Chestnut avenue and
Boylston street, Ward 19."
While this office is cognizant of the fact that
automobiles 'maintain rather high speeds through
Boylston street when passing Chestnut avenue it
is not our opinion that this is a sufficiently
important intersection -to warrant the installation
of a traffic signal.
The records in this office show that three motor
vehicle accidents involving personal injuries have
occurred at this location from January 1, 1928, to
date.
The cost of installing a signal at this location
would be approximately twentv-three hundred
(2,300) dollars.
There arc no funds available at the present time.
Very truly yours,
William P, Hickey, Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, November 28, 1934,
lion. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated November 19,
193 1. « hioh roads as foil"
"Ordered, Thai the rraffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
place automobile warning signals 'it each end
■ I i he center span of the railroad bridge on Col-
umbia road, at Ceylon street, Ward l-V
It is assumed that this Council order n
templates the erection of certain luminous signs
to prevent motorists from colliding with the
under .structure of the railroad brid
I In bridge supports at this location are I
entirely within the .Hired ear reservation, of] the
traveled road, and are protected by granii
stones. In order to collide with the bridge
ports it will bo necessary for motorists to climb
over the intervening edgestone.
II is i In- "i ' n hi i Ins coin mission I b
Installation would cob! approximate .
dollars and ii warranted by conditions,
\ erv i rulj '. our
William P Hickey, i ommissionor.
Severally placod on file.
FURNIVAL ROAD, WARD 19.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of October 1, 1934, concerning the
acceptance and laying out of Furnival road,
Ward 19.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners,
November 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Inclosed please find order of the
City Council requesting the acceptance and laying
out of Furnival road, Ward 19.
In reply I wish to state that this street would
cost about $4,000 to construct, but, owing to the
fact that cold weather is close at hand and all
further street work must be held in abeyance
until next year, it is impossible to take favorable
action on this matter at the present time.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
CONSTRUCTION OF FANEUIL STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Street Commissioners, relative to
your order of October 29, 1934, concerning the
construction of Faneuil street, Ward 22.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Board of Street Commissioners.
November 26, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Inclosed please find copy of City
Council order requesting the construction of
Faneuilstreet, Ward 22.
This request has merit but, owing to our financial
condition and the proximity of cold weather, it
will be impossible to give the matter favorable
;ni inn at the present time. It is a street to which
the Board will be pleased to give consideration
next year, if and when a street program is adopted.
Respectfully,
Owen A. Gallagher, Chairman.
Placed on file.
BRANCH LIBRARY, BOWDOIN STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
< Mine of the Mayor, November 23, 1934.
I'm I he City Council.
Gentlemen,—] herewith transmit a letter from
the Director of the Boston Publio Library, relative
in your order of October 15, 1934, concerning the
establishment of a branch library al Bowdoin
street, Ward 15.
Respectfully,
Frederick w. Mansfield, Mayor.
of 1
l iin ii j 1 1, n ii i menl . No\ i tnber 19, 193 I.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
\ isistanl Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir,— Referring to the order of thi
Council, introduced by Councilor Tobin and
passed October IS, 1934, in regard to the establish-
ol a branch library al Bowdoin street in
Ward i i i i kvi been oureoted by the Board ol
Trustees to acknowledge the same and to inform
you thai it had their consideration al their meeting
mnber 111. I
I have been aski i that the trustees
have ;it present I he following t'.eneral pnliey relat lye
\ tunely,
i i ibrary should aol
lie extended until the Central Library building
I 1 1" e ■ : mg branch library buildings aro put ID
380
CITY COUNCIL.
a reasonably satisfactory condition. Under exist-
ing conditions it does not therefore seem likely
that there can be undertaken the establishment of
any new branch library buildings during the
coming year.
Yours very sincerely,
Milton E. Lord, Director.
Placed on file.
TRANSFER FROM PARKMAN FUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, November 30, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I am in receipt of the attached
communication from the Board of Park Commis-
sioners requesting the transfer of the sum of
835,000 from the income of the George F. Parkman
Fund to the Maintenance and Improvement of the
Common and Parks in Existence on January 12,
1887.
I submit herewith an appropriation order and
respectfully recommend its immediate passage
by your honorable body.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, November 23, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — By vote of the Board of Park Com-
missioners, you are respectfully asked to request
the City Council to transfer from the income of the
George F. Parkman Fund the sum of §35,000
which is now available, to be expended under the
direction of the Board of Park Commissioners as
follows: Common and Parks in Existence on
January 12, 1887, Maintenance and Improvement
of, $35,000.
When the budget estimates were made up for
the year 1934, a sum equal to the total yearly
income of the George F. Parkman Fund was
deducted from Item A-l, Permanent Employees,
with the understanding that this deduction was
to be replaced by the total yearly income of said
Parkman Fund for 1934, to be transferred as it
accrued from time to time during the year to the
regular maintenance appropriation of the Park
Department.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Ordered, That the sum of $35,000 be, and hereby
is, appropriated, from the income of the George F.
Parkman Fund, to be expended under the direction
of the Park Commissioners, for the maintenance
and improvement of the Common and parks in
existence on January 12, 1887, as follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on January 12,
1887, Maintenance and Improvement of, $35,000.
Referred to Executive Committee.
TRANSFER TO SINKING FUNDS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith an order pro-
viding that in accordance with the provisions of
chapter 174 of the Acts of 1928 the City Treasurer
shall pay over to the Sinking Fund Commission the
excess of the proceeds of seven loans, originally
issued outside the debt limit, over the total amounts
required for the purposes specified in the author-
ization of each loan. The purpose of this pay-
ment is to permit the Sinking Fund Commissioners
to apply in subsequent years these excess proceeds
against the serial requirements of the several loans,
and thus reduce the amounts which it would be
necessary to provide through taxation for this
same purpose.
The records of the Street Commissioners' office
indicate that no claims are outstanding on any of
the seven projects involved, and the records of
the auditor's office further indicate that no ex-
penditures have been charged against the projects
for over two years. It is evident, therefore, that
the balances remaining in the accounts are no
longer required, and I therefore recommend that
they be disposed of in the manner provided by law.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That in accordance with the provisions
of chapter 174 of the Acts of 1928, the city treas-
urer, with the approval of the Mayor, be author-
ized to pay over to the Board of Commissioners
of Sinking Funds of the City of Boston, the fol-
lowing unexpended balances of loans issued out-
side of the limit of indebtedness which are no longer
required for the purposes specified in the author-
ization of such loans.
Lowell street, Nashua street and
Causeway street $125,374 73
Charles street widening, etc 22,229 76
Morton street improvement 16,306 65
Dock square and Faneuil Hall square
improvement 14,964 58
Kneeland street improvement 8,852 45
East Boston Pumping Station and
outlet 4,456 36
Summer and L streets, widening and
construction of 1,714 04
Referred to Executive Committee.
FREE BUS TRANSPORTATION.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 1, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston School Committee, relative to your
order of November 19, 1934, concerning free bus
transportation for children in the Cushing Hill
section of Dorchester to Woodrow Wilson School.
Evidently, the statute, section 68 of chapter 71,
General Laws, would have to be amended before
this order could be complied with.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
School Committee, November 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — The School Committee has received
and considered the order passed by the City
Council November 19, 1934, requesting the School
Committee, through your Honor, to furnish free
bus transportation for children in the Cushing
Hill section of Dorchester to the Woodrow Wilson
School.
The School Committee would respectfully report
that in September, 1931, the Corporation Counsel,
on inquiry from this department, ruled that under
the provisions of section 68 of chapter 71 of the
General Laws, "the School Committee may not
furnish transportation to school children going
and coming from school where the distance thereto
and therefrom is two miles or less." Under date
of October 22, 1932, the Corporation Counsel
reaffirmed his previous ruling.
The request for a ruling from the Corporation
Counsel regarding the bus transportation privilege
was prompted by requests from parents of children
living in the Neponset section who were attending
the Woodrow Wilson School. The committee has
made all possible provision under the law and tak-
ing into account extenuating conditions in the sec-
tion referred to, the committee does not see that
it will be possible to extend the present arrangement
to include the Cushing Hill section, because that
section cannot be construed as being two miles or
more from the Woodrow Wilson School.
The Committee therefor respectfully reports that
it is not feasible at this time to further extend the
free transportation privilege for children attending
the Woodrow Wilson School.
Respectfully yours,
Ellen M. Cronin,
Secretary.
Placed on file.
REMOVAL OF ELM STREET STRUCTURES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Building Commissioner relative .to your order
of November 19, 1934, concerning the removal of
certain structures at 91, 93 and 95 Elm street,
Ward 2.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
DECEMBER 3, 1934.
381
City of Boston,
Building Department, November 30, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — On receipt of the order of the City
Council that the "building commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to take
immediate steps for the removal of the dilapidated
structures at 91, 93 and 95 Elm Street, Ward 2,"
the matter was immediately referred to the district
inspector for inspection and report.
The inspector reported that while the buildings
are vacant and out of repair, they are boarded up
and closed to trespass. He further reports that he
was unable to gain access to the building to make
an inspection of the interior.
I have, however, communicated with the office of
Mr. John Ihlder, who is in charge of the E. R. A.
Demolition Survey Project, part of whose duty it
is to visit owners of such buildings and either have
the buildings put in proper condition or taken down.
I was informed that the building at 95 Elm street
is on their list for contacting the owner, and that
the buildings at 91 and 93 Elm street will be added
to the list.
Respectfully yours,
Edward W. Roemer,
Building Commissioner.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Bertha Anderson, for compensation for dam-
age to property at 214 Shawmut avenue, caused
by broken water main.
Mary J. Benstock, for compensation for damage
to car by motorcycle of Police Department.
J. A. L. Blake, for compensation for damage to
property at 37 Beacon street, caused by breaking
of water meter.
Carolyn Bradley, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Hawley and Franklin
streets.
Jeremiah A. Cronin, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 38 Redlands
road, West Roxbury.
William A. Coughlin, to be reimbursed for exe-
cution issued against him on account of his acts as
employee of Park Department.
Eileen Devine, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Geneva avenue and
Holiday street.
Miriam C. Dority, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in State street.
Joseph F. Duffy, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at Broadway and
Tremont street.
James Ellis Company, for compensation for
damage to property at 405 Broadway, caused by
leak in water main.
Mrs. Melville C. Freeman, for compensation for
dress ruined at Stratford street, West Roxbury,
caused by an alleged defect in sidewalk.
Antoinetta Giacoppo, for compensation for
injuries received in Boston Museum.
Dorothy A. Hurley, for compensation for
damage to coat at Faneuil Library.
Thomas F. Hynes, for compensation for damage
to property at 22 Wyvern street, Roslindale,
caused by blasting work being done.
\\ ill lam Kretchsmar, for refund on refuse tickets.
Katherine Mills, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 2 Weld avenue,
Roxbury.
Joseph Morin, for refund on refuse tickets.
Timothy J. Murphy, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect ■ 1 1 Franklin
Park.
Hut'li Nawn, Inc., for compensation for trench
flooded by city men.
Dennis O'Callahan, for compensation for injuries
caused by city car,
Mclvin 0. Parker, for compensation for d
to car by city truck.
Adoetmim Paynter and Elziro Monis, fur com-
pensation for accident occurring by negligence of
driver of Public Works Department truck
VI i 10. Peters, for ition for damage to
property at 7:s Qrayfii d ivenue, West Roxbury,
caused by change of grade of - 1
Is. P. Pinkham, to l"- reimbursed for business
lost .-it lit) i Mil t 'olon; ii enue, caused bj closing oi
Seventh Btreet
Prince Macaroni Manufacturing Company, for
compensation for damage to car by city wagon.
Charles E. Richard, to be reimbursed for execu-
tion issued against him as employee of Park
Department.
George Russell, for refund on refuse tickets.
James H. Sweeney, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Hyde Park
avenue.
Bridget C. Hufnagel, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect in stairs at
Curtis Hall.
Executive.
Petition of Edith C. Brickley for annuity on
account of death of her husband, Patrolman James
Brickley, of Police Department.
Committee on Jitney Licenses.
Petition of Boston Elevated Railway for license
to operate motor vehicles between junction of
Causeway and Portland streets and junction of
Charles and Cambridge streets, over Causeway-
street, Nashua street, traffic circle at junction of
Nashua, Leverett and Charles streets, and the
traffic circle at junction of Charles and Cambridge
streets.
APPOINTMENT OF KEEPER OF THE
LOCK-UP.
Notice was received from the Police Commis-
sioner of appointment of Lieut. Thomas W.
O'Donnell to serve as keeper of the City Lock-up.
Placed on file.
TRANSIENT VENDOR'S LICENSE.
Application was received for transient vendor's
license from Eleanor K. Shaw, 72 Marlborough
street, for sale of toys, sporting goods, books, etc.,
at 40 Newbury street under name of F. A. 0.
Schwarz, 745 Fifth avenue, New York.
Approved and license issued November 22, 1934.
APPOINTMENT OF HEALTH INSPECTOR.
Notice was received from the Health Commis-
sioner of appointment of James H. Wallace
as Sanitary Inspector in service of Health De-
partment.
Placed on file.
APPROVAL OF PUBLIC WORKS PROJECT.
A communication was received from the Law-
Department inclosing certified copy of vote of
Emergency Finance Board of the Commonwealth
passed November 2. 1934, with respect to con-
struction of school buildings, P. W. A. Docket
No. 4217.
Placed on file.
VOTE ON LICENSE.
The following was received :
City of Boston,
Board of Election Commissioners,
November 28, 1934.
Wilfred J. Dovle. Esq.,
City Clerk.
Dear Sir,— We hereby certify that, at the Stale
Election, held November 6, 1934, the vote upon
the license questions in this city, was as follows:
shall licenses be granted in this city (or town)
for the sale therein of all alcoholic beverages
(whiskey, rum, gin, malt beverages, wines ami all
alcoholic beverages).'
1 es. 167,771; no, 40.900.
Shall licenses I"- granted in this city tor town)
1 1 u ill. sale therein of wines and malt beverages
nil beer, ale anil all other malt be\.
-i es, 152,007; no, 34,281.
Respectfully yours.
David B siivw.
i ■ i i .
Cn Md. is T. II m
Himm ii
Hoard of I lied ion ( !oi -ion.
Placed on file.
382
CITY COUNCIL.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLE'S BOND.
The constable's bond of Alfred Blaustein, having
been duly approved by the City Treasurer, was
received and approved.
APPOINTMENT OF PROBATION OFFICER.
Notice was received from Samuel R. Cutler.
Justice of the District Court of Chelsea, of appoint-
ment of Miss Lillian A. Evans as Probation
officer to take the place of Mrs. Annie E. Guild,
deceased, at salary of §1,800 per year, subject to
approval of County Commissioners.
Referred to the Committee on County Accounts.
ELECTION OF RICHARD J. LANE.
A communication was received from the School
Committee with notice of election of Richard J.
Lane as Commissioner of School Buildings for a
three-year term from December 1, 1934.
Placed on file.
SIDEWALK ASSESSMENTS.
Communications were received from the Com-
missioner of Public Works with orders assessing
half cost of constructing sidewalks in front of
estates bordering on following streets, viz.:
Half Cost.
Coleridge street, Ward 1 $1,814 20
Cummins Highway, Ward 18 821 80
Pomeroy street. Ward 21 270 15
Amboy street, Ward 22 426 07
Bradbury street, Ward 22 791 38
Orders severally passed under suspension of the
rule.
LOAN IN ANTICIPATION OF TAXES.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business. No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Ordered, That to provide temporarily money
to meet the appropriations for the financial year
1934, the City Treasurer issue and sell, at such
times and in such amounts as he may deem best,
notes or certificates of indebtedness of the City of
Boston not exceeding seven million five hundred
thousand dollars ($7,500,000) in the total, in antic-
ipation of the taxes of the current municipal year;,
that all such notes or certificates of indebtedness
be dated the day the money for the same is re-
ceived, be made payable with the interest thereon
within one year of their date, and bear interest
from their date until the same are made payable
at such rate as the City Auditor, the City Treasurer,
and the Mayor may determine.
On November 19, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
The order was given its second and final reading
and passage, yeas 20, nays 0.
TRANSFER TO HOSPITAL DEPARTMENT.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Ordered, That under authority of chapter
261 of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Hospital Depart-
ment, Children's Pavilion, Furnishing and Equip-
ping, $17,259.39; Burnham Memorial Building,
Remodeling, etc., $16,502.62; Tunnel for Hospital
Building, $549.86; New Medical Pavilion, Furnish-
ing and Equipping, $469.42; Power Plant, Im-
provements, etc., $218.71, to the appropriation
for Hospital Department, Kitchen Building,
Furnishing and Equipping, $35,000.
On November 19, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 21, nays 1.
The order was given its second and final reading
and passage, yeas 19, nays — Coun. Selvitella — 1.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz.:
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor November 19, 1934, of John W. Jefferson,
Henry Steuterman, Margaret A. Steeves, to be
Weighers of Coal; Emil Cacace, John A. Dunton,
to be Weighers of Goods; John Leydon, to be a
Measurer of Grain; James J. Colorusso, to be a
Weigher of Goods, Measurer of Grain and Inspector
of Pressed or Bundled Hay and Straw.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Finley and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots 16, yeas 16, and the appointments
were confirmed.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
Coun. GREEN, for the Committee on Finance,
submitted report on order (referred October 29)
for loan of $10,000 for playground, Fourth Sec-
tion, East Boston — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order given its first
reading and passage, yeas 19, nays 0.
The order will take its second reading and
passage in not less than fourteen days.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on Sol-
diers' Relief, submitted report recommending
passage of order for payment of aid to soldiers and
sailors and their families in the City of Boston for
the month of December, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
STIGMATIZING DESIGNATIONS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of conferring
with the proper authorities relative to the matter
of eliminating from all records as a designating
phrase the words, "Pauper's grave" and "Pauper's
burial," or other like stigmatizing designations.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
GRAVES FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS,
ETC.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of conferring
with the Park Commissioner relative to the assign-
ing of graves in city cemeteries to those unable to
pay for the graves, such as welfare recipients and
others.
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of requesting the
Department of Public Welfare to work out a more
liberal policy regarding the burial and consequent
funeral expenses of welfare recipients.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, the father of
a family with four of five children, living in one
of the wards of Boston, died, leaving no money
to pay for a funeral. At the present time the
City of Boston takes the body from the home to
the City Hospital morgue and from the morgue to
the graveyard, as soon as possible. In most cases,
where the body is not brought into a church, the
cost to the city is $30 for a pine box, for opening
the grave $3, and for the services of a clergyman,
if there is one at the grave, $2. Taking the
practice in other large cities at the present time,
dealing with welfare cases, I find that they adopt
a more liberal policy towards those who cannot
afford to pay for a funeral. It seems to me the
City of Boston can handle these cases in a more
liberal manner. Just picture to yourselves the
situation of unfortunates on welfare, as we have
thousands of families in Boston today, with
dependent children. The head of the house dies,
and there is no money in the home. Where the
city takes charge, the procedure followed is what
I have just outlined. The individual is buried in
what is known as the paupers' grave section of
Mount Hope Cemetery. It does seem that in
such sections of cemeteries some method might be
DECEMBER 3, 1934.
383
worked out whereby the body of a man who has
been a citizen of Boston for a number of years,
and who has a family, can be allocated to a partic-
ular section, so that later on his wife or children
to follow can be placed in what is known as a
family lot. At present, the body is simply placed
with two others in what is known as the paupers'
section of Mount Hope Cemetery. We have a
beautiful cemetery section, and it does seem that
in Mount Hope and other cemeteries a policy might
be worked out which would be more civilized and
liberal toward the unfortunate. I believe that
the Mayor of Boston will be sympathetic in dealing
with this problem and that the Public Welfare
Department can work out a policy similar to that
adopted in Albany, New York, by which many of
the unfortunate circumstances connected with
the burial of welfare and other recipients in Boston
may be eliminated.
The orders were severally passed under sus-
pension of the rule.
FORMER CITY EMPLOYEES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of ordering that the
City of Boston employ no new employees until
it is first ascertained whether or not there is
among those city employees who have been let go,
a competent person to fill the position in question
who is eligible for the said position under the law.
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, I notice in the
City Record that new employees have been added
to the city pay roll, in spite of the fact that many
who have been laid off have not been given an
opportunity to return. I hope or wish that some
policy might be worked out whereby those city
employees who have worked ten, twenty, or more,
years in the Building Department, for example, —
where there is one such case of a man who has
worked for the city for forty years — and who have
been cut off from the pay roll, might be given an
opportunity to return before new appointments
are made. For example, there are such men as
the councilor from Charlestown spoke about two
weeks ago. Such men should at least be given
consideration, and an effort should be made to see
if it is not possible to place them in the positions
to which new employees are being appointed.
Why isn't that fair? ! would like to see considera-
tion given tp the men in the Building Department
who were let go from the pay roll last March.
Isn't it fair that an individual who has given
years of faithful service to the city and who has
been dropped should at least be given a chance,
when an opportunity for employment presents
itself, in preference to new men who have not
before been in the city's employ. It seems to me
that those who have given years of faithful serv-
ice to the city are at least entitled to a certain
preference.
Coun. WILSON— Yes, Mr. President, and that
argument is additionally strengthened by the
promise made to the Council when the step rate
increases were before us that men who were
dropped because of conditions at that time would
be replaced before the first of October. That
promise, certainly, as far as the Building Depart-
ment is concerned, has not been kept.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
DISTRIBUTION OF WORK.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of working
out a program whereby all competent and eligible
city employees who have been lei go may be
placed back on the city's rolls through a method
il call for no additional expense to the City.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
I i [MIN '■ i i' IN OF HUM) SI 1MI, i
I IROSSING.
Coun. McGB \ i B ' iLDMAN offered the
following:
i irdered, I I i1 the I ner ol Public
Works be I. through hi* Hom
to aegoti ite with 1 of the Ne
\.« Haven oV Hartford Railroad to jointly pre-
i the elimination of the Bird street
grade crossing in Dorchester, which is a great
hazard; the said plans could then be presented to
the Federal authorities as a Public Works Admin-
istration project.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ELECTRIFICATION OF RAILROADS.
Coun. McGRATH offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Planning Board be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to inter-
view the directors of the several railroads operating
in Boston in an attempt to interest them in nego-
tiating for Federal loans to electrify all such roads
within the Boston city limits in order to reclaim
millions of dollars worth of real estate along their
routes.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, just a brief
word on that order. It does seem to me, at a
time like this, when we are out endeavoring to find
projects upon which to ask for Federal aid, the
electrification of railroads and elimination of grade
crossings are among the most important under-
takings that can be brought forward. The time
will come when all these dangerous grade cross-
ings will have to be eliminated, and the time will
also certainly come when we will have to electrify
the railroads, certainly as a step in preventing the
destruction of property along the lines of the
roads. As one rides through the Back Bay,
the Dorchester section, the South End and Rox-
bury, one sees entire areas depreciated by smoke
and soot from railroad trains, and I think we all
realize that every year people are driven from
Boston to adjacent cities because we have not
here facilities for decent housing. I believe this
is a very opportune time to interest the Federal
government in advancing a substantial loan to
electrify all loans going out of Boston. It would
mean the reclamation of hundreds of thousands
of dollars worth of real estate, making habitable
many homes which have been rendered practically
uninhabitable at the present time, in some of the
most desirable sections of the City of Boston.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
LIGHTING ON GLENWAY STREET.
Coun. McGRATH for Coun. GOLDMAN
offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor direct the
Public Works Department to install additional
lighting on Glenway street in Ward 14, near to
and in the vicinity of the Beth-El Hebrew School
at the corner of Glenway and Bradshaw streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WORK FOR RESIDENT HOME OWNERS.
Coun. GALLAGHER offered the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council recom-
mends to Federal, state and city governments the
following:
opportunities for employment on all
public works projects be made available to resi-
dent home owners, whose net income from all
sources does not exceed S600 per annum, on the
same basis as that provided for all other els
needy unemployed,
Coun. GALLAGHER —Mr. President. 1 wish
to say a word on the order just presented, It is
in behalf of one of the most valuable and at the
same time one of the most unfortunate elements
in our population. I refer to the resident home
owner wlio is unable to obtain employment in the
Gelds of private business. We have today hun-
dreds of men in our city who. by dint of years of
hard work and sound thrift, have acquired the
ownership in whole or in part of the houses in
which they are living. Most of them are married
and have families dependent upon them. They
have at best only a meager income from their m-
ai that represents years of toil and saving.
When deductions are made for taxes on their
homes, insurance, repairs, and interest on their
- mere pittance remains to them as
ime. Some have as little as tlOO or %200.
ause of the Faot that these men unem-
ployed come within the classification of prop-
erty owners they are barred from consideration
for employment on public works projects, llclltle-
11. I snl, mil tins is outrageously unfair and
384
CITY COUNCIL.
unjust. I am not appealing for those who secure
from their property, rentals that are the equivalent
of a living wage. But I do say it is rankly unjust
to force an unemployed resident home owner to
the choice of having him and his family live on
less than six hundred dollars, or lose the owner-
ship of his home through nonpayment of taxes
and bills, or through forced sale of it at a time
when real estate is at bottom value. The alter-
native that is set before this fine body of citizens
through the present procedure in public works
employment, is — "sell out at any price and get
on the Public Welfare rolls." No one seems to
take into account the heavy losses sustained by
these people in the defaults of rent payments
during the past four or five years, and the other
serious and unexpected depreciations in the normal
income of their property. They have not only
sweated and denied themselves to acquire the
ownership of their own homes, but they have to
bear the responsibilities and worries incidental to
ownership during a crisis of unprecedented shock
and surprises; and again, just because the house
happens to be in their names — which may mean
nothing — they are barred from public works em-
ployment. If the present program of excluding
them continues, we will have a real problem on
our hands. They will see no escape but to get all
they can, default on payments, allow foreclosures
and, after spending the proceeds, turn almost
vindictively to Federal, state and city govern-
ments and say, "Now you have to take care of us.
We are not property owners." Need I speak of
the weakening of morale all along the line that
will accompany such an almost justifiable action
as many of those men and women will take?
Need I remind you that it will be almost impossible
to collect taxes on thousands of such parcels of
property? Need I recall to you that thousands
of possible home owners are discouraged from
making any investment in real estate today, and
will be for some time to come, because of the
uncertainties of income, and the strictures placed
upon home owners who have fallen into practical
destitution? I recognize that lines must be
drawn to separate the really needy from the
destitute. But, as a friend of mine has said, "It is
a statistical Christ who has been the judge in
many instances — not a reasonable or just judge."
With that necessity in mind I have offered the
resolution today that will draw some line, and at
the same time leave some latitude to the judgment
of the authorities who must apply it. I submit it
on behalf of these neglected home owners, really
the backbone of our citizenry. They are, if any
element, the "forgotten man" type of today.
The totally indigent are provided for. The un-
employed home owner should not be penalized.
He needs and deserves public help.
The resolution was passed under suspension of
the rule.
SAND BOXES, WARD 20.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install sand boxes at the junction of
Washington street and the West Roxbury Park-
way, Ward 20, said sand to be used on the Wash-
ington street incline at this point to eliminate the
hazard of serious automobile accidents when the
surface becomes icy and slippery during the
winter season.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CONSTRUCTION OF STREETS.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to present to the Federal Public Works
Administration, as part of his program for Public
Works projects, an appeal for a substantial fund
to be used for laying out and constructing un-
accepted streets of the city, 50 per cent of said
fund to be paid back to the Federal Covernment
at a later date by the City of Boston, the object
of such expenditure being to relieve unemployment
and reduce welfare costs.
Coun. FINLEY — Mr. President, in view of
the splendid efforts now being made by our state
and city officials to create work for those unem-
ployed, I am urging unanimous passage of the
order just read, as a practical suggestion by which
much labor could be employed in useful and
necessary work, with very little expense to the
City of Boston. In the suburban districts of our
city there are miles of unaccepted residential
streets which are in a very deplorable condition
at the present time. These so-called streets are
just dirt roads, very muddy, and full of holes
and ruts, and practically impassable to travel in
stormy and freezing winter weather. Many
splendid one and two family homes were built on
these streets six or seven years ago, prior to the
depression, and every assurance was given at that
time that these streets would be constructed in
the near future. However, times have changed,
and in view of the fact that because of the finan-
cial condition of the city no money was appro-
priated for street construction purposes this year
and possibly very little can be obtained from next
year's revenue it is obvious that relief must come
from some other source. I would like to call your
attention to the fact that in Ward 20, Roslindale
and West Roxbury, known as the Garden Spot of
our City, there are 276 unaccepted streets, accord-
ing to the latest street book which I recently
checked, and I am sure a like condition prevails
in the other suburban wards of our city. Very
little relief has been secured from the Federal
Government to date as far as the unaccepted
streets are concerned, less than fifty having been
constructed from E. R. A. funds in the entire
city. Other surrounding cities and towns, how-
ever, seem to have solved their street problems
very successfully, particularly Brookline, whose
residential streets are in splendid condition, and
if you were to ride through the residential streets
where Brookline and West Roxbury join, the
difference would be very apparent to you. Accord-
ing to recent press notices in the Boston papers
the city of Medford has received an allocation of
funds sufficient to build forty miles of streets
under the E. R. A. plan. I am convinced that
the future development of our city will depend
in a great measure on what is done now to improve
the streets of our suburban sections, and believe
it is imperative that favorable consideration be
given by. our local and Federal authorities to this
request that unemployed men be given an oppor-
tunity to work on projects that will help to develop
and beautify the splendid suburban sections of
our city. I therefore strongly urge the unanimous
passage of the order presented.
The rule was suspended and the question came
on the passage of the order.
Coun. TOBIN— Mr. President, I move that
the order be amended so as to include also accepted
streets.
There being no objection, the amendment, in-
serting the words "accepted and" before the
words "unaccepted streets of the city" was
adopted, and the order as amended was passed.
REOPENING SHOE CODE HEARINGS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Whereas, The National Recovery Act Board is
considering the advisability of reopening code
hearings affecting the shoe industry in Massa-
chusetts, and
Whereas, It appears that shoe factories in and
around Boston have moved out of the state on
account of inequalities in the shoe code; therefore
be it
Resolved, That the Boston City Council, at a
duly called meeting in session assembled, favor
the reopening of the code hearings with a view to
equalizing the shoe code and protecting the shoe
industry in Boston and Massachusetts.
The rule was suspended and the preamble and
resolution were passed.
ADDITIONAL WELFARE MONEY FOR
CHRISTMAS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of the Public Wel-
fare be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to provide all persons on Public Welfare rolls with
$5 additional for Christmas.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
DECEMBER 3, 1934.
385
COLLECTION OF ASHES AND GARBAGE.
Coun. MURRAY, DOHERTY, ENGLERT and
BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to continue the present method of the collection
of garbage and ashes by city forces, instead of by
contract as contemplated, in the Elm Hill, Jamaica
Plain and Roxbury districts.
Coun. MURRAY. — Mr. President, this year the
engineer of the Sanitary Division, Mr. Post by
name, has tried once more to enlarge the contract
district in my section, Jamaica Plain, as I under-
stand is being suggested also in other parts of the
city, thus having work done by contract which
for years has been done by city employees. I have
talked with the Commissioner of Public Works
and he says it will not affect anybody working
for the city. We know that that is not true,
because sooner or later those men will be deprived
of their positions and the people will not be getting
the service that they are now getting at the hands
of the city employees. The thing was brought
up two years ago, and the arguments were then
made against the contract system, before the ap-
proval of the contract as it was. I would like to
have this matter referred to the Executive Com-
mittee, so that some of the men may be brought
before us.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS, WARD 19.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to install traffic
lights at the junction of Moraine, Centre, South
Huntington avenue, and Boylston streets.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 3 IMPROVEMENT.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to include in the Federal Public Works Program,
the erection of an all around bath house and gym-
nasium, the cost not to exceed S300,000, on land
owned by the City of Boston, in that area, bounded
by Leverett, Nashua and Brighton streets, Ward 3.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WHITE WAY ON WASHINGTON STREET
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to make Washington street a White Way, from
Stuart street to Broadway.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
LEASE OF FIRE STATION, LEVERETT
STREET.
Coun. FITZGERALD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Superintendent of Public
Buildings of the City of Boston be, and he hereby
is, authorized, in the name and in behalf of the City
of Boston, with the approval of the Mayor, and in
form satisfactory to the Law I >o|>art nient of the
City of Boston, to lease for Post Headquarters to
Casimir Pulaski Post No. 269, American Legion,
for the term of five years, at an annual rental of
one dollar a year, Firo Station (Old Engine 6),
Leverett street, with the right to cancel said lease
by giving thirty days' notice in writing of its in-
tention so to do.
Referred to the Committee on Public Lands.
HOUSING PROJECT, CHARLESTOWN.
Coun. GREEN offered the following:
Ordered, Tha< bia Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to take the necessary, steps to obtain from
I )n- I'Yderal and slate authorities an '
for a housing project in the area lying bi
Bunker Hill street and Medford street, from
Chelsea street to Fay square, as favored by State
Housing Plan after an exhaustive study.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 6 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. DONOVAN offered the following:
Ordered. That the Transit Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to take
up the matter of removing the unsightly and
unnecessary subway entrance at Dorchester
avenue, West Fourth and Dover streets, Ward 6.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to install an arc light at the corner of K and
Emerson streets, Ward 6.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 7 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install an arc light at the corner of
Phillips place and Dudley street, Ward 7.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the
Mayor, to install an arc light at the corner of
Mercer and Telegraph streets, Ward 7.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
RETIREMENT OF MARGARET HURLEY.
Coun. DOHERTY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Retirement Board for laborers
be hereby authorized and requested to retire, under
the provisions of chapter 765 of the Acts of 1914, as
amended by chapter 63 of the Special Acts of 1915,
Margaret Hurley, employed in the labor service of
the City of Boston in the Health Department.
Referred to Executive Committee.
ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC LIGHTS.
Coun. MURRAY and DOHERTY offered the
following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
install traffic lights at Perkins street and the
Jamaicaway.
Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
install traffic lights at Perkins street and South
Huntington avenue.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
RECESS.
The Council voted, on motion of Councilor
SELVITELLA, at 3.25 p. m., to take a recess
subject to the call of the Chair. The members
reassembled in the Council Chamber and were
called to order by President DOWD at 4.32 p. m.
PAYMENTS TO JAMES FENNESSEY AND
MICHAEL O'BRE V
ENGLERT and KERRH ! \N offered the
following:
Ordered, That, until otherwise ordered. James
Fennessey and Michael O'Brien be allowed and
- 'no per year each, dating from
bar 1. 1934, for extra Bervices rendered at
[B of the City Council and committees
, such payments to be charged to the
appropriation tor City Council, A.-1.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
386
CITY COUNCIL.
COMPENSATION FOR SUPERVISORS,
STATE ELECTION.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That under the provisions of section 23,
chapter 54, of the General Laws, the compensation
for supervisors appointed to act in the recent state
election in the various wards of the city be fixed at
the rate of 559 per day.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
NONANTUM STREET.
Coun. AGNEW, for Coun. Gallagher, offered
the following:
Ordered, That the Public Works Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
repave with smooth paving, Nonantum street,
Ward 22.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works make a sidewalk along Nonantum street,
Ward 22, in front of the estates bordering thereon,
said sidewalk to be from 3 to 10 inches above the
gutter adjoining, to be from 5 to 12 feet in width,
and to be built of granolithic, with granite edge-
stones, under the provisions of chapter 196 of the
Special Acts of 1917.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following:
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) transferring $35,000 from income
of Parkman Fund to maintenance and improve-
ment of Common and Parks — that same ought to
pass.
Report accepted; said order passed, yeas 17,
nays 0.
2. Report on order (referred today) that
Retirement Board for Laborers be authorized to
retire Margaret Hurley, employed in labor service
in Health Department — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted ; order passed.
3. Report on order (referred today) that
Commissioner of Public Works be requested to
continue present method of collection of garbage
and ashes by city forces instead of by contract, in
Elm Hill, Jamaica Plain and Roxbury districts —
that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS, WARD 12.
Coun. BRACKMAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Traffic Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Crawford
street and Humboldt avenue, Ward 12.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
ELIGIBILITY OF SINGLE MEN AND
WOMEN.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to take up with the Federal Emergency Relief
Administration in Washington the matter of
including single men and women, with one or more
dependents, in the eligible class for employment on
E. R. A. projects in Boston.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
Coun. BRACKMAN moved that when the
Council adjourn it be to meet on Monday, De-
cember 17, 1934, at 2 p. m.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I don't like to
stand up here and oppose what may be the wishes
of most of the members of the body, in the matter
of adjournment, but, in view of the fact that we
have before us the question of reapportionment in
the wards of this city, which has been referred to
a committee, some kind of a report being expected
not later than a week from today, I trust, inas-
much as conferences will probably have to be
held, a map drawn, and that sort of thing, that we
will not at this time, so near the end of the year,
adjourn for two weeks. Apparently, there is a
disposition on the part of some not to do anything
in the way of reapportionment at the end of the
ten-year period. We have a largely increased
population in West Roxbury and Hyde Park, and
my own ward has gone from 10,000 to 18,000 voters,
while others remain at the same figure. I, as one
member of the Council, certainly do not intend to
let the matter drop at this time without making
some effort to have action taken. In the next ten
years we will probably double the voting popula-
tion in my ward and a few of the other wards, while
certain wards will remain stationary. I think we
should not leave it to the Legislature next year to
do what they perhaps neglected to do last year. It
seems to me this entire matter should be gone into,
and that now is the time to do it. It is up to us.
There is very little time left before the end of the
year, and I feel, with such an important matter
pending, we should not now adjourn for two weeks.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, I do not care
to anticipate the action of the Council in this
matter, but I have polled the Council and they
seem overwhelmingly against any change.
Coun. Brackman withdrew his motion for a
two weeks' adjournment.
Ad,iourned, on motion of Coun. BRACKMAN, at
4.40 p. m.j to meet on Monday, December 10,
1934, at 2 p. m.
CITY OP BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
OITY COUNCIL.
387
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, December 10, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
( iouncil Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Fitzgerald
and Roberts.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments, viz.:
Weighers of Coal: James H. Alexander, 26
Hemenway street, Boston; Edward James Cum-
mings, 45 Lawrence street, Charlestown; Richard
Dana Tucker, 14 Carver street, Boston.
Severally laid over a week, inder the law.
RESURFACING OF STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 3, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit three letters
from the Commissioner of Public Works, in
reference to orders adopted November 19, 1934,
concerning the resurfacing of the following streets,
respectively:
1. Monadnock street, Ward 13.
2. Virginia street, Ward 13.
3. Englewood avenue, Ward 21.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
December 3, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt of
your note of November 22, with attached order of
City Council dated November 19, 1934, and reading
as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to resurface Monadnock street, Ward 13."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Monadnock
street, Ward 13, from Dudley street to Bird street,
with asphalt pavement on G-inch concrete base
and regulating is $17,000.
I here arc no funds available at the present
time for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
December 3, 1934.
Mr. John P. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I bog leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 22, with attached order
of City Council dated November 10, IS
reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the M or,
to resurface Virginia '-' nil:!."
Tho estimated cost of reconstructing Virginia
Btreet, Ward 13, from Dudley street to Bird
street, with asphalt pavement on 6 inoh concrete
base and regulating is $15,000.
There arc no fund i ivoil ible ai the i
I ime tor doing IIiim
Respectful): yours,
C. J. < ' UN BN,
( tommies it ol Public \\ <>rks.
I i: of Boston,
i 'ublic \\ oil. i i )ep oi mi-Hi ,
i lecember 3, 10 \i
Mr. John I I lilmore, .h .
Assistant Secret try, Vfayoi 's ' Iffice
Deal Sir, I beg leave to aoknc
of your note of November 22, with attached order
of City Council dated November 19, 1934, and
reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement, Englewood
avenue, Ward 21."
The estimated cost of reconstructing Englewood
avenue, Ward 21, from Brookline line to Chestnut
Hill avenue with asphalt pavement on 0-inch
concrete base and regulating is $26,000.
There are no funds available at the present time
for doing this work.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
CONTRACTS WITH BOSTON CONSOLI-
DATED GAS COMPANY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 6, 1935.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt from the Public
Works Commissioner of contracts with the Boston
Consolidated Gas Company covering the furnishing
of illuminating gas and the lighting and extinguish-
ing of 9,539 lamps for street lighting in the City
of Boston, excluding Hyde Park district, for a
period of five years beginning January 1, 1935.
For the information of your honorable body I
desire to state that the price paid per lamp per
year represents a saving of $2.62 per lamp over
the price which the city is now paying for this
service. On the total lamps involved this will
mean a saving of $24,992.18 per year to the city
during the life of the contract, namely, five years,
or a total saving of $124,960.90. Under the
provisions of section 6 of the City Charter these
contracts must be approved by the City Council
after a public hearing in order to become effective.
I accordingly submit the contracts to your honor-
able body for consideration and action.
Respectfully.
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
(Appended were the contracts referred to, which
were ordered printed as a city document.)
Referred to the Committee on Municipal
Lighting.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Consumer's Oil Company, for compensation for
damages to property at 170S Centre street, caused
by taking down tree of Park Department.
Charles E. Cowan, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect in Harvard
Bridge.
Rose Frecdman, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at S2 Ellington street,
Boston.
Florence L. Giberti, for compensation for damage
caused by dump cart.
Herbert W. Oilman, to be reimbursed for execu-
tion issued ttg i linn on account of his acts as
operator of car of Fire Department.
Gordon Supply Company, for refund on refuso
tickets.
\. \\ . Pembroke, for compensation for damage
to property at 8 Aberdeen street, caused
truck.
id \. Williams, for compensation lor
damage to car by city truck.
Margari n for olothing
Hospital.
Jack Tinkler, for refund on garbage ticket*.
Ill ive.
Petition ol Josephine .i Leonard, for children
t'i appear >i South Boston Municipal Building,
I locembei i .
Petition ol Firal Church of Christ Scientist,
tor ili. urctics on bonds.
a 88
CITY COUNCIL.
ABSENCE OF MAYOR FROM CITY.
Notice was received from the Mayor of his
absence from the city from Friday morning
December 7, to Tuesday evening, December 11,
both inclusive.
Placed on file.
VOTES ON REFERENDA.
A copy was received of the official return of the
votes cast at the State Election, November 6, 1934,
from which it appears that the votes in Suffolk
County in answer to certain questions were as
follows:
Shall the pari-mutuel system of betting on
licensed horse races be permitted in this county?
Yes, 181,019; no, 47,603.
Shall the pari-mutuel system of betting on
licensed dog races be permitted in this country?
Yes, 137,537; no, 68,003.
Shall June Seventeenth be made a legal holiday
in Suffolk County?
No.
Boston
172,935
6,384
7,681
5,008
33,880
1,289
1,276
1,158
192,008
37,603
Placed on file.
PAYMENT OF DECEMBER PAY ROLLS.
Coun. MURRAY offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Auditor be authorized
to allow for payment, and the City Treasurer to
Eay, the monthly pay rolls of employees on or
efore December 21 , 1934, in anticipation of
Christmas.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
WARD 15 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun TOBIN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to include in his P. W. A. program the resurfacing
of Hamilton and Westville streets, Ward 15.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to include in his P. W. A. program a sum
sufficient to provide for the erection of a branch
library in Ward 15.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to include in his P. W. A. program a sum
sufficient to provide for the erection of a municipal
building in Ward 15.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to include in his P. W. A. program a sum
sufficient to provide for the erection of a health
unit in Ward 15.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
ALLOWANCE FOR SOCIAL LAW LIBRARY.
Coun. SHATTUCK offered the following:
Ordered. That there be allowed and paid to the
proprietors of the Social Law Library the sum of
one thousand dollars for the maintenance and
enlargement of said library, said sum to be charged
to the appropriation for County of Suffolk, Social
Law Library.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
RETIREMENT OF MARY J. KEANE.
Coun. DOWD offered the following:
Ordered, That the Retirement Board for La-
borers be hereby authorized and requested to
retire, under the provisions of chapter 765 of the
Acts of 1914, as amended by chapter 63 of the
Special Acts of 1915, Mary J. Keane employed in
the labor service of the City of Boston in the
Hospital Department.
Referred to the Executive Committee.
RECESS.
The Council voted, on motion of Coun. BRACK-
MAN to take a recess subject to the call of the
Chair at 2.28 p. m.
The members reassembled in the Council
Chamber and were called to order by President
DOWD at 3.55 p. m.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the following reports, viz.:
1. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred November 19) transferring sums amount-
ing to S30.023.25 from other appropriations to
Long Island Hospital, Kitchen and Laundry Im-
provements, etc. — that same ought to pass
Report on message of Mayor and order (re-
ferred December 3) to pay unexpended balances
on various loans to Sinking Funds — that same
ought to pass.
Reports accepted and said orders passed,
yeas 20, nays 9.
2. Report on petition of First Church of Christ
Scientist, for release of sureties on bond — recom-
mending passage of order for release of said sureties.
Report accepted: said order passed.
3. Report on order (referred today) for retire-
ment of Mary J. Keane, employed in labor service
of Hospital Department — that same ought to
pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
4. Report on petition of Josephine J. Leonard,
for children to appear at South Boston Municipal
Building, December 17, — recommending that leave
be granted, under usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted under usual
conditions.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
LANDS.
Coun. DONOVAN, for the Committee on
Public Lands, submitted the following:
1. Report on order (referred December 3) that
Superintendent of Public Buildings lease for Post
Headquarters to Casimir Pulaski Post No. 269,
American Legion, for term of five years at annual
rental of one dollar a year, Fire Station (Old
Engine 6), Leverett street — that same ought to
pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
2. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred November 19) providing for lease of
premises at 2150 Dorchester avenue to Massa-
chusetts section of Women's Department of
National Civic Federation at nominal rental of
$50 per year for housing accommodation for
unemployed girls and single women — that same
ought to pass.
The report was accepted, and the question came
on the passage of the order.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, just a word in
regard to this transfer of the Convalescent Hospital
property. For three years I have been fighting
in this Council to maintain the Convalescent
Hospital, having the trustees open it up. Evi-
dently I have lost out on the fight; the trustees
and the Mayor of Boston have refused to reopen
that building as a convalescent hospital. I think
the Mayor of Boston has gone about this thing
in the wrong way, when another arrangement
could be made in other property to take care of
300 or 400 unemployed girls, whereas this will take
care of but 25 or so. I think the Mayor is all
wrong.
Coun. DONOVAN— Mr. President, the Com-
mittee on Public Lands have taken into considera-
tion all angles of this controversy. For three years
this convalescent home in Dorchester has been idle.
DECEMBER 10, 1934.
389
Recently the City of Boston has spent a great deal
of money on the remodelling and repair of that
building in order to accommodate unemployed
girls and women. The Massachusetts section of
the Women's Department of the National Civic
Federation are planning to conduct this home with
funds collected from individuals throughout the
city. While the Committee on Public Lands feels
that accommodation of 25 to 50 women is not
going to be enough to relieve the situation in this
city, and while they feel if the West Roxbury
Hospital grounds could be used, from 500 to
1,000 people could be accommodated, still, with
the winter coming on, we feel that this is a most
worthy cause that is being conducted by these
women of the National Civic Federation, that they
should be commended for their action, and that
they should have the use of this property for
five months.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, the reason
why I voted against this in committee and shall
do so on the floor is that this is a convalescent de-
partment of the City Hospital. It is the only
convalescent home that we have in the City of
Boston. I remember the great work that it did
in the past; I remember how many have been
forced to leave the City Hospital because of lack
of space, who still were not completely restored
to full health, and that by going to that home for
a week or ten days they were able to be restored
to complete health and to take up their home
duties. I have always been opposed to the clos-
ing of that hospital. It was a splendid institu-
tion, and one which was of great benefit to people
from the heart of the city and from all over Boston.
Such work should not only be continuously carried
on, but should be greatly enlarged, as an important
part of the hospitalization of our people. There
has just been turned over to the hospital author-
ities, by mandate of the Mayor, the care of thou-
sands of people who would ordinarily be left in
their homes without any care whatsoever. That
means that the work of the hospital must expand,
and I think it is about time for us to realize that
unless something is done along this line the work
of the Citv Hospital will be very seriously cur-
tailed. I nave in mind, of course, the housing
opportunities that might be afforded out in West
Roxbury. There is a beautiful set ot buildings,
which have been put into excellent shape and,
as against 25 or 30 women who would be taken
care of as proposed in this order, there might be
a chance to take care of 1,000 girls. In that way,
instead of merely providing for the number who
might need care in one precinct, you would be
froviding for girls all over the City of Boston,
f this housing work is going forward, those build-
ings are available, enabling, as I say, perhaps
1,000 workless girls to be provided for. If, how-
ever, the plan proposed in this order is carried
out, I don't know where the girls will come from,
but very likely it will not be from my district,
Dorchester, or from the South Boston area. We
will perhaps have there a warm club where 25
, girls will be taken care of in very proper style.
This is an organization, of course, of very esti-
mable women, but I merely make the point that
the number provided for there will be merely
scratching the surface, probably hardly providing
for one precinct out of the many in this city.
Certainly, something should be done with those
buildings in West Roxbury, and I believe also the
time will very soon come when we will not only
need the convalescent home provisions thai we
have had in the past, but when wc will be obliged
to go out and lease buildings for tlio purpose. But
at ihc present time 1 am certainly againsl the
leasing of this properly, which is vitally Deeded
by the citizens of this city, to any outside group,
no matter how worthy tho project on which they
aro engaged may be.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, as I under-
stand it, this is not a long-term proposition ihat is
advanced by the Mayor, with whom 1 do not
always agree. For the time being, thin property
is not being operated by the trustees oi the City
Hospital, and it seems to be available for this
purpose. They have stated definitely thai il will
nol otherwise be operated for any purpose this
winter. I undcr.ii a nd that it is novi proposed to
place a roof over the heads of these destitute
women between di I pring, al o time when
the trustees will nol otherwise be using the build-
ing, I here mn | be tome I hinga t" be ir <i oul
nexl spring, after the winter use; but, having the
priwiii situation in mind, I see no objection to
our agreeing for the time being i" the propositi
ol i he Mayor,
On motion of Coun. TOBIN the order was
amended so that the proposed lease should be from
January 1, 1935, to June 1 . 1935, and the question
came on the passage of the order as amended.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I understand that
when this convalescent hospital property was left
to the City of Boston, it being a part of the old
Churchill estate, the will stated that the building
was to be used solely as a convalescent hospital.
I move you now, therefore, that this matter be
laid on the table until we get an opinion in regard
to the will.
The motion to lay on the table prevailed.
NUMBER OF COUNCIL MEMBERS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the City Council Committee on
Legislative Matters be instructed to record
promptly with the proper committee of the
Massachusetts Legislature a vote of the Boston
City Council favoring the enactment of legisla-
tion to amend such provisions of the present
City Charter as continue to provide for a City
Council of twenty-two members, elected one from
each Ward, despite the present wide differences in
voting population in the present wards of the city.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I personally
believe that the legislative permission given this
year to the City Council, to redistrict the City of
Boston after ten years of population increase and
shifting, is more fairly to be considered as a re-
quirement. The Legislature wisely or unwisely
failed to take any action on the ten-year redisrict-
ing. Such action as we might take might prove
wise or unwise. But before the year is out I
believe we at least should have the courage to
report back one way or the other. Ten years ago
the number of wards was decreased from 26 to
22, with an average of 10,500 voters in each ward,
and bear in mind that for each Representative at
that time a district of at least 5,000 votes was
required. East Boston received an allotment of
three Representatives for its 12,616 voters, Wards
21 and 22 one Representative each, and two*
Representatives were granted to each of the
other nineteen wards. We must bear in mind
that if we redistrict this year a present voting
strength of 319,715 in Boston, with approximately
7,600 votes needed in each Representative district,
will require some 15,200 registered voters in every
ward which expects at least two Representatives.
I will admit that a way is open to more equitably
allocate the Boston membership in the Massa-
chusetts Legislature through action by the Board
of Apportionment, even though we now fail to
more fairly and equally draw new ward lines. In
order that there may be no misunderstanding, let
us now recognize the fact that such apportion-
Dient on present ward linos probably means three
Ifepresentatives each for Wards 1, 18 and 20, two
Representatives each for Wards 2, 3, 12, 14, 16,
17, 19, 21 and 22, and three Representatives for
each of the following combinations, viz., Wards 4
and 5, Wards 6 and 7, Wards 8 and 9, Wards 10
and 11, and Wards 13 and 15. That may or may
not satisfy the residents of the various wards, so
far as representation in the Legislature is concerned;
in any event, (he job will be done without any
power of control being exercised by this body.
A continuation of not only the present ward lines,
bui also i In- present charier provision for a City
( louneil of t wenl y-two members, with one councilor
from each ward, no man can deny means in-
equitable and unfair representation of various
sections of the city in the Boston City Council.
1 'iin sections of the city have exhibited almost
phenomenal growth during the past ten years.
sinee the ward lines were hist drawn. Ml twenty-
two wards have increased 111 population, but the
0 ranges all the way from
8 pel cent in Ward I up ent in V ird 20.
Four of the twenty-tWO wards hive each grown in
excess of till per cent during the ten -year period;
six more in excess of 10 per cent, while len wards
have increased less limn L'.'i per cent. Ward 20
n..w has a registered vote oi 10,250, compared
with 10,781 i Ward 8 Vs o matter of
i ithmotip, it is perfectly opp
the present ward hues, and the present system of
electing members oj the City Council, cannot
with ii inohanged.
Failure at the end ol tins ten year period to re-
city, as tho Ian provides, maj possibly
390
CITY COUNCIL.
be somewhat rectified, so far as the Massachusetts
Legislature is concerned, by the Board of Appor-
tionment, but it absolutely will mean a much
needed change in the charter provisions relating
to the City Council. I personally do not believe
that the average Boston voter, so far as he is con-
cerned, looks on any particular ward line as any-
thing very sacred or lasting, especially when next-
door neighbors on the same street find themselves
in separate wards. I do not believe that 10 per
cent of the voters in Boston, except on election
day, either know or care what ward and precinct
they live in. What they want are results and a
reasonably fair basis of representation calculated
to obtain those results. I admit that an honest
and businesslike partition of the city into proper
new ward lines would perhaps unsettle many a
ward boss or would-be boss, but in most cases
that would be no great loss to the city. For pur-
poses of the record I would ask that this schedule
which I hold in my hand may be included in the
minutes. It shows, by wards, the number of
registered voters in 1925, the number in 1934, the
amount of increase, the percentage of increase, the
typical change necessary in each case to provide
for 14,500 votes per ward, which is the nearest
equal figure; and finally, as to each of the present
wards, the variance from that 15,200 votes which
apparently will be necessary to assure at least two
Representatives to the Legislature in each case.
Ward.
Number of Registered
Voters.
10 Year Increase of
Voters.
Change Neces-
sary to Make
14,500 Voters.
Per Ward.
Change Neces-
sary for
15,200 Voters
1925.
1934.
Number.
Per Cent.
Per Ward.
20
10,813
12,616
11,245
11,393
10,511
11,400
9,833
9,401
10,536
10,654
9,378
12,238
10,457
10,641
11,000
10,835
10,674
10,239
'.U',45
10,065
9,692
9,490
19,250
18,854
18,678
18,173
17,202
16,156
15,468
15,162
15,123
14,887
14,367
13,298
13,390
12,965
12,529
12,493
12,425
12,284
12,364
12,208
11,653
10,786
+ 8,437
+ 6,238
+ 7,433
+ 6,780
+ 6,691
+ 4,756
+ 5,635
+ 5,761
+ 4,587
+ 4,243
+ 3,989
+ 1,060
+ 2,933
+ 2,324
+ 1,529
+ 1,658
+ 1,751
+ 2,045
+ 2,719
+ 2,143
+ 1,961
+ 2,060
78%
49%
66%
59%
64%
42%
57%
61%
43%
39%
43%
8%
21%
22%
14%
15%
16%
20%
29%
21%
20%
22%
— 4,750
— 4,354
— 4,178
— 3,673
— 2,702
— 1,657
— 968
— 662
— 623
— 387
— 4,000
1
— 3,654
18
— 3,478
14
— 2,973
16...
— 2,402
17
— 1,156
3
— 268
* — 17,931
21
+ 38
12
+ 77
19
+ 313
t — 24,341
22
+ 142
+ 1,202
+ 1,110
+ 1,535
+ 1,971
+ 2,007
+ 2,075
+ 2,216
+ 2,198
+ 2,297
+ 2,842
+ 3,716
+ 833
2
+ 1,902
6
+ 1,810
7 •
+ 2,335
13
+ 2,671
15...
+ 2,707
10...
+ 2,775
11..,
+ 2,916
4...
+ 2,936
5
+ 2,992
9
+ 3,547
8
+ 4,414
t + 23,311
§ + 33,166
* Deducted in seven (7) wards t Ten wards deduct. t Twelve wards add.
§ Added in fifteen (15) wards; leaving a discrepancy of over 15,000 votes; the present Boston voting
strength being 319,715.
As the members of this body know, the old
City Council of nine, elected at large, was abolished
ten years ago, followed by a so-called referendum
on November 4, 1924, at which time 111,998
voters, representing 56 per cent of the ballots cast
in Boston at the state election of that year, left
the question blank and expressed no preference
for either of the two substitute arrangements
offered by the Legislature in lieu of a Council
elected at large. Having that fact in mind, as
well as the disproportionate City Council repre-
sentation resulting from the present artificial and
unequal ward lines, I urge favorable action by
this body. I feel that we can anticipate fair
consideration by the incoming Legislature. I ask
that the figures supporting my reference to the
referendum in 1924 be incorporated in the record.
State election of November 4, 1924, in the City of Boston:
Total registered vote 247,636.
Total number of ballots cast ' 219,862, viz., 88 per cent.
Vote with reference to proposed changes in charter abolishing City Council of nine elected at large:
Number of blanks 111,998, viz., 56 per cent of ballots cast.
Number of votes for both plans 107,804, viz., 44 per cent of ballots.
Plan 2 (a council of twenty-two with one from each
ward) 56,262,
Plan 1 (a council of fifteen with three each from five
boroughs) 51,602
Majority for Plan 2 4,660
22 per cent of total registered vote.
25 per cent of ballots cast.
52 per cent of voters with preference.
Coun. McGRATH— Mr. President, I would
say, as chairman of the subcommittee on re-
division of the City of Boston, that it was impossi-
ble to redivide any one ward of the city. We
were informed that it called for redivision of
wards, "wards" being plural, a redivision of
every section of the City of Boston, on the basis
of, roughly, 15,000 votes in a district; but, because
East Boston was not contiguous to any other
ward of the city and was entirely surrounded by
water, it would be necessary to leave East Boston
distinctly alone, with its approximately 19,000
voters, that no division could be there in so far
as East Boston was concerned. That is, in the
set-up of wards it was not a question of any
member of the Council having a right to say how
his ward would be divided. The only plan that
would seem to work out at all would be to start
at boundaries and take in approximately 15,000
voters for 21 wards of the city, letting East
Boston stand alone as a ward with 18,000 voters,
with the wards in the rest of the city each having
about 15,000 votes. So, as I say, it was impossi-
ble for us to arrive at any scientific division
of the city that would, in many respects, be
satisfactory. Besides that, your committee was
DECEMBER 10, 1934.
391
impressed by the fact that during the entire time
that this matter was before the Council, since I
introduced it some months ago, not a single
person in the City of Boston contacted me as
chairman of the committee in the matter, to ask
for a new subdivision of the city. Apparently
the city itself, like the rest of the state and the
nation, was in such an upset condition that there
seemed to be no desire to upset things further.
I think the state had that in mind when they
.failed to avail themselves of the opportunity at
this time to redivide the city. That was the
only reason why the Council had the opportunity
to divide it. But, with no such request coming
to me from anybody, in political office or other-
wise, I think the committee generally have deemed
it wise at this time not to alter the ward lines of
the city. We have, therefore, left the matter
alone.
President DOWD- The Chair will rule at this
time that further discussion on redistricting is out
of order, the question, and the only question,
being on the order introduced by Coun. Wilson.
The order was declared referred to the Commit-
tee on Legislative Affairs.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, I would ask a
suspension of the rule for the passage of the order.
The question came on suspending the rule and
passing the order.
Coun. BRACKMAN— Mr. President, I want
to go on record as being opposed to this order.
I recall
President DOWD — The gentleman can vote
against suspension of the rule if he so desires.
The question is on suspension of the rule and
passage of the order.
The Council refused to suspend the rule. Coun.
WILSON doubted the vote and asked for a show
of hands. The Council refused by show of hands
to suspend the rules, 6 to 10.
The order was referred to the Committee on
Legislative Affairs.
REPAYING OF BRAINERD ROAD.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to repave with smooth pavement Brainerd road,
Ward 21.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
EXTENSION OF BOYLSTON STREET
SUBWAY.
Coun. AGNEW offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to petition the Governor and the Legislature
at the next session for the enactment of legislation
to provide for the extension by the Boston Transit
Commission of the Boylston Street Subway, under
or adjacent to Commonwealth avenue, to the
junction of Commonwealth avenue and Brighton
avenue, with inclined entrances from the surface
at both of said avenues.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
II.WGROUND, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to consider
the advisability of taking the vacant lot of land
bounded by Story and Fifth streets, Ward 7, for
playground purposes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
M I VERNON" STREET, WARD 7.
Coun. KERRIGAN" offered the following:
■ lered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through Ins Honor th<
to repave with an ement Mt. Vernon
street, Ward 7.
Passed under suspension of the rule,
.M1M.W U.K. V> MM) 19.
Coun. Mi l; i: \\ offered the following:
Ordered, C1»a1 the Commissioner ol Publii
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be re-
quested to install a new sidewalk in front of the
Healey Playground on Washington street, Ward 19.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PREFERENCE TO FORMER CITY
EMPLOYEES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered. That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of working out
a plan whereby those city employees who have
been let go may be placed back on the pay roll
without the need of increasing the cost to the tax-
payer through the medium of giving properly quali-
fied former city employees preference on any job
that is open; the transference of employees from
one department to another where needed in
preference to discharging an employee outright;
the distribution of the work so that all worthy city
employees may get something in preference to
outright discharge.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, at the risk of
repeating, but in order to keep this matter, which
I consider a very important one, before the Coun-
cil, I will simply say that this order requests the
Mayor to consider the advisability of working
out a plan by which discharged employees may be
properly dealt with when the opportunity for re-
employment is offered. I think we should impress
upon the Chief Executive the importance of
modern methods in sharing the work and trans-
ferring employees, giving the preference to those
who have worked for the city in the past and whose
work has been satisfactory, rather than placing new
men in city positions.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
PRICE OF MILK.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of conferring with the
Overseers of Public Welfare with a view to es-
tablishing a system whereby milk is furnished to
welfare recipients for a price of eight cents a quart
or thereabouts — similar to the system now in
vogue in New York City.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, this is per-
haps the fourth or fifth time that I have introduced
this order — and I might say in passing that I have
perhaps introduced 200 orders in the matter of de-
centralization of welfare. I believe that what is
suggested in this order is something that is in line
with progress and modern up-to-date methods of
handling welfare. I have been informed that in
New York City welfare recipients are supplied
with milk at eight cents a quart. If such a system
can be introduced here, it will mean a considerable
saving, and it may well be that the money thereby
saved on the cost of milk may also be used for
additional welfare work.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
MONEY FOR DENTISTRY.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to consider the advisability of conferring with
10. R. A. officials relative to an allotment of money
for dentistry work to be assigned to Boston
for the purpose of caring for the dental needs
of Bos
Coun. NORTON — Mr. President, various cities
irica arc now receiving allocations from
i he E, R. A. to take care of dentistry work. Boston
is at the end of the list, as usual.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
T.OW-COST PI 1U.1C STREETS.
a, NORTON offered the following:
red. Thai the Mayor of Boston be requested
io confer with the Commissioner of Rubin-. Works
relative to working out o program for the installa-
tion of low-coal public streets in Boi
led under suspension of the rule.
39'2
CITY COUNCIL.
COUNCILOR NORTON'S ATTITUDE ON
PRESIDENCY.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President I have been
mentioned by the press as a potential candidate
for the Presidency of this Council. I wish to state
that I am not a candidate. I shall vote for the
councilor from Ward 3 — Councilor John I. Fitz-
gerald. Through the years I have found him to
be a type of public servant far above the average
in character, integrity and ability. His years of
faithful service in this Council entitle him to the
distinction of being the President of this body.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on the calendar, viz.:
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor December 3, 1934, of Bruce West, Daniel
T. Cunningham, Louis Gordon, to be Weighers of
Coal; and Royal King, to be a Weigher of Goods.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
mittee, Coun. Green and Gallagher. Whole num-
ber of ballots 16; yeas 16, and the appointments
were confirmed.
Adjourned, at 4.20 p. m., on motion of Coun.
DOHERTY, to meet on Monday, December 17,
1934, at 2 p. m.
OITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
393
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council.
Monday, December 17, 1934.
Regular meeting of the City Council in the
Council Chamber, City Hall, at 2 p. m., President
DOWD in the chair. Absent, Coun. Roberts.
APPOINTMENTS BY THE MAYOR.
Subject to confirmation by the Council, the
Mayor submitted the following appointments, viz.:
Weigher of Coal: Frederick J. Bradford, 33
Mystic avenue, Winchester, Mass.; Warren F.
Tapley, 106 Norwell street; Richard T. Stanton,
Somerville; John J. Neville, Cambridge.
Laid over a week under the law.
GRANT FOR SCHOOL BUILDINGS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 17, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — On February 26, 1934, your honor-
able body gave a final reading and passage to an
order appropriating, under the provisions of chap-
ter 366 of the Acts of 1933, and acts in amendment
thereof and in addition thereto, the sum of two
million dollars (52,000,000), to be expended under
the direction of the School Committee, for one
new intermediate school and one new high school.
On April 14, 1934, the City of Boston and the
United States of America entered into a grant
agreement, approved by your honorable body on
April 8, 1934, relating to the construction, as a
Public Works Project, of a new intermediate school
in South' Boston and a new high school in West
Roxbury (for which project the sum of two million
dollars (82,000,000) above mentioned had been
appropriated) and providing for a grant by the
United States to the city to aid in the financing of
said project.
On July 2, 1934, the School Committee passed
an order requesting a change in said project from
the construction of a new intermediate school in
South Boston and a new high school in West Rox-
bury to the construction of a new intermediate
6chool in South Boston and a new intermediate
school and an addition to the Robert Gould Shaw
School in West Roxbury (contemplating the con-
version into a high school of the Washington Irving
Intermediate School in West Roxbury, originally
designed for a high school).
On July 6, 1934, your honorable body passed
an order providing that the city should engage in
the Public Works Project of constructing a new
intermediate school and an addition to the Robert
Gould Shaw School in the West Roxbury District,
and on July 23, 1934, your honorable body gave
a final reading and passage to an order appro-
priating the sum of one million, two hundred
thousand dollars (§1,200,000) for the construction
of this new intermediate school and addition to
the Shaw School. No order was passed rescind-
ing approval of the original project or of the original
appropriation and the orders passed were, in
form, supplementary so as not to affect the validity
of the grant agreement of April 14, 1934, or the
authority of the city to proceed with the con-
struction of the South Boston Intermediate School.
An application was filed with the Emergency
Finance Board of the Commonwealth and with
the Federal Emergency Administration of Public
Works asking authority to amend the project in
accordance with the vote of the School Committee
and asking for amendment of the grant agrei
The Emergency Finance Hoard and the Federal
Emergency Administration of Public Works
approved the amended project but only authorized
tl cpenditure in connection therewith of one
million, nine hundred and twenty-five thousand
dollars (Sl.'.iJ-,,
1 have now received from the Federal Emer-
gency Administration of Public Works forms of
agreement, amending the grant agreement dated
as of April 14, 1934, between the City of Boston
and the United States of America relating to the
above project as amended, and I submit here-
with one copy of said agreement. Said agree-
ment provides for a grant to the City of Boston
by the United States of America, with reference
to the amended project, of an amount not to
exceed 30 per cent of the cost of the labor and
materials employed upon the project and not to
exceed five hundred and fifty-two thousand
dollars (§552,000).
I also submit herewith an order approving said
agreement and authorizing me to execute and de-
liver to the United States of America for and in
behalf of the City of Boston three counterparts
of the same.
I recommend prompt consideration and pass-
age by your honorable body of this order, because
of the limited time available for the execution
and delivery of this agreement, and because of
the desirability of commencing work upon this
amended project without delay.
As I wrote your honorable body on July 5,
1934, it is contemplated that the amendment
of the appropriation order of two million dollars
(52,000,000), still in force, for the construction
of a new high school and a new intermediate
school to one of eight hundred thousand dollars
(5800,000) for the construction of a new inter-
mediate school in South Boston, be postponed
until after said new agreement has been executed
by the City and the United States of America.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Maxsfield, Mayor.
Ordered, That the Mayor be, and he hereby is,
authorized to execute and deliver to the United
States of America for and in behalf of the City of
Boston three counterparts of the agreement,
amending the grant agreement dated as of April
14, 1934, between the City of Boston and the
United States of America, relating to the Public
Works Project of constructing and equipping of
school buildings, P. W. A. Docket No. 4217, and
providing for the grant to the City of Boston
by the United States of America, upon the terms
and conditions set forth in said grant agreement
as so amended, of an amount not to exceed 30 per
cent of the cost of the labor and materials em-
ployed upon the project as amended and described
therein, and not to exceed 5552,000, one copy of
which agreement has been submitted to this meet-
ing and is made a part of the minutes hereof, and
that said agreement be, and the same hereby is,
approved.
Referred to Executive Committee.
PROTECTION OF CHILDREN, ARBORWAY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 13, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Police Commissioner, relative to your order of
November 19, 1934, concerning the assignment of a
police officer during school hours in the Arborway,
opposite Pond and Burroughs streets.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Police Department, December 11, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — In reply to communication
dated November 22, from Air. Gilmore of your
office', inclosing copy of order of the City Council,
requesting that a police officer lie assigned for duty
during school hours in the Arborway, opposite
Pond and Burroughs streets, 1 have had a special
investigation made of this matter by our Bureau of
Traffic.
riant O'Dea, in charge of our Bureau of
Traffic, informs me that he assigned a senior officer
to make a study of conditions at this point, and the
investigating officer reports that during his observa-
't one person crossed the street at this loca-
tion, and further along at Arborway and Pond
street there were three children who CTl
tins point in the morning, at noun, and in the after-
noon, lie further reports that there are a number
of children who go to and from the school on
Burroughs street, but thc\ are brought to the school
and taken home by automobiles belonging to the
parents of some of the children.
394
CITY COUNCIL.
However, the commanding officer of Division 13
has placed an officer on duty at the corner of Pond
street and the Arborway, and this officer will re-
main at this crossing during the school hours in
the morning, noon, and afternoon.
This action, I believe, will eliminate any further
cause for complaint.
Very truly yours,
E. C. Hultman,
Police Commissioner.
Placed on file.
TRANSFER FROM PARKMAN FUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attached
communication from the Board of Park Commis-
sioners requesting the transfer of the sum of
$9,000 from the income of the George F. Parkman
Fund to the Maintenance and Improvement of the
Common and Parks in existence on January 12,
1887.
I submit herewith an appropriation order and
respectfully recommend its immediate passage by
your honorable body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, December 11, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — By vote of the Board of Park Com-
missioners, you are respectfully asked to request
the City Council to transfer from the income of
the George F. Parkman Fund the sum of $9,000,
which is now available, to be expended under the
direction of the Board of Park Commissioners as
follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on Janu-
ary 12, 1887, Maintenance and Im-
provement of $9,000
When the budget estimates were made up for
the year 1934, a sum equal to the total yearly
income of the George F. Parkman Fund was
deducted from Item A-l, Permanent Employees,
with the understanding that this deduction was
to be replaced by the total yearly income of
said Parkman Fund for 1934, to be transferred as
it accrued from time to time during the year to
the regular maintenance appropriation of the
Park Department.
Respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Ordered, That the sum of $9,000 be, and hereby
is, appropriated from the income of the George F.
Parkman Fund, to be expended under the direc-
on of the Park Commissioners, for the Mainte-
nance and Improvement of the Common and
Parks in Existence on January 12, 1887, as follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on Janu-
ary 12, 1887, Maintenance and Im-
provement of $9,000
Referred to Executive Committee.
OVERTIME WORK, COLLECTION OF
ASHES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit, a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of November 19, 1934, concerning over-
time work on the contract for the collection of
ashes and garbage in the Dorchester district.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
December 8, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — In reply to your note of November
22, with attached order of City Council, dated
November 19, and reading as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to take immediate steps to prevent the Joseph P .
McCabe Company from working its men over-
time without extra pay on its contract for the
collection of ashes and garbage in the Dorchester
district" —
I wish to state that this department has a letter
on file from Joseph P. McCabe, Inc., general
contractors, stating that:
" We have never asked our men to work over eight
hours in any one day and we would like to call
attention to the fact that there are five contract
districts, including Dorchester, and upon informa-
tion, which we consider reliable, we find that the
other districts are paying the prevailing rate of $4
per day, while we pay $4.50 for the same class of
work."
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
REMOVAL OF FRED R. NAPOLITANO AS
CONSTABLE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 11, 1934.
To the City Clerk.
You are hereby notified that I have this day
removed from the office of constable, Fred R.
Napolitano, 53 Auburn street, Boston, for the
reason that he has neglected to take the oath
required by law.
Yours very truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
REMOVAL OF ROCK, QUINCY STREET.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 12, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order ;of November 19, 1934, concerning the
removal of the huge rock on the sidewalk of Quincy
street, between Barry and Belle vue streets,
Ward 15.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
December 11, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of November 22, with attached order
of City Council dated November 19, and reading
as follows:
"Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to include in his P. W. A. program a sum sufficient
to provide for the removal of the huge rock on t lie
sidewalk on Quincy street, between Barry and
Bellevue streets, Ward 15,'"
and to state that the estimated quantity of cubic
yards to be removed is 110 cubic yards, and at a
price of $5 per cubic yard will amount to $550.
It is the intention of the Public Works Depart-
ment, however, to make this an E. R. A. project
during the winter season.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
I'lacnl 'Hi file.
WITHDRAWAL AND APPOINTMENT OF
CONSTABLES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, Decembor 17, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The following names are with-
drawn from the list of constables submitted by me
to your honorable body on June 4, 1934: George
W. Cuddy, Robert Smith.
Subject to confirmation by your honorable
body, I hereby appoint the following named per-
DECEMBER 17, 1934.
395
sons as constables of the City of Boston, author-
ized to serve civil process upon filing bonds:
Thomas J. Hayes, 90 West Cottage street, Rox-
bury; Ashod Donabedin, 30 Millmont street, Rox-
bury.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
The appointments were laid over for a week
under the law.
BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 17, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Trustees of Boston City Hospital,
relative to your order of November 19, 1934, con-
cerning the procedure in cases requiring blood
transfusions where the patient has not got the
$25 fee that is required in advance.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Department, December 11, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston
Dear Mr. Mayor, — At a meeting of the Board of
Trustees held on December 7, an order of the City
Council was presented, whereby the trustees are
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to inform
the City Council regarding the procedure that is
followed in cases requiring blood transfusions,
where the patient is unable to pay the fee of $25
which is required in advance.
Those patients who are able to pay a fee in the
event that none of their friends or relatives wish to
volunteer as blood donors, or in the event that none
of their friends or relatives are found to be of the
proper group which makes them fitted for the
giving of their blood, it is then necessary for the
individual to pay $25, which money the hospital
turns over to professional donors whose names and
groupings we keep on hand at the hospital.
In the event of a patient being unable to pay, the
same attempt is made to find volunteers, and if no
volunteers .can be found who are suitable, the
hospital hires a professional donor and the sum o f
$25 is paid by the Boston City Hospital.
Hoping that this answers the question concerning
blood transfusions, I remain,
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
Placed on file.
VETERANS' HOSPITAL, WEST ROXBURY.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 17, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Board of Trustees of Boston City Hospital, in
reference to your order of November 19, 1934, con-
cerning the taking over of the old Veterans Hospil aj
in West Hoxbury to relieve the overcrowded condi-
tion of the Main Hospital, or else to allow persons
who are in destitute circumstances to occupy theso
buildings during the coming winter.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Hospital Depart menl ,
December 1 1, 103 I
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — At a meeting of the Hi I ol
Trustees held on December 7, an order of the City
Council was presented, concerning I tic feasibility
of taking over the old Veterans' Hospital in West
Hoxbury to rcliove orowded conditions at the
Main Hospital, or ultimately for use of persons in
destitute oircumal ances.
The West Depart nn ni is tfery desirably located,
containing approximately I ;900^000 square I I
land. There are twelve scpara l e buildings. These
buildings are not of first class construction. Prac-
tically all of the liiniil ■ ni' old. The trustees
have paid constant attention to keeping the roofs
of these building in jood condition, so that i he
interiors of the buildings have not suffered as the
result of the extensive leaks which sometimes
occur in old and abandoned buildings.
These buildings could not be used at the present
time owing to the fact that the central heating
plant, and in fact the heating system in general,
is dreadfully out of condition.
To put the heating plant into condition to serve
these buildings would cost conservatively $125,000.
Even with this heating plant in condition, the
interior of the buildings needs more or less complete
renovating and painting throughout.
The buildings are isolated and are poorly planned
and arranged for hospital purposes. If these
buildings were in condition, they would house some
approximately 200 patients. It is not, however
a definitely desirable place to house ill patients.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph P. Manning,
President, Board of Trustees.
Placed on file
SALE OF TUBERCULAR REACTING
CATTLE.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 17, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Penal Institutions Commissioner, requesting
the approval of your honorable body for the sale
of the tubercular reacting cattle at the House of
Correction, Deer Island.
It is estimated that the proceeds of the sales
will amount to between $700 and $950, depending
on the weight of the cattle.
I am also transmitting an order authorizing the
commissioner to sell the cattle.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Penal Institutions Department,
December 12, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Your approval is requested for the
sale of the tubercular reacting cattle at the House
of Correction, Deer Island, Boston Harbor, to the
Shapiro Beef Company, Inc., of Brighton, Mass.
The compensation to be paid for said cattle is two
dollars and thirty-five cents ($2.35) per hundred-
weight, and as this will exceed $500 for the total
sale, I would appreciate your approval of said
transaction.
Bids were submitted by the following concerns:
Hundredweight.
Rosenberg Brothers $2 15
Brighton Dressed Beef Company 2 25
Carroll Brothers 37}
Paresky & Co ! 2 35
August Young 2 25
Shapiro Beef Company 2 35
Inclosed please find copy of conditions of sale.
Yours respectfully,
William G. O'H.vre,
Penal Institutions Commissioner.
The conditions of sale of the tubercular re-
acting cattle now at Deer Island will be as follows:
1. Bids are to be made on the basis of a price
per hundredweight for the entire herd.
2. The.delivery of cattle will be at Shirley Gut
on the Wiiithrop side.
:; . All attendant charges in connection with tho
ill- are to be assumed by the successful bidder, and
payment is to be made at Brighton, Mass.
■!. Tho bill of sale is to be cash on delivery after
being weighed at Brighton, in either cash or certi-
fied check made payable to the City of Boston.
5. Tho Successful bidder will provide suitable
transportation for the eattlo from Winthrop to
Brighton without, expense to the Penal Institutions
I )epartment.
6. \ll Imls aro to be submit led to I he I'cnal In-
stitutions Commissioner at 803 City Hall Annex,
Boston, Mass.. before l:.' noon on Monday, Decem-
ber id, 1934, at which hour all bids submitted will
ipened.
7. The commissioner reserves (he ri>;ht to ro-
ot' all bids.
,S. The eal tie ms B 0 -if Cor-
rection, Deer [aland, Boston Harbor.
Ordered, ["hal the Penal Institutions Commis-
sioner is authorised to sell certain tubercular re-
396
CITY COUNCIL.
acting cattle now in possession of the Penal In-
stitutions Department at Deer Island on such
terms and conditions as he may deem advisable.
Referred to Executive Committee.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and
referred to the committees named, viz.:
Claims.
Michael J. Concannon, for compensation for
loss of suede jacket at Curtis Hall, Jamaica Plain.
Edmund Currie, to be reimbursed for judgment
issued against him on account of his acts as operator
of city ear.
William M. Edmonstone, for compensation for
damage to car caused by an alleged defect in
Hyde Park avenue.
Henry W. Foster, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 117 Park Drive.
John J. Gillis, for compensation for damage to
car caused by an alleged defect in Chelsea Bridge.
Mary Krukonis, for compensation for injuries
caused by city truck.
Mary E. Martin, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect in Jersey street.
Ruth M. McShane, for compensation for dam-
age to car caused by an alleged defect at 263 Gold
street, South Boston.
Fred Mitchell, for refund on refuse tickets.
Edward J. Monahan, M. D., for reimbursement
for loss of articles at City Hospital.
Jeremiah A. F. Cronin, for compensation for
injuries caused by an alleged defect at 38 Redlands
road.
Executive.
Petition of William Earle, for children to appear
at Municipal Building, South Boston, January
11, 1935.
APPROVAL OF CONSTABLE'S BOND.
The constable's bond of Samuel Tarle, having
been duly approved by the City Treasurer, was
received and approved.
RESIDENCE OF EMPLOYEES.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Law Department, December 10, 1934.
John E. Baldwin, Esquire,
Clerk of Committees, City Council.
Dear Sir, — I have received your letter dated
October 24, 1934, inclosing a copy of an order
passed by the City Council, which provides as
follows:
"Ordered, That the Committee on Ordinances
be directed to consult with the Corporation Counsel
for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not it
is possible to provide legally by ordinance:
1. That all employees of the city shall be
citizens of the United States and residents of
Boston and that the non-residence of an employee
shall by that fact terminate his employment.
2. That no city contract shall be made except
on the condition that all the employees of the
contractor and subcontractor shall be citizens of
the United States and residents of Boston and that
violation of the said condition shall by that fact
abrogate the contract.
And if it is determined that such ordinance
or either of them can be drafted so as to be legally
effective, to report such draft or drafts to the City
Council."
You have requested me to render an opinion
with regard to the problems stated in said order.
/. (a.) May the City Council effectively pro-
vide by ordinance that only persons who are citizens
of the United States and residents of Boston may,
after the passage of said ordinance, be employed by
the city?
This question has been presented to my pre-
decessors on at least three previous occasions and
it has been uniformly ruled by them that the City
Council may not effectively so provide. (See
opinion of Andrew J. Bailey, dated September 2R,
1895, to the Committee on Ordinances; opinion of
Arthur D. Hill, dated March 20, 1920, to John E.
Baldwin, Clerk of Committees, and opinion of
Frank S. Deland, dated February 23, 1927, to the
Committee on Residences of City Employees.) In
this ruling I concur.
Section 6 of chapter 266' of the Acta of 1885
provides as follows:
"The executive powers of said city, and all the
executive powers now vested in the board of
aldermen, as such, as surveyors of highways,
county commissioners or otherwise, shall be and
hereby are vested in the mayor, to be exercised
through the several officers and boards of the city
in their respective departments, under his general
supervision and control. Such officers and boards
shall, in their respective departments, make all
necessary contracts for the employment of labor,
the supply of materials, and the construction,
alteration, and repair of all public works and build-
ings, and have the entire care, custody and manage-
ment of all public works, institutions, buildings
and other property, and the direction and control
of all the executive and administrative business of
said city. They shall be at all times accountable
for the proper discharge of their duties to the
mayor, as the cnief executive officer, whose duty
it shall be to secure the honest, efficient and
economical conduct of the entire executive and
administrative business of the city, and the har-
monious and concerted action of the different
departments. Every contract made as aforesaid
in which the amount involved exceeds two thousand
dollars shall require the approval of the mayor
before going into effect; and no expenditure shall
be made nor liability incurred for any purDose
bevond the appropriation duly made therefor."
Section 8 of chapter 496 of the Acts of 1909,
as amended, provides in part as follows:
"Neither the city council, nor any member or
committee, officer or employee thereof shall, ex-
cept as otherwise provided in this act, directly or
indirectly on behalf of the city or of the county
of Suffolk, take part in the employment of labor,
the making of contracts, the purchase of materials,
supplies or real estate; nor in the construction,
alteration, or repair of any public works, buildings,
or other property; nor in the care, custody, and
management of the same; nor in the conduct of the
executive or administrative business of the city or
county, nor in the appointment or removal of any
municipal or county employee, nor in the expendi-
ture of public money except such as may be neces-
sary for the contingent and incidental expenses
of the city council '
It is my opinion that the matter of fixing the
qualifications of city employees is vested, by virtue
of the provisions of section 6 of chapter 266, above
quoted, in the Mayor, to be exercised through the
officers and members of boards of the city in their
respective departments, subject, of course, to
statutory regulations, and that your honorable
body is precluded, by the provisions of section 8
of chapter 486 of the Acts of 1909, as well as by
inference from the provisions of section 6 of chapter
266 of the Acts of 1885, from limiting the employ-
ment of persons in Boston to residents of the city.
I wish, in addition, to call to your attention
that even did your honorable body have the
general power of regulating the qualifications of
employees, an ordinance such as we are here
considering could not, in my opinion, be made
effective so far as it might apply to persons whose
employment is in the classified public service Gf
the city.
Section 3 of chapter 31 of the General Laws
(Ter. Ed.) provides in part as follows:
"The board (commissioner and associate com-
missioners of civil service) shall, subject to the
approval of the governor and council, from time to
time make rules and regulations which shall regu-
late the selection of persons to fill appointive
positions in the government of the commonwealth,
the several cities thereof . . . and .
the selection of persons to be employed aB laborers
or otherwise in the service of the commonwealth
and said cities and towns . . ."
Section 15 of said chapter 31 provides as follows:
"No person shall be appointed to any position
in the classified civil service except upon certifi-
cation by the commissioner from an eligible list
in accordance with the rules of the board; but if
there is no suitable eligible list, or if the com-
missioner is unable to comply with a requisition in
accordance with the rules of the board, the com-
missioner, subject to section twenty-five, may
authorize a provisional appointment or may
authorize the appointing officer or board to select
a suitable person who shall be subjected to a non-
competitive examination, such provisional or
non-competitive appointment to be subject to the
rules of the board. Within five days after the
DECEMBEE 17, 1934.
397
certification of persons for appointment or em-
ployment the commissioner shall make a record
of persons so certified. If the appointing officer
rejects all the persons certified he shall so notify
the commissioner."
It is my opinion that the General Court, by
virtue of the provisions of section 3 of chapter 31
of the General Laws, vested in the Board of Com-
missioners of Civil Service exclusive power to
make rules and regulations for the selection of
persons to fill such appointive positions as are
subject to the provisions of said chapter 31 in the
government of the Commonwealth and in such
cities and towns thereof, including Boston, as
have accepted said chapter or corresponding
provisions of earlier laws, and that, therefore, an
ordinance passed by the City Council forbidding
the selection of persons not citizens of the United
States and not citizens of Boston as employees of
the city, would be for this reason alone without
legal effect. (See on this point the opinions of
Arthur D. Hill to the Clerk of Committees, and of
Frank S. Deland to the Committee on Residences
of City Employees.)
It should be noted in this connection that Rule 5
of the Civil Service Rules, promulgated by the
Board of Commissioners of Civil Service, pursuant
to the above-quoted provisions of section 3 of said
chapter 31, provides as follows:
"An applicant for appointment to any office or
position to which these rules apply must be a
citizen of the United States, who has domiciled in
the Commonwealth for one year next preceding
the date of filing his application; and if the appli-
cation is for appointment to an office or position
in the service of a city, the applicant must also
have domiciled in the city in which he seeks
service for six months next preceding the date of
filing his application; but the Commissioner may
waive the restriction of domicile to any case when
in his opinion the needs of the public service may
so require."
This rule accomplishes the purposes of an
ordinance, if one could be validly passed, limiting
employment to persons who at the time of employ-
ment are citizens of the United States resident in
Boston, except that such rule (1) applies only to
employment in the classified public service; (2)
permits the commissioner to waive the limitation
in any instance in which in his opinion the needs
of the public service may require such a waiver;
(3) is subject to the provisions of section 36 of
chapter 149 of the General Laws (hereinafter
quoted) with respect so mechanics, teamsters and
laborers employed by the city in the construction,
addition to and alteration of public works.
(fc) May the City Council effectively provide by
ordinance that non-residence of an employee shall
terminate his employment/
It is my opinion that, in view of the provisions
of section 6 of chapter 266 of the Acts of 18S5, and
of section 8 of chapter 4SG of the Acts of 1909, as
amended, the City Council may not effectively so
provide. (See in this connection the discussion
of these sections in / (a) above and the opinions of
my predecessors therein cited.)
Section 43 of chapter 31 of the General Laws
provides in part as follows:
"... every person holding office or
employment in the classified public service of the
commonwealth, or of any county, city or town
thereof, shall hold such office or employment and
shall not be removed therefrom, lowered in rank
or compensation or suspended, or without his
consent transferred from such office or employment
to any other, except for just, cause, and for reasons
specifically given him in writing within iwcntv-
four hours after such removal, suspension, transfer
or lowering in rank or compensation. . . ."
Said section 43 forbids the removal of any person
holding office or employment in the classified pub-
lie service of the cits except for "just
within the meaning of those WOl I section
43. I am inclined to the view thai the removal
of persons in the classified public service of the
city merely because of non-residence is not a re-
moval for " just c i use" b i liose ■.-. ord
in section 43, and that, therefore, an ordinance
providing thai the non-residence of an ei
in the classified public service of the city would
terminate Ins employment could nol bi
effective even were i/our honorable bo I
wise precluded fr adopting suoh an ordinance.
(See also in tins connect the opinion above
referred to ol I rank s. Deland to the Committee
on Residences ol Citj Empl
// U.r7 /
ordinance thai nil contract !o "n behalf of
the city shall contain a provision to the effect that all
employees of the contractors or of any subcontractor
employed in carrying out the contract shall be citizens
of the United States and residents of Boston and that
a violation of said provision shall terminate the con-
tract?
It is my opinion that, by virtue of the provisions
of section 6 of chapter 266 above quoted, the
terms of contracts made on behalf of the city are
matters within the exclusive control of the Mayor
and of the officers and boards in charge of city
departments, subject, of course, to statutory regu-
lations, and that your honorable body is precluded
by the provisions of section 8 of chapter 486 of
the Acts of 1909, as well as by the provisions of
said chapter 266, from providing with reference
to the terms of contracts' (cf. Brackett v. Boston,
157 Mass. 177, 9 (1892).
Furthermore section 26 of chapter 149 of the
General Laws (Ter. Ed.) provides as follows:
" In the employment of mechanics, teamsters and
laborers in the construction, addition to and altera-
tion of public works by the commonwealth, or by the
commonwealth, or by a county, town or district,
or by persons contracting therewith for much con-
struction, addition to and alteration of public works,
preference shall first be given to citizens of the
commonwealth who have served in the army or
navy of the United States in time of war and have
been honorably discharged therefrom or released
from active duty therein, and who are qualified
to perform the work to which the employment
relates; and secondly, to citizens of the common-
wealth generally, and, if they cannot be obtained
in sufficient numbers, then to citizens of the United
States, and every contract for such work shall
contain a provision to this effect . . . pro-
vided, that no town in the construction, addition
to or alteration of public works shall be required
to give preference to veterans, not residents of
such town, over citizens thereof. This section
shall also apply to regular employees of the com-
monwealth or of a county, town or district when
such employees are emplooyed in the construction,
addition to and alteration of public works for
which special appropriations are provided.
The word "town" as used in said section 38
includes city (see section 7 of chapter 4 of the
General Laws (Ter. Ed.)).
Said section 26 establishes preferences in the
employment of mechanics, teamsters and laborers
in the construction, addition to and alteration of
public works by the commonwealth, or by a
county, city, town or district or by persons con-
tracting therewith; while the proposed ordinance
under consideration contemplates the establish-
ment of a restriction on the class of persons that
may be employed by persons contracting with
the City of Boston, and their subcontractors.
Moreover, the restriction under consideration, in
so far as it deals with mechanics, teamsters and
laborers employed in the construction, addition
to and alteration of public works by persons
contracting with the City of Boston, is different
from and inconsistent with the preferences estab-
lished by said section 26.
In view, therefore, of the provisions of said
section 26, it would be improper to insert in city
contracts for construction, addition to or altera-
tions of public works the provisions under con-
sideration.
Very truly yours,
Henry E. Foley,
Corporation < 'ounscl.
Placed on file.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE APPOINT-
MENTS.
lenl DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 2 on thi lar, viz.:
'Mon on appointments submitted by the
1934, of .lames II. Alexander,
I J, I'm ings, Richard 1>. Tucker, to be
\\ eighers of ( 'oil.
The question came on confirmation. Com-
Coun. Gallagher ami Selvitella. whole
number of ballots 14; yeas 14, and the appoint-
svere confirmed.
\D\ \\< I PA1 MEN I "\ PA1 ROLLS.
i. SELVIT1 I the following:
Ordered, Thai thoCitj Auditor bo authoi
allow tor payment, and thoCitj Treasure!
398
CITY COUNCIL.
the weekly available pay rolls of employees, on
or before December 24, 1934, in anticipation of
Christmas.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
MUNICIPAL BUILDING, EAST BOSTON,
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That chapter 178 of the Acts of 1934
entitled "An Act Providing for the Construction
of a Municipal Building in the East Boston Dis-
trict of the City of Boston" be, and hereby is,
accepted.
Referred to Executive Committee.
MUNICIPAL BUILDING, DORCHESTER.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
hereby is, requested, in his financial plans for the
City of Boston for the year 1935, to provide for
the erection of a municipal building in the Dor,-
chester district, such municipal building to be con-
veniently and centrally located.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HEALTH UNIT, DORCHESTER.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and
hereby is, requested, in his financial plans for the
City of Boston for the year 1935, to provide for
the erection of a health unit in the Dorchester dis-
trict, such health unit to be conveniently and
centrally located.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PERMIT FOR WAYSIDE ARMY, INC.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to issue the permit which has been requested by
The Wayside Army, Inc., for the public solicita-
tion of funds to be used for Christmas dinners for
the poor.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, very briefly,
I understand that such a request has been made
by this incorporated organization and has been
refused, if I am correctly informed, on some
excuse to the effect that this right is reserved for
the Salvation Army. I have the highest regard
for both of the organizations named, but I don't
know why any reputable organization, especially
an incorporated organization, should be debarred
from the reasonable collection of funds for such a
worthy cause as the giving of Thanksgiving and
Christmas dinners to the poor.
The order was referred to the Executive
Committee.
INFORMATION IN RE FUEL CONCERNS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Overseers of Public Welfare
be requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council,
a. Giving a list of the names and business
addresses of all fuel concerns now making de-
liveries of fuel to Public Welfare recipients, and,
in each case, the districts covered by each concern.
b. Giving a statement in the case of each
dealer as to how far behind he is on orders for
welfare recipients; and
c. Whether, for reasonably prompt deliveries,
ft is necessary for welfare recipients to purchase
fifty gallon drums for oil.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I am intro-
ducing that order as the result of two or three
complaints last week of poor persons in my section
of the city, reporting the impossibility of obtaining
oil fuel deliveries since perhaps the first of Decem-
ber. It was a surprise to me to hear that appar-
ently the oil contractor from whom oil is obtained
by people in the central Dorchester district is as
far away as Ruggles street, Roxbury. For the
average poor man in the Dorchester district this
means going, in some cases, from as far away as
the Neponset river to the middle of Roxbury to
get a few gallons of fuel oil. I am advised of the
fact that the gentleman in question, who may be
of the highest type, is far behind in his deliveries
to people on the welfare list, and this particular
order is aimed at obtaining advices, if possible,
which will give us some information as to whether
those persons who received the coal and oil conr
tracts for public welfare deliveries are big enough
to handle the business after they have got it. It
certainly seems that where such contractors are
unable to make deliveries in many cases since the
first of December, although they. have contracted
to do So, a change should be made.
Coun. DOHERTY— Mr. President, I would say
also that the people of Jamaica Plain are in the
same situation. They have to go over to Dor-
chester or Roxbury and pay out car fare, when
they have an oil company practically right next
:door to them.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
INFORMATION AS TO E. R. A. WORKERS.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to advise the City Council forthwith the total
number of .individual E. R. A. workers actually
at work on various City of Boston E. R. A. proj-
ects during the week ending December 15, 1934,
also the number of workers engaged as of said
:date on each proj ect and in what city department.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to advise the City Council forthwith, after due
.'inquiry of all department heads,
a. What city departments, if any, claim to Iiave
been handicapped at any time since July 1, 1934;
in the prosecution of .E. R. A. projects because of
any failure to promptly obtain assignment of
workers from the social service reclassification
office.
b. On what projects.v
c. The number of workers involved in the delay.
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be requested
to advise the City Council forthwith, after due
inquiry of all department heads,
a. What city departments now, as of December
:17, 1934, have available definite. E. R. A. projects
selected and planned, but not started, and subject
only to possible approval by. Government au-
thorities.
b. A brief description of each of said contem-
plated projects. \
c. The number of E. R. A. workers estimated by
the department head as necessary for each project.
d. The approximate amount estimated as
necessaarily to be included in the budget of such
city department for each of said projects con-
templated.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, very briefly,
those orders are the result of the newspaper dis-
cussion of last week with reference to the placing
of the blame or the sharing of the blame for obtain-
ing additional money for the City of Boston and
then not having projects enough to put men at
■work. While we have no control, direct or in-
direct, over the assignment of men; it being a
Federal proposition, we have some control over the
purchase of materials and the projects to be named
by city departments. So the obtaining of the
information sought in these orders, from the point of
view of the city, is important; as to the number of
individual E. R. A. workers actually at work on
various projects, what city departments claim to
have been handicapped in the prosecution of the
projects because of failure to promptly obtain,
assignment of workers, and what departments have
available definite E. R. A. projects selected and
planned, but not started. I think we would like to
know whether suggestions already made along these
lines have been followed in this city and/whether the
various departments have projects which they are
ready to put across if we are awarded further
money. , .
The orders were passed under suspension of the
rule.
OPEN PARKING SPACE LICENSES.
Coun. WILSON offered the following:
Ordered, That; the Board of Street Commis-
sioners be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to advise the City Council forthwith concerning
each outstanding open-air parking space permit
DECEMBER 17, 1934.
399
or license as of December 15, 1934, in the City of
Boston:
a. The name of the licensee.
b. The location of such space.
c. The area.
d. The date on which such open air parking
space permit was first obtained for said location.
e. The license rate charged for the calendar
year 1934 for such space.
f. The maximum number of cars allowed to
be stored under the terms of the present license for
such outdoor parking space.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
PAYING OF ST. LUKES ROAD.
Coun. AGXEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works, through his Honor the Mayor, be in-
structed to repave with smooth paving. St. Lukes
road. Ward 21.
Passed under a suspension of the rule.
TRANSFERS TO E. R. A.
Coun. AGXEW offered the following:
Ordered, That the Director of the Public Wel-
fare, through his Honor the Mayor, furnish the
City Council with the following information:
How many men and women have been trans-
ferred from the welfare rolls to E. R. A. from
September 1, 1934, to date.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Soldiers'
Relief, through his Honor the Mayor, furnish the
City Council with the following information:
How many men have been transferred from the
Soldiers' Relief Roll to E. R. A. from September
1, 1934. to date.
Coun. AGNEW — Mr. President, those two
orders can very well ride along with the orders
introduced by Councilor Wilson for this purpose.
It seems rather odd that, where councilors from
the various districts of Boston are incessantly
beseiged with individual calls upon them from
men who desire assistance in getting located or
placed upon the E. R. A. we should read in the
newspapers of the large sum of money that is
being returned by Boston to the Federal 'Govern-
ment unexpended. It seems to be the fact that
some time ago, within the course of two months,
something like $100,000 has been returned to the
Federal Government as being unused, in the
Boston area. Whether or not that is a
do not claim. However, it is said that that is
what has happened. Now. our welfare roll today
apparently is as large as it was a year ago; ap-
parently there are as many people on welfare
now as in 1933. The same is apparently true of
our soldiers' relief roll. These two orders are
introduced for the purpose of ascertaining the
desired information from both the Welfare Depart-
ment and the Soldeirs' Relief Department, to see
whether or not the burden upon the City of
Boston has been relieved through the expenditure
of E. R. A. funds. It does seem, in line with
Councilor Wilson's order, that something should
be done to properly expend the funds that are
sent here by the Federal Government. If our
welfare rolls or our soldiers' relief rolls are not
lessened as the result of the funds coming in here
from the Federal Government, something is
wrong somewhere.
The orders were passed under suspension of the
rule.
Cou- \ offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor be requested to con-
sider the advisabih 1 snow-
removal contracts be given tothi >nsidle
bidder.
Coun. NORTON Mr. President, the M
Boston on Labor Day last <>i
in perhaps one of hi* i;
.ited that in his opinion, by reason of high
taxes, a large nun
Boston, and he pledged himself on I
in that I.alxir Day Bp< Ii >.> red far as
- :ible (he taxes in Boston in
industry and to help our
in the press, and ali"> reliably [l
that thi for tli" it
Boston next year have been let out in some cases
to the fourth lowest bidder and in some to the
seventeenth lowest bidder, going down the line.
Last year the City of Boston spent $730,000 for
removing snow in the first quarter of the year.
That is the largest amount of money spent by
this city for snow removal in any period of our
history. I feel now, as I felt then, that the
squandering of the money in that way was 3
disgrace. I understand that in some cases a con-
tractor would get the same truck in a dozen times
on the same job and for the same amount. To
forestall any trouble on that account they got
together a bookkeeping system under which this
sort of thing was done. For the removal of
forty-two inches of snow Boston spent $730,000.
while in Detroit, at the same time, over almost
three times the area, with the same depth, forty-
two inches of snow, and with, as far as can be
ascertained from the United States Geological
Bureau, the same tvpe of snow to be removed,
but S159.441 was spent; in Philadelphia $120,000,
and in Baltimore $108,000. We are now coming
to the new year and to a time when large sums
must be spent for relief of the cold and hungry.
This is not a time to be wasting the money of Ihe
City of Boston. The money wasted last year
would have been the means of filling thousands
of hungry mouths. I feel that the Mayor of
Boston should give these contracts out to the
lowest responsible bidder. I hold no brief for
my old friends A. G. Tomasello <fc Son. but if
Tomasello is the low bidder, it seems to me he is
entitled to the job; that any responsible low bidder
should be recognized.
Coun. WILSOX — Mr. President. I am inclined
to agree with much that the gentleman has said,
except that I cannot agree that in every case the
contract should be given to the low bidder. I
believe the bidder receiving every such contract
should be responsible and able to do the work.
I believe that one trouble with snow removal in
the City of Boston in recent years has been that
our snow removal equipment is worn out. and
I believe that one of the items that should be
considered by the Mayor this coming year is a
replacement of snow removal equipment in cases
where it is not what it should be. I believe con-
sideration should also be given to the question of
whether the contractors are going to call upon
public welfare and E. R. A. labor to do the job.
It seems to me the thing to do would be to have
the Public Works Commissioner appear before
the Executive Committee so that we may find
out what the set-up is on the contract, also getting
information as to the truck loads of snow, because
that is where the money goes, and the possi-
bility or probability of the contractor using
E. R. A. and public welfare men to do the work.
Coun. NORTON" — Mr. President, my conten-
tion has been that only the lowest responsible
bidders should be considered, and I placed that
qualifying adjective in my statement, — lowest
responsible bidder. I see no reason why the
seventeenth from the lowest bidder here should
receive preference. I agree that E. R. A. and
public welfare men should be employed on this
work, and the coram • - he intends to
do that as much as possible. I think the Council
will find if we have the commissioner come before
us that we will not get much in the way of results.
We have seen that contractors employed on this
sort of work are ones who happen to be friends
of the administration, and that the city spends
money than it should. I might also add
that one of the cardinal tenets of the adminis-
i. as expressed in the inaugural
address ot his Honor the M
"Whatever the past has been, Boston must
ve full value for its dollar expended.
ts and purchases based upon absolutely
able mer-
I asl. ind by that
his inaugural add
if the
rule.
I.<>\\
400
CITY COUNCIL.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered. That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to confer with the Welfare Department authorities
relative to the city arranging to deliver to welfare
recipients milk at 8 cents a quart.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
TAX-EXEMPT PROPERTY.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered. That the Mayor of Boston be requested
to immediately consider the advisability of taking
steps to ascertain whether certain tax-exempt
property in Boston can be placed back on the
tax rolls.
Coun. NORTON— Mr. President, New York
City has just placed back on her rolls over
S100, 000,000 of property that was formerly tax-
exempt. In Boston I find a number of instances
where property is not taxed, property which, under
conditions now prevailing, should be taxed. I
wonder why it is that the Harvard Stadium,
located within the confines of Boston, should be
tax-exempt. Yale University, located in New
Haven, Connecticut, has paid a tax on the Yale
Bowl for a number of years. Baker Field, of
Columbia University, New York City, is now on
the tax rolls of New York City. If that is so, I
see no reason why the wealthiest institution in
America, with a stadium located here in Boston,
should not also be placed on the tax rolls. It may
be that some legislation will be necessary under
our tax laws to accomplish that result. But now
is the time for the Mayor to get busy. The
question suggests itself at the present time, under
present conditions, why the Harvard Stadium
should not be taxed. Then there is another in-
stance in Boston, the Exeter Street Theatre. I
understand that a spiritual organization holds a
meeting there once in a while and that as a result
875,000 is taken off that theatre in assessments.
Manifestly that is unfair to other competing
theaters in this city. How easy it would be for
any theater in Boston to hold some sort of religious
meeting at some time in the year and then come
before our tax authorities and demand a tax
abatement. The same situation presents itself
in relation to certain schools. There is the Suffolk
Law School, capitalized at 8372.000, that pays 100
cents a dollar on its bonds and in some years pays
9 per cent dividends. Not a building in Boston
today, on Washington street, such as the Old South
Building, or the Pemberton Building, or Kimball
Building, pays 25 cents on a dollar. Under the
law it will be very hard to tax an educational in-
stitution, but at the same time there is a line of
differentiation. Bryant & Stratton pays rent;
the Burdett College pays rent. It may be possible
for the Mayor to introduce legislation that will
allow the City of Boston to collect a tax on a
money-making profitable institution, even if it is
educational. Where the line shall be drawn would
be up to those preparing the legislation for de-
termination.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
PAY ALLOWANCES TO CERTAIN NURSES.
Coun. NORTON offered the following:
Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of allowing a
liberal time-off with pay allowance to any nurse or
other employee of the Health Department who is
taken down with a disease which may reasonably
be supposed to have been contracted in line of duty.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
APPOINTMENT OF FIREMEN.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Fire Commissioner be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to appoint
300 more firemen to the Boston Fire Department.
Coun. FISH— Mr. President, I think that our
Boston Fire Department at the present time is
under-manned. The other day I noticed a peice
of fire apparatus responding to a fire, and there
was only one man, the driver at the wheel, and
not another man on the piece of apparatus to
fight the fire. I think the situation now prevail-
ing in the department is all wrong.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
CONVALESCENT HOME PROPERTY,
DORCHESTER.
Coun. GOLDMAN moved to take from the
table No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Whereas, The trustees of the Boston City
Hospital have the care and custody of a certain
parcel of land belonging to the City of Boston and
situated on the easterly side of Dorchester avenue,
together with the buildings thereon, and being
numbered 2150 on said Dorchester avenue, and
known as the Convalescent Home; and
Whereas, The said trustees of the Boston City
Hospital has no present need of the said premises
for public purposes; now, therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Ma>'or oei and ne
hereby is, authorized, in the name and behalf of
the City of Boston, in consideration of fifty dollars
paid to the City of Boston by the Massachusetts
Section of the Women's Department of the
National Civic Federation, to lease, by a written
instrument satisfactory in form to the Law De-
partment of the City of Boston, to the said Massa-
chusetts Section of the Women's Department of
the National Civic Federation, or its nominee,
for the purposes of using and operating the said
premises as a home for unemployed single girls
and women having a settlement in Boston and
for no other purpose, for a period of five months
beginning with the first day of January, 1935, and
ending with the first day of June, 1935, the said
premises numbered 2150 Dorchester avenue,
situated on the easterly side of said Dorchester
avenue, in that part of Boston called Dorchester;
and it is hereby further
Ordered, That the said lease contain a provision
authorizing the Mayor of Boston to teminate and
cancel the said lease by sending to the said Massa-
chusetts Section of the Women's Department of
the National Civic Federation a thirty-day notice
of his intention so to do, mailed to or delivered at
the above leased premises to the said Massachusetts
Section of the Women's Department of the
National Civic Federation.
The question came on taking from the table.
Coun. FISH— Mr. President.
President DOWD — The motion to take from
the table is not debatable.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I ask unanimous
consent to make a statement.
There was no objection.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, last week I asked
that this order be tabled until I might get informa-
tion from the Law Department in regard to the
will disposing of the Churchill estate. I under-
stand that this property was willed to the city
for the sole purpose of being used as a convalescent
hospital, and nothing else. Therefore, I trust that
the matter will lie on the table until we get the
information from the Law Department.
The motion to take from the table was declared
lost. Coun. Goldman doubted the vote and
asked for a show of hands. The motion to take
from the table was lost, upon a show of hands,
5 to 5.
RETURN OF E. R. A. FUNDS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be re-
quested to inform the City Council if it is correct, •
as stated in the newspapers, that approximately
$280,000 of E. R. A. money, allotted by the Federal
Government to be expended in Boston, was re-
turned unexpended, and if the statement is correct
who is responsible for not providing projects for the
expenditure of this money.
Coun. SELVITELLA— Mr. President, this order
follows in line with the orders already offered by
Councilors Wilson and Agnew. My object in
filing the order is that we may get some idea of who
is responsible for turning back to the Federal
Government for the month of December $280,000
which was given to this city and has not been
expended. Boston received as its share of the
December allotment $960,000 from the Federal
Government and it is estimated that by the end of
the month we will have spent $680,000, leaving
$280,000 which must be returned because those
responsible for setting up these projects failed to
provide projects and incidentally thereby failed to
provide work for at least 8,000 men and women for
one month. That is a serious matter, when each
DECEMBER 17, 1934.
401
and every one of us here is beseiged continually with
men and women desiring an opportunity to work,
and when their requests must be denied because
some one has failed to provide a project. I do not
believe there is another city or town in this state —
yes, or in this country — that has taken such action,
making it necessary to return to the Federal
Government $280,000 of E. R. A. money; and I
am going to ask, Mr. President, that this matter be
referred to the Executive Committee so that we
may summon before us those whom we believe are
responsible for this, in order to prevent a future
repetition of that sort of thing.
The order was referred to the Executive Com-
mittee.
PAYMENTS ON MORTGAGES.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Whereas, The Home Owners Loan Corporation
has suspended loans on homes; and
Whereas, Many home owners are in grave danger
of having their property foreclosed; therefore be it
Resolved, That it is the sense of the Boston City
Council that his Honor the Mayor request the
Governor of the Commonwealth to call a con-
ference of state officials with representatives of
savings banks, co-operative banks, trust com-
panies and insurance companies to put into effect
recommendations suggested by State Treasurer
Charles F. Hurley, as follows:
1. The banks and insurance companies of
Massachusetts agree on a moratorium on fore-
closures of mortgages on homes for one year.
2. Postponement of principal payments of
mortgages for a period of three years.
3. A voluntary reduction of interest rates to at
least 5 per cent on mortgages of dwelling houses for
three years.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
HEATERS IN POLICE CARS.
Coun. SELVITELLA offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to consider the
advisability of installing heaters in police cars now
in operation.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
CINDER TRACK, BILLINGS FIELD.
Coun. FINLEY offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to consider
the advisability of constructing on Billings Field,
West Roxbury, a 400-meter cinder track, 30 feet
wide, as part of the E. R. A. program contemplated
by said department.
Coun. FINLEY Mr. President. I am presenting
the order which has just been read for the following
reason. I have been reliably informed that the
Olympic tiy-OUtS for 1936 arc to be held in Boston,
and there is no track in Boston or vicinity tl
the facilities to handle many of the events on an
athletic track program, such as the 400-meter run
and 400-meter hurdle. In the Olympic try-outs
held in Boston in 1932 the contestants in the event
had to travel to Philadelphia, because the tracks
here were not wide enough. There is not a track
in Roalindale, West Roxbury, Hyde Park or
, and Billings Field has all the natural
- for such a track without interfering with
the baseball or football field. The famous track
at Calendonian Grove, W> I >ury, will soon
emory, as it is to be destroyed to make waj
aen state highway, which will be built
through the trove. Tins will mean tl
of our . I de and West Roxbury, which
boasts of such track stars as l.eo Reddish and
Barrj Scanlon of Holy < Iross, the Bigwood brothers
of Latin and Commerce, Roger and Dick Battles
of English High, and man] other si ir athletes,
will, if provision Such BS is suggested in this order
is made, have a modern track to encourage them
:1ml other ambitious boys of the district to compete
I 11 No, I should, as chairman
of the Park and Playground Committee of this
Council, Say that I [eel thai Chairman Long of
, be highl) 001 nded
plendld work he has done ill creating projects
which have made possible keeping men on the
1 R.A.UI work. In view of the criticism we have
just beard ol the return of unexpended mo
the central government because of failure on the
part of public officials to provide projects, I
certainly believe that mention should be made at
the present time of the splendid work that our
Park Commissioner has done along these lines.
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
PLAYGROUND FOR EAST BOSTON.
Coun. SELVITELLA called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Ordered, That the sum of ten thousand
dollars (S10.000) be, and hereby is, appropriated,
to be expended under the direction of the Park
Commission, for the establishment of playground
in that part of Boston called the Fourth Section of
East Boston, and that to meet said appropriation
the City Treasurer be authorized to issue, from
time to time, upon the request of the Mayor, bonda
or certificates of the city to said amount.
On December 3, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 19, nays 0.
The order was given its second and final reading
and passage, yeas 15, nays 0.
APPOINTMENT OF POLICEMEN.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Police Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
appoint 100 more policemen to the Boston Police
Department.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON COUNTY
ACCOUNTS.
Coun. FITZGERALD, for the Committee on
County Accounts, submitted the following:
Report on communication from Justice of
District Court of Chelsea (referred December 3)
with reference to appointment of Miss Lillian A.
Evans as probation officer of said court, to take
effect December 1, 1934, recommending passage
of following order, viz.:
Ordered, That the salary of Lillian A. Evans,
Probation Officer of the District Court of Chelsea,
established by the Justice of said Court at S1.800
a year, from December 1, 1934, be, and hereby is,
approved.
Coun. FITZGERALD— Mr. President, this
applies to the salary to be paid to the probation
officer recently appointed over there, due to the
death of the former probation officer.
Report accepted; order passed.
RECESS.
The Council voted at 3.04 p. m., on motion of
Coun. FISH, to take a recess, subject to the call
of the Chair. The members reassembled in the
Council Chamber at 5.06 p. m., Coun. FIN LI A
in the chair.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Coun. WILSON, for the Executive Committee,
submitted the folio
1. Report on order (referred today) concerning
Wayside Army. Inc., recommending passage of
order in accompanying new draft, viz.:
Ordered. That tin' Overseers of Public Welfare
In- requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to
advise the City Council the reasons, if any. for
the refusal of a permit requested by the Wayside
Army. Inc.. for the public solicitation of funds to
be used for Christ mas dinners f,.r the poor.
Report accepted; order passed in new draft.
2. Report on order 1 referred today that the
Mayor he requested to inform the Council as to
bility for nonexpenditure of 1280,000 of
E R. \ mone) allotted to Boston that same
Report accepted; said order passed
3. Report on order (referred today' for accept-
I chapter 178, Acta of 1934, for Municipal
Building in Baal Boston district recommending
une ought to 1
Report accepted; said ordei p issed.
402
CITY COUNCIL.
4. Report on petition of Ethel A. Prendergast
(referred September 24) to be paid annuity on
account of death of her husband, Maurice J,.
Prendergast, late member of the Boston Fire
Department — that no further action is necessary,
the petition having been disapproved by the
Medical Board.
Report accepted.
5. Report on petition of Mary E. Connelly
(referred October 15) to be paid annuity on account
of death of her husband, Patrick F. Connelly,
late member of the Boston Fire Department — that
no further action is necessary, the petition having
been disapproved by the Medical Board.
Report accepted. *
6. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) authorizing Penal Institutions
Commissioner to sell certain tubercular reacting
cattle at Deer Island — that same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
7. Report on message of Mayor and order
(referred today) authorizing Mayor to execute
on behalf of City of Boston agreement as to grant
for constructing and equipping school buildings,
P. W. A., Docket No. 4217— that same ought to
pass.
Report accepted; order passed, yeas 15. Nay —
Coun. Shattuck— 1.
8. Report on message of Mayor and order (re-
ferred today) for expenditure of $9,000 from Park-
man Fund — recommending that same ought to
pass.
Report accepted; order passed, yeas 15, nays 0.
9. Report on petition of William Earle (re-
ferred today) for children under fifteen years of
age to appear at Municipal Building, South Boston,
January 11, 1935, — recommending that leave be
granted on usual conditions.
Report accepted; leave granted on usual con-
ditions.
10. Report on order (referred December 3) that
compensation for supervisors appointed to act in
recent State Election in various wards of the city
be fixed at rate of S9 a day, — recommending that
same ought to pass.
Report accepted; said order passed.
Coun. McGRATH — Mr. President, in connec-
tion with the order just passed, I would like to
submit a list of names which I have obtained from
the City Clerk, — first, of those who petitioned for
the appointment of supervisors in the last election,
and next a list of those who were nominated as
supervisors, including those who acted as super-
visors. I understand that the names marked with
a cross, while nominated, did not serve, but that
the others did.
The papers submitted by Coun. McGrath are
as follows:
List of Petitioners for the Appointment of
Supervisors.
Ward 1.— Elizabeth W. Pigeon, 58 White
street; Ella F. Smith, 37 Condor street; Nema V.
Smith, 37 Condor street; Timothy F. Mahoney,
30 Condor street; Leslie D. Logan, 41 Falcon
street; Florence E. Leary, 33 Condor street;
Anna M. Randall, 463 Meridian street; Margaret
Butler, 456 Meridian street; Ella A. Bonner,
35 Falcon street; Ella W. McCormack, 33 Falcon
street; Jessie M. McRae, 31 Falcon street; Hattie
Tanner, 66 West Eagle street; Meyer Weker,
364 Bremen street.
Ward 2.— Mary F. Huff, 25 Elm street; Eliza-
beth F. Schofield, 61 Sullivan street; Florence E.
Bates, 60 Sullivan street; Gardner Bates, 60 Sulli-
van street; Elizabeth J. Stillman, 58 Sullivan
street; Elba D. Lucas, 60 Sullivan street; Elmer E.
Meehan, Jr., 114 Bartlett street; Grace I. Chand-
ler, 15 Cedar street; Thomas W. Davison, 27
Monument square; Elizabeth J. Davison, 27
Monument square; Elfred V. Lincoln, 28 Cordis
street; Leonard McGeouch, 26 Allston street.
Ward 3. — Arthur J. Lee, 19 Myrtle street;
John Harold McDonald, 34 North Russell street;
Gilbert F. Rameror, 14 Irving street; John T.
Rahan, 16 Myrtle street; Francis W. Flower, 19
Myrtle street; T. C. Dolan, 19 Myrtle street;
Clarence W. -Patten, 19 Myrtle street; Catherine
C. Finnerty, 29 Myrtle street; Mary H. Kelly,
29 Myrtle street; Cecilia M. Kelly, 29 Myrtle
street; Charles Walton, 19 Myrtle street; Ben-
jamin J. Green, 33 South Russell street.
South Boston. — Agnes K. Willey, 701 East
Broadway; A. Helena Hanson, 566 East Sixth
street; David H. Wilkenson, 744 East Third
street; Elmer C. Lowe, 691 East Sixth street;
Fred J. Sullivan, 33 I street; John Edward Han-
son, 566 East Sixth street; William J. Weiderhold,
52 A street; Edward H. Willey, 701 East Broad-
way; William P. Doyle, 846 East Fifth street;
Arthur F. Kaupp, 779 East Fourth street; Beulah
N. Corey, 785 East Fourth street; Elizabeth E.
Block, 813 East Broadway; Richard L. Birming-
ham, 594 East Fourth street; John Kelley, 709A
East Broadway; James H. Kerrigan, 400 K street;
Arthur V. Mayo, 400 K street; Rose Mayo, 400 K
street; Harry W. Park, 179 M street; Muriel C.
Park, 179 M street; Jane MacLachlan, 697 East
Eighth street; Jessie M. Bowman, 178 M street;
Willard L. Tibbetts, 173 M street; Annie F.
Tibbetts, 173 M street; Angus A. Bencks, 230 N
street; Dora C. Bencks, 1748 Columbia road;
Albert Bencks, 1748 Columbia road.
Roxbtjry. — James W. Pye, 278 Dudley street;
Isabella R. Pye, 278 Dudley street; Terrance
Adams, 7 Mt. Pleasant avenue; Alvina Adams,
7 Mt. Pleasant avenue; John A. Perris, 6 Green-
ville street; Albert V. Perris, 6 Greenville street;
Paskal Alex, 2 Greenville street; Frank E. Bryant,
1750 Washington street; George L. Pye, 278 Dud-
ley street; Allison B. Strout, 19 Norwich street;
James W. Pye, Jr., 278 Dudley street; Lester B.
Wilson, 276 Dudley street; Harriet C. Hall, 60'
Windsor street; James R. Desmond, 1016 Tremont
street; Alice K. Erisson, 101 Hammond street;
Ethel J. Wayne, 101 Hammond street; Minnie M.
Bennis, 54 Windsor street; Annie F. Scott, 14
Windsor street; Nellie Winter, 15 Warwick street;
Martin Ball, 71 Windsor street; Florence L. Lewis,
53 Warwick street; Elizabeth F. Chapman, 8
Marble street; Mamie Williams, 26 Hammond
street; Lucius J. Jones, 40 Greenwich street.
Jamaica Plain. — Margaret E. Purcell, 21 Ever-
green street; George C. Penshorn, 91 Bynner
street; Mollie E. Detimler, 301 South Huntington
avenue; Arlisle M. Young, 301 South Huntington
avenue; Ughakes DerBedrasian, 238 South Hunt-
ington avenue; Jennie L. Smith, 242 South Hunt-
ington avenue; Robert M. Smith, 242 South
Huntington avenue; Margery G. Wyer, 135 South
Huntington avenue; Minnie E. McLeod, 135
South Huntington avenue; Lydia M. Wilber, 135
South Huntington avenue; Louise W. Barnes, 135
South Huntington avenue; Vera M. Beale, 6
Copley street; Mark Brown, 12 Copley street;
Henry G. Cooper, 12 Copley street; Minnie M.
Cooper, 12 Copley street' Phoebe C. Cottle, 15
Copley street; Louise M. Cottle, 15 Copley street;
Clara V. Cottle, 15 Copley street; Edw. W. Sawyer,
158 School street; Ella G. Sawyer, 158 School
street; Berta M. Chamberlain, 158 School street;
George Panly, 169 School street; Elise L. Panly,
169 School street.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
Council Chamber,
Boston, September 17, 1934.
Election Commissioners,
City Hall Annex, Boston.
Gentlemen, — Attached hereto is a copy of list
of voters appointed by his Excellency the Governor
as Supervisors of Election in certain precincts of
Ward 9, City of Boston, for the Primary Election,
Thursday, September 20, 1934.
Yours respectfully,
William L. Reed,
Executive Secretary.
DECEMBER 17, 1934.
403
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts — Executive Department.
Nomination List, September 12, 1934.
(Supervisors of Election for Precincts 1, 2, 7, 9 and 11 of Ward 9, City of Boston, for the Primary Election.
Thursday, September 20, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
t George N. Walker
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
496 Massachusetts avenue.
373 Shawmut avenue.
88 Newland street.
570 Massachusetts avenue.
46 West Newton street.
599 Columbus avenue, Newcastle
Court.
96 West Newton street.
524 Massachusetts avenue.
73 Rutland street.
20 Dilworth street.
Ward 9, Precinct 1
Ward 9, Precinct 1
t William F. O'Connell
* William J. Fortune
Ward 9, Precinct 2
Ward 9, Precinct 2
Ward 9, Precinct 7
* Harold H. Goldstein.
t George F. Yarnold
Ward 9, Precinct 7
Ward 9, Precinct 9
Ward 9, Precinct 9
Ward 9, Precinct 1 1
* 11. Richard Cuzzens
Ward 9, Precinct 1 1
* Served.
t Did not serve.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
Council Chamber,
Boston, November 13, 1934.
Board of Election Commissioners,
City Hall Annex, Boston.
Attention of IVIr. Mahoney.
Gentlemen, — In accordance with telephone request, I inclose herewith list of the Supervisors of Election
appointed on October 31, 1934.
Yours respectfully,
William L. Reed,
Executive Secretary.
TttE Commonwealth of Massachusetts- — Executive Department.
Nomination List, October 31, 1934.
(Supervisors of Election for Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 of
Ward 1, City of Boston, for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation
Residence.
Office.
t Harry B. Walker
* Arthur Vincent Abate . . .
Ernest B. Kraytenberg. .
* .lames DeSimone
* Charles B. Finney
* James Mercurio
* Charley E. Durgin
■ I I ias \ Mil andante
* Forest C. Sprague
*Amcrieo A. DeSimone...
* John Santoro
* .Michael Angelo Laurano
* Louis A. Mason
* Joseph James Schraffa. . .
* Raymond 10. Kcleher. . . .
* Herbert B. Casale
* Frank W. Ramscyer
* Carmelo Capillo
* Lester W. Walkup
' Maurice I'.. Riley
t Frank W. MoLaughton
I JameB P. O'Connor
\ adrejn Fisher, Jr
' John R. Ilealy
* Isadore Borofsky
i rin Irs .1. Pesella
* Malcolm c !. Rees
: i lambda
* William E. Sanford
1 Manuel DeMarco
* William < 1. Morple
! Pasquale Pucoiarello, . .
! l .'nil \ Stone
1 Michael I !, Penta
* Harry P. Perkins
John P. Simpson
1 Elmer Hall
I iniir I !. Mechan, Jr. .
' llifford ' ! Barton
* Arthur E. Moon-
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Ropul>
l lemocrat.
Republican.
ocrat.
Republican.
I lei rat .
Republican,
I liini.rral .
Republican.
I democrat.
Republican-
Demo
Republican.
1 'f Ill' .
Republican
i ii ocrat.
174 Falcon street, East Boston.
87 Gladstone street, East Boston.
156 Marion street, East Boston.
70 Barnes avenue, East Boston.
I I Monmouth street. East Boston.
252 Saratoga street, East Boston.
27 Lexington street. East Boston.
267 Lexington street. East Boston.
89 White street, East Boston.
69 Gladstone street, East Boston.
103 Saratoga street, East Boston.
20 Chelsea street, East Boston.
28 Eutaw street, East Boston.
34 Bennington street, East Boston.
267 Chestnut avenue, Jamaica Plain .
31 Boardman street, East Boston.
14 Adelaide street, Jamaica Plain.
958 Saratoga street. Last Boston.
r> M i. Warren, Roxbury.
703 Bennington street. East Boston
27 Dunreatn street, Roxbury.
160 Bayswater street, East Boston.
6 Copeland place, Roxbury.
168 l.evcleii street, Bast Boston.
54 Esmond street, Dorchester.
Hit) Webster street, East Boston.
51 ' Tchard sweet, Jamaica Plain.
91 Homer street , Baal Boston.
51 Condor street. East Bo
I Murray court, Last Boston.
in Hi .'. I borne si reel . Roslindale.
322 Saratoga street, Last Boston.
ill I'.raillielil avenue, linslindalc.
192 Sumner street, East Boston.
7i Putnam street, East Boston.
127 Magnolia street, Dorohester
15 trenton Bl reel . Ea il Huston.
III Barllett street. ( 'harlestown.
B5 1 arquhat stri el Roslindale.
I 13 Met nIi in street . Last Huston.
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward I
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
W ard i
Ward 1
Ward 1
W ard 1
w ard i
W ard I
Ward I
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 1
w ard i
W ard i
W ard 1
Ward I
W ard I
W u.l I
Ward I
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct
, Precinct 10
. Precinct 10
, Precinct 1 1
, Precinct 11
. Precinol 12
, Precinct 12
. Precinol 1 3
. Precinct I I
P • net II
. Precinot 1 1
. Preoinol i".
. Precinct i">
not 16
. Preoinol 16
. Precinct 17
, Preoinol 17
, Pre.
nol 18
. Precirj
P no! 19
. Precii
not 20
| Did nol s,a y«
404
CITY COUNCIL.
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 2, Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17
City of Boston, for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
♦Joseph L. A. Patry
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
51 Chestnut street, Charlestown.
92 Decatur Btreet, Charlestown.
49 Elm street, Charlestown.
11 Union street, Charlestown.
28 Cordis street, Charlestown.
100 Decatur street, Charlestown.
44 Washington street, Charlestown.
2 Edgeworth street, Charlestown.
6 Cross street, Charlestown.
39 Parker street, Charlestown.
43 Eden street, Charlestown.
66 Chapman street.
25 Elm street, Charlestown.
15 Brighton street, Charlestown.
12 Lexington street, Charlestown.
2 Edgeworth street, Charlestown.
12 Glenwood street, Roxbury.
261A Main street, Charlestown.
82 High street, Charlestown.
31 Winthrop street, Charlestown.
3A Fairview street, Roslindale.
42 Auburn street, Charlestown.
58 Washington street, Charlestown.
22 Monument avenue, Charlestown.
30 Monument avenue, Charlestown.
2 Polk street, Charlestown.
63 Sullivan street, Charlestown.
1 Fremont court, Charlestown.
18 Lyndeboro street, Charlestown.
68 Decatur street, Charlestown.
54 Mystic street, Charlestown.
97 Decatur street, Charlestown.
326A Bunker Hill street, Charles-
town.
20 Moulton street, Charlestown.
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 2
*Edwin H. McCall
Precinct 1
♦Howard J. Pitts
*George L. Childs
*Martin H. King
tCharles H. McGlinchy
♦Sylvester J. Oldaker
*William J. Guinee
*Earl Woods
Precinct 4
Precinct 5
Precinct 5
Precinct 6
Precinct 6
tCharles Smith ...
*Robert Gorell
♦George W. King
♦Oliver J. Molineaux. . . .•
Precinct 8
Precinct 8
Precinct 9
*George H. Baldwin
*Frank M. Donovan
♦George W. Bunker
tCharles A. Guidi
Precinct 10
Precinct 10
Precinct 11
*Richard McNally
Precinct 12
♦William W. Booker
Precinct 14
*Evan M. Headle
tRichard J. Powers
♦Harland E. Hall....
*Harry Creighton Brown
*Charles H. Stevens
*William E. Burns
Precinct 15
Precinct 15
Precinct 16
Precinct 16
Precinct 17
Precinct 17
* Served.
t Did not serve.
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 3, Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16, City
of Boston, for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
tPeter P. Porter
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
213 Endicott street.
27 Sheafe street.
39 Hancock street.
138 Adams street, Dorchester.
55 Hull street.
29 $ Sheafe street.
220 Hanover street.
328 Hanover street.
146 Richmond street.
25 Ridgeway lane.
60 Bowdoin street.
25 Ridgeway lane.
138 Bowdoin street.
14 Irving street.
41 Hancock street.
60 North Margin street.
37 Tileston street.
3 Blossom court.
22 Temple street.
105 Washington Street North.
1 Sheafe street.
12 Hancock street.
40 Hancock street.
3 Stillman place.
145 Endicott street.
357 Hanover street.
328 Hanover street.
69 Chambers street.
32 Parmenter street.
55 Auburn street.
220 Hanover street.
135 Harold street, Roxbury.
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 3
Precinct 1
tPeter Anthony Capodilupo. . .
♦Michael J. Comperehio
Precinct 3
Precinct 3
♦Frank P. Frallicciardi
Precinct 5
*Ulysses T. Sullivan
♦Charles J. Ridgeway
♦William E. Remick
Precinct 7
Precinct 8
♦Stephen Foti
Precinct 8
♦John F. Smith
Precinct 9
♦Robert Coit
Precinct 10
Precinct 10
Precinct 11
♦A. Frank Reel
Precinct 11
Precinct 12
♦Leonard A. Costaldini
♦Felix Case
Precinct 12
Precinct 13
Precinct 13
♦Paul V. DiCicco
Precinct 14
Precinct 14
Precinct 15
Precinct 15
Precinct 16
♦Robert T. Lane
Precinct 16
♦ Served.
t Did not serve. ""
DECEMBER 17, 1934.
405
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 6, Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 1.3, 14 and 15, City of Boston,
for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
♦George E. Andrews
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat .
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
509 Columbia road, Dorchester.
145 Silver street, South Boston.
642 East Third street. South Boston.
187 C street, South Boston.
6 Epping street, Dorchester.
251 L street.
206 Emerson street.
407 East Seventh street.
7 Hopkins street, Dorchester.
574 East Third street, South Boston.
31 Aspinwall road, Dorchester.
558 East Fifth street, South Boston.
25 Windermere road, Dorchester. .
560 East Fifth street. South Boston.
10 Judson street, Dorchester.
108 Emerson street, South Boston.
20 Upham avenue. Dorchester.
295 K street, South Boston.
11 Harold park.
185 West Fourth St.. South Boston.
24 Virginia street. Uphams Corner.
164 Athens street, South Boston.
5 Robin Hood street, Uphams Corner
82 West Third street.
22 Rowell street, Dorchester.
270 West Third street, South Boston.
215 Boylston street, Jamaica Plain.
1047 South street, Roslindale.
2 Chamblet street, Uphams Corner.
436 Ashmont street, Dorchester.
Ward 6, Precinct 1
Ward 6, Precinct 2
tWalter D. Finley. . . .
Ward 6. Precinct 1
♦Patrick C. McCall
♦Thomas Joseph Cuffe
Ward 6, Precinct 5
Ward 6, Precinct 7
Ward 6, Precinct 8
Ward 6; Precinct 8
Ward 6, Precinct 9
♦Edward J. McCracken
♦Granville A. Davis
Ward 6, Precinct 9
Ward 6, Precinct 10
Ward 6, Precinct 10
♦Russell A. Grant
♦Francis J. Mahoney
tFred R. Ingalls
♦Martin J. Landry
♦William M. Thistle
♦Patrick E. Boylan
♦Robert Fulton
Ward 6, Precinct 11
Ward 6, Precinct 1 1
Ward 6, Precinct 12
Ward 6, Precinct 12
Ward 6, Precinct 13
Ward 6, Precinct 13
Ward 6, Precinct 14
♦Ralph A. Best
tThomas J. Lavin
Ward 6, Precinct 15
Ward 6, Precinct 15
♦ Served.
t Did not serve.
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 7, Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 10. 11, 12, 1.3, 14, 15 and 16, City of
Boston, for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
♦Edward F. Daley
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Repub
l lemocrat .
il ilican.
ral
blican.
Demo
Republican,
"■rat.
blican,
icrat .
Republican,
Den rut .
Repub
■ rut.
Republican,
icrat.
77 Sumner street, Uphams Corner.
8 I.inwood road, Dorchester.
8Templeton way, Dorchester.
38 Olney street, Dorche
31 Mt. Everett street, Dorchester.
3L' Robinson street. Dorchester.
76 Elmer road, Dorchester.
494 ( '•■ , Jamaica Plain.
33 Oakley street. Dorche
•t;i Worthington street, Roxbury.
15 Kenilworth street .
19 Wortbington street, Roxbury.
Roxbury,
idville Btreet . Roxbury.
tmi K Btreet.
164 Marine road, South Boston.
8 Rockville park, Roxbury.
840 i i ■ Filth rei South Boston.
1 i ry .
1 lurth street, Soul h B
95 Di try.
776 1' i [way, South Boston.
7 i Julian street , Roxbury.
29 Magnolia street, Dorchester.
ia street. Dorchester,
2 ■ Uexander strei iter.
21 Mb , Dorol tor.
8 ! i Lgni ilia Bl reel . 1 Dorchester.
2 i louUh ille terrace, Roxbun
.mi street . Roxbury < -
'.ford street. Roxbury.
60 Chelmsford street, Dorchester.
Ward 7
Ward 7,
Ward 7
Ward 7
Ward 7
Ward 7
Ward 7.
Ward 7,
Ward 7
Ward 7.
Ward 7
Ward 7,
Ward 7.
Ward 7
Ward 7
Ward 7.
Ward 7
Ward 7
Ward 7
Ward 7
\\ ard 7
Ward 7.
w ard 7
Ward 7.
Ward 7.
Ward 7.
Ward 7.
Ward 7,
Ward 7.
Ward 7.
Ward 7.
Precinct 1
'Matthew J. Thommel
tHarold .). Kadcliffe. . .
Precinct 2
Precinct 2
♦Thomas C. Donegan
♦Harold F. Cook
Precinct 1
♦Clarence W. Hill
Precinct 5
♦Charles M. Ellasowich
Precinct 7
Maine-* ! in
tFrancis D. < 'minimis
♦Francis D. Chubbuck
I'reein -.
Precinct 8
Preoini I
t '.i
tin
tFrederick H. C. Kuinpe
♦Charles I). Foote
♦Edgar S. Nihil!
Precinct 1 1
Precinct 1 1
Precinol 12
Precinol 12
Precinol is
Precinct IS
Precinol 1 1
t ii
Precinol IS
Precinct 16
Precinol 16
i l dward M Irenberg
Hoi ice II. Hamilton
►Herbert M Cady
• l. Kelley
1
* Served.
1 Did not serve.
406
CITY COUNCIL.
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 8, Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14, City of Boston,
for the, State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
tEugene H. Gross
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
3 Cliff place, Roxbury.
560 East Fifth street, South Boston.
148 Warren street, Roxbury.
12 Tappan street, Roslindale.
604 South street, Roslindale.
Ill West Broadway, South Boston.
88 Humboldt avenue, Roxbury.
47 Ainsworth street, Roslindale.
12 Moreland street, Roxbury.
Ill West Broadway, South Boston.
40 Manthorne road, West Roxbury.
144 Manthorne road, West Roxbury.
8 Chester street, Hyde Park.
196 Leyden street, East Boston.
10 Linwood street, Hyde Park.
14 Galena street, Roxbury.
22 Nelson street, Dorchester.
32 Dorr street, Roxbury.
34 Southbourne road, Jamaica
Plain.
19 Hollander street, Roxbury.
152 Wilmington avenue, Dor-
chester.
8 Carlford road, Jamaica Plain.
2 Chamblet street, Uphams Corner.
20 Judson street, Roxbury.
85 Esmond street, Dorchester.
24 Conant street, Roxbury.
25 Monadnock street, Uphams Cor-
ner.
37 Hillside street, Roxbury.
Ward 8, Precinct 1
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
WardS
Ward 8
Ward 8
WardS
Ward 8
WardS
Ward 8
Ward 8
Ward 8
WardS
Ward 8
WardS
Ward 8
Ward 8
*Roy W. Weeks
Precinct 2
tMelvin F. Dwyer. . . .
*Martin F. Sullivan
*Arthur Pyburn
Precinct 3
Precinct 3
tNorman N. Rayner
Precinct 4
Precinct 5
*Martin Sullivan, Jr. .
Precinct 5
Precinct 6
Precinct 6
Precinct 7
tHenry P. Moltedo. . .
Precinct 7
*G. Morgan King
*John Reid
Precinct 8
Precinct 8
Precinct 9
*Paul V. F. Brau
tJames Russell
Precinct 9
Precinct 10
Precinct 10
♦Joseph N. Connors
Precinct 11
*Robert H. Best
fHarrv Newmark
t James J. Kelley, Jr
Precinct 12
Precinct 12
Precinct 13
Precinct 13
Precinct 14
Ward 8
Precinct 14
* Served.
t Did not serve.
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 9, Precincts 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15, City of Boston,
for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
18 Windsor street.
50 John Eliot square.
1 Kenilworth street (now lives at 85
Dudley street).
8 Malbon place.
14 John Eliot square.
263 Cabot street.
56 West Dedham street.
100 Roxbury street.
81 Worcester street. -
6 Kent street.
103 West Springfield street.
570 Massachusetts avenue.
13 Worcester street.
Rear 66 Dudley street.
609 Columbus avenue.
1675 Washington street.
83 Windsor street.
27 Vernon street.
5 Metcalf street, Roslindale.
20 Dorr street.
503 Blue Hill avenue.
43 Humboldt avenue, Roxbury.
12 Moreland street.
8 Sumner place, Roxbury.
39 Burroughs street, Jamaica Plain.
60 Chelmsford street, Dorchester.
451 Norfolk street, Dorchester.
145 Silver street, South Boston.
17 Munroe street.
24 Linden Park street.
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9.
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Ward 9,
Precinct 1
*John H. Glenn
Precinct 1
*Theodore H. Weymouth
+Daniel F. Lane
Precinct 2
Precinct 2
Precinct 3
Precinct 3
Precinct 4
*Thomas L. McGinty
*Stephen G. DesRoche
*Carl L. Bonaparte
Precinct 4
Precinct 5
Precinct 5.
Precinct 6
tWilliam J. Fortune.
Precinct 6
tWilliam R. Sattlewhite
*Thomas E. Kennedy
Precinct 7
Precinct 7
Precinct 8
Precinct 8
*Charles H. Bruce
Precinct 9
tThomas F. O'Brien
Precinct 9
t John W. Reth
Precinct 10
tDaniel A. McElwain
Precinct 10
Precinct 11
*Lloyd F. Howard
Precinct 11
Precinct 12
*Thomas J. Clasby
Precinct 12
* Jacob Helt
Precinct 13
Precinct 13
tHarry Wald
Precinct 14
Precinct 14
Precinct 15
Precinct 15
*Served.
tDid not serve.
DECEMBER 17, 1934.
407
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 10, Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16, City of
Boston, for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
16 Evergreen street.
19 Chestnut avenue.
2 Grotto Glen road.
14 Walden street.
28 Evergreen street.
49 Walden street.
12 Thomas street.
170 St. Alphonsus street.
17 Evergreen street.
101 Hampshire street.
335 South Huntington avenue.
15 St. Francis de Sales street.
10 Perkins square.
20 Downing street.
7>.l YVillowdean avenue, West Rox-
bury.
1216 Tremont street.
287 Heath street.
101 Hampshire street.
335 South Huntington avenue.
192 Vermont street.
11 Zamora court.
12 St. Francis de Sales street.
69 Wvman street.
39 Round Hill street.
71 Farquhar street, Roslindale.
128 Day street.
5 Trenton street, Charlestown.
7 Bynner street, Jamaica Plain.
14 Cliftondale street, Roslindale.
369 Centre street, Jamaica Plain.
63 Beech street, West Roxbury.
17 Sunnyside street, Jamaica Plain.
Ward 10, Precinct 1
♦William W. Hougb
Ward 10, Precinct 1
♦Frederick William Hart
Ward 10, Precinct 2
Ward 10, Precinct 2
Ward 10, Precinct 3.
Ward 10, Precinct 3
♦Herbert T. Pierce
♦Joseph F. O'Connell
Ward 10, Precinct 4
Ward 10, Precinct 4
fHoward C. Wagner
Ward 10, Precinct 5
Ward 10, Precinct 5
♦DeWitt C. Sixbey
WTard 10, Precinct 6
Ward 10, Precinct 6
Ward 10, Precinct 7
Ward 10, Precinct 7
♦John F. Pfau, Jr.. .
Ward 10, Precinct 8
♦Bernard F. Gately. . . .
Ward 10, Precinct 8
♦Ralph P. Conant
Ward 10, Precinct 9
♦James J. Clark
Ward 10, Precinct 9
♦DeWitt P. Sixbev
Ward 10, Precinct 10
Ward 10, Precinct 10
♦Harold E. Weeks. . .
Ward 10, Precinct 11
t Joseph P. Bragg
Ward 10, Precinct 11
♦Harold A. Blum...
Ward 10, Precinct 12
♦John S. VanBael
Ward 10, Precinct 12
Ward 10, Precinct 13
Ward 10, Precinct 13
♦George E. Harrison
Ward 10, Precinct 14
Ward 10, Precinct 14
♦Warren H. Bray ton
Ward 10, Precinct 15
♦John C. Rabbeth
Ward 10, Precinct 15
♦Edward Earl Rvder
Ward 10, Precinct 16
Ward 10, Precinct 16
; Served.
t Did not serve.
(Supervisors of Election for Ward 11, Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, S, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16, City of
Boston, for the State Election, Tuesday, November 6, 1934.)
Name.
Party
Designation.
Residence.
Office.
♦Robert Earl Hoffman
♦Philip L. Dovle
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Democrat.
Republican.
Demi
Republican.
1 It rat.
Republican.
Democrat
iblican.
i lemoi
Republican.
1 )6 Tal.
Republican
Democrat,
Republican.
1 Icin
Repub
l (emi
Republican,
Democrat,
Repub
Drill. II
85 Rowe street, Roslindale.
ill Brookside avenue.
4 Arcadia street.
215 Boylston street.
71 Central avenue, Hyde Park.
27 Gartland street.
'eter Parley road.
230 Amory street.
12 Glade avenue.
20 Dalrymple street.
169 Sri, .ml street.
."il Forest 1 nils street.
8 Gartland t
70 i ill street.
mi School Btreet.
39 Glen road.
17 l ower street.
dl Brookside avenue.
:{_' Brookside avenue.
n:> Brookside avenue.
331 B W ashington strei
l - 1 3 i lolumbus i '• enue.
n B ton Btreet,
120 McBride street,
l.mr.
more road.
treel
137 < lontn
inn Btreet, Roslindale,
i olumbus avenue,
treet, Roslii
8 Qermania -
Ward 11, Precinct 1
Ward 11, Precinct 1
♦Richard W. Sent
Ward 11, Precinct 2
fJohn J. Fallon
♦Roy H. Boyd
♦William R. Cairns. . . .
♦Thomas J. Madden
Ward ll, Precinct 5
Ward 11, Precinct 5
♦Earl H. Schofield. .
• Howard \ Gilmorc
♦Ibria W. 11. Curtis
Ward Ll, P
♦Arthur M. Half.
John I' Doyle
Fr hi. i- i Bale
w ml ll. Precinct id
w -r.l 11, Precinct 10
\\ ird 1 1 , Precinct 1 1
w ard 1 1. Precinct 1 1
1 .I?, ml 1 Ml .oiighlin
♦Albert II. Ladd
1 II mil Mill
♦Albert 11. Hough. .
w ird it. !
Ward 11, Precjn
\i i ln:r \1 Bell ' ins-
♦John J. Brooks
•Herbert i . 1 ook
Hai I :. \\ :i mil
Ward 11. Preoin
ill, Preoin
w rd ll, Precinol 16
Ward 1 1, Precinct 16
Ward 11, Precinol 10
1 r. «l ,1. Call ...
n.li-r \\ . Mo] ii.n Mil
*Sci I Did not •
The above lists were ordered printed in the minutes ol the < taunoil.
408
CITY COUNCIL.
SOLDIERS' RELIEF.
Coun. KERRIGAN, for the Committee on
Soldiers' Relief, submitted report recommending
payments of aid to soldiers and sailors and their
families in the City of Boston for the month of
December, 1934.
Report accepted; said order passed.
WARD 7 IMPROVEMENTS.
Coun. KERRIGAN offered the following:
Ordered, That the Park Commission be re-
quested, through his Honor the Mayor, to properly
flood the skating area at Columbus Park, South
Boston, in order to place it in suitable condition
for the skating season.
Ordered, That the Commissioner of Public
Works be requested, through his Honor the Mayor,
to include in the E. R. A. projects of his depart-
ment the repair of all existing brick sidewalks
in Ward 7.
Severally passed under suspension of the rule.
CONDITIONS OF CHURCHILL BEQUEST.
Coun. FISH offered the following:
Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be
requested to ascertain and inform the City Council
whether or not the land on Dorchester avenue,
formerly used by the Hospital Department for a
Convalescent Hospital, was purchased by the
city or was devised as a part of the Churchill
Estate with a condition that it was to be used
only for hospital purposes.
Passed under suspension of the rule.
THE NEXT MEETING.
The Council voted, on motion of Coun. ENG-
LERT, that when it adjourn it be to meet on
Saturday, December 29, at 11 a. m.
Adjourned, at 5.20 p. m., on motion of Coun.
ENGLERT, to meet on Saturday, December 29,
1934, at 11 a. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL.
409
CITY OF BOSTON.
Proceedings of City Council,
FINAL MEETING.
Saturday, December 29, 1934.
Closing meeting of the City Council of 1934,
in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, at 11
a. m., President DOWD in the chair. Absent,
Coun. Gleason, McGrath, Murray, Tobin.
PROPOSED LEASE TO WOMEN'S NATIONAL
CIVIC FEDERATION.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 19, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Corporation Counsel, in reference to a recent
order adopted by your honorable body, concerning
the proposed lease to the Women's Department of
the National Civic Federation, or its nominee,
of certain premises numbered 2150 Dorchester
avenue and known as the Convalescent Home.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Law Department, December 13, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Mr. Mayor, — Some time ago you suggested
that I prepare a form of order for submission to the
City Council authorizing a lease to the Women's
Department of the National Civic Federation,
or its nominee, of certain premises numbered
2150 Dorchester avenue and known as the Con-
valescent Home. This property was purchased by
the City of Boston under an order approved by
the Mayor on March 18, 1890, for "the purposes of
a convalescent home for the City Hospital." I
understand that the City Council or some members
thereof at a recent meeting raised a question as
to whether, in view of the circumstances under
which the land was acquired, the lease in question
may properly be entered into. Before submitting
to you the above-mentioned form of order we
examined into the title of the city to this property.
The deed contains no restriction and we arc of the
opinion that the city may properly enter into the
proposed lease.
I have been informed by Doctor Dowling that
the trustees consider that the premises in question
are no longer needed for hospital purposes and
that he has advised you and the City Council to
this effect. My conclusion that the lease is
proper rests on the assumption that the trustees
have made this determination.
Very truly yours,
I I INIIY E. Foley,
Corporation Counsel.
Placed on file.
MILK FOR WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
( 'i iv of Boston,
( lllirc of tho Mayor, December 28, 1 0 3 I .
To the City Council,
Gentlemen,— I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the ['nl.hr Welfare, relative to
your order of December Ml. I'.iiil, 'em
establishment of asystom whereby milk isfui
for a price of 8 cents a quart or thereabo
welfare recipients.
Respectfully.
Frederick w. Mansfield, Mayor.
Note. — Mr. Dowling informs
a quart discount means a discount from the
ciirrimi retail price whiob at the presenl time is
I I nails hill if I lie rcl ail pre e llm 1 nalcd and
dropped to 10 cents, for example, the ael cosl to
families on tho welfare rolls would be 7 cents.
F «
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
December 21, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of December 15, 1934, in-
closing the following order from the City Council,
dated December 10, 1934:
"Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of conferring
with the Overseers of Public Welfare with a view
to establishing a system whereby milk is furnished
to welfare recipients for a price of 8 cents a quart
or thereabouts, similar to the system now in vogue
in New York City."
I wish to say that I am at present studying this
matter and have received from some of the chain
stores in Boston an agreement to allow a discount
of 3 cents a quart to families on our rolls. Before
any general plan can be put into effect, the depart-
ment will have to have the approval of Mr. Samuel
W. Tator, the Federal Milk Administrator of New
England.
I am in correspondence with him on the matter.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
MEN TRANSFERRED TO E. R. A.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Soldiers' Relief Commissioner, relative to
your order of December 17, 1934, concerning the
number of men transferred to the E. R. A. from the
rolls of that department from September 1, 1934,
to that date.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Soldiers' Relief Department,
December 26, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir,— In reply to your Honor's communica-
tion of December 20, 1934, with reference to the
order of the City Council dated December 17, 1934,
pertaining to transfers to E. R. A. from September
1, 1934, I wish to submit the following information.
Beneficiaries of this department transferred from
relief to E. R. A.:
September 43
October 35
November 40
Beneficiaries under E. R. A. projects returned to
soldiers' relief rolls because of loss of employment:
September 31
October 27
November 59
I auch as the month of December has not
expired I cannot at this time give you figures for
that particular period.
Respectfully yours,
Charles 11. Carey,
Commissioner.
Placed on file.
ASSIGNMENT OF GRAVES.
The following was received:
City of Boston.
Office of the Mayor, December 28,
I o the Citj Council.
Gentlemen,- 1 herewith transmit a teller from
the Boston Park Department, relative to your
order of December 3, 1934, concerning the assign-
ment of graves in city cemeteries to those unable
to pay for the graves, such as welfare recipients
hers.
: pectfully,
I'm in k \\ . M INBFIBLD, Mayor.
ion.
Part lop -ii , December 21, i
lion. Frederick w . Mansfield,
M ayor Of Boston.
Dear Sir, I have j our memorandum of De-
cember 15, with on I. cure, order from the I'ny
410
CITY COUNCIL.
Council that the Park Commission assign graves
in city cemeteries to those unable to pay for the
graves, as welfare recipients and others.
Some years ago similar orders were presented
and the orders were referred to the Law Depart-
ment, and that department ruled it was illegal to
give away city property without recompense.
Recently the Overseers of the Public "Welfare
purchased graves and the deeds were made in
their name. This latter department paid us for
the cost of the graves, but no perpetual care was
provided, and this department has to care for
these graves for all time without recompense.
From my knowledge of the situation I am satis-
fied that the assigning of graves free or even at a
reduced price, assuming that the illegality was
not in question, will result in the application for
such graves by those residing in the city and out-
side and we would have no means of determining
the worthiness of the applicants; the time between
death and burial leaves but little chance for any
investigation and which is not in our province to
conduct.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
BURIAL OF WELFARE RECIPIENTS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, relative to
your order of December 3, 1934, concerning a
more liberal policy regarding the burial and conse-
quent funeral expenses of welfare recipients.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
December 21, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of
your communication of December 15, 1934, in-
closing the following order from the City Council,
dated December 3, 1934:
"Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of requesting
the Department of Public Welfare to work out a
more liberal policy regarding the burial and conse-
quent funeral expenses of welfare recipients."
Please be informed that the schedule of al-
lowances for funeral expenses of persons buried by
this department is as follows:
$15 for persons under sixteen years of age, which
includes $1.50 for opening the grave and an
honorarium of $1.50 for religious services.
$25 for persons over sixteen years of age, which
includes $3 for opening the grave and an hono-
rarium of $2 for religious services.
Not more than $40 is contributed by this de-
partment towards burial expenses of State cases.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
Placed on file.
FLOODING OF COLUMBUS PARK.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Boston Park Department, relative to your
order of December 17, 1934, concerning the flood-
ing of Columbus Park for the skating season.
• Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, December 21, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of Decem-
ber 20, with inclosure, order from the City Council,
that the Park Commission be requested to properly
flood the skating area at Columbus Park, South
Boston.
Pleased be informed that the skating area at
Columbus Park has been flooded for some little
time and has been enjoyed by the skating public
when the weather permitted.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
ELIMINATION OF STIGMATIZING
DESIGNATION.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 28, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Overseers of the Public Welfare, also a letter
from the Park Department, relative to your order
of December 3, 1934, concerning the elimination
from all records, as a designating phrase, "Pauper's
Grave" and "Pauper's Burial," or other like
stigmatizing designations.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Overseers of Public Welfare,
December 21, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — This is to acknowledge receipt of your
communication of December 15, 1934, inclosing
the following order from the City Council, dated
December 3, 1934:
"Ordered, That the Ma3'or of Boston be re-
quested to consider the advisability of conferring
with the proper authorities relative to the matter
of eliminating from all records, as a designating
phrase the words, 'Pauper's Grave' and 'Pauper's
Burial,' or other like stigmatizing designations."
I beg to report that the word "pauper" was
eliminated from the Relief Laws, chapter 155,
Acts of 1928, since which time that designation
has not appeared on any of our official records,
outside of the Trust Fund case of Brighton, which
according to its terms is still carried as Holton
Protestant Pauper Fund for Brighton residents.
Such designation, of course, is mandatory by the
terms of the will.
Yours truly,
John C. L. Dowling,
Executive Director.
City of Boston,
Park Department, December 21, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of Decem-
ber 17, with inclosure, order from the City Council
relative to eliminating from all records, as a desig-
nating phrase, "Pauper's Grave" and "Pauper's
Burial," or other like stigmatizing designations.
For many years certain sections of Mount Hope
Cemetery has been set aside and under direction
of the Overseers of the Public Welfare burials are
made, and this latter department reimburses the
Park Department for burials at a cost of $3 for
adults and $1 for children. There is no charge
made to them for the graves and this department
takes care of such sections without recompense.
Burials are made after investigation by the Over-
seers, and that department reimburses the under-
takers for funeral expenses.
These sections are called by this department
"City Graves," and a careful record is made of
each burial so that if the family later desires to
remove the body to a purchased grave this can
be done with a surety, and has been done.
It has always been our policy since the Cemetery
Division was taken over by this department to
call these graves "City Graves," and I have asked
the newspapers of Boston to refrain from referring
to them as paupers's graves or pauper's burials.
The newspapers very lcindly complied with this
request.
The objectionable terms are entirely false and
erroneous. Persons buried in these sections are
not paupers and are rightly considered by this
department as those who at the time of burial
have not left sufficient means and their families
are unable to purchase a grave and pay the ex-
penses of a private funeral.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long,
Chairman.
Placed on file.
DECEMBER 29, 1934.
411
LOW-COST PUBLIC STREETS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 2S, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Commissioner of Public Works, relative to
your order of December 10, 1934, concerning a
program for the installation of low-cost public
streets in Boston.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Public Works Department,
December 28, 1934.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary Mayor's Office.
Dear Sir, — I beg leave to acknowledge receipt
of your note of December 15 with attached City
Council order dated December 10, and reading
as follows:
"Ordered, That the Mayor of Boston be re-
quested to confer with the Commissioner of Public
Works relative to working out a program for the
installation of low-cost public streets in Boston" —
and to state that the Public Works Department
does not take the initiative in working out the
acceptance of private streets or ways.
A program for the installation of accepted
streets is a duty devolving on the Board of Street
Commissioners and only after said acceptance
and an order to construct given by the Board of
Street Commissioners do the Public Works De-
partment enter any private street and perform
any work.
I respectfully add that the Board of Street
Commissioners are now preparing a list of private
ways and have already forwarded to this depart-
ment six such private ways to be laid out and
constructed.
Respectfully yours,
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
VETO OF NOXAXTUM STREET
SIDEWALK.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 18, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am returning herewith dis-
approved, and without my signature, the order
adopted by your Honorable Body on December 3,
1934, for the making of a granolithic sidewalk
with granite edgestones on Xonantum street, Ward
22. It appears from a report submitted to me
by the Commissioner of Public. Works and dated
December 17, which I also inclose, that Xonantum
street is 2,055 feet long and the width of the road
varies from 2(i to 34 feet. The estimated cost for
the new granolithic sidewalk and granite edgestones
is 59,055.
It also appears that there is some uncertainty
as to the exact location of the street lines and
that there appear to have been several encroach-
ments by abutters. Furthermore, the Board of
Survey lias recommended a uniform width of ."ill
niughout the entire length of the street
but that only one half of the street length could
be built to this width at the present time, the
i the remaining half being in doubt until the
S above mentioned arc finally disposed of.
There is no money available to make this im-
prove!" ot time and this fact,
coupled with the difficulties ubove mentioned,
n me to veto the order.
Respect fully,
Frederick \V. Mansfield, Mayor.
Publ '■ imminent,
ber 17. 1034.
Mr. John F. Gilmore, .lr..
Secretary , Mayor's • »ffice.
Dear Sir, I l»g leave to acknowledge your
note ,,f December ."> with attached Citj I
order ol sidewalk construction (lien order) for
Mm si rrei, \\ ard 22, and to
length of Nonantum street is 2,065 linear fi
the width of the roadway varies from 20 to 34
feet. The estimated cost of the new granite edge-
stones and artificial stone sidewalks is $9,055.
Xonantum street has been in existence since
1840 and at the present time the matter of street
lines is being looked up to find out their exact
location, as there appears to be several encroach-
ments.
The Board of Survey recommended a uniform
width of 50 feet throughout the entire length
and at the present time one half of the street
length could be built to this width. The length
of the remaining half is in doubt and until these
matters are fully disposed of I respectfully recom-
mend that an order for construction be suspended
until the entire matter of a new street line and
proper grade is prepared, otherwise any construc-
tion might involve the city in litigation in con-
nection with the present street lines and grades.
Respectfully yours.
C. J. Carven,
Commissioner of Public Works.
Placed on file.
VETO — MUNICIPAL BUILDING, EAST
BOSTON.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I return herewith disapproved,
and without my signature, an order adopted by
your Honorable Body on December 17, 1934,
accepting chapter 178 of the Acts of 1934, which
provides for the construction of a municipal build-
ing in East Boston.
The statute referred to authorizes the purchase
of land and the construction thereon of a municipal
building in East Boston at a cost of S100.000, to
be raised by sale of bonds providing an additional
sum of 10 per cent should be added thereto to be
raised by tax levy; but the whole amount of this
expense would fall eventually upon the real estate
taxpayers of Boston. In view of the existing high
tax rate and the prospect of a rate as high if not
higher for the year 1935, it is plain that no further
burden should be added to that already being carried
by the real estate taxpayer ; nor is a municipal build-
ing in East Boston an absolute necessity at the
present time. Later when money is more plentiful
and the times more propitious it might be well to
erect a suitable municipal building in East Boston
but under existing conditions I am constrained to
veto the order.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
VETO — EAST BOSTON PLAYGROUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 26, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen. — I am returning herewith disap-
E roved and without my signature the order adopted
y your Honorable Body on December 17 which
appropriated $10,000 for the establishment of a
playground in the Fourth Section of East Boston.
The Park Commissioner has reported to me that
ho knows of no available site that could be ac-
quired in the section referred to which would be
of sufficient area and otherwise suitable to afford
proper facilities for playground purposes and he
adds that there seems to be a sufficient number of
mils to aicomtnodate the needs of the
public at least until the times are more propitious.
The amount appropriated here is sub-
and would merely mean an additional burden
upon the tn\ lonomic conditions being
what they are and the Fourth Section
being apparently adequately supplied
lygrounda, there seems to be no pressing
the spending ol this money at the present
time. Therefore I feel const rained to veto the
order.
peotfully,
aid Vf. Mw-iiuld. Mayor.
Placed on file.
412
CITY COUNCIL.
LAND FOR WARD 7 PLAYGROUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 22, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit a letter from
the Park Department relative to your order of
December 10, 1934, concerning the proposed taking
of a vacant lot of land bounded by Story and Fifth
streets, Ward 7, for playground purposes.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, December 20, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have your memorandum of Decem-
ber 15, with inclosure, order from the City Council,
requesting the Park Commission, through your
Honor, to consider the advisability of taking the
vacant lot of land bounded by Story and Fifth
streets. Ward 7, for playground purposes.
The land in question contains five lots, each lot
containing approximately 5,700 square feet, is
assessed for $1,700 or a total of $8,500 for the
entire five lots containing approximately 28,387
square feet or 0.65 acre.
The area is entirely too small for a playground,
is not properly located for such and under the
present economic conditions it is certainly inad-
visable to purchase same for playground purposes.
Very respectfully yours,
William P. Long, Chairman.
Placed on file.
APPROPRIATION, CITY PRINTING
PLANT.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 20, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — Because of additional work which
the City Printing Plant has been called upon to do
in recent months the original appropriations in
certain items of the departmental budget have
proved inadequate. In order to close out the
accounts of the department for the current financial
year the Superintendent of the Plant has requested
that an additional appropriation be made from
Printing Department revenue. I submit herewith
the necessary appropriation order and respectfully
recommend its adoption by your Honorable Body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Printing Department,
December 19, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — Your Honor is respectfully requested
to recommend an additional appropriation of
$30,077.56 from the revenue of the Printing De-
partment to meet the current year's expenses in
the following budget items:
A-l $4,100 00
B-l 1,000 00
B-5 30 00
B-6 175 00
B-8 350 00
B-12 42 26
D-3. 300 00
D-8 50 00
E-15 15,000 00
F-7 30 30
G-3 7,000 00
G-4 2,000 00
$30,077 56
The expense for the above enumerated budget
items vary from year to year, dependent entirely
on the amount and nature of the work required of
the department to execute.
Respectfully,
William J. Casey,
Superintendent of Printing.
Ordered, That to meet the current expenses
payable during the financial year beginning with
the first day of January, 1934, an additional sum
of $30,077.56 be, and the same hereby is, appro-
priated from the income of the Printing Depart-
ment, for:
Printing Department.
A-l, Permanent Employees $4,100 00
B. Service Other than Personal 1,597 26
D, Supplies 350 00
E, Materials 15,000 00
F-7, Pensions and Annuities 30 30
G, Miscellaneous 9,000 00
$30,077 56
The order was passed, yeas 15, nays — Coun.
Selvitella— 1.
INSTALLATION OF TRAFFIC LIGHTS.
The following was received:
Citv of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 21, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I herewith transmit four letters from
the Boston Traffic Commission, relative to orders
adopted by your Honorable Body concerning the
installation of traffic lights or signals at the follow-
ing junctions:
Traffic lights at —
1. Perkins street and Jamaicaway.
2. Perkins street and South Huntington
avenue.
3. Moraine, Centre, South Huntington avenue
and Boylston streets.
Traffic signals at —
4. Crawford street and Humboldt avenue.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, December 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated December 3, 1934,
which reads as follows:
" Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner,
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
install traffic lights at Perkins street and the
Jamaicaway."
There are no funds available for the installation
of these lights.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, December 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated December 3, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner, through
his Honor the Mayor, be requested to install
traffic lights at Perkins street and South Hunting-
ton avenue."
There are no funds available at the present time
for the installation of these signals.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, December 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated December 3, 1934,
which reads as follows:
"Ordered, That the Traffic Comm'ss'oner'
through his Honor the Mayor, be requested to
install traffic lights at the junction of Moraine,
Centre, South Huntington avenue and Boylston
streets."
There are no funds available at the present
time for the installation of signals at the above
location.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
City of Boston,
Traffic Commission, December 18, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge
receipt of Council order dated December 3, 1934,
which reads as follows:
DECEMBER 29, 1934.
413
"Ordered, That the Traffic Commissioner be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, to install
automatic traffic signals at the junction of Crawford
street and Humboldt avenue, Ward 12."
There are no funds available for the installation
of the above signals at the present time.
Very truly yours,
William P. Hickey, Commissioner.
Placed on file.
WITHDRAWAL OF OFFER IN RE
CONVALESCENT HOME.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 29, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — The Massachusetts Section of the
Women's Department of the National Civic
Federation has informed mc that on account of
the opposition which they have encountered, they
have withdrawn from the project of housing single
women in the property in Dorchester known as
the Convalescent Home and about which I sent a
message to your Honorable Body on November 19.
In view of this communication from the Massa-
chusetts Section of the Women's Department of
the National Civic Federation the order which, if
adopted, would have authorized leasing of the
premises in question to that body, is withdrawn.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Placed on file.
TRANSFER FROM PARKMAN FUND.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 27, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I am in receipt of the attached
communication from the Board of Park Commis-
sioners requesting the transfer of the sum of
$786.04 from the income 'of the George F. Park-
man Fund to the maintenance and improvement
of the Common and parks in existence on Janu-
ary 12, 1887.
I submit herewith an appropriation order and
respectfully recommend its immediate passage by
your Honorable Body.
Respectfully,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
Park Department, December 20, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield,
Mayor of Boston.
Dear Sir, — By vote of the Board of Park Com-
missioners, you are respectfully asked to request
the City Council to transfer from the income of
the George F. Parkman Fund the sum of S786.04,
which is the final amount of accrued income for the
year 1934 and is now available, to he expended
under the direction of the Board of Park Com-
missioners as follows:
Common and Parks in Existence on
January 12, 18S7, Maintenance and
Improvement of $7S6 04
When the budget estimates were made up for
the year 1931, a sum equal to the total yearly
income of the George F. Parkman Fund
deducted from Item \-l, Permanent Employees,
with the understanding that this deduction was to
be replaced by the total yearly income of said
Parkman Fund for 1934, to be transferred as it
accrued from time to time during the year to
the regular maintenance appropriation of tin'
Park Department.
Respectfully yours,
William I'. Long:, Chairman.
Ordered, Thai the )um of S780 04 !"■. ind herebj
i", appropriated ina,, t|l(> income of the George
I Parkman Fund, to be expended under 1 1 « « -
direction of the Park Commissioners, for Ilie
maintenance and improvement of the Common
and pirki in existence on January 12, ls^7, as
follows:
' onii in, i Parks in Existence on
January 12, 1887, Maintenance and
Improvement of $7-m. 0 1
Tho rule was suspended, and the order « i -
passed, yeas 16, nays 0.
FINANCE COMMISSION REPORTS IN
RE TUNNEL TAKINGS.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Office of the Mayor, December 20, 1934.
To the City Council.
Gentlemen, — I inclose herewith a letter from the
Finance Commission accompanying a report
transmitted in compliance with the order adopted
by your Honorable Body on November 19, 1934,
relative to the takings of land for the East Boston
Tunnel approaches and which your Honorable
Body requested me to forward to the Finance
Commission.
Yours truly,
Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
City of Boston,
The Finance Commission,
December 19, 1934.
To the Honorable the Mayor.
Sir, — On November 22, 1934, your Honor
transmitted to the Finance Commission a copy of
an order adopted by the City Council at its meet-
ing held on November 19, 1934, which read as
follows:
"Ordered, That the Finance Commission be
requested, through his Honor the Mayor, in its
study of land-takings by the City of Boston, to
give special consideration to the takings for the
East Boston Tunnel approaches, considering
among other things the extent to which settle-
ments were made in excess of the true value of the
parcels taken, as evidenced by bona fide sales in the
neighborhood, including sales by former owners
of lands so taken to persons who after a short
period of ownership or under option unloaded on
the city at large profits, and following these profits
so far as possible to the ultimate recipients.
In City Council November 19, 1934. Passed.
Attest '
W. J. Doyle, City Clerk."
In your Honor's letter of transmittal accompany-
ing this order, you requested that the commission
"make the survey and report to me at your earliest
convenience." As stated to you in a letter under
date of November 23, 1934, at the time this request
was received the commission already had in its
possession a large amount of material gathered in
an almost continuous investigation of the tunnel
project, which began with the presentation of the
bill to authorize construction of the tunnel in then
1928 legislative sessions, and has been carried on
down to the present day. The commission has
issued many reports dealing with different phases
of the project.
Because certain aspects of it had not been com-
pletely set forth in a form available to the general
public, and because there appeared to be wide-
spread demand for complete information, the
commission decided that it would retain special
counsel to assemble and digest the information
already in the commission's possession, and to
supplement, this with such other information as
would be pertinent and obtainable. The com-
mission selected in the person of George R. Far-
num, Esq., an attorney of considerable experience
in legal practice and of sufficient knowledge of
public affairs as to warrant the confidence that
he would be capable of carrying out this assign-
ment. Though Mr. Farnum had represented the
Federal Government as counsel in important
matters for several years, he had not been con-
nected with municipal administration in any way,
and therefore, by reason of this fact and the pre-
viously mentioned qualification?, was. in the
opinion of the members of the Finance Commis-
sion, qualified to make an impartial survey of this
tunnel project and of other matters which the
commission has decided to make report upon.
Mr. Farnum has had the facilities of the Finance
Commission at his disposal, has examined many
witnesses before the commission, and has made a
careful study of all the information obtainable to
date. He litis presented to the commission a
report dealing with certain general aspens of the
tunnel takings, The commission has examined
this report and is satisfied thai it portrays the
within the scope of it as set forth.
I in- commission Bubmits Mr, Farnum 's report
with this letter as the commission's re
the present lime, to your honor's request.
Respectfully submitted,
Tin: Kin (N.r. ( loMMIBBION,
-. Ull>.
Chairman,
414
CITY COUNCIL.
Boston, December 13, 1934.
To the Finance Commission of the City of Boston.
Gentlemen, — Pursuant to instructions received
by me at the time of my engagement to conduct
an investigation into matters pertaining to the
administrative affairs of the City of Boston, I
submit herewith a report covering certain features
of the taking of properties by the Transit Com-
mission in connection with the construction of the
East Boston Vehicular Tunnel. This report, as
will be evident from its character and scope, is
limited to certain general aspects of the East
Boston Vehicular Tunnel takings and will be fol-
lowed from time to time by other reports dealing
with various significant and material transactions
in extended detail.
Preliminary Considerations.
Proposals to provide a quicker and easier route
from Boston proper to East Boston than those
supplied by the ferries and bridges have been con-
sidered and discussed by public and private bodies
in and out of City Hail and the State House for
almost a quarter of a century. Sometimes a
bridge was advocated, sometimes a tunnel. The
first definite, concrete proposition to be given
substantial consideration, however, was included
in the presentation for legislative discussion of a
plan for a vehicular tunnel worked out by a com-
bination of municipal and state officials interested
in public planning in connection with the effort to
secure authorization for an intermediate highway.
This engaged the attention of legislative authorities
principally in the years 1925 to 1927.
The ultimate rejection in 1927 of proposed
legislation to authorize construction of such a
highway and to provide a vehicular tunnel to
East Boston as the connection between North
Shore municipalities and this highway, resulted
in the final separation of the two projects.
The vehicular tunnel was decided upon as the
most likely part of the whole to receive legislative
authorization. Accordingly, with the complete
project blocked by the Legislature of 1927, the
principal advocates took up the job of getting it
piecemeal by the introduction of a bill into the
1928 legislative session authorization construction
of a vehicular tunnel alone.
Tunnel Acts Adopted by the Legislature.
Alvan T. Fuller, then Governor, took a hand in
this agitation and the first act authorizing con-
struction of a vehicular tunnel was drawn to meet
his ideas on the subject and adopted by the 1928
Legislature with his approval.
This act provided for the execution of the
undertaking under state auspices with the City
of Boston standing the financial responsibility.
It required acceptance by the City Government
of Boston, Mayor and Council.
Malcolm E. Nichols, as Mayor, disapproved of
the act principally on the ground that, inasmuch
as the City of Boston had to pay for it, the city
should have charge of its construction.
The acceptance of the 1928 act thus defeated,
Mayor Nichols offered a new bill to the 1929
Legislature. This gave authority to construct to
the Transit Department of the City of Boston.
The act, as adopted, required acceptance by
Mayor and Council, but by its terms the Council
was thereafter eliminated from further participa-
tion.
Planning of Tunnel.
Under the authorization of this act the City
Planning Board, acting more or less jointly with
the Metropolitan Planning Board, set to work on
plans for the project. Likewise the Transit
Department made studies and plans.
Late in the year 1929 it developed that the
Transit Department had one plan, and the City
Planning Board and Metropolitan Planning Board
jointly had another. The Planning Boards had
worked out and considered several plans, but
finally were committed to one definitely. It was
estimated by the Transit Department that its
plan would be much the cheaper for the city and
would furnish a more suitable tunnel than the
plan advocated by the joint planning boards.
The Harriman-Fay or Nichols Plan.
Notwithstanding this opinion, the Mayor
favored the plan advocated by the City Planning
Board and the Metropolitan Planning Board.
This plan provided for a tunnel coming out at a
point slightly north of Hanover street with a
circle centering at or about the junction of Salem
and Cross streets with a widening of Cross street
to Haymarket square and another circle in Hay-
market square. The adoption of this plan was
vigorously opposed by the Finance Commission
and others at the time on the ground that the
amount authorized for the project by the 1929
Legislature, namely, $16,000,000, would not be
sufficient to pay the cost of it; also on the ground
that a tunnel constructed in accordance with that
plan would not be the safest and most efficient
that could be built; and also on the ground that
execution of it would require extensive demolition
of municipal buildings and public places which
must necessarily be replaced in other locations
at great expense. The extensive publicity given
to the controversial discussion of the various plans
was permeated with charges made officially and
unofficially that many of the parcels of real estate
to be affected by the Nichols plan had been
acquired by the speculators, and that the same
speculators had been successful on may occasions
in obtaining large profits by capitalizing advance
information of contemplated city takings. The
Nichols administration expired with the execution
of this plan tied up by litigation and Mayor Curley
came into office in 1930 with the entire project
still open to whatever action he- felt it necessary
to take.
The Transit Department Plan.
As an alternative to the so-called Nichols
tunnel plan, the Transit Commission had developed
a plan which provided that the plaza of the tunnel
would be located south of Hanover street between
Cross and North streets, and provided for no
circle or street widening.
Discussion of Plans During Curley
Administration.
For more than three months thereafter there
was considerable discussion, usually at conferences
held at the Mayor's office, in regard to the adop-
tion of a vehicular tunnel plan. Messrs. Henry I.
Harriman and Frederic H. Fay, who had sponsored
and advocated the so-called Nichols tunnel plan,
continued during this interval to advocate the
adoption of that particular plan. On April 4,
1930, a conference was held in the Mayor's office
as the result of which it was reported in the Press
the next morning that it appeared that the Harri-
man-Fay tunnel plan, which was the so-called
Nichols tunnel plan, was to be adopted. The article
related that this plan had been warmly advocated
at the conference the day before at the Mayor's
office and it indicated that the opinion of the
writer of the article, presumably after discussion
with participants, was that the Harriman-Fay
plan was preferred over the Transit Department
plan, although the Mayor had not committed
himself to either plan.
On April 16 the newspapers reported the an-
nouncement officially by the Mayor and Transit
Commissioners that the Transit Department's
plan for the construction of a tunnel had been
formally decided upon and adopted. This action
was, of course, contrary to the impression created
by the newspaper reports of the April 4 conference.
Some very significant real estate transactions
relating to the project took place between these
two dates, April 4 and 16, and the recital of the
record of them will appear in a subsequent report.
First Order of Taking.
During the next few months there was con-
siderable discussion and speculation on the prob-
able takings, but official action first came to public
notice by the adoption by the Transit Commis-
sion on August 4, 1930, of an order of taking of
31 properties on the Boston side, comprising
48 parcels separately listed by the assessors.
These takings consisted of the land with build-
ings thereon located on the easterly side of Cross
street, between Hanover and North streets; on
the northerly side of North street, between Cross
and Kichmond streets; a parcel fronting on Rich-
mond street and one on Hanover street, all of
which were contained in the block bounded by
Cross, North, Hanover and Richmond streets, and
comprised the major portion of the block; the
parcels on the southeasterly side of North street
between Cross street and Dock square, and two
takings east of Cross street on the northeast side
of North street.
There were 28 properties or 45 separately
assessed parcels taken at this time from private
owners, two properties from unknown owners,
one owned by the City of Boston. One parcel
owned by a City of Boston Trust, the taxes on
which were paid from the income of the Trust, is
included in the 28 properties referred to.
DECEMBER 29, 1934.
415
By this order of taking, property subject to
municipal taxation in the total valuation of
83,106,900 was diverted from the taxable valua-
tion of the city and, in addition, a city police
station valued at $150,000 was doomed, making
it necessary to provide another location and
another building for the police needs of the North
End.
Of the 27 properties taken from private owners,
four were taken from speculators who had pur-
chased them either after or while the legislation
for the tunnel authorization was pending, or who
acquired the property while the legislation for
authorization of the intermediate highway was
pending. More specific details of these purchases
and their relation to the tunnel takings will be
given in subsequent reports.
The total valuation of these four properties dn
the books of the assessors at the time of the
taking was SI ,225,000, which amounted approxi-
mately to 39 per cent of the assessed value of the
entire 27 privately owned properties taken at that
time.
Settlement for First Takings.
Immediately after public announcement of the
taking it was decided by the municipal authorities
that settlement for damages would be offered on
the following basis:
To those owners willing to accept assessed valua-
tion plus 10 per cent, the city offered to make
immediate award in that amount.
To those unwilling to accept assessed valuation
plus 10 per cent, the city would award one dollar
and compel the owner to institute court proceed-
ings and have the court assess damages.
In the one case, it meant immediate payment
without expense of court costs or delay. In the
other, it meant long drawn-out legal proceedings
with attendant heavy expense for legal and other
services.
Four of the properties included in this order
were at this time taken only in part, but the re-
mainder of each was taken in a subsequent order.
In each of these four cases payment, when made,
was for the whole parcel. The figures of the pay-
ment for each are included here for convenience in
picturing the complete transaction.
With this notation, the salient facts in regard to
this first order of taking are as follows:
There were 27 privately owned properties in the
first order of taking.
The assessed valuation of these 27 properties in
1930 was S3, 106,900.
The cost of these 27 properties to the city was
53,209,090.
Four of these 27 properties were owned by
speculators at the time of the taking. Three
of the four were purchased by the speculators
while the tunnel plan was in the making, and after
the authorizing act had been adopted.
The assessed valuation of the four properties
owned by speculators was 81,225,000.
The cost to the speculators of these properties
was 8991,700.
The cost to the City of Boston of these four
properties was $1,378,300.
The city paid to the speculators $386,600 more
than the speculators paid for the properties.
Analysis of these facts shows that in this first
order of taking the speculators owned approxi-
mately 15 per cent in number and 39 per cent in
valuation of the 27 privately owned properties.
To show more clearly these particular trans-
actions, the following data is offered:
1. Property known as 109-111 N'orth street
was purchased on September 16, 192!), by Wil-
liam I. Schell, acting for Abram Lipp and Joseph
Paul, for 839,200. Its assessed valuation was
840,000. It the city for tunnel pur-
poses on August 4, 1930, and the city paid 144,000,
which gave the speculators a profit of S4.N00, or
12 per cent.
2. Property known as 106-10S Cross street
and 108-122 North street, consisting of five parcels,
was purchased by Samuel L. Lowe for S272.500 in
March, 1925. The assessed valuation in 1930
was S282,000. The property was taken by the
City of Boston for tunnel purposes on August 4,
1930. The city paid S341.000 for it by mutual
agreement between Lowe and the City Law De-
partment, which gave Lowe a profit of $68,500, or
25 per cent, on the purchase price.
3. Property known as 35-39 North street and
34-40 Blackstone street, assessed as two parcels,
was purchased by Abram Lipp and Joseph Paul —
it is claimed by William I. Schell that he was
an equal partner, but that is denied by Lipp and
Paul — on June 10, 1930, for S1S0.000, under
option previously taken. The assessed valuation
was S283,000. The city took the property for
tunnel purposes on August 4, 1930, which was less
than two months after acquisition by Lipp and
Paul, and paid S311,300 by mutual agreement
between the Law Department and the owners,
which gave Lipp and Paul a profit of S131.300, or
73 per cent on the purchase price.
4. Property known as 17-27 North street,
47-51 North Market street and 38-52 Merchants
row, consisting of two parcels, was purchased by
Abram Lipp and Joseph Paul (William I. Schell
claiming one third interest) on June 10, 1930,
under option previously taken, for $500,000. The
assessed valuation in 1930 was $620,000. It was
taken by the city for tunnel purposes on August 4,
1930, which was less than two months after
acquisition by Lipp and Paul, and the city paid
$682,000 by mutual agreement, which gave Lipp
and Paul (Schell claiming one third interest) a
profit of $182,000, or 36 per cent on the purchase
price.
The record of the transactions between specu-
lators is so cluttered with straw conveyances,
mortgages, assignments and attachments that an
explanation of them at this time would unduly
extend this report without any compensating
advantages.
It is sufficient to point out that in two cases in
particular the speculators turned over a profit for
themselves of $313,300 within sixty days after
taking title, that three of the properties were
acquired by the speculators after the tunnel had
been authorized and the plans were in the making,
and that a total profit to the speculators was
$386,600.
During the succeeding months some takings
in whole or in part were made on the East Boston
side and easements were taken on the Boston
side, which will be dealt with separately.
Second Order of Taking.
The next order of taking on the Boston side
was adopted on November 26, 1930. The prop-
erties taken at this time were for a site for the
ventilation shaft on the Boston side, and were
as follows:
(a) Property assessed as 30S-310 North street
in the name of James Fitzgerald in the amount
of S15,000. The city paid S16.500 by mutual
agreement between the city and owner.
(b) Property assessed as 316-328 North street
in the name of Angelina and Charles Rotondo
in the amount of S66.000. The Transit Com-
mission awarded the assessed valuation which
was not accepted by the owner. As a result of
subsequent negotiation, the city ultimately paid
SS1.000 for it, which was approximately 22 per
cent above assessed value.
Third Order of Taking.
The next order relating to takings on the Boston
side was adopted on February :i, 1931. The
properties taken, the owners of record, the assessed
valuations, and the ultimate payment by the
vhich resulted from negotiations with the
I. aw Department after the Transit Commission
had made a nominal award of one dollar in each
case, were as follows:
Property.
Owner.
Assessed
Value
Cits
"lit of
Excess tiver
Valuation,
148-150 North street
818.000
10 per cent.
138-144 North street
Adelaide Bellitio
■ cent plus.
416
CITY COUNCIL.
The order adopted at this time included takings
of small remainders of four other properties which
were taken in part on August 4, 1930. The facts
of the combined takings are given earlier in this
report under the August 4, 1930, takings.
Fourth Order of Taking.
The next taking on the Boston side was by an
order adopted on May 11, 1931. The properties
taken were on the easterly side of Cross street,
between North street and Commercial street,
and on Commercial street opposite the end of
Cross street as it existed at that time. This con-
stituted the widening of Cross street through
Commercial street to Mercantile street and was
for the purpose of making a wide approach to the
plaza of the tunnel from the southerly direction.
It should be remembered that a widening of Cross
street from this direction was intended and in-
cluded in all the tunnel plans, that is, those which
were ultimately merged into the so-called Nichols
or Harriman-Fay plan, which was rejected by
Mayor Curley, and the Transit Department's
plan which was accepted by Mayor Curley.
Thirteen properties were included in this taking.
The owners of some accepted the city's offer of
assessed value plus 10 per cent. The owners of
others refused to accept, entered suit, and obtained
awards from the court.
More Speculators' Parcels.
Four of these properties were taken from the
speculators and the principal facts in regard to
them are as follows:
1. Property assessed as 63-65 Commercial
street was purchased by Abram Lipp and Joseph
Paul (William I. Schell claiming one third interest)
in May, 1928. It was assessed for 863,000. The
speculators paid §54,000 for it. The city paid
S77.000 for it on May 22, 1932, or eleven days
after the adoption of the order of taking. The
speculators' profit was $23,000, or approximately
42 per cent on the purchase price.
2. Property known as 24-30 Fulton street and
136 Cross street was purchased by Abram Lipp
and Joseph Paul (William I. Schell claiming one
third interest) in August, 1929, which was about
the time that the Harriman-Fay or Nichols plan
was being worked out. The assessed valuation
was $100,000, but the speculators purchased it for
$75,000. The city paid $110,000 for it on May
15, 1931, which was four days after the adoption
of the order of taking. The profit to the specu-
lators was $35,000, or 46] per cent on the purchase
price.
3. Property assessed as 55-57 Commercial
street was purchased by Abram Lipp and Joseph
Paul (William I. Schell claiming one third interest)
in December, 1930, which was just at the time that
the Nichols plan was formally adopted. The
assessed valuation was $45,000. The speculators
paid $30,000. The city paid $71,500 for it on
May 19, 1931, or eight days after the adoption of
the order of taking. The profit to the speculators
was $41,500, or approximately 139 per cent on the
purchase price.
4. Property assessed as 56-60 Commercial
street was purchased by Abram Lipp and Joseph
Paul (William I. Schell claiming one third interest)
in November, 1930, which was about the time the
Harriman-Fay or Nichols plan was decided upon.
The assessed valuation was $75,000. The specu-
lators paid $41,000. The city paid $90,200 for it
on May 14, 1930, or three days after adoption of
the order of taking. The profit to the speculators
was $49,200. In this case the speculators received
approximately 120 per cent on the purchase price.
On these four parcels, all of which were ob-
tained by the speculators while the plans for the
tunnel were in the making, the speculators obtained
a total profit of $148,700.
In addition, the same group purchased on October
25, 1929, which was also just before the Nichols
tunnel plan was announced, the property known
as 128-134 Cross street for $250,000. It was
assessed for $225,000. This property was occupied
by F. H. Roberts Company, candy manufacturer,
as lessee; the building thereon being a part of a
large plant which extended to Ferry street. The
Roberts Company subsequently, on December 29,
1930, bought the Cross street parcel from the
speculators and paid them $275,000, which gave
the speculators a profit of $25,000. Mention is
made of this private transaction here only to bring
out the fact that the speculators sought and ob-
tained it and made a profit on it after the tunnel
was authored and the plans for the tunnel were in
the making.
The facts in regard to the ultimate cost to the city
will be shown in an exhibit at the end of this report.
Fifth Order of Taking.
The next order of taking on the Boston side was
for the property assessed in the name of George H.
Pettee Heirs at 117-121 North street in the amount
of $134,000. It was taken on October 1, 1932,
and paid for on October 19, 1932. On the official
records it appears to be a taking from the Pettee
Heirs, but actually the Pettee Heirs had given an
option on the parcel to William K. Bean, a specula-
tor who was an employee of Cabot, Cabot & Forbes.
Bean and other representatives of this firm have
testified that Bean held this option as an individual.
The property was taken by the city from Bean
within the life of an option given by Pettee. . The
price named in the option was $85,000. The city
paid $134,000 for it, which was the assessed valua-
tion. This gave Bean a profit of $49,000, or
approximately 58 per cent on the purchase price;
but inasmuch as the option was obtained without
any cash payment and the city took and paid for
the parcel before Bean was required by the terms
of his agreement to take title, the profit named
was without investment of a penny by Bean.
The five orders above recorded completed the
takings for the plaza at the Boston entrance to the
tunnel and for the Approaches thereto from the
south along Cross street and from the west along
North street.
In these five orders of takings the number of
properties thus shown as belonging to speculators
and the gain to them over the purchase price by
the settlements with the city were as follows:
Date of Order.
o a,
lit
rz a> o
S a.*
sec Cm
>>
0 * oJ
|w-g
August 9, 1930
November 26, 1930
4
None
None
4
1
$386,600
February 3, 1931
May 11, 1931
148,700
October 1, 1932
49,000
Total
9
$584,300
The Widening of Merrimac and Cross Streets and
the Haymarket Square Circle.
At the time that the Nichols plan was under
consideration in 1929, it was brought out by in-
vestigation by the Finance Commission that the
speculators owned some properties that would be
required in the execution of that plan. These
had been purchased by the speculators at or about
the time that legislative authorization was sought
to construct an intermediate highway to provide
a wide avenue for traffic through the downtown
section of the city connecting the arteries to the
south of the city with arteries to the north of the
city. It was generally known, and frequently
stated by the Finance Commission, that the
speculators acquired parcels in anticipation of
making profits either by the sale of them to the
city for the highway, or by sale to private interests
which might desire locations on that highway.
The rejection of the authorizing act in 1927 left
the speculators with these parcels on their hands
with little possibility of advantageous sale. Many
other parcels were acquired similarly at that time
and eventually allowed by the speculators to revert
to the original owners by foreclosure proceedings,
expiration of options, etc. In addition, many
others were acquired by the speculators in 1928
and 1929 when, legislation to authorize construc-
tion of the tunnel having been adopted, it was
apparent that the Nichols administration favored
the location of the plaza on the Boston side at a
point north of Hanover street on Cross street with a
circle radiating from the junction of Cross and
Salem streets, with a widening of Cross street
DECEMBER 29, 1934.
417
as it led into Haymarket square, and with another
circle at Haymarket square. If the tunnel was
constructed in accordance with the Nichols plan,
all of these speculators' parcels would have been
taken, but the opposition to the Nichols plan
eventually resulted in a ten taxpayers' petition
to the Supreme Court to restrain the city officials
from carrying it out. The Nichols administra-
tion expired while action on this petition was
pending. After Mayor Curley assumed office,
the Transit Commission held in abeyance execu-
tion of any plan until the adoption on April 16,
1930, of the plan which was subsequently carried
out.
This decision left the speculators with still more
properties on their hands without possibility of
advantageous sales. In addition, there were
some parcels between Canal and Merrimac streets
in which the speculators had previously acquired
interest.
Though the agitation for a circle in Haymarket
square subsided somewhat for a short time, as far
as the public knew, with the defeat of the Nichols
plan, it never really died. It took new form in
1931 in a movement to secure legislation for an
approach to the tunnel from the north by a widen-
ing of Merrimac street, a wide circle in Haymarket
square, and a widening of Cross street between
Haymarket square and Hanover street. A bill
to authorize this project was introduced into
the 1932 legislative session. This bill provided
for a bond issue of S4.500.000 to be added to the
S16, 000.000 already appropriated for the tunnel
and specifically designated the lines of the widen-
ing. The Finance Commission opposed this on
the ground that the necessity for this approach
had not been adequately proven and that there
was doubt that the city would receive enough in
tunnel tolls to pay for the heavy expense already
incurred. However, the Legislature reduced the
bond authorization to S3.000.000 and adopted
the act. and the Governor signed it on June 16,
1931. Six days before the Governor signed the
act, the speculators added one more parcel to
those already acquired by them. This particular
parcel was indirectly designated in the act. then
in its final stage, to be taken by the Transit
Commission.
Adoption of Merrimac Street Widening Plan.
On May 31, 1933, the Transit Commission
adopted an order involving takings of 34 proper-
ties. These properties consisted of parcels on the
southerly side of Merrimac street, between Port-
land and Friend streets, including a small triangular
area bounded by Market, Portland and Merrimac
streets; a portion of another triangular area
bounded by Friend. Merrimac and Sudbury
streets; properties facing Canal street on one side
and Merrimac street on the other; properties
fronting on Washington Street North in Hay-
market square, north and south of Cross street,
and properties on Cross street between Hay-
market square and Hanover street. Some were
takings of properties in whole, others were partial
takings.
One of these 34 properties in this taking was
owned by the City of Boston. A comparison of
assessed valuation and cost to the city on this
entire group is not feasible because of the number
of properties which were taken only in part. It
is not possible to subdivide the assessed valuation
on each property so as to give the portion which
would represent the assessed valuation of the
part taken.
In the exhibit at the end of this report will
appear such figures as are obtainable and relevant.
Previous to the adoption of this order, the Fi-
nance Commission had interposed objection to
the policy of settling for land-takings by any such
arbitrary method as was used in the first settle-
ment, namely, paying assessed value plus 10 per
cent. The commission called attention to the
fact that many parcels had recently been pur-
chased by speculators for fractional parts of the
assessed value; that under such circumstances
there was no obligation on the city to make as-
sessed value the basis of the award; that the
earning power cjf the properties was not in all
i he same proportion to the assessed value;
and that in many cases, by negotiations based on
fairness to thi - as a whole ami to the
particular owners of these pan-els, the city could
acquire some for substantially less than assessed
value plus ID per cent. The city authorities
rejected the Finance Commission's recon
ii on I Date dot negotiating first and endeavoring
to arrive at a fair price, the Iran-it Commission
made the takings, awarded a nominal sum, and
left the negotiations to be conducted by the Law
Department after suit had been entered in court
on behalf of each owner.
An examination of the payments made in such
cases as have been finally settled and comparison
of prices paid with assessed valuations merits
little comment at this time. In all but a few
cases the total payment by agreement between
the city and the owner's attorney does not of
itself give evidence of undue liberality by the
city. The method by which a settlement was
obtained is of more significance.
Effort was made by the representatives of the
majority of the owners to obtain settlement during
the months following the takings in May. but it
was not until December that the first of these
cases was settled. Then, for a period of about
three weeks, or until the termination of the ad-
ministration on December 31, 1933, settlement
was made at irregular intervals to the number
of 14 of the 33 privately owned properties taken.
The principal facts of these 14 settlements are
as follows:
1. Property known as 5 Market street, 42-46
Merrimac street, 99-103 Portland street, taken
in part, was owned by C. W. Whittier. The
assessed valuation was 5130,000. The city took
1,338 square feet of a total area of 3,559, necessi-
tating alteration of the building and paid S100.000
as damages on December 26, 193S.
2. Property known as 2-10 Canal street, 1-9
Merrimac street, taken in whole. It was owned
by C. W. Whittier et al., trustees. The assessed
valuation was $140,000. The city paid 5175,000
on December 19, 1933.
3. Property known as 20-22 Canal street and
19-21 Merrimac street, taken in whole. Title was
in the name of Frances E. O'Brien, as straw for
Samuel L. Lowe, Abram Lipp and G. Augustus
Holzman, who purchased it on October 15, 1924,
for $76,000. The assessed valuation was 5105,000.
The city paid S126.000 on December -29, :
gain of $50,000 on the purchase price.
4. Property known as 14 Canal street was
taken in whoie. Title was held in the name of
Samuel Williamson, who acted as straw for Samuel
L. Lowe and Adolph I. Dinner who controlled
through mortgage ownership. The assessed valua-
tion was SS0.00O. The city paid S96.000 for it on
December 30, 1933.
5. Property known as 9-10 Washington Street
North, taken in part, and property known as 7-S
Washington Street North, taken in whole. The
owner was Harold L. Niles el al. The combined
assessed valuation of the two was 5115,400. The
area of 9-10 Washington Street North was 2,280
square feet, of which 41S square feet were taken.
The city paid 5120,000 by agreement on Decem-
ber 11, 1933, for the two takings.
6. Property known as 7 Cross street, 135-191
Blackstone street, taken in whole. Title was in
the name of Frances E. O'Brien, as straw for
Abram Lipp, Joseph Paul, G. Augustus Holzman
and Samuel L. Lowe, when it was acquired in
1925 for $145,000. The assessed valuation was
S170.000. The city paid S1S7.000 for it on
December 29, 1933, which was a gain of $42,000
over the purchase price.
7. Property known as 15-19 Cross street, 46
Endicott street was taken in whole. It was owned
by executors under will of Marks I. Cohen. The
assessed valuation was 552,000. The city paid
■'I on December 19,
8. Property known as 26-34 Cross street and
51 Endicott street, taken in whole. It was owned
by executors under will of Marks I. Cohen. The
assessed valuation was $71,000. The city paid
$90,000 on December IS, 1933.
roperties known as 3X-40 Cross street,
rear 36 Cross street, 40-44 Cross Btreet, 42 44
Cross street, 46-50 Cross street,
I iken in whole. Previous to acquisition
by William I. Schell in September, 1929, lor Abram
I.ipp and Joseph Paul, thi s three
separately owned proper- I valua-
- ell paid $U'.'.IK>0 and
took title in the name of flyman E. Bass. The
city paid 1
three. The gain on the combined purchase prices
HI. Property known as 64 70 I
liken in whole. It was owned bj M'
Epstein, Thi
1 1..- . n \ paid 128,200 on !>■
1 1 Property tin
Hanover street, taken in whole, it was owned
418
CITY COUNCIL.
by Stabile & Co., Inc., and occupied by Stabile
Bank and Trust Company. The assessed valua-
tion was S130.800. The city paid 8175,000 for
it on December SO, 1933, this payment being di-
vided between the owner of the buildings and the
lessor.
The foregoing lists the properties that were
settled by agreement, 14 properties in all of a total
of 33 taken from private owners. All these set-
tlements were made in December, 1933, which
was the last month of the administration which
authorized the takings. In all of these cases
either the properties were owned by speculators
or the settlements were negotiated by attorneys
whom the Finance Commission has already de-
scribed as "political lawyers."
In this list of 11 properties there were four
which were owned or controlled by the specu-
lators. In these cases the amount realized by
the speculators in excess of the purchase price
was S123.530, asfollows:
Property.
Owner.
Excess over
Purchase Price.
20-22 Canal street
S50.000
14 Canal street
Lowe (through mortgage transaction) ....
5,000
42,000
26,530
Total
$123,530
Thus, it may be seen that in the taking of land
for the East Boston Vehicular Tunnel on the Boston
side the total amount realized by speculators in
excess of the purchase price was S707,830, as fol-
lows:
On the takings for the Tunnel proper S584.300
On the takings for the widening of Merri-
mac street and Haymarket square cir-
cle 123,530
Total S707.S30
A tabular record of all the takings with relevant
details is annexed to this report. (See page 419.)
Respectfully submitted,
George R.Farnum.
Placed on file.
The following additional reports were also
received:
City of Boston,
The Finance Commission,
December 27, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor.
Sir, — The Finance Commission transmits to
your Honor the inclosed copy of a second report
by George R. Farnum, Esq., as special counsel,
relating to the investigation of the East Boston
Vehicular Tunnel land-takings.
This report is submitted as additional reply to
your Honor's request which was made in accord-
ance with an order adopted by the City Council
on November 19, 1934.
Respectfully submitted,
Joseph J. Leonard, Chairman,
Joseph Joyce Donahue,
Charles M. Storey,
Alexander Wheeler,
The Finance Commission.
Boston, December 26, 1934.
To the Finance Commission of the City of Boston.
Gentlemen, — My report, dealing with the East
Boston Vehicular Tunnel land-takings, submitted
on December 18 last, contained the statement
that "it will be followed from time to time by
other reports dealing with various significant and
material transactions in extended detail." I sub-
mit herewith the first of such detailed supple-
mentary reports. It is confined to a consideration
of the circumstances leading up to the taking by
the city of the so-called Hammond and Squire
properties, in which the speculators made an
aggregate profit of S313.300, an analytical study
of the manner in which the settlements were con-
summated, and, in particular, to the effort to
trace the proceeds accruing to the speculators
from the takings. In this last connection, may I
call your attention to the fact that in the order
passed by the City Council on November 19 last,
the Finance Commission was requested in its
study of land-takings, to follow these proceeds —
or "profits," to use the word employed in the
order — "so far as possible, to the ultimate
recipients."
As stated in my report of December 18, 1934,
for several months after Mayor Curley assumed
office on January 1, 1930, there were many con-
ferences, usually in the Mayor's office, and much
public discussion of a suitable tunnel plan. The
Nichols plan, execution of which had been pre-
vented by litigation, was still being warmly ad-
vocated in slightly modified form by Messrs.
Harriman and Fay, representing the Metropolitan
Planning Board and the City Planning Board.
Additionally, the Transit Commissioners were
also advocating the acceptance of their plan
which Mayor Nichols had rejected. It was a
matter of serious financial concern both to the
city and to the land owners in the neighborhood,
whose property might be taken, which plan was
adopted.
On April 4, 1930, an important conference was
held in the Mayor's office at which these plans
were discussed. This meeting was attended by
representatives of the Finance and Transit Com-
missions, among others. Newspaper reports
following this conference gave the impression
that the Harriman-Fay plan was to be adopted.
It should be borne in mind that this Harriman-
Fay plan called for extensive taking of land
north of North street, while the Transit Commis-
sion plan required the taking of land on the
southerly side of North street.
On or about this time Abram Lipp and Joseph
Paul were negotiating for options with the owners
of two large properties on the southerly side of
North street. Negotiations were being conducted
through Frederic Viaux as broker in one case and
through William K. Bean, of the office of Cabot,
Cabot & Forbes, as broker in the other. Finally,
on April 11, according to documents in the posses-
sion of the Finance Commission, Viaux obtained
the signature of Robert H. Gardiner for himself
and for John G. Palfrey, co-trustees, to an agree-
ment to sell to Elizabeth C. Hyland, an employee
of Lipp, and straw for Lipp and Paul, the prop-
erty known as 17-27 North street, 38-52 Mer-
chants row, 47-51 North Market street. This
property was owned by the Samuel Hammond
Estate of which Gardiner and Palfrey were the
trustees. According to the terms of the agree-
ment, Hyland undertook to pay $10,000, at the
time it was signed, and to take title on or before
June 10, 1930, when in consummation of the deal
Hyland was to pay the balance of the agreed
purchase price of $500,000 (that is, $490,000),
by assuming an outstanding mortgage of $100,000
held by the Provident Institution for Savings,
and paying $390,000 in cash. Later this contract
waB revised so as to call for the payment of an
additional deposit of $10,000 by Hyland, and the
taking back of a second mortgage by the trustees
for a part of the purchase price.
(Continued on page 423.)
DECEMBER 29, 1934.
419
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DECEMBER 29, 1934.
423
{Continued from pace J,18.)
Mr. Gardiner has stated to the Finance Com-
mission that at the time of the giving of the option
he had made careful inquiry of the likelihood
of the taking of his property by the city, and con-
cluded that it was not to be done. Regarding the
real purchaser, he had been given only the informa-
tion that it was wanted for investment. It was
assessed for 3620,000.
On the next day, April 12, 1930, through Wil-
liam K. Bean, the State Street Trust Company,
trustee under the will of John P. Squire, made
an agreement with William J. Stober, as straw for
Abram Lipp and Joseph Paul, to sell the property
known as 35-49 North street. By the terms of the
agreement $2,000 was to be paid in cash when
signed, and the balance by a note of S125.000.
secured by a mortgage on the property, and $53,000
in cash, when the papers were passed. The agent
who represented the bank in the negotiations
informed the Finance Commission that he had no
knowledge whatsoever of the probability of a
taking of that parcel by the city, though he was
acquainted with the tunnel agitations. Bean
testified before the Finance Commission that he
was led to believe, by such inquiry as he himself
had made, that this parcel would not be taken by
the city. The assessed value was §283,000.
On April 15, three days after the Squire property
was tied up by option to Lipp and Paul, and four
days after the Hammond property was tied up by
the same speculators, formal announcement was
made by the Mayor and Transit Commissioners
that the Transit Commission's plan of a tunnel
was adopted, which called for the widening of
North street on the southerly side — or the side
where these properties were situated. William K.
Bean gave the curious testimony before the Finance
Commission that as he came away from the State
Street Trust Company, with the signed agreement
in his pocket, he learned for the first time that he
had been misinformed as to the supposed improb-
ability of the city's taking the Squire property.
The city being thus committed to a taking that
included these properties, Lipp and Paul took title
to the Hammond parcel on June 10, 1930. in the
name of Louis Binda. and, on the same day, to the
Squire property, in the name of William J. Stober.
The city formally took both these parcels by the
order of August 4, 1930, and, on August 6 paid
$682,000 for the Hammond property for which Lipp
and Paul paid $500,000, and $311,300 for the
Squire property, for which Lipp and Paul paid
S1SO.O0O.
On August 6, 1930, the city settled for the Squire
property. This property was acquired bv Lipp
and Paul for S180.000. was assessed for S283.000
and the city paid therefor $311,300.
In settling for it, the city issued the following
checks:
(q f-Q no Pa>'able to William J. Stober and indorsed back to the city in payment of taxes and water bills;
126,770 83 payable to Stober and indorsed over to the State Street Trust Company, trustee of the John P.
Squire Estate, in payment of a mortgage of $125,000 and accrued interest;
174,656 73 payable to Stober and indored over to Frances R. Cohen, secetary to John S. Slater, the
attorney who represented Lipp and Paul in the transaction. This check Slater deposited
in his account.
$311,300 00 total paid by the city.
In addition to the foregoing $174,656.73, Lipp gave Slater a check for an additional amount of S9, 565.67,
making a total of $184,222.40. This money Slater disbursed as follows:
$50,000 00 to Abraham Werby. a relative of Paul, in payment of mortgages held by Werby on other prop-
erty on Cross street;
91,277 00 to Irving Karpis. a brother-in-law of William I. Schell, who claimed to be interested as a partner
in this deal as well as that involving the Hammond property, on account of a certain mortgage;
41,445 30 was retained by Slater in satisfaction of the principal and accrued interest on mortgages which
he personally took to accommodate Lipp and Paul on this property and property on Com-
mercial street :
1.500 10 retained by Slater for legal services and disbursements.
$184 222 40
The net proceeds from this settlement accruing
to Lipp and Paul that was thus disbursed in satis-
faction of mortgages on other property in which
they had an interest, will be dealt with in the
continued course of the investigation, if and so far
as the facts discoverable may indicate that they
have any particular significance. It must be
remembered that the limited amount of capital
available to the speculators in laying out their
various operations, required them to constantly
raise the necessary funds for options, deposits at
first payment or passing of papers, by raising loans
on the security of second or third mortgages on
other properties.
In putting through the settlement for the Ham-
mond property on August 6, 1930, the city isseud
the following checks:
$100,037 50 payable to Binda and which was indorsed over to the Provident Institution for Savings in
payment of mortgage on the property;
(19.220 00 payable to Binda and indorsed back to the City of Boston in payment of unpaid taxes on
\ 10,872 74 the two parcels included in the property taken;
301,100 00 payable to Binda and indorsed over to the trustees of the Hammond Estate in satisfaction of
a mortgage taken back by them to accommodate Lipp and Paul at the time thev acquired
title;
250,769 76 payable to Binda and indorsed over to Lipp.
$682,000 00 total paid by the city.
Lipp deposited this last check of $250,769.76 in
his account at the Hank of Commerce and Trust
Company (now Unil - Trust Company) on
August 7. His account showed a balance the pre-
vious day of $1,070.75. On this same day Lipp
made a payment of $100,000 to the Hank of Com-
merce and Trust Company in reduction of a
mortgage previously pined on property ov.
Lipp and Paul on Exchange street. At the same
time he purchased through the bank for the sum
of $79,706.58, which « ;■• charged against his
account, the following unregistered bonds:
$10.000 Phillips Petroleum Corporation.
$25.000 Boston Elevated Railway Company.
$44,000 United States Treasury Bonds.
Delivery was made to Lipp on the same day,
August 7. These bonds forthwith disappeared,
ana the result of the effort to ascertain their dis-
position by Lipp and to discover their present
whereabouts will now be related.
Lipp testified that upon receipt of the bonds he
took them to his office at N street where
he delivered one half of them, consisting of -
of United States Treasury Bonds, to Paul. lie
stated that this transaction took place in private
and that he neither requested nor received any
Paul, on the other hand, flatly contra-
'his and swore positively thai none of these
bonds were ever given to him, either on August 7.
as claimed by Lipp. or at any other time. In fact,
he swore that he never knew thai any bonds had
been purchased out of the proceeds of the property
arwarda when he preset
for an accounting.
On Lapp's story, this left the balance of the
• roleum
Corporation, $25,000 Boston Elevated Railway
424
CITY COUNCIL.
Company, and $4,000 remaining of United States
Treasury Bonds, to be accounted for. Interro-
gated as to the disposition of these, he swore that
he loaned them to his wife's brother, Jacob L.
Beckman of Cadillac, Michigan. He testified that
Beckman, who was proprietor of what he called a
chain of department stores in Michigan, was in
trouble with his creditors and came to Boston and
appealed for help. Though his testimony was
extremely vague as to the precise details, lie
claimed that, as he remembered, the bonds were
delivered to Beckman in two lots. Though he
declared that there was a receipt or agreement
obtained from Beckman at the time, he explained
his inability to produce it by the curious assertion
that he had returned it to Beckman "because he
had trouble with his creditors and he had to make
a statement, he didn't want to have any liabilities
any more than he had in his business."
Between May 11 and May 22, 1931, the city
took title to three parcels of land, 24-30 Fulton
street, 55—57 Commercial street, and 56-60 Com-
mercial street, and settled with Lipp and Paul
therefor. On these transactions the speculators'
profits aggregated 8125,700. John S. Slater
represented Paul and Lipp in these transactions,
and received for them the city awards. Among
other checks, in disbursement of the awards, he
issued on May 15, 1931, one on his "Clients'
Account" for 850,000 payable to Lipp. This
check was certified at the Atlantic National Bank,
upon which it was drawn. Now, at the time of the
settlement for the Hammond parcel, Lipp deposited
the check representing the net proceeds, in his
account in the Bank of Commerce and Trust
Company, and drew against it. In this instance,
however, he did something quite different. In-
stead of depositing this check in his account, he
apparently cashed it over the counter. Out of the
proceeds he purchased through the bank $25,000
United States Treasury Bonds and took away the
balance of $25,000 in cash. The transcript of his
bank account, therefore, does not show anything
of these transactions. The bonds, he testified, he
loaned to his brother-in-law, Beckman, as he
alleged he had done with 840,000 of the bonds
purchased the preceding August. The cash, he
swore, he paid over to Paul, explaining that the
latter didn't wish bonds because — "he got sick of
playing the stock market." Paul categorically
denied that he received a nickel of this cash.
Beckman's explanation (taken by disposition in
Michigan) of these transactions, given after Lipp's
testimony and after Lipp had had an opportunity
to communicate with him, proves how lightly the
oath constrained him when called upon to explain
an awkward transaction. Beckman testified that
in 1930 and 1931 he was in business both at Cad-
illac and at Manton, Michigan. He deposed that
he came to Boston several times in 1930. Though
he was extremely vague as to just when, he thought
one of these visits was in the summer. On one
of these occasions he said that he asked for a
"little loan," and that Lipp replied that he had
no money but "if bonds will help you out a little,
I will help you out" a,nd that Lipp gave him some
bonds, the amount of which he could not recall.
Asked what kind of bonds they were, he replied:
"Cosh, I couldn't tell you exactly what they
were," though he recalled that there were three
or four differenet kinds. He was not certain as
to the amount, but "it must have been around —
I am not positive, but around 850,000 or $60,000
in bonds." He said these bonds were given him
"on three or four or five times," though unable
to recall the exact amount that he received on
any one of these occasions. Though Lipp had
sworn that he received from Beckman a receipt
or agreement at the time, the latter testified that
he gave no receipt or any other paper in that
connection. Asked as to what he did with the
bonds, he replied: "Well, sir, I don't know what
I did with them. Some of them, I guess, I traded
off to some people who came in the store and
traded thern off for what I could get for them. I
didn't think they were very good." He explained
that these people were perfect strangers to him.
Asked what he sold the bonds for, he replied that
he "sold some of them for little or nothing" and
that he used the money in his business. Asked
what he received for the $10,000 in Phillips Petro-
leum Bonds that Lipp swore were included in
what he gave Beckman, the only information
extracted from him was that he "didn't receive
as much as $1,000 for the lot and didn't know if
he receivd as much as $500."
Interrogated specifically as to the $25,000 of
Boston Elevated Railway Bonds that Lipp swore
he delivered to him, he said he thought that the
amount was around 810,000 or $15,000, that these
were disposed of to strangers and as to what he
received from them, he replied: "I couldn't
exactly tell you, but it wasn't very much because
everybody told me they were no good." Asked
if he received $1,000 for these bonds, he replied
"No," and additionally, that he didn't know how
much he received.
Asked as to the $29,000 United States Liberty
Bonds in all that Lipp swore he gave to him, he
testified that he thought the "amount was around
825.000 or $40,000 — I wouldn't say for sure.
I didn't keep track of them." As to these bonds,
he said he didn't know how he sold them but
that it was at a sacrifice. Specifically and in par-
ticular to the question — "And you want it to go
into the record that you don't know how you
sold those bonds," he replied: "I do." To the
further question: "And that you don't know
what you received for them," his answer was: "I
don't know exactly — I don't remember." He
further testified that he used the proceeds to pay
some business bills, but that his books and records
didn't Bhow that he received or sold any bonds
because that had nothing to do with his business.
He finally testified that he never made any attempt
to find out what the bonds were worth before he
disposed of them.
All efforts to trace these bonds — $80,000 pur-
chased by Lipp on August 7, 1930, and the $25,000
by him on May 19, 1931, — have been futile. The
ten Phillips Petroleum Bonds (Si's of 1939) were
numbered from 18449 to 18458, inclusive. The
coupons mature on June 1 and December 1.
According to the best information obtainable, but
one coupon has been presented for payment since
June 1 last — a coupon on bond 18451. The
Elevated Railway Bonds bore the numbers 895
to 919, inclusive. Their coupons mature on
February 1 and August 1 The August 1 coupons
on six of the bonds were presented for payment.
It was impossible, however, to identify the person
or persons cashing these coupons, as after their
removal from the deposit envelopes the connection
is broken. The United States Treasury Bonds
were not earmarked in any Buch way as to enable
them to be traced at all.
On August 7, 1930, the day the city's check of
$250,769.76 was deposited, as above related, by
Lipp in his account at the Bank of Commerce and
Trust Company and the $80,000 bonds were pur-
chased, he withdrew from the bank $50,000 in
caBh. Called to account for this large cash with-
drawal from the net proceeds of the taking, the
only information that he could, or would give the
commission was that "I couldn't tell you at
present." Furthermore, on May 19, 1931, the
day he purchased the second lot of bonds — $25,000
United States Treasury Bonds — he withdrew, as
stated, $25,000 in cash. He swore he paid this
cash to Paul. The latter, however, flatly denied
under oath, as previously stated, that he received
any of the cash.
Thus $105,000 in gilt edge bonds ($80,000
bought on August 7, 1930, and $25,000 on May 19,
1931), and cash withdrawals of $75,0(10 ($50,000 on
August 7, 1930, and $25,000 on May 19, 1931), are
not satisfactorily accounted for.
Respectfully submitted,
Georoe R. Farnum,
Special Counsel.
Placed on file.
City of Boston,
The Finance Commission,
December 29, 1934.
Hon. Frederick W. Mansfield, Mayor,
Sir, — The Finance Commission transmits to
your Honor the inclosed copy of a third report by
George R. Farnum, Esq., as special counsel, relat-
ing to the investigation of the East Boston Vehicu-
lar Tunnel land-takings.
This report is submitted as additional reply to
your Honor's request which was made in accord-
ance with an order adopted by the City Council on
November 19, 1934.
Respectfully submitted,
Joseph Joyce Donahue,
Charles M. Storey,
Alexander Wheeler,
The Finance Commission.
Boston, December 28, 1934.
To the Finance Commission of the City of Boston.
Gentlemen, — I submit herewith my second
supplementary report dealing with the East
DKCKMUEK 29, 1934.
125
Boston Vehicular Tunnel land-takings. It is. as
was my tirst supplementary report of December
26, confined to s study of the material (acts in-
volved in the taking of specific properties, in-
cluding a consideration of what preceded t lie
takings unci a report of the results of my efforts to
trace the proceeds of the city payments "so far as
possible to the ultimate recipients," to quote from
the order passed by the City Council on November
19 lust.
The report deals with the takings of two
properties:
1. 63-65 Commercial street, purchased by
speculators in May, 1928, for $54,000, and for
which the city paid $77,000 on May 2, 1932.
2. 117-121 Xorth street, upon which specu-
lators obtained options to purchase for $85,000
and for which the city paid $134,000 on October
19, 1932,
63-65 Commercial Street.
On May 1 1. 1931 . the city took over the propi i J
numbered 63 65 Commercial street. As related
in my previous report of December 19, this prop-
erly was assessed for 163,000, was purchased by
the speculators. Abram I.ipp and Joseph Paul, for
$54,000, and the city paid therefor $77,000. As
the title to the property when originally acquired
by 1 ipp and Paul had been taken in the name of
Elisabeth i". llyland. an employee in Lapp's office,
as a straw, the interests of l.ipp and Paul were
actually represented by a protection mortgage in
the amount of $50,000, securing two notes of
-.' • HOO each given by llyland to l.ipp and Paul at
the time the property was purchased. The prop-
erty was paid for by the city on .May 22, 1931.
\ii,i the payment of certain mortgages and oilier
encumbrances on the property, there remained
out of the $77,000 paid by the city, a balance of
<:>! .St'iS.07 due to l.ipp. who had shortly prior
thereto obtained an assignment of the interest of
Paul. At the time of the settlement with the
city, by reason of this assignment by Paul of his
intorcs! in the property to l.ipp and by the latter
thereafter to Elsie Albertson. an employee of the
Exchange Trust Company, this mortgage stood
ill the name of the last named. The tracm
these proceeds ol $31 ,868,07 will now be attempted.
Incidentally, the details of what occurred will il
lustrate the ooniplexitj ol these transactions and
the difficulty of ascertaining all the material facts.
For an understanding of what occurred, it is
necessar] to deal with certain antecedent matters
On October I. 1930, Robert .1. Bottomly, an at-
torney, with offices at No. 209 Washington street.
Boston, and who appeared as counsel in many of
the city land-takings for the tunnel, had bor-
rowed from the Exchange Trust Company, where
he had an account. $10,000 on his personal note.
payable in Sixty-One days. The proceeds of the
discount of this note, amounting to 19,898 13, had
been deposited in the bank in an account opened
that day i" the name of Robert k Bottomly,
trustee \ urity for tins note, Bottomly had
caused to be indorsed over to i Isie Ubertson, a
elerk in the employ of the bank, a $40,000 demand
note given by said Elisabeth C. llyland to Lapp,
secured by a second mortgage on property at
to 50 South Market street. This morl
Bottomly also had caused to be assigned to Uberl ■
son. On December l. 1930, Bottomly had ob-
tained a renewal of this note from the bank, and
again on various occasions thereafter. As addi-
tional security Bottomly put up the two |25
notes, above referred to, and the I 10 uorl-
gage lo adequately secure the bank this mort-
gage was assigned to Elsie Ubertson,
I1 I ii,l.\ nolc tor $10,000, with accrued
interest of $17.60, was paid on Maj 22, 1931, the
daj the city paid f ininercial Si
out of the net proceeds of $:;i.s,.s or rhi
balance of $21,850 .'»7 to b counted for. In the
mechanics of the settlement, this monej was pod
to the I \, Iiaiico I'riisl Crmpanj lo reason of the
i o i ihat u held, as above related, an assignment of
the protection mortgage on the prop,
ourit\ for the Bottomlj note Instead of credit-
ing Bottotnly's account with this balance, at liis
request they paid tie ■'■' to him in cash
on the ili \ ol lettlemet M t, bj B treasurer's
check drawn to the ordei ol the paying teller and
immi - Boti aiiK tcstifn\i thai he
• <i.'..oihi ol 121 iO 57 in cash to the late
William Flaheli imay, and that lie kept
the balance himself. He said he obtained i
oeipl from Flahertj for this cash payment. Mr.
F loner 1 1 h id died before lus name was first brought
into this I,.
Bottomly's explanation of the transaction was
that ho and Flaherty had. for a considerable length
of time, been performing various kinds of legal
services for l.ipp. involving among other tic
matters growing out of land transactions of l.ipp in
Florida and in Washington, 1). ('.. and that as a
result' l.ipp was indebted to them for a large
amount. lie testified that it was agreed between
them, that the net proceeds of the city taking of
this property at 63 65 Commercial street should be
accepted by Flaherty and Bottomly in full settle-
ment of their claims against l.ipp. lie swore he
paid Flaherty the $15,000 in cash at Flaherty's own
request, and because Flaherty had stated to him
that, "he (Flaherty) wanted to be paid, but he
didn t want to be connected with l.ipp in any way,
shape or manner whatever." Interrogated as to
why he. (Bottomly) took the balance coming to him
after the payment of his note and the payment to
Flaherty, in cash, he replied that it was "because I
wished to." Tressed for a further explanation,
however, he testified as follows:
"I said to myself: 'This land-taking 1 have
nothing to do with. It's security for a past debt.
If I have it transferred directly to me, imme-
diately, why, somebody then will circulate the
story that I am interested in a land-taking. If
they circulate a story that I am interested in a land-
taking, they will circulate a false story." To avoid
circulation of a false story may have been my
motive. It's the one that occurs to me now that
influenced me. "
Q. — "I don't understand why — whether that
money went into your account with this Ivink, or
whether it was taken by you over the counter — it
should have any effect on the circulation of any
false story,
A. — "If you don't, you are not familiar with the
es given this body as 1 am. Probably some-
body would run up here to start an inquiry and
waste a lot of your time.
Q.— "Don't you think they would have been
less likely to have you up here for an inquiry, if
you had gone through the transaction in the usual
way?
A. — "I carried out Mr Flaherty's instructions
in so far as that was concerned. We split it
about 50 50."
I ipp. who was interrogated about this settlement
prior to Bottomly's testimony and who admits
he had seen Bottomly between the time that he
testified and the appearance before the commis-
sion of Bottomly-- testified that he had had con-
siderable dealings with Bottomly and Flahertj .
principally as lawyers, in connection with specula-
tions in Washington and Florida real estate, and
that it was agreed that the net proceeds due him
from this land-taking by the city, should be
kept by Bottomlj and Flaherty in full settlement
of what he owed them. In that connection an
attempt was then made to check this story.
There appeared to have been no records made
or at leasi preserved -of these dealings either by
1 ipp or Bottom]}*. At least, none were produced
and none were discovered. Bottomly testified
that he never sent l.ipp a bill for tins work and
admitted that l.ipp was given no receipt for the
monej or any release from the indebtedness
Bottomlj and Flaherty it was claimed was therein
settled, \skcd "Have you anything that you
could refer to correspondence, records or an\ -
t him; which would enable us to pass on an\ charges
you made for services rendered l.ipp in connection
with Florida il w tshingtoo real estate." he
replied: "No I think you can only take my
word for it : that's all."
From neither Bottomlj nor l.ipp were any de-
tails of these alleged Florida and Washington
transactions obtained, either as to the property
involved or the persons dealt with, that could be
checked. Former partners of 1 ipp in land sp
bilious were examined and interviewed,
of them had ever heard that Lapp was in anj waj
concerned during the years they were in touch
with him, in Florida or Washington land deals,
and all stated eniphat icalb that because of their
relations with him the.\ would have been likeh
to have heard something about it had he ho,
invoK ed
LSSOciates of Flaherty, during the period
in which these transactions were sod to
urred, were also examined or interviewed,
I'luw st itod thai tllOJ had never heard of Flaherty
representing l.ipp in collaboration with Boti
lierwise, in am matters involving V
or Washington red estate, and that thej could
find no papers relating thereto in his tile \
426
CITY COUNCIL.
transcript of the Flaherty account at the Atlantic
National Bank branch of The First National Bank
showed no deposit at or about the time of the
alleged payment to him of $15,000 in cash by
Bottomly that could be identified therewith.
117-121 North Street.
As set forth in my report of December 19 last, the
property numbered 117-121 North street, and
owned by the heirs of George H. Pettee, was
taken by the city on October 1, 1932. Control
of this property had been obtained by William
K. Bean, a speculator and employee in the office
of Cabot, Cabot & Forbes, by a series of options,
the last of which he had obtained on September
29, 1932. This option enabled Bean to purchase
the property for $85,000. Three days later, on
October 1, the Transit Commission took this
property, and on October 19 the city paid Bean
$134,000 therefor, which was the assessed value.
This property had been in the Pettee family for
many years and for some time before the taking
the Pettees had been trying to dispose of it. Prior
to the time Bean succeeded in tying it up, other
speculators had obtained options on it, ranging
in amount from $50,000 to $100,000, and still
others were angling for options.
Charles P. Abbott, a man of diverse interest and
activities, whose connection with the deal will be
hereinafter explained, testified before the com-
mission that he was informed by Bean that "Bot-
tomly called up and wanted to buy the property
for a client and Mr. Lipp also was down there. ' '
(Providence.) He also deposed that Bean in-
formed him that Harris Poorvu and Joe Paul
were also down there. The options, however,
had been allowed to expire as the city made no
move during their life to take the property.
On or about July 1, 1932, Bean began negotia-
tions with the Pettee heirs. As an employee of
Cabot, Cabot & Forbes, Bean was engaged, at
this time, in the care and management and the
collection of rents for the Transit Commission
of other properties on the same side of North
street, already taken by the city for the tunnel.
Bean succeeded, without the payment down of a
nickel as a deposit, in obtaining his options for the
purchase of this property for $85,000. This was
$49,000 less than the city paid for it. The original
option was taken in the name of Hyman Yaffe, a
North street marketman, as a straw. Abbott
testified that Bean acted for him, Abbott, and
took this first option in the name of Yaffe, without
either his knowledge or consent. He further
testified that the first arrangement between them
was that Bean was to receive 30 per cent of the
profits, but that this was finally revised to a 50-50
basis. This first option was subsequently re-
newed on several occasions and finally in the name
of Bean alone, and so stood at the time of the
taking. Abbott contended that Bean deceived
him in getting this option in his own name, and
Abbott brought a suit in the courts to substantiate
this claim. Bean, however, denied this before
the Finance Commission.
Incidentally, Abbott testified before the com-
mission that the contracts that were ultimately
drawjn defining their respective interests in the
speculation were reduced to writing and that each ■
received a duplicate original. He asserted that
Bean insisted upon the subsequent destruction
of these contracts to prevent their existence and
contents becoming known, but that he, Abbott,
retained his copy intact until an occasion when
Bean was at his office, when their presence in
his safe was discovered by Bean. Abbott further
testified that he then tore them up, upon the
insistence of Bean, and threw the fragments into
a waste basket in his office. Several weeks later,
Abbott deposed, he was at Bean's house and
discovered in Bean's desk an envelope containing
these fragments, and when he questioned Bean, the
latter explained that he had obtained them from
Abbott's office by use of a master key which he
had to the office building, and which Bean had
obtained from the office of Cabot, Cabot & Forbes,
who were the agents of the building. Bean denied
that anything of this sort took place.
Upon discovery of the fact that the city was
proposing to pay $134,000 for property upon which
Bean had an option for $85,000, the Finance Com-
mission filed on October 18, 1932, a vigorous
protest with the Mayor. The commission's
communication, among other things, contained
the statement that —
". . . the commission believes that the pay-
ment of $134,000 for this parcel at the present time
will be an outright squandering of almost $50,000
of the city's money, 'and the commission is sending
your Honor these facts in the hope that you will
take immediate action to prevent this uncon-
scionable award."
and concluded with the statement that —
" If the city pays $134,000 now for this taking,
in the opinion of the Finance Commission it will
be an outright gift of $49,000 of the taxpayers'
money by the city to a group of speculators."
On the very next day, October 19, the city settled
with Bean for the property, paying him $134,000.
Bean was represented at the passing of papers
by Charles Hamilton, an attorney associated with
the firm of Poland & Davis, at 27 State street,
Boston. As the title to the property had never
been transferred from the Pettee heirs to Bean,
the checks issued by the city in settlement were
made payable to A. Bertha Pettee and Herbert B.
Pettee, the record owners. The following checks
were issued by the city:
$50,360.00, which was indorsed over to the Boston
Five Cents Savings Bank in payment
of an outstanding mortgage upon
the property;
$37,548.50, which was retained by the Pettees, and
$46,091.50. which was indorsed over to the order
of Charles Hamilton.
This last check represented the net amount,
after certain adjustments, coming to Bean from
the settlement. The history of what was done
with this check and its sequel furnishes an inter-
esting story which will now be recounted.
On October 19, 1932, Hamilton took this check
for $46,091.50 to the First National Bank, on
which it was drawn, and obtained in exchange
therefor $6,091.50 in cash,' and four cashier's
checks of $10,000 each, payable to the order of
Charles Hamilton or F. H. Davis (the latter being
a partner in the firm of Poland & Davis;. $4,000
of this cash was immediately deposited in the
account of Poland & Davis in the First National
Bank and the balance was paid over to Bean.
At the same time two of the $10,000 cashier's
checks were endorsed over to Poland & Davis and
likewise deposited in their account. Thus Poland
& Davis came into possession of $24,000 for the
account of Bean. $2,000 of this money was
retained by them for professional services. Of the
$22,000 remaining, they paid to Bean from time to
time various amounts aggregating $6,006.45.
The balance they disbursed on instructions from
Bean in payment of various of his outstanding
bills. Of the cash received by Bean, he testified
that he gave Hamilton $2,500, $1,000 as a present
and $1,500 for legal services.
The two remaining cashier's checks for $10,000
each were endorsed over to Bean by Hamilton and
cashed by Bean on October 15, 1934. What
transpired between October 19, 1932, the day the
city settled for the property, and this date, two
years later, will now be related.
Both Abbott and his attorney, William S.
Kinney, of 40 Court street, Boston, testified before
the commission that at a hearing in the Superior
Court, upon the application of Abbott for an
injunction, Hamilton claimed these checks as
his own. Specifically, Abbott testified that Hamil-
ton stated that "these two $10,000 checks were
his own personal property, for fees." Kinney
deposed that Hamilton told Judge Hammond
that "they were his." Hamilton stated to the
commission that upon his best present recollec-
tion, what he said in substance was that he was
entitled to the checks for his fees for past services
and for future services that he was obligated to
render. At all events, these checks were delivered
by Hamilton to Francis T. Leahy, an attorney at
40 Court street. At this point, Abbott, having
heard that the settlement with the city had been
put through, brought a bill in equity against Bean
to establish his interest in the proceeds of the
speculation and joined in that proceeding Hamil-
ton, Leahy, Poland & Davis and the First National
Bank. There was a hearing in the Superior
Court on his application for a preliminary injunc-
tion, and as a consequence, an injunction was
issued which held up the cashing of these two
checks of $10,000 each. It was at this hearing
that Hamilton gave the testimony that has been
referred to.
After some vicissitudes, this case finally reached
the Massachusetts Supreme Court and was decided
against Abbott on a point of law. Though sub-
sequent proceedings were brought by Abbott
against Bean and are still pending — there never
having been a determination by the Court as to
DECEMBER 29, 1934.
427
the facts of the transactions between them — the
injunction was dissolved and these two checks
were returned by Leahy to Hamilton and by the
latter indorsed over the Bean, and by Bean cashed
as related above.
At the time that he received these laBt two
$10,000 cashier's checks, Bean had an account in
the State Street Trust Company. lie also had a
safe deposit box there. He likewise had a safe
in his office. These checks were not deposited
in his account, but their proceeds, when cashed,
were placed in the bank vault or in a box in his
office safe. To be more specific, his testimony
thus describes what he did: " I put it first, I think,
in my office box and then afterwards I switched
it from the office to the State Street Trust and
then back to the office." He claimed that with
the exception of S9.000 still remaining this money
has been entirely used up. first in another pay-
ment of $5,000 to Poland & Davis for legal serv-
ices; secondly, in settling three executions against
him aggregating about $2,000, and finally in
meeting various current expenses.
It is not possible to check satisfactorily the
accuracy of Bean's story or the disbursement of
the proceeds of these checks amounting to $20,000,
and received by him on October 15 last, or to
trace the money after it was placed by him in his
safe deposit box.
That Bean had made the whole or a greater
part of the payments claimed cannot be doubted.
That these payments came entirely from this par-
ticular money, however, is quite another matter.
An examination of Bean's bank account indicates
clearly that he did not bank all of his income and
receipts. He always cashed the checks he received
periodically from Cabot, Cabot & Forbes for
salary and commissions which averaged $7,500 a
year. Additionally, he admitted the further in-
come of about $1,000 a year from other sources.
Some of this money was paid out from time to
time in cash. Hence, the impossibility of attribut-
ing any specific payment made to any particular
money received.
Perhaps, in fairness, it ought to be added that
Bean explained his use of a deposit box or his
dealings in cash to the necessity of protecting
himself from numerous and importunate creditors.
The facts above set forth, with the inferences to
be reasonably drawn therefrom, clearly establish
the following conclusions:
1. That the city officials paid an unconscion-
able profit of $49,000 to Bean as part of an award
to the Pettee heirs from whom Bean had only
acquired a mere right to buy the property and had
actually paid nothing for that right;
2. That Bean only obtained this right to buy
because he felt certain that the property would
be taken by the city before he would be required
to finance the purchase; and
3. Finally, that the city officials responsible for
this payment plainly disregarded the best interest
of the taxpayers when liny nun riled and paid
$134,000 for property that almost all the real
estate men in Boston knew could be had from
the owners for $85,000 or less.
Respectfully submitted,
( rEOROD It. Farnum,
Special Counsel.
Placed on file.
PETITIONS REFERRED.
The following petitions were received and re-
ferred to ihc committees named, viz.:
< 'laims.
Frank Bcrlino, for compensation for damage to
property a 1 2580 Washington street , caused by leak
m .'. d I -I i n i H-.
Francis I.. Cronin, fur compensation for d
to cur by lire chief's car.
Harold Currier, for compensation for dam I
car by ash cart.
D'Orlando A- Co., Ltd., for i pensation for
damage to car by city i ruck,
N. M. I in ill \ uol ion \S orks, for oompi i
for damage in car by city truck.
Harry Jessup, for return of money found and
turned over to police.
Patrick Lougnran, tor compensation for damage
to water boiler al ■';.' U well street, Don
I bj It W an i .
B, F, W acy, i-i compen 1 1 ion foi dan i
II II. -I. lis . II i
Michael Maloney, for compensation for damage
to property at 190 Hillside street, Koxbury, by
city truck.
Violet Matta, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 32 Oak street.
Margaret M. Nally, for compensation for damage
to car caused by an alleged defect at 98 Gains-
borough street, Boston.
Mihran Ohaman, for compensation for damage
to property at 2584 Washington street, caused by
defective water pipe.
Americo Sarno, for compensation for damage to
car by city car.
Myra G. Stead, for compensation for injuries
caused by an alleged defect at 49 Monadnock
street, Dorchester.
Samuel Wernick, for refund on refuse tickets.
George Winer, for compensation for damage to
car by city truck.
David Webb, for compensation for damage to
property at 1173 Adams street, caused by blasting
work done by Tomasello Company.
John Sheridan, for compensation for damage to
property at 62 Round Hill street, Jamaica Plain,
caused by falling branch of tree.
CHILDREN'S PERMIT GRANTED.
A petition was received of R. H. White Company
for children to appear at R. H. White Company's
establishment on January 12, 1935.
Leave was granted under suspension of the rule.
LEASE OF CONVALESCENT HOME.
The following was received:
City of Boston,
Law Department, December 20, 1934.
To the Honorable the City Council.
Gentlemen, — There has been transmitted to me
today a copy of the following order passed by your
Honorable Body on December 17, 1934:
" Ordered, That the Corporation Counsel be
requested to ascertain and inform the City Council
whether or not the land on Dorchester avenue
formerly used by the Hospital Department for a
Convalescent Home was purchased by the city
or was devised as a part of the Churchill Estate
with a condition that it was to be used only for
hospital purposes."
It is my understanding that the premises re-
ferred to in the above quoted order are the prem-
ises numbered 2150 Dorchester avenue, formerly
used by the Boston City Hospital as a Conva-
lescent Home. This property was purchased by
the city from Asaph Churchill under the authori-
zation of an order passed by the Common Council
and Board of Aldermen and approved by the
Mayor on March 18, 1890.
The order recited that the purchase be made —
" . . . for the purpose of a convalescent home
for the city hospital.''
The deed from Asaph Churchill to the City of
Boston is dated April 19, 1890, and is recorded
with Suffolk Deeds, Book 1930, page 548. The
deed contains no restrictions.
I am therefore of the opinion that the premises
referred to in the above quoted order were pur-
chased by the city and are held by it without re-
strictions and that said premises were not devised
as part, of the Churchill Estate with a condition
that they were to be used only for hospital pur-
poses.
Yours very truly.
I li Nitv I !. Poiil i .
Corporation Counsel.
I 'I iced on file.
DOCTOR MAHONEY REAPPOINTED
HEALTH COMMISSIONER,
Notice was received of the appointment by the
Mayor of Francis X. Mahoney. M. 1)., of 22 Lake
street, Brighton, to be Health Commissioner for
the term expiring ^pril 30, 1038
Placed on tile.
STATE IMi'illVN \ , in DEDH \M LINE.
\ com .'I received from the Departmonl of
Public v. he Commonwealth of Massa-
chusetts ol the liiy-oui of a state highway com-
428
CITY COUNCIL.
mencing at the junction of Brook Farm Parkway
and Spring street, in the City of Boston, and
extending in a southerly direction, on a new
location, to the dividing line between the City
of Boston and the town of Dedham, with copy of
the order of taking.
Placed on file.
MINORS' LICENSES.
Petitions for minors' licenses were received from
thirty-six newsboys and one bootblack.
Licenses granted under suspension of the rule.
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE
APPOINTMENTS.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, Nos. 1 and 2 on the calendar, viz.:
1. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor December 17, 1934. of Frederick J. Brad-
ford, Warren F. Tapley, Richard P. Stanton, John
J. Neville, to be Weighers of Coal.
2. Action on appointments submitted by the
Mayor December 17, 1934, of Thomas J. Hayes
and Ashod Donabedin, to be Constables, author-
ized to serve civil process.
The question came on confirmation. Commit-
tee, Coun. Gallagher and Selvitella. Whole
number of ballots 1 1 ; yeas 1 1 , and the appointments
were confirmed.
SCHOOL BUILDINGS PROJECT.
A copy of the vote of the State Emergency
Finance Board approving the Public Works Project
for the construction of school buildings was received
and placed on file.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS-
Coun. BRACKMAN, for the Committee on
Claims, submitted the following:
The Committee on Claims respectfully submit
the following report showing the disposition of
claims during the municipal year 1934:
Claims pending January 1, 1934 2,142
Claims received during year 1934 774
Total 2,916
Claims approved during year 118
( 'hums disapproved during year 445
Claims returned from Law Depart-
ment to Committee on Claims on
which Statute of Limitations had
expired 1,047
Total 1,610
Claims pending December 31, 1934 1,306
Amount paid out on approved claims, $14,358 31
The report was accepted and ordered printed as
a public document.
INSPECTION OF PRISONS.
Coun. DONOVAN, for the Committee on In-
spection of Prisons, submitted the following:
Annual Report of the Committee on Inspection
of Prisons.
In accordance with the provisions of chapter 126
of the General Laws, the Committee on Inspection
of Prisons of the City Council submits herewith its
annual report-
Suffolk County Jail.
The usual semi-annual inspections of the Suffolk
County Jail were made.
Your Committee finds that conditions at this
institution continue along the same linen of clean-
liness and order that have characterized it for the
past several years.
The dangerous condition of the back wall and
temporary gate makes it important that, a new
wall and permanent entrance be provided imme-
diately.
House of Correction.
The customary number of visits were made by
your Committee to the House of Correction dur-
ing the year, and conditions at this institution were
found very satisfactory.
Your Committee suggests that a survey or study
might be made with reference to the housing con-
ditions and dining facilities at the institution with
a view to improving the living conditions of the
inmates in general.
For the Committee,
Richard D. Gleason, Chairman.
The report was accepted and ordered printed
as a city document.
UNEXPENDED BALANCES FOR SINKING
FUNDS.
Coun. GALLAGHER called up, under unfinished
business, No. 3 on the calendar, viz.:
3. Ordered, That in accordance with the
provisions of chapter 174 of the Acts of 1928, the
City Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor,
be authorized to pay over to the Board of Com-
missioners of Sinking Funds of the City of Boston
the following unexpended balances of loans issued
outside of the limit of indebtedness which are no
longer recmired for the purposes specified in the
authorization of such loans.
Lowell street, Nashua street and
Causeway street $125,374 73
Charles street widening, etc 22,229 76
Morton street improvement 16,306 65
Dock square and Faneuil Hall square
improvement 14,964 58
Kneeland street improvement 8,852 45
East Boston Pumping Station and
outlet 4,456 36
Summer and L streets, widening and
construction of 1,714 04
On December 10, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
The question came on the second and final
passage of the order.
Coun. AGNEW— Mr. President, I would like
just a word of explanation of this order.
President DOWD ^For the benefit of the
Council the Chair will state that these are matters
that were explained by the City Auditor at the last
meeting, that we have alresdy given one reading to
the order, and that it simply provides this disposi-
tion of unexpended balances, under the law.
The order was given its second and final reading
and passed, yeas 17, nays 0.
TRANSFERS TO LONG ISLAND
HOSPITAL, ETC.
President DOWD called up, under unfinished
business, No. 4 on the calendar, viz.:
4. Ordered, That under authority of chapter
261 of the Acts of 1893 the City Auditor be, and
hereby is, authorized to transfer:
From the appropriation for Recreation Building,
Long Island Hospital, Establishment of, $5,380.28;
Steamer "Stephen O'Meara," Alterations and
Additions, $313.83; Garage Police Station 14,
$512.12; Dock Square and Faneuil Hall Square,
Improvement $14,964.58; Kneeland Street, Im-
provement, $8,852.45, to the appropriation for
Long Island Hospital, Kitchen and Laundry
Improvements, etc., $30,023.25.
On December 10, 1934, the foregoing order was
read once and passed, yeas 20, nays 0.
The order was given its second and final reading
and passage, yeas 15, nays — Coun. Agnew — 1.
DISPOSITION OF CONVALESCENT
HOME PROPERTY.
On motion of Coun. FISH No. 5 was taken from
the table, viz.:
5. Whereas, The Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital has the care and custody of a certain
parcel of land belonging to the City of Boston
and situated on the easterly side of Dorchester
avenue, together with the buildings thereon, and
being numbered 2150 on said Dorchester avenue,
and known as the Convalescent Home; and
Whereas, The said Trustees of the Boston City
Hospital has no present need of the said premises
for public purposes; now, therefore, it is hereby
Ordered, That his Honor the Mayor be, and he
hereby is, authorized, in the name and behalf of
DECEMBER 29, 1934.
429
the City of Boston, in consideration of fifty dollars
paid to the City of Boston by the Massachusetts
Section of the Women's Department of the
National Civic Federation, to lease, by a written
instrument satisfactory in form to the Law De-
partment of the City of Boston, to the said Massa-
chusetts Section of the Women's Department of
the National Civic Federation, or its nominee, for
the purposes of using and operating the said
premises as a home for unemployed single girls
and women having a settlement in Boston and
for no other purpose, for a period of five months
beginning with the first day of January, 1935,
and ending with the first day of June, 1935, the
said premises numbered 2150 Dorchester avenue,
situated on the easterly side of said Dorchester
avenue, in that part of Boston called Dorchester;
and it is hereby further
Ordered, That the said lease contain a provision
authorizing the Mayor of .Boston to terminate
and cancel the said lease by sending to the said
said Massachusetts Section of the Women's De-
partment of the National Civic Federation a
thirty-day notice of his intention so to do, mailed
to or delivered at the above leased premises to
the said Massachusetts Section of the Women's
Department of the National Civic Federation.
Coun. FISH — Mr. President, I move that this
be indefinitely postponed, inasmuch as the request
for the use of this hospital has been withdrawn.
The order was indefinitely postponed.
CONGRATULATIONS TO COUNCILOR
GOLDMAN.
Coun. WILSON and Coun. FINLEY offered
the following:
Resolved, That the Boston City Council, in
meeting assembled, desire to congratulate our
colleague, Maurice M. Goldman, on his appoint-
ment as Assistant Attorney-General for the Com-
monwealth of Massachusetts, and to wish him
success in his high office; and be it further
Resolved, That it is the sense of the City Council
that the interests of the city will be best served if
Councilor Goldman continues to serve as councilor
from Ward 14 for the remainder of his elected term,
both on the premises of his value to the city and
the great expense involved in the holding of a
Bpecial election, which would be necessary in the
event of Councilor Goldman's resignation.
Coun. WILSON — Mr. President, I may say,
with reference to that resolution congratulating
the councilor from an adjoining ward, that the
appointment referred to, of which we have read
with some pleasure, is not only an honor to the
member of the City Council but also reflects credit
on the judgment of the voters of Ward 14 who
elected this young man to fill the position he holds
in this body. I feel personally that the resigna-
tion from the Council of Councilor Goldman, after
his short service in this body, necessitating a special
election on Ward 14, would be nothing more nor
less than an empty gesture, involving an unneces-
sary expense to the City of Boston, Decause I see
no reason why he cannot carry on in the City
Council until the close of his term and at the same
time fulfill his duties at the State House. Also, it
is not impossible or improbable that his appoint-
ment as Assistant Attorney-General may prove of
some value to City Hall, through his contacts
with matters taken up by his department in which
the city is interested.
The resolutions were passed by a unanimous
vote.
EAST BOSTON PLAYGROUND.
Coun. SKI.\ I I 1 II. \ offered the following:
Ordered, That his Honor the Muyor be re-
quested to reconsider his action in vetoing the loan
nrili'l nlopleil by ' lie I ill i 'ouni ll, I leeeniher I 7,
1034, relative to the establishment of a playground
in the t'ourl h Seel I I :int, Boston.
Coun. 8ELVITELLA Mr. President, I nm
going to be very brief. Wc have received from
in-! Honor the Mayor this I ning o communion
tion in which he has returned without bis signature
and has vetoed a loan order passed 1>\ t Ins body on
December 17 relative to a playground in the I in i li
Section of East BoBton. For purposes ol the
record !<• i me say that, until it beoame neoessarj to
take it away in order to build a new slate highway
Ml Kasl Itoston, I lie Kollt I li Seel loll hall :i pi ' \
ground. It seems unfair that the children of that
section who had a playground before it was taken
and for which the city received $17,000 from the
state, should now be deprived of a playground.
In the letter we have received the Park Com-
missioner is reported as stating that he knows of no
available site. I want to say to the Park Com-
missioner that it was at his suggestion that I filed
the loan order, and at that time he informed me of
an available site, having received a communica-
tion from the pastor of the Star of the Sea Church
in EaBt Boston, who is very much interested in this
project. I cannot, therefore, understand what the
Mayor or the Park Commissioner mean when they
say that there is a sufficient number of playgrounds
in the Fourth Section of East Boston. The city
received 817,000 from the state for this play-
ground, and it is now unfair and unjust to the
children of that section that they should be de-
prived of a playground. Therefore, I am asking
his Honor the Mayor to reconsider his action in
vetoing the loan order and he can take up with
the Park Commissioner the question of whether
or not he is reported to have selected a site, and
whether it was not at his suggestion that I filed
the loan order.
(The order was read for the information of Coun.
Shattuck.)
The order was passed under suspension of the
rule.
EMPLOYEES OF EMPLOYMENT BUREAU.
Coun. WILSON— Mr. President, may I ask
unanimous consent to make a statement? It will
be very brief. It is with relation to some of the
statements contained in the newspapers the past
week on the subject of the apparent need of
certain departments of the City of Boston, as they
see it, calling upon the services of private employ-
ment agencies to fill such jobs as orderlies when we
have available a free employment bureau. The
particular instances I intend to bring out when
the Council reconvenes after the first of the year.
But in some of the messages of the Mayor today
I heard again and again the splendid word "pro-
pitious," to the effect that " this is not a propitious
time to expend money," in view of the hard times
and the difficulties under which the city is laboring.
Having heard that time after time, that the time
was not "propitious," I wondered if the 21st of
December, just before Christmas, was a pro-
pitious time to slide into the Employment Bureau
at $25 each per week a married lady and her
daughter as inside clerks, the parties living at
255 Berkeley street, when we remember that the
head of the Employment Bureau pointed out
recently that he could get along with a much
smaller personnel this year than iast year, that,
in fact, he had been getting along very well up to
that time, including himself, with two men and
two women, so far as the in9ide work was con-
cerned, whereas the only way in which the Munic-
ipal Employment Bureau can really function iB to
have some outside solicitors, instead of appointing
more inside help at this time. So I think, under
the circumstances, this is a very appropriate time
to call attention to this matter, when wo see a
married woman and her daughter added to the
inside force. I believe this is a matter which we
can well at this time call to the attention of his
Honor the Mavor, who iB really running the office
and making the appointments. I certainly be-
lieve if there are to be any additional appointments
made to that Bureau they should bo such as will
assist it in its work.
HISTORY OF POLICE COMMISSIONER
APPOINTMENTS.
Coun, NORTON— Mr. President, I would ask
unanimous consent to make a statement. While
looking over some old tiles of the Boston Journal
in the Boston Public Library recently. 1 Came
across a statement thai seemed very pertinent in
viow of tho present situation in regard to the Police
( 'oininissioiiersliip of Bosloii. I( showed the
position taken at that time by the incumbent of
the Police Commissionersnip, who set the standard
ot the o luct ot that office, I think, for all lime.
" w hen Governor Poss was elected in November,
1910 (bj 10,000 votes), over Governor Draper,
i : that time thai since the term
ol the then Boston Police Commissioner, the late
430
CITY COUNCIL.
Stephen J. O'Meara, was to run out in the following
May, Mr. O'Meara should resign before Governor
Draper went out of office, and then, technically,
under the law, Mr. O'Meara could be reappointed
for another five-year term. The incoming Gover-
nor Foss could not then remove the Police Com-
missioner. Commissioner O'Meara replied:
" Resign and be reappointed for another five-
year term so as to thwart the appointive power of
the incoming Governor! That would be contem-
tible!"'
And the following May Governor Foss re-
appointed Commissioner O'Meara for another
five-year term.
CLOSING PROCEEDINGS.
Coun. ROBERTS offered the following:
Resolved, That the thanks of the members of
the City Council be extended to President John F.
Dowd for the able and impartial manner in which
he has presided over the deliberations of the
Council during the present municipal year.
The question came on the passage of the
resolution.
Coun. ROBERTS— Mr. President, at this time
I want to express my appreciation, and in doing so
I know that I am voicing the feeling of all the
members of this body, of the service that the
President of the Council has given us during this
past year. True; this year, due to the financial
stress under which we have been laboring, the
affairs of the city have been in a very different
condition from what they normally would be.
But I feel that not only as President of the body
but as Mayor on occasions when the Mayor has
been absent from the city, our President has
shown remarkable ability and talent in dealing
with all questions coming before the Council and
all matters in which the city was interested. I
know that this order will be passed unanimously,
in appreciation and recognition of his services.
Coun. BRACKMAN — Mr. President, time has
flown so rapidly that it seems hardly a year since
the President of this honorable body was escorted
to the chair as our presiding officer. In reviewing
our work of the past year briefly, while the
economic program has been somewhat different
from what we have experienced in more prosperous
years, I am strongly impressed, as are all the other
members, with the fairness with which our Presi-
dent has dealt with the membership. Like my
colleague from the adjoining district, I have had
occasion to observe our President for many years
in political life, and I want to reiterate that his
actions as President have always been guided with
such fairness, such ability, such sincerity, such
devotion to the public interest, as to deserve our
highest public commendation. I move you,
therefore, sir, that the members of this body rise
and pay tribute to the President of the Council.
The resolutions were passed by a unanimous
rising vote, amid applause.
President DOWD — Fellow members, may I
state that I have throughout the year thoroughly
appreciated the exceedingly great honor of advance-
ment to the presidency of this body. It is a great
honor for any young man to be President of the
Boston City Council. This is my ninth consecu-
tive year as member of the body, and I can say
that, not only as President for the past year but
as a member of the body in previous years, I have
enjoyed every minute of my service. As Presi-
dent, I have tried to be fair and impartial, and I
have been greatly helped in my administration of
the duties of the office by the kindly consideration
and courtesy extended to me by every member
of the Council. I have tried to fulfill the duties
of the position as they have been fulfilled by my
predecessors in the past eight years, and as I
know they will be fulfilled during the year 1935
by my successor. I again thank you, fellow mem-
bers, for your helpfulness and courtesy to me
during the year and at all times, something that
I shall certainly remember no matter how long
I may remain in public life. (Applause.)
Adjourned at 12.13 p. m., on motion of Coun.
GALLAGHER, to meet on Monday January 7,
1935, at 2 p. m.
CITY OF BOSTON PRINTING DEPARTMENT
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