Contractor William Harkins’ employees cry foul at Council meeting – December 19, 1887

A number of complaints received about (street contractor) William Harkins’ granting of Power of Attorney to Dunn & Co. J. H Wert appreared before council on behalf of Harkins’ employees to report on the situation. Legal opinion requested from City Solicitor. A coal oil lamp to be placed at the corner of Hamilton and Dunsmuir streets, with the City supplying the oil and the residents in the vicinity to light the lamp. James Alexander appointed for 1888 to assist the Assistant Commissioner in the Assessment of the City.

Many City hospital contracts awarded, but plumbing & gas fitting must wait – December 12, 1887

City Clerk to find out from P. Fewster’s about the proposed capacity of the mill he intends to build. The Board of Works instructed the Chief of Police to have the Chain Gang improve a lane. E. Cook awarded contract for plastering and masonry of City Hospital, and the carpentry to James Stanford. Gas fitting and plumbing contracts not awarded as all tenders exceed available budget.

Vancouver must stop boarding chain gang prisoners in private homes, say Police Commissioners – November 28, 1887

The Police Committee recommended the City immediately end the present system of boarding chain gang prisoners in private homes. Eleven pairs of blankets were purchased for the cells, and a stove for the jail corridor. Tenders were received for painting street signs; M. J. Milross was awarded the contract, at a price of 53 cents per sign on wood, but only 45 cents on tin.