49

John B. Hawley
Hydraulic Engineer
ASSOC. MEM. AM. SOC. C. E.
City Engineer Fort Worth.

Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 6th., 1898.

Hon. The Mayor & City Council,
City.

Gentlemen,-

Shortly after your last meeting, Mr. E. E. Churchill presented
to me a certified copy of the Minutes thereof, (wherein it is stated that
you gave to one S.W. Stewart permission to erect a certain "non fire
proof" building within the fire limits), requesting that a permit issue
for the construction of said proposed building.

Having previously had advice on a similar case, from the Legal
Department, I refused the permit and put applicant on notice of prose-
cution in case work should be begun.

I am loath to believe that your honorable boy would directly,
or indirectly, order the violation of one of your most important ordin-
ances, and respectfully suggest that you either (1) modify the ordinance
establishing fire limits - in such a way as to exclude Mr. Stewart's
property therefrom, or else (2) reconsider your recent action granting
the aforesaid permission to build.

As you are doubtless aware, the City is now involved in quite
important litigation bearing on buildings and building repairs within
the fire limits - and I am certain that you understand the necessity
for my apparent disregard of your expressed wishes, and the motives that
prompt the herein contained suggestions.

Very respectfully yours,

John B Hawley
City Engineer.