The City Hall Shake-up

Robert H. Calligan has been elected superintendent of the water department, in place of W. E. Wilson. After the routine business had been disposed of yesterday by the board of public works, Commissioner Wolfe moved that it be declared the unanimous sense of that board that the office of superintendent be declared vacant. Mr. Wilson said he recognized the authority of the board to make the removal, but he did not think it a square deal to kick a man out of the office without giving any reason. They would find that the public would demand an explanation. He also demanded an immediate and thorough examination of his books. He knew how they were now, but did not know how long they might be that way. He did not feel like turning over the books to anybody but an expert bookkeeper. Mr. Wilson then repeated his demand for an explanation; he desired to know if he had been dishonest, or what was the cause of this action. The motion was put and declared carried. Mr. Calligan will take charge of the department this morning, and the board agreed to appoint John Grunkrans to examine the books.