The School Board's Hidden Books

Notwithstanding the recent investigation of the books of the board of education of this city by the grand jury, there are some persons who are not yet satisfied that the investigation was as thorough as it should have been. They propose to defray the expense of making a private investigation through an expert of the entire doings of the board during the last four years. On Monday morning, Douglas Young, the expert accountant, called at the headquarters of the board and left a note for Secretary Whitney requesting full access to all books, records, and accounts. Whitney refused to allow the examination without an order from the board. Later, Young and Attorney William H. Moore called on A. P. Burwell, president of the board, who also refused the request, citing the need for formal procedures. Subsequently, Young served a written demand on the board members. The board’s attorneys, White & Munday, advised that while a resident taxpayer has the right to inspect records, such an inspection must be done in the immediate presence of the secretary to ensure no alterations occur. Ex-President J. B. MacDougall suggested the move was not in good faith, claiming it was 'Rigby Ritchie’s doing' to divert attention from suits regarding the construction of the poorhouse.