The Hoquiam River Power Struggle

There are decided exceptions taken to the report upon the Hoquiam river by State Land Commissioners Brainerd and Shannon. That part of the report as published is so monkish in spirit and evidence so Gresham-ic in recommendation, that it was unanimously decided at a citizens' caucus, held November 25, to convene in mass meeting for investigation and action. A committee was appointed with instructions to secure a place and appoint a time of meeting; to formulate plans of defense, for it is feared and believed that an irreparable wrong is being done by suppression of facts and distortion of conditions. It is apparently a manipulation of opportunities by individuals from mercenary motives. There has not been, we believe, any objection raised to the lines as established on the Hoquiam river except by persons whose interests are opposed to public control of the river front. The question to be decided is, shall we pay tribute to the state, to be returned in public improvements, beneficent to the whole people, or shall we permit it to a select few for their personal aggrandizement and comfort?