The Battle Over Tacoma’s 'Open Town' Policy
Mayor Wright defends his administration against allegations that the city’s restricted district has spiraled into lawlessness, triggering a heated standoff with the City Council.
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In a formal response to the City Council, Mayor George P. Wright defended the city's 'open town' policy regarding its restricted district. Challenging the criticism of Councilman Roice, the Mayor argued that the 'vicious element' is best controlled by keeping it within a restricted district under police surveillance rather than attempting to abolish it entirely. The Mayor denied reports that minors were being admitted to saloons and dance halls, calling the police department highly efficient. However, local citizen W. L. Slater countered the Mayor's claims, stating he personally witnessed minors playing pool and purchasing beer in downtown saloons, offering to provide names to the authorities. The matter has been referred to the police and license committee for further investigation.
“That said element should be properly controlled, confined and restricted is the well defined policy of this administration.”
Tacoma’s struggle to balance civic order with the realities of its nightlife district in 1904 echoes contemporary debates over public safety, zoning, and the regulation of downtown spaces. The tension between political administration and citizen-led anecdotal evidence remains a recurring theme in local accountability.
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