Mayor Ronald Removes Commissioner Heilbron for Neglect
After finding evidence of self-dealing and widespread dereliction of duty regarding city infrastructure projects, the Mayor ousts George H. Heilbron from the Board of Public Works.
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Mayor J. T. Ronald yesterday filed findings against George H. Heilbron and Major W. V. Rinehart, both of the Board of Public Works. While Rinehart was exonerated, Heilbron was removed from office for misfeasance and nonfeasance. The investigation revealed that Heilbron held an interest in insurance companies that held city contracts, which he voted to approve. Furthermore, the Mayor's findings detailed a severe lack of oversight on major city projects, including the Elliott Bay tunnel and South Fourteenth Street water mains. Despite millions spent on construction, Heilbron reportedly visited the tunnel site only once and failed to attend dozens of board meetings. J. W. Van Brocklin has been appointed to fill the vacancy.
“George H. Heilbron, being unmindful of his duties in this respect, has never visited said tunnel to exceed two times.”
Public corruption and the 'insider' nature of city contracting were major concerns in 1890s Seattle, as the city grew rapidly following the Great Fire. This episode demonstrates the era's transition toward a more regulated (though still contentious) municipal administration.
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