Owner Uren At Council

CITY COUNCIL HAS MUCH BUSINESS. – Regular Session Wednesday Evening Brings Up Many Varied Questions .

            …..Mr. W.J. Uren, General Superintendent of eastern lines, C.P.R. at Montreal, addressed the council in regard to the old fair grounds.  Mr. Uren related the difficulties of the old fair board, and how when he was here in 1910-11-12 he had been prevailed upon to advance the sum of $3000, taking a first mortgage on the property.  The money had been given as an accommodation but instead of being supported by the people he had been dealt very shabbily with.  He did not consider that he should have to bear the burden alone.  In all it had cost him $7000.  He was prepared to sell to the city for $5000 cash, and claimed that it was worth $20,000 to $30,000.  The offer was open to January 1, otherwise he would be forced to realize what he could, which would be more than $5000 by scrapping the buildings.  The mayor and all the councilors spoke in favor of the matter being considered, but that January 1^st was too soon for the necessary action, which meant a plebiscite to the people.  Most felt that there had been a breach of good faith and that the matter should receive consideration.  Mr. Uren considered that from a business point of view the prospects of Cranbrook were of the brightest.  Notice of motion was given that at the next meeting of the council a by-law would be introduced that would be presented to the ratepayers for their endorsation at the next election.