This was one of the most important matters before the citizens of Toronto during recent years: It excited great controversy, and became an issue of absorbing public interest.
The Executive of the Empire Club was fully justified, by the approval of the members, in the arrangements made for the exposition of alternative schemes by representative gentlemen, who could speak with authority and intimate knowledge of the subject.
On Thursday, Nov. 27, His Worship Mayor H. C. Hocken spoke on the “Proposed Street Railway Purchase,” the title of the address indicating His Worship’s solution of the problem. In a concise and cogent argument, supported by the reports of experts and reference to authoritative documents, the Mayor enabled the Members to understand his viewpoint, that the present transportation system should be bought up at once by the City and developed.
On Monday, Dec. 1st, the Club was addressed by R. S. Gourlay, Esq., a Member of the Toronto Harbour Commission, whose theme was entitled “The Harbour Board’s Plan for Solving the Toronto Railway Problem.” The points in this alternative Scheme, with its suggestions of improved transportation, were exhibited with great clearness and ability as a practicable solution.
To both speakers the Empire Club tendered a sincere and appreciative vote of thanks, for their able and spirited contributions to one of the major issues in Toronto civic life.
