Yesterday, in a lively meeting at the Limerick Council Chamber, the newly-elected members of the Corporation gathered to select the Mayor for the upcoming year. The contenders were the outgoing Mayor, Mr Michael Donnelly, and Alderman Joyce, MP.. Before the meeting, Mr Donnelly decided to step in favour of Alderman Joyce, a fact that became known only after the Council assembled.
The Council Chamber was beautifully adorned with flower plants, thanks to the efforts of Mr Walter Bourke. While the city’s residents displayed a generally calm demeanour, outside the municipal buildings, an eager and orderly crowd had gathered.
At noon, the outgoing Mayor, accompanied by the Town Clerk (Mr William M. Nolan), the Assistant Town Clerk (Mr A. Killeen), the High Constable, and the Sergeant-at-Arms, entered the Council Chamber, receiving warm applause. The Town Clerk then called the roll, and the selection process began.
In a gesture of appreciation, Alderman Sir Thomas Cleeve moved a resolution praising the Town Clerk for his dedicated and impartial work. This was seconded by Mr Hassett and passed unanimously. The Mayor expressed his agreement with the resolution and commended Mr Nolan’s efforts, assuring that even the defeated candidates had no complaints about the conduct of the elections.
Mr Nolan, in response, thanked everyone and recalled receiving a vote of thanks six years ago when he first took up his position after the Local Government Act’s enactment. He congratulated the new Council members and expressed regret for some of the previous members not being successful in the elections.
The Mayor proceeded to discuss the city’s financial situation, highlighting the need for a rate increase of 11s 6d in the £ to meet the expenditures, which included the poor-rate and the water rate. However, he pointed out that Limerick received excellent value for its water rate, far better than other cities in Ireland. He also discussed ongoing projects, particularly the electric lighting scheme, which was making progress under the new Council’s watch.
Furthermore, the Mayor adhered to the tradition of presenting a review of the municipal work carried out during his term. He emphasized that despite the heavy rate burden, considering all the circumstances, it was not as daunting as it might seem. He expressed his determination to avoid any attempt to sugarcoat the situation but assured that the Council would strive to make the best decisions for the city.
In conclusion, the Limerick Corporation welcomed the new Council members and looked forward to a promising year under the leadership of Alderman Joyce, who was elected as the new Mayor. The meeting ended on a positive note, with applause for the outgoing and incoming Mayors and a sense of optimism for the city’s future.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 24 January 1905
