From the Lawrence Daily Journal-World for March 11, 1914:

• “Not at this time and at that price. That was the verdict of 3,168 Lawrence people who voted on the proposition of purchasing the property of the Lawrence Water Company at the price of $197,500. These votes were divided 2,504 against the proposition and 664 for it — a ratio of very nearly 4 to 1. It was evident from the very first that the proposition would be hopelessly lost. From the sixth ward came the first count on this proposition — 164 against and 31 for the proposition. This was taken to be a barometer of the situation, and it proved to be such…. The vote of yesterday is taken as a protest against paying the price of $197,500 for the Water Company’s property. Public sentiment has been strong against this matter ever since it was first submitted. The people of Lawrence could not be convinced that the Water Company’s property would be worth that much money to the city and consequently their vote was cast against the proposition…. And now what to do? The water question now passes on to the new commission.”
• “There is a fear being felt that the paving contractor soon to start is not going to employ home men and teams. It is known that a large bunch of teams have been unloaded and a number of men have been brought here from Wichita. If this means that home men are not to be employed on this paving contract it is time for the citizens to get busy. The paving was started early in order to give employment for laboring men who have had a hard winter. There must be no foolishness about this. Home men and team are entitled to do this work and it is time for the council to reconvene and investigate this report. It comes mighty straight that the home men are to be left out in the paving contract…. This paper does not wish to prejudice anyone but it does wish to insist upon a fair show for home labor. If it is possible the contract ought to be rescinded if home labor is not employed. This paper wants to know right here and now if the men are to be given this work? If not why are not the home men put to work? Who are these men and teams at the Santa Fe stock yards? We would like to know the outlook for Lawrence labor.”