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In 1843 John M. Wimer became the ninth Mayor of St. Louis.
Later, in 1857, John M. Wimer served as the nineteenth Mayor of St. Louis.
One of the City's first fire prevention measures was put into effect during John Wimer's first administration. In August of 1843, chimney and a stove pipe specifications were spelled out in detail. The Street Inspectors were ordered to examine every building at least once a month and report any violation to the City Judge who would have defective pipes and chimneys pulled down by the City Marshal.
In September of 1843 the duties and salaries of City Officials were revised and written out in more detail than previously. The City Engineer was the highest paid City Official, receiving $1500 per year. The Mayor, Register, Auditor, Judge and Waterworks Superintendent were paid $1200 per year. The Comptroller was paid $800 and Treasurer $400 yearly. The City law on misdemeanors was more clearly defined and penalties more clearly prescribed.
The most important accomplishment of Wimer's second administration was the organization of a regular paid Fire Department in 1857. This department took over the property of the volunteer companies. An appointed Chief Engineer and two members from each of the boards of the City Council formed a Board of Fire Engineers to make rules and regulations for efficient operation of the department. A fire alarm telegraph system was planned and the City was divided into five fire districts.
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