Swift v. People ex rel. Powers

It is urged, by counsel for the relators, that as the keeping of a saloon is recognized by the law as a legitimate occupation, and the method to be pursued by those desiring to obtain a license to sell liquors is definitely pointed out, when one asking for a license has complied with the law, the authorities have no discretion to refuse because the place where the saloon is to be, is one in which the mayor is of the opinion such a store ought not to be kept.

It is urged that the mayor can not, in his discretion, deprive one neighborhood, or any citizen resident therein, of the right to there…