1949 1

Douglas Charles Sweeney (September 6, 1918 – January 20, 2000) was a local businessman who served as an appointed member of the city council from July 1949 to June 1951.  He was appointed by the council to fill the unexpired term of the late Vernon Lantz. 1 He was defeated when he ran to be reelected to the council. 2

Sweeney was the brother of James J. Sweeney, Jr,, who was a battalion chief at the time Douglas was appointed to the council and went on to serve as chief of the Oakland Fire Department from 1955 to 1972. He was also the brother of Robert "Bob" Sweeney who served as a firefighter for 27 years. Their father, James J. Sweeney, Sr. was a long-time veteran with the fire department. 3

After graduating from St. Mary's College, Sweeney enlisted in the U.S. Army in April, 1943. Sweeney served in Alaska and was honorably discharged in February, 1946. 3

Sweeney ran a clothing store with George Isola at 4069 Telegraph Avenue. He was a member of the Temescal Merchants' Association, and the North Oakland Optimist Club. 1

Sweeney was active in the local VFW Post. In 1948 he ran for Alameda County Supervisor for district 5,4 and again in 1952. 5

Death and Burial

Sweeny died in 2000, and is buried in St. Mary's Cemetery, along with Peggy. 4 James Sweeney, Sr. and other family members are buried there as well.

Links and References

  1. Douglas C. Sweeney Sworn Into City Council to Replace Lantz Oakland Tribune July 27, 1949
  2. Ex-Councilman Sweeney Clubbed by Hoodlums in Attack Near His Home Oakland Tribune November 9, 1951
  3. obituary for Douglas C. Sweeney San Francisco Examiner January 23, 2000
  4. Political Notes and Comment of East Bay Interest Oakland Tribune May 23, 1948
  5. election results Oakland Tribune June 4, 1952
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