Section 40. Regulations of duties of officers

The common council may, by
  ordinance passed by three-fourths of all its members,  not  inconsistent
  with  this  chapter, or other laws of the state, regulate the powers and
  duties  of  any  city  officer  or  department;  and  it  has  power  to
  investigate  all  city officers and departments and shall have access to
  all records and papers kept by every city officer or department, and has
  power to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of books,
  papers or other evidence at any meeting of the common council or of  any
  committee  thereof,  and  for that purpose may issue subpoenas signed by
  the president.