§ 11-2. Findings and purposes.

(a)

This chapter is intended to supplement the provisions of the Campaign Finance Act as such act is amended from time to time. In some instances, this chapter is intended to be a convenient, single-source reminder of the applicable state law. In other instances, the provisions of this chapter are expressly intended to be more restrictive than the state law.

(b)

Monetary contributions to political campaigns are a legitimate form of participation in the American political process, but the financial strength of certain individuals, organizations or entities should not permit them to exercise a disproportionate or controlling influence on the election of candidates.

(c)

The increasing costs of political campaigns have forced many candidates to raise larger and larger funds from individuals and interest groups with a specific financial stake in matters before the unified government commission. This has caused a public perception that votes are being improperly influenced by monetary contributions to candidates. This perception is undermining the credibility and integrity of the governmental process.

(d)

The integrity of the governmental process, the competitiveness of campaigns, and public confidence in local officials are all diminishing.

(e)

Receipt of campaign contributions and campaign expenditures in municipal election campaigns should be fully and truthfully disclosed in order that the voters may be fully informed about a candidate's source of campaign contributions.

(f)

This chapter is intended to ensure that individuals and interest groups have a fair and equal opportunity to participate in the municipal elective and governmental processes, to improve the disclosure of contribution sources in reasonable and effective ways, and to help restore public trust in the local electoral process.

(Code 1988, § 9.5-1; Ord. No. O-13-03, § 1, 4-3-2003)