Your cash ain't nothin' but trash

   A tip of the hat to Lynn Horsley, who told us about a proposed city council ordinance that would limit contributions for Kansas City, Missouri, council races.

   For mayor:  $2000 a person.  For at-large council: $1500.  For in-district: $750.

   There's a cost-of-living adjustment each four-year period.

    Here's the key, though:  it wouldn't take effect until after Jan. 1.   If it passes, it means candidates will raise money furiously -- in large, unlimited amounts -- this year.

    The council's Finance Committee (not, interestingly, it's Rules and Ethics committee) will talk about the proposal Wednesday.

UPDATE:  See alert poster below who explains why fund raising won't go crazy later this year. 

Posted by Dave Helling

Comments

So, there is no limit on individual contributions now? If so, what is it?

Candidates won't be able to raise unlimited amounts of cash this year. They are still bound by the Missouri state limits of $1,275 for citywide races. The elimination of contribution limits from state law does not go into effect until January 1, 2007, the same day that the proposed Kansas City-only limits would go into effect.

Does "alert poster" honestly believe candidates WON'T be out securing contribution pledges during the next five months in anticipation of 1-1-2007 changes?

[Oldyeller]

This was introduced by Councilman Chuck Eddy. A candidate for Mayor. Is this a little self-serving? Why would a candidate for Mayor put limits on contributions? Why does he not want candidates for City offices to play by the same rules as every one else in the State when the new rules go into effect on January 1. Does he feel that one of his opponents might have an advantage with no limits? Why are not limits put on contributions to bond issues or other issues that the City puts on the ballot and then the Mayor goes out and asked for companies and organizations around town to support these issues with contributions of $10,000 or more to make sure they are passed. Sounds like more games being played here. Just some thougts.