|
||||
ARGUMENT
AGAINST |
||||
| Many people agree that
well-thought campaign finance reform is needed at many levels of
government. But most people also agree that no law is better than
bad, poorly conceived, poorly written law.
Proposition LL is bad law--one that will have the unintended consequence of stifling public participation in Santa Monica. Safeguards are in place for local officials. City law limits campaign contributions to $250 per election cycle. State laws prohibit gifts of more than a cumulative amount of $250 per year for local elected and appointed officials. This proposition is self-admittedly a "test"--one of six initiatives being tried in cities around California by a reform group interested in achieving their "end". But they are outsiders to Santa Monica and their "means" of reform is slapping down a generic law that ignores our city and is not mindful of local voices. It also applies to appointed officials. Santa Monica is renowned for its high level of citizen participation. Hundreds of Santa Monican's serve on Boards, Commissions and working groups volunteering countless hours of service. This proposition's ambiguity will put an unnecessary extra burden on people volunteering time to community service. The proposition is further flawed because it has elements that are not reasonably enforceable, such as the 10% requirement. This is a bad law being pushed by an outside group wanting to further their own goal that has little to do with Santa Monica. Couched in reformist words, it tries to take advantage of Santa Monica voters and gives no consideration to the structure and reform measures already in place. The shoe does NOT fit Santa Monica. Don't buy the hype. Vote NO on Proposition LL. Pam O'Connor, Mayor Pro Tem |
||||
|
Return to Election
2000 Main page
This page was last modified on 01/23/2008 |
||||
