An article in the March 31 issue of the Pelican Press, by Bob Ardren, summarized the contributions that each City Commission candidate has received from supporters. It also details the contributions to each candidate that were the maximum allowed ($500 per individual), and specifically from developers with pending downtown projects.
Richard Martin collected contributions from only 29 contributors, including 10 that gave the $500 maximum. Five of these came from people related the planned Plaza Verde project (Ali Ebrahimi group). Martin’s total (for the run-off) was $5679.32 from 29 people. This is $195.83 per contributor.
Lou Ann Palmer had 39 different contributors and of her 5 maximum contributions, none came from downtown developers. Palmer’s total of $3073.29 calculates to an average of $78.80 per contributor.
Ken Shelin had 77 contributors. Of his 6 maximum contributions, again, none was from downtown developers. Shelin’s total of $3493.77 calculates to an average of $45.37 per contributor
While there is no implied link between contributions and future support for a project, we think that all candidates need to be cautious about developer contributions. The appearance of support is enough to generate questions.
We like the broad based support for Palmer and Shelin as shown by the small average contributions.
We would also like to ask all residents to support their candidate by giving some funds. If enough residents give even a small amount, there is less need for candidates to rely on special interests. Those candidates that have no special interests asking for support are likely to be open to all concerns equally.
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