McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Jonathan P. Bell
Friday, September 13, 2024 9:53 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse; cityclerk
Morales, Margo; Rivas, Jessica; Gordo, Victor
Public Comment - SUPPORT Campaign Contribution Limits, Pasadena City Council Meeting 9/16/24, Agenda Item 11
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Public Comment - SUPPORT Campaign Contribution Limits. Pasadena City Council Meeting 9/16/24. Agenda Item 11
Dear Pasadena City Council,
My name is Jonathan Pacheco Bell. I am a resident of Pasadena District 5.
I write this letter in SUPPORT of establishing reasonable campaign contribution Limits as outlined in our 9/16 City Council Agenda Item 11. As proposed, campaign contribution Limits would reduce from $5,500 for all races to $2500 for mayoral races and $1 ,000 for city council races.
I support these reasonable campaign contribution limits because:
Our congressional and state Legislative districts encompass larger jurisdictional territories with wider legislative authority, and yet our current city campaign contribution limit of $5,500 is the same OR HIGHER than theirs.
Our congressional district has about 464k voters and the Limit is $3,300.
Our state senate district is 622k voters and the limit is $5,500.
My city council district only has 10k voters and the limit is $5,500.
Our limits are not proportionate to the size of the races in the City of Pasadena for mayor and council.
Most people don't have wealthy personal networks that they can use to fundraise. They can't just call up theirfriends and family and askthem to write fat checks to their campaigns. • Having a reasonable limit will mean everyday folks are not at such a stark structural disadvantage against candidates with deep-pocketed wealthy friends and family.
The perception or actuality of elected officials beholden to their biggest and wealthiest contributors is dangerous for our democracy.
• This effort will right-size our contribution limits because:
It will promote a more level playing field between candidates.
It will minimize monjed influence or appearance of influence. 19/16/2024
Item 11
The enforcement scheme developed by staff is appropriate and cost effective. Per the staff report, enforcement costs will "not be significant."
It aligns with our values of equitable and fair democratic processes in the City of Pasadena.
Thankyou for adding my Letter into the public record for this item.
Sincerely,
JPB
Jonathan Pacheco Bell
Pasadena Districts resident
2 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Denise
Thursday, September 12, 2024 10:14 PM
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Number 11 on the Agenda
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Dear City Councilmembers,
Thankyouforallyoudoforourcity.
I want to urge you to please adopt the campaign contribution limits as soon as possible. We certainly don't need to have five times the limits of Los Angeles. The recommended $1,000 Limit for city council (and $2500 for mayor) is plenty hefty enough, especially for a small city the size of Pasadena. You don't even need that much money. Alt candidates in my district come to my door and talk to me, share their phone number and answer questions. That's the wayto campaign in a small city like Pasadena.
Thankyou for implementing campaign contribution limits as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Denise
District?
Pasadena.CA 91106
Denise Munro Robb, Ph.D.
Professor, Pierce College
"Those Who Can Make You Believe Absurdities Can MakeYou Commit Atrocities" (Possibly Voltaire) 19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Julie McKune <
Friday, September 13, 2024 4:59 PM
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City Council Mtg, Monday September 16, item #11
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Dear City Council members,
We strongly support campaign contribution limits.
The Charter study task force recommends these limits.
Let's create a more level playing field between candidates.
Let's end the way elected officials are being holden to their biggest contributors, because that's NOT a representative government!
Sincerely,
Julie McKune
R. Romero
and family
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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cindyclark-schnuelle
Friday, September 13, 2024 5:08 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Contribution Limits
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I am a resident of Pasadena and support contribution limits of $2500 for Mayoral campaigns and $1000 for council seat campaigns.
Regards,
CindyClark-Schnuelle
Sent from my iPhone
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Melissa M.
Friday, September 13, 2024 7:16 PM
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9/16/24 Public Comment City Council, Agenda #11 - SUPPORT Some people who received this message don't often get email fromLearn why this is important CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you frnowthe content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view ari:icle "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
DO NOT PUBLISH MY EMAIL ADDRESS. THANKYOU.
START OF PUBLIC COMMENT:
Dear City of Pasadena
This ordinance isa long time coming. Alhambra has donation caps, whether for mayor or council, at $250 each. Your $2500 for mayor and $1000 for council member is plenty and should be reduced even further! At the last city council meeting, during the approx. 1 .5 hour public comment period, even after Mayor Gordo limited the amount of time each member of the public got to speak, not one single person in the public spoke in favor keeping the statewide cap, and certainly no one" except a few of your more corporate-friendly politicians on the council — spoke for having such high Limits.
Frankly, stop whining about having to actually campaign to the people's needs. Those on the council who were not on board have shown their true colors. Those want a healthy democracy and good governance know that having a low limit shows that Pasadena's elected officials are not beholden to the people writing them the biggest checks.
Follow what your Charter Study Task Force recommends.
Followwhat the public want because they are watching carefully, Mayor Gordo.
Sincerely,
M. Michelson
Professor at Pasadena City College
19/16/2024
Item 11
MlcMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Mindy Pfeiffer
Saturday, September 14,2024 11:12 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Contribution Limits
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My name is Mindy Pfeiffer, I have lived in Pasadena since 1980, and I am a constituent in District 5. I amwrititng in support of the City Council voting to adopt reasonable lower contribution limits of $2,500 for the mayoral races and $1 ,000 for councilmember races.
There are many reasons why I support lower contribution limits. First, it is what the Charter Study Task Force recommended, and what the Council voted to do back on July 8. Second, it will promote a more level playing field between candidates. Most people can't rely on wealthy supporters to bankroll their campaign, giving an unfair advantage to those who can count on that monetary support. In addition, it will minimize influence, or the appearance of influence. It is not a good thing when officials appear to owe favors to big donors. Finally, since state law allows for setting a lower limit, the City Council should take immediate action to do so and show it's constituents that City Council works for all of us, and not just for big donors.
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Jamie Scott
Saturday, September 14, 2024 9:26 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Jamie Scott; breden
Support ordinance implementing new limits on campaign contributions Dear Pasadena City Council Members,
Unfortunately, we will not be able to attend City Council meeting on Monday 16 September.
The agenda that day includes item #11: Approval of the ordinance implementing new limits on mayoral and citycouncil.campaigns.
We're writing to strongly urge you all to support this new ordinance! There is no reason why local elections in Pasadena should involve large donations to candidates.
That keeps citizens who don't have access to large donors out of competition.
And it lends bias favoringtheir donors to those who have such connections.
So please follow through with your original commitment and support these changes to Pasadena's campaign laws.
Thanks for your consideration
Jamie Scott and Felix Breden
Residents of District 6
Jamie Scott, MD, PhD & Felix Breden, PhD
(she/her/hers & he/him/his)
Pasadena, CA 91105
We gratefully acknowledge that we work, play and live on the traditional lands of the Gabrielino-Tongva peoples. 19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Jordan Vannini
Sunday, September 15, 2024 8:44 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Campaign Finance Limits
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I wish to registet my suppport of campaign finance limits for City Council and Mayor and the Charter Study Task Force recommendations.
High and unlimited campaign finance Limits have a proven record of anti-democratic influence in elections favoring small numbers of wealthy contributors and usurping the will of the voters.
I urge the City Council to pass these reforms and reject the disproportinate influence of wealthy contributors and special interest groups.
Jordan Vannini
Districts
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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randa keysselitz
Sunday, September 15, 2024 8:53 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Limits on Mayoral Races
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I support the limit of money in mayoral races. Than you.
Sent from my iPhone
19/16/2024
Item 11
MlcMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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julianna . _^_-._ ^ ^_^_,._._.
Sunday, September 15, 2024 9:22 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse; Jomsky, Mark
'julianna'
RE: City Council Agenda for 091624, Item #11
Limits
Reasonable Campaign Contribution
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Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council,
Based on the Charter Study Task Force's recommendation and your July 8th decision, I urge you to approve amending Pasadena's Municipal Code to set campaign contribution limits at $2,500 for candidates for Mayor, and $1,000 for candidates for City Council districts, per election. Given that Pasadena is currently without limits (defaulting to the State limit of $5,500), the proposed amounts are consistent with the size of our electorate.
Nowhere is democracy more relevant than at the local level. It is here where the 'rubber meets the road' and a level playing field with respect to fundraising that impacts citizens' right to equal protection and participating in elections must be safeguarded. Without campaign limits the best candidate for the job may be at a structural disadvantage against those with wealthy friends and families—often from outside our City—who can easily write large checks. Without limits the wealthiest campaign contributors may in fact influence their preferred candidate's decision- making or worse, feed the appearance of privilege, which undermines democratic principles and dissuades people from voting. Without limits our democracy is ruled by campaign dollars, rather than a candidate's merit, commitment to service, and guarantee to represent all constituents. To avoid the appearance of undue influence and promote and ensure fair elections, some candidates in Pasadena have voluntarily set limits on the amount they will accept per contributor. Campaign contribution limits need to apply to all candidates.
Thank you for voting in favor of setting reasonable limits.
Julianna Delgado, M.Arch, Ph.D, FAICP
President, Southern California Planning Congress
Planning Commissioner, City of Pasadena
Design Commissioner (Chair), City of Pasadena
Professor Emerita, Urban & Regional Planning
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Sam Berndt
Sunday, September 15, 2024 1:01 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Agenda Item 11 - Support for Campaign Contribution Limits Some people who received this message don't often get email from.ea rn why this is important ^] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
City Council Members,
My name is Sam Berndt, and I urge you to continue to support the draft ordinance establishing campaign contribution limits of $2,500 for candidates for Mayor and $1 ,000 for candidates for City Council Districts, per election.
Further, I would recommend that the City begin to take an active approach to move toward public funding of elections to fully level the playing field between candidates and make the election a competition of ideas that would best suit the people of the City of Pasadena.
Thanks,
Sam Berndt
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Mark Maier , _ ^ ......
Sunday, September 15, 2024 2:04 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
City Council meeting agenda item # 11
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I write in support of the ordinance to establish campaign contribution limits.
We are fortunate in Pasadena to have campaigns that operate at the neighborhood level with candidates in touch with constituents. While this ordinance will not keep all big money out of campaigns, it is a necessary step to preserve the Pasadena way. Please support the Task Force recommendations.
Sincerely,
MarkMaier
Pasadena 91104
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Jenna Cobb
Sunday, September 15, 2024 3:05 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
September 16th, 2024, Item 11: An ordinance to establish campaign contribution limits.
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Dear City Council,
Thank you for your service to the city and for your staffs continued work. I am writing to urge you to vote in favor of the drafted ordinance to impose campaign contribution limits on City Council and Mayoral races.
Our city has been defined by its activism and its dedication to the democratic process. However, Pasadena has fallen behind its peer cities in Los Angeles County on the issue of campaign finance. Reports show that the vast majority of Americans support some form of campaign contribution limits, and in an increasingly polarized political ecosystem, Americans are growing more distrustful of electoral politics and more wary of political corruption.
By establishing campaign contribution limits, our city takes control of its own democratic future. These limits can foster trust between voters and elected officials and continue to galvanize resident involvement in local politics.
•
•
Strong and meaningful contribution limits prevent wealthy special interests from having undue influence and strengthen public tmst in the election process.
We should empower small-dollar donors to make an impact in campaigns, and we should set the campaign limits low enough to encourage voter participation.
High campaign limits discourage "everyday people" from running for office themselves.
The campaign finance provisions in the ordinance follow a strong precedent in local governments throughout Los Angeles County, California, and are supported by research considered by the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force in its thoughtful deliberations.
Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Sincerely,
Jenna Cobb
Resident of District 2
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Sonja Berndt
Monday, September 16, 2024 7:37 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse; Gordo, Victor; Hampton, Tyron; Rivas, Jessica; Masuda, Gene; Lyon, Jason; Madison, Steve; Williams, Felicia; Jones, Justin City Council Meeting 9/16/24 Agenda #11
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Dear City Council Members:
I strongly urge you to pass the proposed ordinance limiting campaign contributions as set forth therein for the following reasons:
o Strong and meaningful contribution limits prevent wealthy special interests from having undue influence and prevent even the appearance of undue influence, which erodes public trust in the election process;
a High donation limits discourage people who are not wealthy from showing up to vote. And high campaign limits discourage everyday people from mnning for office; ] We should be empowering small-dollar donors to make an impact in campaigns, and we should be setting the campaign limits low enough to encourage voter participation;
D A reasonable limit of $1000 or lower will go far to increase public trust and voter participation since voters will know that everyone has a voice here in Pasadena.
D
There has been some previous discussion about the fact that campaign finance reports provide transparency so voters can see who candidates are receiving contributions from, BUT TRANSPARENCY IS NOT ENOUGH. Reviewing campaign disclosures simply confirms that big donors try to buy influence with their elected officials.
There has also been previous discussion, particularly from the mayor, that lower contribution limits cause an increase in independent expenditures. However. NO DATA WAS PROVIDED to the Charter Study Task Force showing that lower limits cause an increase in lEs. Rather, the data showed that there are many variables that can cause an increase in lEs, especially the issues on the ballot. 19/16/2024
Item 11
The ordinance is carefully crafted to minimize any additional cost on the City, allowing for informal resolution for disputed violations of the ordinance.
For all of these reasons, please pass the ordinance expeditiously. Thank you.
Sonja Berndt
Pasadena resident
2 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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cheryl auger
Monday, September 16, 2024 8:24 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse; Steve Madison; Chapman, Justin Campaign Finance Limits
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Dear Councilmemebers, Mayor and City Manager,
I strongly support adoption of reasonable campaign contribution limits, $2,500 for mayoral races and $1 ,000 for councilmember races. Please support the passage of these limits.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Auger
Cheryl Auger
www.myzerowastestore.com
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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lesha Siler
Monday, September 16, 2024 9:16 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Item #11: re: adoption of reasonable campaign contribution limits Some people who received this message don't often get email from'..earn why this is important ^] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more infQrmation about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Dear Council,
I'm writing to highlight the importance of campaign contribution limits in preserving a fair democracy.
Without limits, wealthy individuals and corporations could buy influence, leading to corruption and unequal representation. These limits ensure that all voices are heard, not just those of the wealthy, fostering fair competition and representation. They also promote transparency, making it easier for the public to trust the electoral process. Balancing free speech with equity, contribution limits help protect democracy from becoming dominated by the interests of a few.
Thank you for considering this important issue. I urge your support on setting campaign limits of $2,500 for Mayoral races adn $1 ,000 for Councilmember races.
Sincerely,
iesha
leshaSiler,MPH
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Monday, September 16, 2024 9:59 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Item 11. ESTABLISH CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION LIMITS
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I strongly support the proposed ordinance to limit campaign contribution limits to $2,500 for mayoral races and $1,000 for city council races. In running for office, candidates should meet their constituents through door-to- door canvasing and public forums. Candidates should answer questions and listen to resident concerns rather than filling our mailboxes with expensive, glossy campaign materials which may include false or misleading information.
Genette Foster
District 2
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Suzanne York
Monday, September 16, 2024 10:20 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Campaign contribution limits
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Please help make our elections more fair and even by limiting campaign contributions Thanks very much Suzanne York, resident of Pasadena Sent from my IPhone
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Monday, September 16, 2024 10:48 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Campaign Contribution Limit Ordinance Item # 11
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Dear Members of City Council,
I urge your support for the draft ordinance establishing campaign contribution limits of $2,500 for candidates for Mayor and $1 ,000 for candidates for City Council Districts. The Charter Study Task Force, after lengthy study recommended these limits. The people of Pasadena are speaking and I believe it's in your best interest and ours to follow the lead and reasoning of the citizen's task force.
With best wishes,
KrisOckershauser
6th District
1 9/16/2024
Item 11
PASADENANS
ORGANIZING
FOR PROGRESS
RECEIVED
282!-SEP 16 AM 11^05
CITY CLERK
CITY OF PASADENA
September 16, 2024
Honorable JVtayor and Councilmembers:
Since 2021, a broad coalition of Pasadena residents and community organizations has pressed the City Council for reasonable limits on campaign contributions for local races.
Since the successful outcry against the Council majority's efforts to set aside the State limit of $4,900, those voices have continued to press for reform. Your own Charter Study Committee recommended $1000 for Council and $2500 for Mayor campaigns.
While the Council did not follow their urging to provide voters the opportunity to protect those limits by putting them in the City Charter, you did pledge to pass an ordinance expeditiously along with a provision that it could not be set aside or changed during an election cycle.
The history of Pasadena elections demonstrates why these protections are vital.
Candidate forums were once common and local media ensured some objectivity in reporting on the claims of candidates. Increasingly, these democratic forms of civic engagement have waned and been replaced by slick, misleading and even malicious professional campaign messages targeted to select audiences. Special interests have come to dominate fundraising in the pursuit of private gain at public expense.
Perhaps $20 billion dollars will be spent nationally in this election cycle, the costliest and most bitter in history. Voices of reason are drowned out in an orgy of ugly charges and counter-charges, trivializing important national, state and regional issues. WE must not surrender to this degradation of our democracy.
It's true that Supreme Court rulings have hampered the ability to control spending. But let's be sure that candidates cannot be bought and sold by enacting reasonable limits on local races. Ensure as well that adequate provision and resources are made to enforce these limits to avoid their evasion.
The people of Pasadena expect no less from their elected representatives! Best Regards,
Board ofPasadenans Organizing for Progress
9/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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Laura Fleming
Monday, September 16, 2024 11:02 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Agenda item #11: Lower campaign contribution limits
^
u
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Dear Mayor Gordo and Pasadena City Council:
I support the recommendations of the Charter Study Task Force to institute lower contribution limits for Pasadena City Council and Mayoral campaigns.
Sincerely,
Laura Fleming
District 7 Resident
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
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AsherVollmer
Monday, September 16, 2024 11:17 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
City Council Agenda for 091624, Item #11Reasonable Campaign Contribution Limits Some people who received this message don't often get email fromearn why this is important ^] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you knowihe content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Hi there,
I am sending in this comment, as a residentof Pasadena, to say that I am highly in favor of stricter contribution limits to campaigns. I urge you to set the lower contribution limits that have been suggested.
The government has an obligation to serve the people they represent, not just the people who have found their way into wealth. Contribution limits are a clear way to cut off the ultra-richfrom swaying elections and putting the power back into the people.
Thankyouforyourtime andyourvote.
AsherVollmer
^ he/him
f% Game Designer
you are now free to stop reading this email
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:
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Katherine Perez
Monday, September 16, 2024 11:29 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Pasadena Campaign Contribution Limit Ordinance
ISome people who received this message don't often get email fromLearn why this is important fl CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Dear Mayor Gordo and Members of the Pasadena City Council, I strongly support campaign contribution Limits in Pasadena. Additionally, I concur with the recommendations made by the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force. The Charter Study Task Force was a process which I followed and personally, I appreciated the time and investment the Task Force members made to provide us with recommendations to make meaningful improvements and changes to our politics in Pasadena.
For the following reasons I support contribution Limits:
1. It will right-size our contribution limits
2. It will promote a more level playing field between candidates
3. It will minimize influence or appearance of influence
4. Importantly, the City Council already voted to do this July 8th Lastly, It's overdue.
Sincerely,
Katherine Aguilar Perez
Pasadena, CA 91104
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:
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Pat Amsbry
Monday, September 16, 2024 11:55 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
In support of LOWER contribution limits (to be distributed for the 9/16 meeting) ^
Some people who received this message don't often get email fromam why this is important ,111
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Dear Councilmembers and Mr. Mayor -
I am writing to support LOWER contribution limits and encourage you to support this critically important change to our city government. Below are some of the many reasons why this makes sense for our great City:
0 0
0 0
0 0
After significant research and mindful consideration, it's what the Charter Study Task Force recommended
It's what YOU (the Council) voted to do back on July 8th It will right-size our contribution limits
Our congressional and state legislative districts are orders of magnitude larger than our voter base, yet our current limit is the same OR HIGHER than theirs Our congressional district has approximately 464k voters, and their limit is $3,300 Our state senate district has approximately 622k voters, and their limit is $5,500 Here at home, our Pasadena City Council districts only have approximately 10k-20k voters, and the limit is $5/500
Our limits are not proportionate to the size of the races for mayor and council.
Lower limits will promote a more level playing field between ALL candidates Most people don't have deep-pocket personal networks to call upon to fundraise.
It's not possible for "regular" or community candidates to call up their well-heeled friends and family and ask them all to write four-figure checks (OR self-fund their campaigns)
A reasonable and appropriate contribution limit will mean "regular" people are not at such a HUGE structural disadvantage against candidates with wealthy families and friends
It will allow greater access for those who seek elected office.
It will minimize actual influence or the appearance of influence The perception (or real possibility) of elected officials being beholden to their most significant contributors is dangerous for our democracy - both in Pasadena and at all levels of elected government - we have a REAL chance to make a difference in our own City
It's critical to have a low limit so that it doesn't give the impression that our elected officials are beholden to the people writing the biggest checks.
The enforcement plan developed by staff is appropriate and cost-effective 19/16/2024
Item 11
o It wilt elevate Pasadena governance as a MODEL - encouraging other similarly governed municipalities to follow suit
o State law allows us to LOWER the limits - WE need to do it! Thank you for your time and consideration.
Respectfully,
PatAmsbry
2 McMilIan, Acquanette (Netta)
Subject:FW: Pasadena Campaign Contribution Limit Ordinance From: Tim Wendler
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 1:08 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse <[email protected]> Subject: Pasadena Campaign Contribution Limit Ordinance ISome people who received this message don't often get email from. Learn why this is important CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
I support the proposed campaign contribution limits of $2500 for mayoral races and $1,000 for council races. This is what the Charter Study Task force recommended after extensive study as a way of making our contribution limits more comparable to other jurisdictions, create a more level playing field for candidates, and reduces the appearance of money influence on decision making.
Thanks for your consideration.
-TimWendler
Pasadena CA
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
Subject:FW: Agenda Item #11 - Campaign Contribution Limits From: Blair Miller
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 1:43 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda Item #11 - Campaign Contribution Limits /^] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you tooivthe content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Mayor Gordo and Councilmembers,
I am writing in support of the campaign contribution limits that were recommended by the Chari:er Reform Study Task Force, as described in the staff report for Item #11 on your agenda today.
Thank you,
Blair Miller
District 4
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
Subject:FW: Comment for 9-16-24 Countil Meeting, Agenda Item #11 From: Allison Henry
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 2:03 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse <[email protected]>; Jones, Justin <[email protected]>; Hampton, Tyron <[email protected]>; Williams, Felicia <[email protected]>; Masuda, Gene <[email protected]>; Rivas, Jessica <[email protected]>; Madison, Steve <[email protected]>; Lyon, Jason <[email protected]>; Gordo, Victor <[email protected]> Subject: Comment for 9-16-24 Countil Meeting, Agenda Item #11 [A! CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Dear Mayor Gordo and Pasadena City Council Members,
Thank you for your service to the city of Pasadena. I write re item #11: I am strong support of the ordinance that limits contributions in our local races. The community is grateful for the July City Council vote that directed staff to draft an ordinance that, if passed, would set contribution limits to $2,500 for Mayoral races and $1,000 for City Council races. Thank you for the direction in July--please vote yes tonight for the first reading of this important ordinance.
The below graph is a helpful picture of the status quo which your yes vote tonight begins to change. Thank you again for your deliberations and service.
Allison Henry
District 3 and Garfield Heights resident
At Large Member, Pasadena Rental Housing Board
LA Forward Institute, SGV Lead Organizer
19/16/2024
Item 11
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2 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:
Sent:
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Subject:
Jen Collins <
Monday, September 16, 2024 12:03 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Support for lower campaign contribution limits
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification ]
'am why this is important
^] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Dear Pasadena City Council,
As a Pasadena resident and business owner, I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed ordinance to lower campaign contribution limits, which will be discussed at today's meeting (Agenda Item #11). The new limits— $2,500 for mayoral races and $1,000 for councilmember races—are a critical step toward creating a more fair and transparent election process in Pasadena, a step the Council voted to take back in July.
Currently, our contribution limits are disproportionate to the size of our city's electoral races. Council districts of only around 10,000 voters having the same limits as state senate districts with over 600,000 voters undermines equity. Lower limits, as recommended by the Charter Study Task Force, will level the playing field, making it easier for candidates without access to wealthy networks to run for office.
Moreover, lower limits will help minimize the influence of large contributors on our elected officials. I urge the Council to adopt these reasonable limits and strengthen our local democracy here in Pasadena.
Sincerely,
Jennifer L. Collins, LCSW
1 9/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
Subject:FW: Support for Campaign Contribution Limits in Pasadena From: maria
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 2:27 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse <[email protected]> Subject: Support for Campaign Contribution Limits in Pasadena Some people who received this message don't often get email from mariacastellonfgirock-era.net. Learn why this is important [A] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know {he content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Dear Pasadena Mayor Gordo, Members of the City Council, and City Manager Miguel Marquez, I am writing to express my strong support for implementing campaign contribution Limits in Pasadena. I believe that establishing these limits is crucial for ensuring equitable representation and fostering a more inclusive and diverse local government.
Our beautiful city of Pasadena deserves representation that reflects the diverse voices and experiences of all its residents. To achieve this, it is essential that we create an environment where every qualified individual has a fair opportunity to run for office, regardless of their financial background. Currently, the pressure to spend substantial amounts of money to compete with challengers can deter capable candidates who may not have access to significant financial resources.
By imposing campaign contribution Limits, we can LeveLthe playingfietd and reduce the influence of money in our local elections. This would help ensure that our elected officials are more representative of the entire community, rather than predominantly those who are financially better off. Such a measure would contribute to a more democratic and equitable process, allowing for a broader range of voices and perspectives in our city government.
I urge you to consider and support campaign contribution limits as a means to promote fairness and diversity in our local elections. Pasadena's strength lies in its diversity, and our representation should reflect this by providing equal opportunities for all who wish to serve our community.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
equitable and representative Local government.
Sincerely,
Maria G. Castellan
Resident of Districts
look forward to your support in creating a more
19/16/2024
Item 11
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
Subject: FW: Item #11, campaign contributions
From: Bert Newton
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 3:05 PM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse <[email protected]> Cc: Rivas, Jessica <[email protected]>
Subject: Item #11, campaign contributions
C&l CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet Do not dick links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert. Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Dear Mayor and City Council,
Please follow the Charter Study Task Force recommendation of limiting campaign contributions to $2,500 for mayoral races and $1,000 for councilmember races. The current limit, set by the state, is higher than the limit for the U.S. Congress.
Lowering the contribution limits creates a more equal playing field. It reduces the oversized influence of wealth in politics and helps more people be able to meaningfully participate in our democratic process.
A big part of this increased participation will be the ability of people from lower income families and social networks to be able to run for office. They can't call a wealthy family member or friend to write a big check.
Additionally, forcing candidates to get a larger number of smaller donations rather than a smaller number of larger donations forces the candidates to have stronger support among a wider swath of voters.
Thank you.
Rev. Bert Newton
Making Housing and Community Happen
My Podcast
"Blessed are God's poor ones, for they will inherit the land." Matthew 5:5 EWN Translation 1 9/16/2024
ltem 11
Iraheta, Alba
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Bert Newton
Monday, September 16, 2024 3:05 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Rivas, Jessica
Item #11, campaign contributions
^\] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.
Dear Mayor and City Council,
Please follow the Charter Study Task Force recommendation of Limiting campaign contributions to $2,500 for mayoral races and $1,000 for councilmember races. The current Limit, set by the state, is higherthan the limit forthe U.S. Congress.
Lowering the contribution limits creates a more equal playing field. It reduces the oversized influence of wealth in politics and helps more people be able to meaningfully participate in our democratic process.
A big part of this increased participation will be the ability of people from lower income families and social networks to be able to run for office. They can't call a wealthy family member or friend to write a big check.
Additionally, forcing candidates to get a Larger number of smaller donations rather than a smaller number of larger donations forces the candidates to have stronger support among a wider swath of voters.
Thankyou.
Rev. Bert Newton
Making Housing and Community Happen
My Podcast
"Blessed are God's poor ones, for they will inherit the land." Matthew 5:5 EWN Translation 1 9/16/2024
Item 11