The purpose of this chapter is to ensure that the financial strength of certain individuals or organizations does not permit them to exercise a disproportionate or controlling influence on the election of city candidates. To achieve such purpose, this chapter is designed to reduce the influence of large contributions; to ensure that individuals and interest groups continue to have a fair and equal opportunity to participate in electing city candidates; to minimize the opportunity for, and the appearance or perception of, corruption; to prevent contributors from circumventing the contribution limits; and to maintain public trust in governmental institutions and the electoral process. (Ord. 5704 § 2 (part); October 19, 1999; Ord. 5858 § 1 (part); May 20, 2003.)