A. Monetary contributions to political campaigns are a legitimate form of participation in the American political process; however, the financial strength of certain individuals or organizations should not permit them to exercise a disproportionate or controlling influence upon the election of candidates in Pinole.
B. The increasing costs of political campaigns compel many candidates to raise larger percentages of money from interested groups with a specific financial stake in matters which may come before the Pinole City Council. This has caused a public perception that votes may be improperly influenced by monetary contributions.
C. The tendency for campaign contributions to be dominated by a small number of very large contributors undermines the integrity of the governmental process, the competitiveness of campaigns, and the public confidence in local officials and local agencies. (Ord. 2008-06 § 1 (part), 2008)