Election Reform Amendment

SUMMARY: In city elections, prohibits contributions from corporate entities or labor unions, or from entities related to corporations or labor unions. Prohibits use of the seal, uniforms, badges, insignias or equipment of the city in connection with city elections.

Why do we need this admendment?

Six years ago, it cost $15,000 to campaign for City Commissioner and $50,000 to run for Mayor Now, due to business and union contributions, a City Commissioner campaign costs $50,000-$70,000 and almost $250,000 to run for Mayor. Prohibiting business and union campaign contributions will make it affordable for more Daytona Beach residents to run for office.

Prohibiting business and union campaign contributions copies Federal law. Our Federal government determined it was necessary and legal to protect voters from business and unions making contributions to influence presidential elections.

It also stops the confusion and conflict of interest that occur when uniformed city employees campaign for candidates whom if elected, decide their pay and benefits. City employees can campaign and make contributions as private citizens, however they won’t be allowed to do so in uniform as representatives of our city.

(Click here to view proposed changes to charter)