Increase public funding available to candidates running for city office

Campaign FinanceGovernance

In Plain English

Richmond currently provides public money to help qualified candidates run for mayor and city council. The city wants to raise the amount each candidate can receive. If approved, more candidates may be able to afford running for office without relying heavily on private donations.

Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.

Votes

Approve matching funds to a maximum of $30,000 which includes four $7,500 matches - the first at $5,000; the second at $10,000; the third at $15,000; and the fourth at $20,000

Moved by: Councilmember Rogers
Failed

Keep existing system and add an additional $5,000 matching funds when the candidate reaches $10,000 for a maximum of $30,000

Moved by: Councilmember Rogers
Failed

Lower the threshold from $15,000 to $10,000 for candidates to apply for matching funds

Moved by: Councilmember ViramontesSeconded by: Vice Mayor Lopez
Passed

6 to 0

BatesAbsent
ButtAye
RogersAye
RittermanAye
LopezAye
Gayle McLaughlinAye
ViramontesAye

Add an additional $5,000 in matching funds when a candidates raises $15,000 to a maximum of $30,000

Moved by: Councilmember RogersSeconded by: Councilmember Butt
Passed

4 to 2

ViramontesNay
BatesAbsent
ButtAye
RogersAye
RittermanAye
LopezNay
Gayle McLaughlinAye