Campaign Disclosure Back Before Council

The last time her proposed recall contributions ordinance came up, Councilwoman Linda Parks wound up clucking like a chicken, much to the dismay of some of her colleagues.

This time, Parks is hoping to make more harmonious sounds with her council mates, who tabled her ordinance last month because Councilwoman Elois Zeanah was not present to vote on it.

The ordinance, to be considered by the City Council today, would require recall groups to disclose all contributions of $250 or more within 24 hours.

“I think it’s important for the community to know when the big chunks of money are coming in and who they’re from,” Parks said. “For whatever reason, this city seems reluctant to pass campaign reform laws.

“I’m hoping we’ll vote on it,” she added. “No law will make honest men and women out of dishonest ones, but this will show who is contributing, and people can decide for themselves whether it’s grass roots or special interests.”

Councilmen Andy Fox and Mike Markey said at last month’s meeting that they had no problem supporting Parks’ ordinance, but wanted to hear Zeanah say she would adhere to it.

Zeanah is facing a recall drive, and she and her husband have spent several thousand dollars defending her from opponents’ charges. Fox and Mayor Judy Lazar are also the target of recall efforts.