Board introduces local campaign‑finance ordinance with $2,500 contribution cap; debate over self‑funding limits continues

The Board of Supervisors on Dec. 16 introduced a county ordinance to update local campaign disclosure requirements, set contribution limits and clarify lobbying definitions. Elections staff presented amendments agreed during earlier meetings and the board discussed two focal points: a proposed contribution cap of $2,500 per donor and whether the county should add a local self‑funding cap.

Supervisor Zenger (item sponsor) told colleagues the original proposal of $1,000 was increased by consensus to $2,500 and highlighted a $25 anonymity threshold previously set to require disclosure of small donors above that threshold. "The initial dollar amount was 1,000...we got consensus on $2,500 limit," he said. Proponents argued the ordinance will promote transparency and reduce outsized special‑interest influence.

Several supervisors — and a member of the public — urged the board to consider a self‑funding cap to limit the advantage wealthy candidates may have. A public commenter suggested a self‑funding cap tied to median income (a $7,254 example for a four‑month campaign). Supervisor Sotelo pressed for a self‑funding limit; Supervisor Velasquez argued that outside independent expenditures and PAC money remain difficult to control and that candidates should retain the ability to spend personal funds to respond. The board accepted minor drafting corrections and voted 3‑2 to introduce and waive first reading and continue final adoption to Jan. 13, 2026, directing elections staff to educate candidates and clean up statutory cross‑references.

Timing and implementation: Elections staff said the ordinance would take effect 30 days after adoption; staff proposed an education campaign to help candidates and treasurers distinguish contributions and reporting under the new thresholds during the current filing cycles. Several supervisors recommended considering an effective date of Jan. 1, 2027 to avoid mid‑cycle enforcement complications for candidates already active.

Next step: Staff will revise ordinance language to correct cross‑references and bring it back for adoption on Jan. 13, 2026, and will prepare candidate outreach materials.