Council demands reporting when mayor accepts donations; asks Commission to clarify gift rules

The Committee of the Whole debated a Commission draft that would increase the amount a mayor may accept on the city's behalf from $1,000 to $5,000. Council members raised transparency and influence concerns, and several councillors asked for mandatory reporting.

Councilwoman Faye moved — and later amended — a recommendation that the Commission ensure any gift accepted by the mayor be reported to the city council at its next regularly scheduled meeting. Supporters said reporting preserves transparency even if the mayor has acceptance authority; the council approved the reporting requirement by roll call.

Attorney Mortoletti noted the draft gives the mayor a higher ceiling to accept gifts but is silent about routine disclosure for amounts below the threshold; the council’s recommendation asks the Commission to clarify reporting and disclosure language so the public record reflects donations accepted on the city's behalf.