12/13/1993 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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3,54 COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 13, 1993 make a report regarding the costs involved in drafting and distributing the letter. Mr. Bohjanen has indicated that he would make a personal report to the City Council. A copy of Mr. Bohjanen's letter was given to all Council Members. Mayor Reinert asked if everyone has responded to the requirements of the City ordinance. Mrs. Anderson explained that all persons and committees have responded to the filing requirements. One committee is still active and will be required to file another report in January, 1994. Mayor Reinert noted that the Bisel campaign committee did not have a designated depository. He explained that this is a violation of state statutes and the City ordinance and is a misdemeanor under the law. Mayor Reinert also noted that the report was not filed on time. Mrs. Anderson explained that the report was due on December 2, 1993 and was received on December 10, 1993 with a note explaining that the bank statement had not arrived in time to complete the report as required. Mayor Reinert said he did not see in the report for Mr. Bisel's personal campaign any reference to the ad that was placed in the local newspapers by Council Member Bergeson. Council Member Bergeson explained the newspaper letter. Mayor Reinert said it was a paid ad with a disclaimer and should have been claimed as a contribution by the Bisel committee. Mayor Reinert noted that the letter written and circulated by Mr. Bohjanen on behalf of Mr. Bisel did not contain a disclaimer. This is a violation of state campaign practices and is a misdemeanor. He did not file a report. Even thought the cost may have been less than $25.00, the expense should have been reported. Council Member Kuether noted that the letter to the editor in support of Mayor Reinert was not reported as an expense. She said it should have been reported as an "in kind" expense. Mayor Reinert explained that it was a letter to the editor and there is no cost for this item. It is not a paid ad. Council Member Kuether said this is "nitpicking". Mayor Reinert said that this is the first time that the ordinance has been used and it bears out why this City should have full disclosure. He felt that the ordinance should be strengthened. Mayor Reinert suggested that the matter be referred to the City Attorney to find out if the filings received follow the terms of the City ordinance. Council Member Bergeson said it is curious that on one particular PAGE 18 1 1 1