Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution authorizes and directs City staff to send automated alder and mayor blog notifications to subscribers of the service if the content meets certain limitations, authorizes alders to host public information meetings during the campaign period using City resources if the purpose of the meeting meets defined limitations, and directs City staff to print and send meeting notifications for meetings that satisfy the criteria. It is not anticipated that this resolution will result in additional notifications or public information meetings, and therefore, no fiscal impact is expected. No appropriation is required.
Title
Defining Appropriate Use of Alder Blogs and Allowable Topics of Alder-Hosted Public Meetings During Election Periods.
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Title
Defining Appropriate Use of Alder Blogs and Allowable Topics of Alder-Hosted Public Meetings During Election Periods.
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WHEREAS, Wisconsin Statute Section 11.1205 prohibits elected officials who are candidates from using public funds for the cost of materials or distribution for more than 50 pieces of substantially identical material during election periods; and
WHEREAS, the statutory 50-piece rule does not apply to the use of public funds for the costs of actions taken by local government administrative officers pursuant to a specific law, ordinance or resolution which authorizes or directs the actions to be taken; and
WHEREAS, essential City business requiring and benefitting from public input continues to occur during spring election periods which occur for over four months prior to the election of alders and the Mayor; and,
WHEREAS, the Common Council wishes to continue to inform and engage the public and solicit public input regarding City business, issues and policies during election periods through City agencies and staff publishing and distributing various notices, mailings and communications pertaining to specific alder districts; and through communicating with members of the...
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