Aurora Mayor Proposes Ethics Ordinance Putting Cap On Campaign Donations

AURORA, IL — Aurora Mayor John Laesch is hoping to create more transparency within the city government with a new ordinance that would put a cap on campaign donations from businesses with city contracts.

The proposed ordinance looks to limit donations to $500 from entities doing or hoping to do business in Aurora, require economic interest disclosures, and set limits on how city property can be used for political reasons.

The Rules, Administration and Procedures Committee is set to discuss the proposed ordinance at 3 p.m. Oct. 14.

Candidates running for public office would also be prohibited from accepting cash contributions of more than $150 or any amount from anonymous or pass-through donations, according to a news release.

Lobbyists and businesses with ownership interests of more than 5 percent would not be allowed to make direct or in-kind donations to city officers, candidates or committees under the proposal.

Violations would result in a four-year ban from doing business in Aurora, city officials said.

"Aurora residents deserve a transparent and accountable government that works for everyone," Laesch said in a statement. "Through this proposed ordinance, I intend to modernize the City's ethics framework, eliminate outdated and duplicative rules, strengthen transparency and accountability, and align our City with state law and best practices."

If approved on Oct. 14, the proposed ordinance will move on to the Oct. 21 Committee of the Whole meeting, with a potential final approval at the Oct. 28 City Council meeting.