A Leon County judge says proposed changes to Tallahassee’s government-ethics rules can appear on the November ballot. But the amendment still faces a final hurdle before voters can consider it.
Chief Circuit Judge Charles Francis disagreed with Tallahassee City Attorney Lew Shelley that the ballot title and summary are “misleading” and “inflammatory.” Shelley had argued use of the word “anti-corruption” appeals to emotions and implies there’s corruption to root out.
But Citizens for Ethics Reform Lawyer Sandy D’Alemberte argued “anti-corruption” and “ethics” are synonymous. In a phone interview, he says the group is confident the City Commission will place the amendment on the ballot.
“We believe that just on political practicalities and just good faith the City Commission will vote at that point to put it on the ballot," he says.
The Commission meets next week to consider the amendment. Some, including Mayor Marks, have expressed concerns about the cost of the proposal on taxpayers—especially its provision giving city refunds to political donors.
