The campaign finance charter amendment empowered Alachua County voters to regulate the campaign finances of candidates running for the Alachua County charter offices: county commissioners, tax collector, sheriff, supervisor of elections, property appraiser, and court clerk.

These regulations must be individually adopted by the voters of Alachua County as amendments to the Alachua County charter in future general elections; and they must be more stringent than Florida state law.

Why reform?

In order to maintain public confidence in Alachua County's elections, we must establish fair access to the election process and ensure adequate disclosure of campaign funding. Alachua County voters should be able to choose their elected officials without undue influence from big-money interests that frequently are not Alachua County voters.

It is often difficult, and sometimes impossible, for the even the most motivated citizen to discern the nature of the money that is behind a candidate before voting on election day.

Money flowing into Alachua County elections is rising dramatically, with much of it coming from corporations and wealthy special interest groups. This makes it difficult for many citizens to effectively participate in the public process. Candidates should be able to compete for office without having to spend more time raising money than discussing issues.

Our Mission:

Alachua County Citizens for Campaign Reform seeks to return home rule authority to Alachua County for the regulation of campaign finances of county government elections. Only through local regulation can Alachua voters best gain control of the rising cost of local campaigns, reduce the influence of special interests, improve public disclosure of candidates’ and contributors’ financial interests and ensure a fair and level playing field for all candidates seeking elected office.

Who are we?

Alachua County Citizens for Campaign Reform is a non-partisan, grassroots citizens group that has registered as a political action committee in Alachua County, Florida. All of its contributions and expenditures are reported to the County Supervisor of Elections, and contributions will be accepted only from individual persons residing in Alachua County. Our steering group lends knowledge, expertise and guidance to our effort. Our supporters and volunteers work to turn the vision of campaign finance reform in Alachua County into a reality.

Has this been done before?

Many states allow local governments to determine their own campaign finance regulations. In Florida, only Dade County has the authority to regulate its local elections and has enacted several reforms since 1998. Another Florida county, Sarasota, attempted to enact home-rule campaign reform through amendments to its charter without a special act from the State granting it the authority to do so. Its amendments were challenged and all but one were thrown out by the court. Our research has found examples of local campaign reform enacted by city and county governments across the United States.

Where can I get more information, or how can I help?

Feel free to contact us for more information. We are looking for support that reflects the broad spectrum of Alachua County citizens. Your support will be greatly appreciated.