Nofire Takes on Money in Politics

Zac Russell

Co-editor

​Councilor Wes Nofire brought forth a motion in the rules committee to amend the agenda to debate his resolution prohibiting councilors from voting on the confirmation of nominees who have contributed to that councilor’s campaign. The motion was defeated in a roll call vote, 7Y-10N, and the resolution was not discussed. As it was a motion to amend the agenda, the resolution may be brought up again at a later date. Nofire brought the resolution to prevent the appearance of impropriety and conflict of interest.

The issue of money in politics came up again, also from councilor Nofire. He noted that multiple councilors had received the same very specific donation, down to the penny, of $1688.33. He called it "pay for play" and noted the statute that apparent conflicts of interest would be voted on by the council, but that if a majority of the council have received the same donation, the council itself is compromised. AG Hill responded that the alleged act is a crime and any evidence needs to be brought to her office for prosecution. She noted that many people make political donations for many reasons. Nofire responded with a heated reply that "our employees are scared to speak up," then noting that she was there on behalf of the Attorney General's office, but "this is the council chambers." She began to reply, but Nofire interrupted saying, "No. No. That's it, there's no reason for you to speak any more, this is the council chambers."