Public finance law may be killed

[Freddie Stubbs]

Miami-Dade commissioners voted 9-2 to repeal an ordinance that gives tax dollars to fund political campaigns. They will hold a public hearing next month before taking a final vote.

BY NOAH BIERMAN

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Citing abuses uncovered during the recent primary election season, Miami-Dade commissioners are taking steps to do away with a public campaign financing system that voters approved four years ago.

The measure to repeal the public funding law received preliminary approval last week, with commissioners voting 9-2 in favor. The public will have a say at an Oct. 12 Governmental Operations and Environment Committee hearing before it goes back to the commission for a final vote.

The law was created in 2000, when 58 percent of Miami-Dade voters supported it. County Attorney Robert Ginsburg said commissioners are permitted to repeal a voter initiative after it has been on the books for a year. This rarely happens, but the county charter allows it, Ginsburg said.

This year, taxpayers spent $2.5 million to help candidates compete in several races for county commission and mayor.

more: http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/local/9665108.htm