Schwartzman Request Could Put Limits on Free Speech and Press Freedom

City councilman requested the City Council place on a future agenda a discussion about amending Chapter 1.40 of the Benicia Municipal Code, the city law pertaining to disclosure of contributions and expenditures in citywide elections.

Schwartzman’s proposal would make it illegal for anyone including members of the press to contact people who have contributed to a political candidate or campaign.  His proposal would limit contact with contributors to the candidate or campaign treasurer. 

Schwartzman says a citizen journalist who was researching a harassed two of his contributors.  The column questioned Schwartzman’s independence.

The Vallejo Times-Herald reports that a constitutional law professor at the University of San Francisco believes any attempt to limit citizens ability to contact political donors would fly in the face of established law.

who lost a to Mayor, also wants to keep campaigners at least 50 feet away from the entrances to the downtown farmers market.  He claims that if there had been more than one group campaigning at the market entrance it would have created an uncomfortable experience for shoppers.  Currently the Farmers Market doesn't allow candidates to pass out leaflets inside the market.

According to Councilwoman Christina Strawbridge who managed the market when it was established 20 years ago, the reason for the ban on leaflets had to do with litter more than a desire to keep campaigners out.

The third item Schwartzman wanted to add to a future council agenda is a review of the city’s boards, commissions and committees to see if each one is doing its job effectively.  It was agreed that council would conduct a workshop on the matter before putting it on an agenda.