WHEAT RIDGE — A nonprofit agency funded by Wheat Ridge has donated $5,000 to a political committee promoting three city ballot issues.
Former Councilwoman Nancy Snow said at Monday’s City Council meeting that she is “dismayed” by the contribution by Wheat Ridge 2020, which implements city revitalization strategies.
“I just told them it wasn’t right,” Snow said. “I don’t care whether they got a legal opinion or not.”
Wheat Ridge 2020 receives $1.5 million annually from the city. The agency’s total revenues are $1.6 million.
City Attorney Gerald Dahl said once the city has given funds to Wheat Ridge 2020, the organization may legally contribute to political campaigns. Organization officials agree.
“We are a 501(c)3 organization, which under the regulations allows us to give up to 5 percent of our annual revenues to political-action activities and policy measures,” said Rob Osborn, executive director of Wheat Ridge 2020.
The Colorado Fair Campaign Practices Act prohibits public agencies from spending “any public money from any source” to sway citizen votes on ballot issues.
Osborn said the organization verified with its lawyer and the city that “once the money leaves the city coffers, it is no longer public money.”
Several Wheat Ridge residents said they are considering filing a complaint with the secretary of state’s office.
“It’s up to an administrative law judge to decide — if we receive a complaint,” said secretary of state spokesman Richard Coolidge.
Ann Schrader: 303-278-3217 or aschrader@denverpost.com
