Title
Funding Policy Discussion for Visits From Elected Officials, Political Candidates or Other Public Dignitaries (NB)
Explanation
The possibility exists Gainesville will be receiving political visits from both major political parties prior to this year's presidential election. Currently there is no written procedure in place regarding the cost recovery for the City of Gainesville related to these visits. It is understood the City of Gainesville is expected to assist with any type of dignitary visit regarding business of the United States or State of Florida. Additionally, the Gainesville Police Department will honor any requests from other Law Enforcement Agencies. (i.e. State Department, Secret Service and Florida Department of Law Enforcement).
In 2004, the City of Gainesville was a popular destination by individuals from both major political parties prior to that year's Presidential election. Due to the security concerns related to sitting politicians as well as candidates vying for office, the Gainesville Police Department was required to provide thousands of dollars worth of security services. Whenever possible, the City of Gainesville, will attempt to recoup all costs related to elected officials/political candidate visits. For example, the majority of costs in 2004 related to these visits were paid for through the use of a Federal Department of Homeland Security grant. For purposes of this discussion, the monetary recovery is focused on the costs exceeding dignitary protection at either a public event or a semi-public event treated as a fundraiser for a particular party not open to all citizens. If an elected official/political candidate holds an event on private property, they will be expected to contract for security as is the standard for any event held on private property requiring security.
Fiscal Note
The City of Gainesville will attempt to recoup all costs related to elected officials/political candidate visits. The mone...
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