What does “solicitation” mean?
Solicitation, as this term is used in the City’s Ethics Ordinance (PDF: 76K), refers to the practice of asking a person for a contribution to a political campaign. A “contribution” can be many things, and is explicitly defined in section 27.2903 of the San Diego Municipal Code. In general, however, a contribution includes any transfer of money; any loan or forgiveness of a loan; any promise to pay; any forgiveness of a debt; any expenditure made at the request of a candidate; any purchase of tickets for events such as dinners, luncheons, rallies and similar fundraising events; services rendered without full compensation; or any granting of a rebate or discount not generally available to the public. The Ethics Ordinance regulates the manner in which City employees are exposed to requests for these kinds of contributions.
