Mayor Chris Beutler’s campaign fundraising tactics have come under scrutinty by watchdog groups decrying pay-to-play politics.

During the 2013 construction of the Pinnacle Bank Arena, a $186 million project, the mayor accepted contributions from individuals and companies with city contracts, many with connections to the city-financed arena.

Campaign finance reports show contributions from arena-related companies continued throughout 2014 as well. This practice, however, is not illegal in Lincoln.

Proponents of tougher pay-to-play laws believe restrictions are more important at the local level, arguing smaller contributions buy greater influence in city races compared to state or federal campaigns.

Mayor Beutler is up for reelection this May.

Photo of Mayor Chris Beutler by Lincolnearthday on Wikimedia Commons.