Aura for Austin president defends organization against political activity complaint

The Austin Ethics Review Commission meeting on March 26, 2025, focused on a complaint filed against Aura for Austin, a nonprofit organization. The complaint, presented by Adam Haines, alleged that the organization engaged in political activities that violated campaign finance laws.

During the meeting, Aura's president, who is also a board member of a related nonprofit, clarified the distinctions between the two organizations. Aura for Austin, a 501(c)(3) entity, was established in July 2024 and has not conducted any activities related to the complaint. In contrast, Austin Aura, a 501(c)(4) organization, has been active since September 2016, focusing on transportation and land use advocacy in Austin.

The president addressed specific allegations regarding political communications and expenditures. He explained that the newsletter cited in the complaint is sent to members and interested individuals, advertising advocacy opportunities and events. He emphasized that the newsletter's production costs were personally covered and that the organization has not made any political contributions.

The president detailed various events mentioned in the complaint, asserting that Aura's involvement was limited to advertising and coordinating volunteer efforts, with all materials provided by candidates' campaigns. He noted that any expenses incurred, such as food for volunteers, were minimal and paid for by individuals, not Aura itself.

Commissioners raised questions about the value of Aura's contributions to campaigns and the nature of volunteer involvement. The president maintained that while Aura's activities may be beneficial to candidates, they do not constitute political contributions under current laws.

The meeting concluded with the president expressing frustration over the misrepresentation of Aura's activities in the media and the complaint. He reiterated the organization's commitment to transparency and compliance with campaign finance regulations. The commission will continue to review the complaint and its implications for Aura for Austin and Austin Aura.