(July 15, 2003) -- The 2d district Court of Appeal (state appellate court) heard oral argument on July 11 in an appeal filed by the City of Long Beach in the case of City of Long Beach v. California Citizens for Neighborhood Empowerment, et al.

As previously reported by LBReport.com, in April 2002 the City of LB filed suit against CCNE, alleging the group (registered as an independent political committee) violated LB Campaign Reform Act by accepting contributions in excess of LB's Prop M contribution limits. In September, 2002, a Superior Court dismissed the city's action.

At the time of the dismissal, City Attorney Robert Shannon told LBReport.com he would appeal the Superior Court ruling, saying he believes the future of LB's Prop M campaign reform law as concerns the activities of independent committees (i.e. not run or controlled by a candidate) could be at stake.

The CA Appellate Courts' web site indicates written briefs were filed in March and April. and oral argument was heard in Los Angeles on July 11 before a three-judge appellate panel.

Mr. Shannon argued the case on behalf of the City of LB. CCNE (and its listed treasurer Kinde Durkee) were represented by L.A. attorney Bradley Hertz.

A ruling is expected in 60-90 days.