Groups Cite Holt for 'Dishonest Behavior'; but He Says Funds from Waste Management Don't Have Any Strings

Beginning of article

Byline: TIA MITCHELL

Jacksonville City Councilman Ray Holt's decision to accept campaign contributions from Waste Management and its lobbyist creates a conflict of interest that sullies his expected vote today on a settlement deal, two groups said Monday.

Holt, who is running for re-election, raised $6,150 during the first quarter of the year. Almost half of that is from $500 donations by Waste Management, lobbyist Paul Harden and three companies connected to Harden, according to campaign finance reports on the Duval County supervisor of elections website.

Holt was among eight council members who voted in committee last week to accept a settlement deal that would allow Waste Management to continue …