Ex-ethics official demands gift ban in Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) — A former mayoral candidate in Bridgeport is calling for a ban on all gifts to city officials.

The Connecticut Post reports that Jeff Kohut, a Democrat who also is a former member of the city's ethics commission, said city officials should not accept gifts from any private entity doing business with the city.

Officials in Connecticut's largest city are preparing for the city's annual ethics training.

And over the past few years, city officials have received free passes to a summer music festival in Bridgeport.

City Attorney Mark Anastasi said Bridgeport city officials, including police, fire, health and parks personnel and the City Council, mayor and staff receive all-access passes so they may perform their public duties and responsibilities.

Promoter Ken Hays says the passes do not allow officials access backstage or provide meals.

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Information from: Connecticut Post