IRVINE

In closed session Tuesday, the City Council decided to challenge the legality of a ballot measure prohibiting companies that do business with Irvine from donating to local political campaigns.

The council voted 4 to 1, with Councilman Larry Agran dissenting because of concerns that the measure would violate constitutional rights to free speech.

City officials insist the lawsuit will help refine the measure, not kill it. Agran said his colleagues just wanted to keep it off the ballot.

If the initiative is approved, elected officials could not accept campaign contributions from companies that have earned more than $20,000 from the city. The restrictions, which apply for a year after officials have left office, also prevent council members from accepting future employment or gifts from these companies.