The General Assembly passed a bill Monday to allow the town of Carrboro to limit individual campaign contributions in municipal elections to as little as $250.

The bill, which was sponsored by Sen. Ellie Kinnaird and Rep. Verla Insko, still needs Gov. Mike Easley's signature.

Carrboro Alderman Dan Coleman said the limits would ensure a level playing field for public office-seekers.

"Carrboro elections are very affordable," he said. "This is a mechanism to allow us to keep it that way."

But Coleman said he is not sure when, or whether, the town will impose the limits. The aldermen will not consider the matter or set a public hearing until they resume meeting in August.

State regulations limit individual contributions to most candidates to $4,000 per election.

In Chapel Hill, individual donations are limited to $250 in municipal elections. Chapel Hill also plans to launch a voluntary public program for campaign financing in June. Candidates who agree to spending limits could receive public money.

Coleman said he is not sure whether Carrboro will pursue public financing of campaigns.