As his rivals for the Democratic nomination exchange elbows, Mark Powell - mayor of Arnold and candidate for state treasurer - is seeking to temper expectations.

A sour economy and the recent flooding have hamstrung his ability to raise campaign cash, Powell writes in a campaign update.

“I have not focused on raising money, as most candidates always do,” says Powell, who ran for treasurer four years ago, as well. “While money is important, I realize we are in one of the most difficult economic times in many years.”

Instead of soliciting campaign donations, Powell offers this suggestion to potential donors: Keep your cash.

“Your money, while I would appreciate a donation, is best served in your pockets for family and household expenses,” Powell says.

The approach, while novel, may engender him to supporters feeling the economic pinch, but it won’t push him to the head of the pack when quarterly fundraising reports come available this week.

And that’s just fine by Powell.

“Because of my philosophy, I will be out raised and outspent by all of the other treasurer candidates,” he writes. “This does not bother me.”

Powell: No money? No problem