The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) released today a new tool voters province-wide can put in front of candidates in upcoming municipal elections - a "Voter's Contract."

The document is available at www.VotersContract.ca and lists three initiatives candidates could agree to pursue if elected – pension reform, capping property tax increases and expense disclosure. A separate version for Regina taxpayers includes two additional questions; one on the stadium and another on the process for making presentations at council meetings.

"With an election coming up this fall we wanted to produce something voters across the province could use to find out where their candidates stand," said CTF Prairie Director Colin Craig. "For example, taxpayers could ask a candidate knocking at their door to commit to not increase taxes higher than inflation. If the candidate signs the contract, we can then put it on our site for other voters to see."

Candidates can agree to as many initiatives as they support and if they break their promise they agree to forego 25% of their council pay. Taxpayers can then send in the signed documents and the CTF will post it online so voters know where candidates stand.

The five initiatives include:

1)    Property Tax Protection – protect taxpayers by not voting for any property tax increases above the rate of inflation.

2)    Expense Accounts – disclose copies of council receipts online or make them available at the municipal office for public viewing.

3)    Employee Pensions – convert any defined-benefit pension plans for employees to more sustainable defined-contribution plans.

4)    Stadium – Agree to hold a referendum prior to proceeding with using public funds for a stadium. (Regina only)

5)    Council Presentations – Stop requiring people to submit speaking points in advance of council meeting (Regina only)

Regina Voter's Contract - click here

Outside of Regina Voter's Contract - click here