Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is urging the Saskatchewan government to firmly reject proposals that would allow municipalities to impose a hotel tax, arguing such a move would unfairly burden rural residents and discourage economic activity.“The Saskatchewan government should not let big city mayors raise new taxes – full stop,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director. “A hotel tax would give big city mayors the greenlight to punish rural Saskatchewanians for bringing their business to the city for anything from conventions to concerts. Instead of letting big city mayors hike taxes, the Saskatchewan government should be telling them to stop wasting taxpayers’ money.”.OLDCORN: Health Minister Holland puts politics before effective quitting smoking methods.The call to action comes as the provincial government seeks public input through an online survey asking residents whether they support municipalities implementing an “accommodation” tax. The proposed tax could apply not only to hotels but also to bed and breakfasts and campgrounds.Haubrich criticized the spending priorities of urban centers like Saskatoon and Regina, arguing that taxpayers are already shouldering the burden of inefficient and wasteful spending..Former Sask Party MLA avoids penalty, prompting NDP call for tougher conflict of interest laws.He cited Saskatoon’s $300,000 branding for its new Rapid Bus Transit System and a $100,000 project to install decorative lights over dumpsters as examples. Similarly, Regina recently spent $30,000 on the controversial “Experience Regina” rebranding effort, which was scrapped after backlash over slogans deemed inappropriate.Despite these expenditures, cities continue to raise taxes..Saskatchewan investigating racism, conflict between Regina doctors.Saskatoon has increased property taxes by 4.96% this year, while Regina hiked taxes by 2.85% last year.“Does the Saskatchewan government really think big city mayors aren’t taxing people enough already?” said Haubrich. “Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz should give the mayors a hard no on a new hotel tax and tell them to stop wasting taxpayers’ money.”.Regina murder fugitive makes Canada’s Top 25 Most Wanted list.The CTF’s position underscores a broader concern about rising tax burdens and the need for fiscal responsibility at the municipal level. The organization is calling on the Saskatchewan government to stand firm against the proposed tax and prioritize protecting taxpayers.
