Saskatoon city councilors are looking into creating an independent body to help set election rules.
Saskatoon candidates spent a record $270 thousand in October’s municipal election, but several councilors are stepping forward and saying the way expenses are reported is inadequate.
Currently, Saskatoon city council sets the rules for elections. However, some councilors are worried this could lead to potential conflicts of interest.
Councilors are calling for the creation of an independent commission to look at expense reporting, as well as to ensure the fairness of the election process.
Some councilors would like an independent body to review the rules regarding how campaign expenses are reported. Now, candidates are only required to report total campaign contributions, campaign expenses and surpluses or deficits.
The city will submit its report on the idea of an independent body to council before the next election.
