Baffling Budgets: The Need for Clearer and More Comprehensive Financial Reporting by Canada’s Municipalities

Summary:
Page Title:Baffling Budgets: The Need for Clearer and More Comprehensive Financial Reporting by Canada’s Municipalities – C.D. Howe Institute
Article Title:Baffling Budgets: The Need for Clearer and More Comprehensive Financial Reporting by Canada’s Municipalities
URL:https://cdhowe.org/publication/baffling-budgets-need-clearer-and-more-comprehensive-financial-reporting-canadas-municipalities/
Published Date:January 15, 2014
Accessed Date:February 13, 2025

Opaque budgeting methods and financial reports in Canada’s major cities baffle councilors and taxpayers, according to a report released today by the C.D. Howe Institute. In “Baffling Budgets: The Need for Clearer and More Comprehensive Financial Reporting by Canada’s Municipalities,” authors Benjamin Dachis and William B.P. Robson, say fixing these flaws is a critical step toward better accountability to voters for municipal spending and taxation. The report reveals leaders and laggards among Canada’s major cities when it comes to transparent budgeting that allows comparison between budget promises and actual spending over the ensuing year.

Membership Application

Interested in becoming a Member of the C.D. Howe Institute? Please fill out the application form below and our team will be in touch with next steps. Note that Membership is subject to approval.

"*" indicates required fields

Please include a brief description, including why you’d like to become a Member.

Member Login

Not a Member yet? Visit our Membership page to learn more and apply.