Brian Bowman pledges to nix severance packages for outgoing councillors

Brian Bowman says if he's elected mayor of Winnipeg, he would make sure that city politicians leaving office or not seeking re-electionare not given severance packages.

His proposal to end severances for outgoingcity council memberswould help save the city money, which could be used to improveinfrastructure instead, Bowman said Saturday.

Recent media reports suggest that severance packages can range between $20,000 and $90,000.

"I think most Winnipeggers, when they decide to quit a job, aren't paid out such lucrative amounts," hesaid.

"When we're looking at cost savings and looking for efficiencies at city hall, that would be one area that I would obviously want to target."

Bowman's latest announcement follows other promises he's made throughout his campaign, such as reducing councillor ward budgets, eliminating the city's campaign subsidy,getting rid of the city's office of policy development and communications, and replacing the city's alternative services delivery committee with an "innovation committee" aimed at finding best practices for delivering city services.

As well, Bowman has pledged to find two per cent savings in departmental operations by reducing salaries for some members of council, including more fuel-efficient vehicles and switching to LED light bulbs, among other measures.

Winnipeggers will go to the polls on Oct. 22 to elect a mayor, councillors and school trustees.