[drew]

If this is strictly an "improve Winnipeg" tax, then it shouldn't be tied into the provincial sales tax.

It should instead be paid by citizens of Winnipeg with an increase in property taxes. It could easily be done without increased rates if the Provincial government would lower the education tax component of property tax, to allow the city to increase its rate to match what people are currently paying.

A 9% sales tax is a little crazy, especially given the fact I would be willing to bet the cuts to the GST are shortlived...