Taxpayer Test—A Clear Standard for Evaluating Discretionary Public Spending.
The Taxpayer Test (TT) provides a structured, decision-ready framework that brings clarity, consistency, and transparency to public spending—using information governments already produce.
What This Is
The Taxpayer Test organizes key information—cost, usage, funding, and alternatives—into a single, consistent format before a project is adopted.
It is a support tool. It does not replace existing processes. It improves how decisions are presented and evaluated.
Why It Matters
Discretionary projects often involve multiple assumptions and sources of information.
The Taxpayer Test ensures that decision-makers can see:
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Full lifecycle cost in one place
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Who benefits and who uses the project
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The role of user-pay versus subsidy
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Realistic alternatives and tradeoffs
How It Works
The Taxpayer Test uses existing staff analysis and presents it in a standardized format.
It organizes and clarifies information already developed by staff, presenting it in a consistent, decision-ready format.
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No new analysis required
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No change to decision authority
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No added bureaucracy
The Paradise Coast Sports Complex is an example of a discretionary public investment that can be evaluated using the Taxpayer Test. The framework provides a structured way to review cost, usage, funding, and alternatives in a consistent manner.
Request a Demonstration
See how the Taxpayer Test can be applied to a current or upcoming project using your existing information. The demonstration provides a clear, practical view of how the framework works in practice.
A secure client portal and structured evaluation tools are planned for future release.