The Mainstream Republicans of Washington is opposing Tim Eyman's Initiative 1033.

I-1033 would limit tax-revenue increases for state, city and county governments to the rate of inflation and population growth. Any money collected above the limit would be used to reduce property taxes.

The group, which tries to "provide a voice for moderation within the Republican Party" says I-1033 "proposes an unreasonable and unworkable limit."

The names of former Republican Gov. Dan Evans and former Republican U.S. Sen. Slade Gorton are on the letter as well as many other politicians. The group held a news conference today at the law firm of Foster Pepper in Seattle.

The state Republican Party endorsed Eyman's initiative earlier.

Here's the Mainstream Republican's press release:

October 28, 2009
Dear Washington State Voter:
As Republicans from communities all over Washington State, we believe there should be reasonable limits on government spending. However, Initiative 1033 proposes an unreasonable and unworkable limit that punishes local governments, locks in funding cuts for law enforcement, schools and other important services, and weakens the ability of our communities to invest in projects that would help attract or retain jobs in our state.

We ask you vote No on Initiative 1033 and reject Tim Eyman's ill conceived and unreasonable proposal that will make already tough times worse in our state and our communities.