Voice of Byron regular, Michael Thomson, questions Byron Shire Council’s decision to launch legal action against illegal holiday letting on a “case by case” basis.
Michael says, “This seems like an absurd ad hoc power that council have granted themselves in that “council would consider commencing legal action against unauthorised tourist and visitor accommodation, on a case by case basis, and in accordance with its compliance priorities.”
Do we really want our council to be able to choose on a case by case basis who may earn rental income and who may not? And those who complain most vociferously once again gain the upper hand?
And finally, are we happy for Council to spend ratepayers funds on legal action over such cases as they feel fit? Haven’t we learned that is not a worthwhile investment?
Byron Shire councillors voted unanimously at a meeting on Thursday to reinstate legal action against illegal holiday letting.
The move will impact on property owners using websites such as Airbnb to find clients.
We desperately need affordable housing in this shire. Their are locals living in cars, vans, sheds, garages and tents.
Older women are struggling to find accomodation near to their kids and grandkids.
It’s like the depression years!
This housing nightmare needs to be regulated so there is ample housing for locals.
spot on.
Could anyone provide me a valid reason why some people have to comply and adhere to our LEP and actually commence an approved commercial activity and pay extra rates and costs to have and operate a legal enterprise and yet others think they don’t have to contribute a cent to cover the costs of tourism of 1.4 Ml tourists.
Air Bnb surely has its place in our community but beware http://www.insideairbnb.com has all the information.
Whether the government acts is their choice….
Please provide a valid reason why you don’t have to contribute and be legal or do we as a community just ignore our LEP and regulations. 560 owner occupied Air Bnb on the site and 900 plus vacant houses on the site.
Just a thought…
exactly.
Accommodation houses such as hostel, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts etc all have to be permitted by council to operate and also pay huge commercial rates. There is a reason for this and they are managed properly. They provide appropriate parking spaces , correct fire regulations and have an onsite manager or owner 24/7.
Good on council for taking this action and it is much applauded.
If you want to operate a guesthouse or bed and breakfast go through the proper channels get your permits through council.
Spot on, James.