Voice of Byron

“I was impressed with the overall concept that 31 randomly selected by place, age and gender members of the panel understood that Council has insufficient funds to do the infrastructure works required to support a burgeoning ‘free riders’ economy here in Byron Shire.

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“With a 15,600 ratepayer base supporting, as part of those ‘free riders’, over 2m tourists and a tourist economy estimated to be $400m/yr and rising, the Community Jury has been charged with prioritising infrastructure expenditure and how to be funded out of limited revenue resources.

“I believe that is to be over the next 4 years.

“The recommendations/decisions made by this Jury will be acted upon by Council.

“That was a clearly understood commitment by Council.

“The Community Jury has a BIG job ahead of them and I embrace each and everyone of them who spoke up and said how difficult the job ahead was going to be.

“The Local Government Act restricts how Council can raise revenue.

“Paid parking is a legitimate source of monies under the LGA. My position is that residents (renters included because the rent you are paying includes paying rates on the property) should be able to park FREE of charge within the time restrictions signed and non residents pay.

“Please don’t put up the defence position that it will force people to park in streets away from the paid parking area(s).

“Parking is already there…it’s the impact of secondary dwellings which don’t require a parking space and multiple occupancy of dwellings including holiday letting.

“If you think the solution is going to be a bed tax, forget it.

“Unless there is a change in the LGA then Council cannot impose a bed tax.

“In the meantime, keep your eyes open for reports, if any, about where the Community Jury is at.”