Rod Murray, Ocean Shores
Well, it looks like another rate rise is in the wind for Byron Shire ratepayers with no sign of paid parking in Brunswick Heads or Mullumbimby on the horizon.
You have to wonder what it will take for local rate payers and businesses to ask where the money will come from for the ongoing maintenance of road and infrastructure across the Shire enjoyed by the endless, increasing, stream of tourists.
I’m fascinated to see how the Council will respond when the shysters who have ignored planned retreat expect Council to protect their homes (including those planned to be built in the West Byron ‘swampland’ who will very likely not be able to get flood insurance) from rising sea levels, as well as some very low-lying roads. More costs in the Land and Environment Court no doubt.
Business owners, accommodation providers, councillors, and others who oppose paid parking and benefit from ratepayers in one way or another – get honest about the future costs in this Shire. Don’t expect ratepayers to subsidise the endless maintenance of services and wider infrastructure for your business model.
Ocean Shores residents have not forgotten the dodgy deals that allowed the sale of the Roundhouse site – given away for a song (which was a major community asset).
Bring on paid parking.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
