Here we are, put into the very precarious situation of funding Byron Shire Council’s (BSC) infrastructure shortfalls.
By no means will the proposed solution of increasing the rate base by the permanent 35 per cent fix any of the failed infrastructure in the short term. This is a very important point to consider along with the possibility of further rate increases.
Legislation had continued to be ignored and development continued to be passed. Nobody can understand the mindset that has led to this possible insolvency of our BSC.
The need to call for a moratorium on development is unavoidable. The cost of continuing to add pressure to our unsustainable infrastructure has to be considered. Ignoring the infrastructure issues will only lead to further costs. Insolvency is a reality now.
The ridiculous practice of asking the ratepayers to foot the bill has its own limitations. People can only afford so much and with the rising costs of mortgage repayments, insurances, fuel, food, medical benefit, etc. We too are at breaking point.
No community. This certainly looks like the end of the road for our council as it stands. The breaking point has come. Can’t shove it under the carpet, can’t bail it out. Too many poor decisions, financially not viable.
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. 
