I READ with interest the front page news story in the Sydney Morning Herald on Tuesday, May 30 which outlined how councils would be stripped of planning powers to determine development applications. Well, well … about time.
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This is seen as a probity measure to ban property developers from election to local government.
It would seem both sides of the State Government are in favour of the ban following the incredible business dealings from the Auburn deputy mayor.
Under the proposed reform it will be mandatory for councils to use independent panels to determine applications above a certain value.
While it is mooted that this may be voluntary for some smaller regional councils, the edict will be in place and there is no doubt any new councillors wishing to be voted into a spot within the new Orange City Council in September will pay heed to the proposed new measure.
I would suggest the voters within Orange will be delighted with the new move and will put their votes where it really counts – transparent, open, and non-partisan use of ratepayers hard-earned dollars.
Hopefully a new Orange City Council will truly support community needs and develop in areas that are suitable and do not jeopardise the environment, scenery and lifestyle that most of the residents choose to live in the town for.
Sally Playfair
A CLIMATE OF MADNESS
IF we look back over modern history we can't help but notice periods of what can only be described as madness. In my opinion, the world is going through another period of madness.
When I look at some leaders of countries today, this madness becomes rather frightening. The latest episode of concern is United States President Donald Trump walking away from the Paris climate agreement.
His theory is that climate change is a Chinese hoax and it therefore follows that all the world's climate scientists and their findings, reports and predictions are wrong.
If the US accounts for about 18 per cent of global emissions and one person can overturn his nation's part in an important agreement then this must be cause for serious concern.
The only positive is that corporations are prepared to act on lowering emissions despite President Trump's decision. Thank goodness for small mercies.
Keith Curry
KIND ACTS ARE THE KEY
IT can be hard to stay positive when there is so much bad news, but I want to remind you that we can all make a difference. At Red Cross we will never give up on the power of people helping people and bringing more good to the world.
We see good in the resilience of communities in NSW and QLD, as people recover from losing their homes and businesses after Cyclone Debbie.
We see it in those reaching out to young people at risk, helping them turn their lives around.
We also see it in places like Indonesia, where access to clean water and better nutrition is helping villagers.
This June we’re asking you to bring more good to the world by helping a neighbour, volunteering or even doing a random act of kindness for a stranger.
Make a tax deductible donation to Red Cross before June 30 at redcross.org.au/donatenow.
