I am concerned over elements of the planning reforms proposed by the NSW Department of Planning.
While having Regional Planning Panels make decisions on large developments may make sense in Sydney, regional Councils are best placed to determine developments that can have significant impacts on the local environment and economy.
Local government in regional NSW has the right and responsibility to plan for the future of their area, and that is undermined when the State Government wades in and takes away the decision-making power on important developments.
March 24th, 2008
Posted by Cameron Price on Monday 24 March 2008 |
Planning |
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The current rules only require candidates to disclose donations made prior to 30 days before the election. This means that the community is not make aware of significant donations made in the last 30 days of the election campaign, or even after the election itself.
Councillors and MPs should be made to declare all significant donations in their Disclosure of Interest Return, which is accessible to the public.
I don’t think banning donations would be effective, because it would push campaign contributions underground. However, a cap on contributions, particularly from corporations, might curtail the excessive influence corporations can have.
I would support some public funding towards the campaign expenses of local government candidates. This would enable a broader range of people to run, including those of lesser financial means.
March 24th, 2008
Posted by Cameron Price on Monday 24 March 2008 |
Local Government, Election Donations |
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