Re: Hugh McGhan's comment " A precedent already set" SHN May 1. The development at 421-425 Bong Bong Street is basically a good development. We all agree. A deficiency of 34 car spaces is now unacceptable. Have you tried to get a car space in Bowral lately? Your arguments have some merit, but there comes a point where the camel's back is broken and we have reached that point.

Continuing to make allowances and provide developments with "win-falls" at the expense of our community is no longer acceptable. We are not talking about minor deficiencies and as you point out cumulatively we worsen the problem by making excuses. I do not agree that those councillors who voted against this parking deficiency have no foresight. In fact I believe the opposite.

I refer to the news item published in the Southern Highlands News on Wednesday, May 1, on page 9. Whilst all the information published was correct, the article omitted to mention that my policy relating to the health of the environment (including more action on climate change, pollution etc) is of equal or greater importance than improved infrastructure for regional areas. I also have policies on many other issues on my web site at www.PamelaJohnstone.name .

It is outrageous that our council is planning to take nearly half a million dollars from our Environment Levy to help fund the Regional Art Gallery over five years. While the Retford Park dairy is a perfect place for the Art Gallery it is neither owned nor on land owned by this community.

Every rate payer contributes to the Environment Levy for the benefit and improvement of our struggling natural environment and waterways managed by our council. From the start it was established that this money should be spent on environmental projects over and beyond the council's core business. In approving the levy in perpetuity the State Government supports this concept. The Regional Art Gallery is not an environmental project. This proposal should be revoked. Refer. WSC Regional Art Gallery Funding Fact Sheet. Submissions close on May 27

With endless discussion from political parties regarding taxation reforms, none are addressing the black economy. The Highlands is home to many "cash only" businesses, shops and out of town fresh food sellers who will only accept cash and don't offer receipts.

Politicians should stop punishing the honest tax payers in the community, in particular retirees, and start collecting tax from the black economy.