Victoria's third tier of government is made up of 72 local councils, who's structures are all the same. They are made up of staff, who are over seen by the CEO.

The CEO answers to the councillors, (board of directors). It is the responsibility of councillors to consider all matters that come before them at council, and after taking all matters into consideration, make a judgement with out fear or favour.

I hope the editorial is not suggesting councillors should just rubber stamp every thing that comes before them that is recommended by council staff. If you were to also apply that principal to our second and first tiers of government, what a world we would have.

Planning matters can be the most contentious matters to come before council. Not every one will be happy. There is of course a process whereby dissatisfied parties can ask for a review of the case through VCAT.

I note that VCAT agreed with the Corangamite council, to reject the solar farm permit application, which was contrary to the council planning staff. Is it suggested that VCAT also got it wrong? Local councillors have an important role to play in local government. Not to have the community representation that they provide, would indeed go against the principal of a democratic society. A freedom that our for fathers gave their lives for, and a privilege we should embrace.

Cr Colin Ryan, Moyne Shire Council

What an amazing week it has been for the Find Your Voice All abilities choir - firstly showing the nation what the power of community and music can do and then going on to win three Victorian Disability Awards. Anyone who has seen the choir perform will have seen the pure joy performing brings to those on stage and you would know how infectious that joy is. I want to thank those who work to make a choir a reality, for the work they do to make a difference in the lives of each and every person that performs and I want to thank them for the joy they spread whenever they take to the stage.

Roma Britnell, South West Coast MP

I must thank Warrnambool City Council for stuffing up Liebig Street. Now it's too narrow, other cities are working to get rid of traffic congestion and you are creating it. The street is so narrow that when we back out of a car park, without hitting the curb or another car in the next park, we might have to reverse into the other lane and block both sides. And this giving away to pedestrians coming out of the roundabout is stupid and blocking the roundabout in all directions. And you the councillors have not got a clue about traffic movement. Do what the ratepayers want and not what you the councillors want.

Neil Swan, Warrnambool