This is a repeat of my previous diary. Just another friendly reminder.
You hear it all the time from Senator Obama, but what does it really mean? In the context of where you live, or where you own your residence, it means this. Learn what your local government is doing, who is making those decisions, and how their decisions impact your existence. Because they do.
Everyone is so focused on the presidential election, that it is easy to forget that we all have political leadership at the municipal level. These officials make decisions that are equally important to your existence as those in Washington. I don’t mean to lecture, but so often citizens do not participate in their local government. I’ve gone to many Board of Trustee meetings for our local village, and other area taxing bodies. Most often, I am one of only a few people who attend. However, you would be amazed at the dialogue carried on in these meetings, and what you can learn about your own local government. In one meeting I learned that a developer was not paying the proper tax rate on his newly developed land, a tremendous tax loss to our schools, and other public services. Several citizens had to bring this to light, and make a fuss, and got the property re-assessed, bringing in millions of dollars, yes millions of tax revenue dollars, that otherwise were not being pursued. Clearly a conflict of interest persisted along the lines, somewhere, which enabled basically a criminal. In the end, the citizens benefited, as they should have from the start.
Being active in the presidential election is wonderful, and it is exciting to see so many people becoming involved in politics. But change does happen from the bottom up, and letting your local officials know that people do care, and are watching, can only help make that change. Many years ago, we gathered a group of neighbors who take turns attending local board meetings, so the burden is not on only one person. Usually they supply an agenda at the meetings, pick up a copy, and make notes on it, so you can share with your neighbors. It is an easy and effective way to be active citizens. For those fortunate enough to have their local meetings broadcast on television, try attending some of the meetings that are not televised (i.e., public works, school district, etc.).
Last, as the economic impact of the housing debacle is felt more strongly, it will have a direct effect on municipal finances. As tax revenues are hurt by over-developing, developers going bankrupt, foreclosed properties, lack of permit fees, etc., your villages will be faced with decisions that will definitely compromise public services, or they will likely be forced to raise your taxes or fees you pay for things like trash collection, water supply, road work, etc. The time has never been more important to become involved; so gather up your kids, friends and neighbors and become involved now!