As a citizen, it is your duty to voice your opinions to your elected representatives. You can influence our government by persuading members of your local and state government to take action regarding a cause/issue you have strong feelings about.
According to the Georgia Constitution of 83 there are 16 different services that the local government in Georgia can provide.
Police and fire protection
Garbage and solid waste collection and disposal
Public health facilities and services
Street and road construction and maintenance
Parks, recreational areas, programs, and facilities
Storm-water and sewage collection and disposal systems
Development, storage, treatment, purification, and distribution of water
Public housing/public transportation
Libraries, archives, and arts and sciences programs and facilities
Terminal and dock facilities and parking facilities
Codes, including building, housing, plumbing, and electrical
Air-quality control
The creation, modification, and maintenance of retirement or pension systems for local government employees
Planning, zoning, and community redevelopment
The 1993 law added to this list electric or gas utility services and street lighting, for a total of sixteen municipal services.
Objective:
Demonstrate how to responsibly participate in government and use knowledge of government structure and funding to conduct research surrounding the issue to write a letter to your local representative making them aware of the issue and proposing a possible solution
Complete:
You will write a letter to a local official drawing their attention to the issue and asking for their support.
All government services cost money. Your issue will cost money to address it. Your issue will use resources to research the possible sources of revenue that are available to pay for government services.
Step 1:
The Problem
Identify a problem you see in our state or your community. If you are having problems, ask your friends, families, or teachers for ideas. Watching the news can be a good springboard as well.
Considering the 16 government services described in the Constitution, identify the service(s) that relate to your issue of concern. This problem should be practical in that it can be address reasonably by the local government.
Briefly describe your issue of concern below:
Identify the Government Services Described in the Constitution that apply to your issue:
Step 2:
Possible Solutions
Now that you have identified the problem, brainstorm possible solutions or actions that could be taken to address the issue. Consider how the government services described in the Constitution could be utilized to help solve the problem.
Possible solutions or actions to address the issue:
- Increase funding for public health facilities and services to improve access to healthcare in underserved communities.
- Implement programs and facilities for parks and recreational areas to promote physical activity and community engagement.
- Enhance storm-water and sewage collection and disposal systems to prevent pollution and protect the environment.
Step 3:
Research Funding Sources
Research possible sources of revenue that could be used to pay for the proposed solutions. Consider taxes, grants, bonds, and other sources of funding that could be allocated to address the issue.
Possible sources of revenue to pay for the proposed solutions:
- Increase property taxes to fund public health facilities and services.
- Apply for grants from state or federal government agencies to support parks and recreational programs.
- Issue bonds to finance the enhancement of storm-water and sewage systems.
Step 4:
Write the Letter
Now that you have identified the problem, proposed solutions, and potential funding sources, it's time to write the letter to your local representative.
Include in your letter:
- A brief introduction of yourself and your concerns.
- A description of the issue you have identified and why it is important.
- Proposed solutions and actions that could be taken to address the issue.
- Potential sources of revenue that could be used to fund the proposed solutions.
- A call to action for the representative to support your cause.
Sample letter:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
[Local Representative's Name]
[Local Representative's Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Local Representative's Name],
I am writing to bring to your attention a pressing issue in our community that I believe requires immediate action. [Describe the issue and why it is important, referencing the government services described in the Constitution that relate to the problem].
I propose [briefly outline proposed solutions and actions that could be taken to address the issue, as well as potential sources of revenue to pay for these solutions]. By supporting these initiatives, I believe we can make a positive impact on our community and improve the quality of life for all residents.
I urge you to consider this issue and support the efforts to address it. I would greatly appreciate your assistance in advocating for the necessary resources to implement the proposed solutions.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I look forward to hearing from you regarding this important issue.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Step 5:
Send the Letter
Once you have written the letter, ensure that you address it to the appropriate local representative and send it via mail or email. Follow up with the representative to inquire about their support for your cause and continue to advocate for the issue in your community. By actively participating in government and voicing your concerns, you can make a difference and effect positive change in your community.