I do this. I also email elected officials with questions about issues. Either the questions are the right ones or I’m hitting a nerve, but between my tailbone in that chair once a month (I ALWAYS refer to the posted agenda before the meeting….helps my understanding of what I’ll hear/see) and my emails, I’ve gotten things done or moving that way.
The MOST AMAZING part of this now 3 year experience? I tell people I go and next thing you know, they’re at the next meeting, sitting by me, asking me questions. Our group is growing….there are 5-7 “regulars” One ran and won a seat….we feel like his cheering section sometimes. We applaud when they make decisions we are in agreement with and sit stone cold when we are displeased with something. We find they will look at us before they vote, our body language has become their real time litmus test.
We know the department heads —their attendance at the meetings is mandatory so getting there a few minutes early with some targeted points directed to the right people can get more done than FIVE emails or phone calls.
We have begun to go out for dinner afterwards and about a year ago, our councilman friend invited himself and the conversation was great! We’ve now had EVERY member of Council join us, I think it is a sought after invitation. Our Mayor’s a foodie and she goes every month (we are careful about quorums, of course)
We’ve learned ALOT, gotten alot done, feel like we are making a difference, probably exude more community pride and are a perfect example of why going to Council Meetings is EXTREMELY important!!!
I do this. I also email elected officials with questions about issues. Either the questions are the right ones or I’m hitting a nerve, but between my tailbone in that chair once a month (I ALWAYS refer to the posted agenda before the meeting….helps my understanding of what I’ll hear/see) and my emails, I’ve gotten things done or moving that way.
The MOST AMAZING part of this now 3 year experience? I tell people I go and next thing you know, they’re at the next meeting, sitting by me, asking me questions. Our group is growing….there are 5-7 “regulars” One ran and won a seat….we feel like his cheering section sometimes. We applaud when they make decisions we are in agreement with and sit stone cold when we are displeased with something. We find they will look at us before they vote, our body language has become their real time litmus test.
We know the department heads —their attendance at the meetings is mandatory so getting there a few minutes early with some targeted points directed to the right people can get more done than FIVE emails or phone calls.
We have begun to go out for dinner afterwards and about a year ago, our councilman friend invited himself and the conversation was great! We’ve now had EVERY member of Council join us, I think it is a sought after invitation. Our Mayor’s a foodie and she goes every month (we are careful about quorums, of course)
We’ve learned ALOT, gotten alot done, feel like we are making a difference, probably exude more community pride and are a perfect example of why going to Council Meetings is EXTREMELY important!!!
This is what we are meant to do! Great job!