How can I participate in local town decision making?

Question

I live in a small "college town" in Indiana PA. I want to help in making decisions and fighting for families here in this town. Recently, a decision of denial had been made in regards to having a chuck e. cheese placed to where one of our local stores had closed. The reason for the denial is that we're a college town. But, in defense to this, we have 4 elementary schools, 1 high school and 1 small university with less than 10,000 students and without any indoor entertainment for families during the winter months. So, I would like to stand up for the families in this town, and fight to have this decision reconsidered. If not for a Chuck E. Cheese, something similar. So, with all this in mind, I'd like to what committees I should consider joining, and what I have to do to get on that committee.

Answer 1

First, find out when aldermen or city council meets. Secondly, start attending all the meetings. You can write a letter to your city council and mayor explaining what you want to do, why you want to do it, what you want, etc. If you really want to get attention, get together with a group of your neighbors and draw up a petition stating your demands, collect signatures on the petition. You can even have the idea put to a vote if you check with your local election laws and what you have to do to put an issue on the ballot.

When you go to the meetings, volunteer to be a member of a citizens committee for planning or something like that. While you're checking with the election people, find out what it takes to run for your city council. Then do it.

You go, get it done! Good For YOU!

Answer 2

Absolutely,, the general meetings must be open to the public. Start attending and get a feeling for how it works ,.. also a copy of Robert's Rules of Order may come in handy

Answer 3

if you are eligible run for the governing body of the town.