How to Get Involved

Join Our E-Mail List

To get in the loop about all the issues send a message to isleofpalmsassociation@gmail.com with "I'm With You" in the subject line to join our mailing list.

Tell City Council What You Think

Send a letter or an e-mail message to your City Council and Planning Commission members to let them know how you stand on this issue. For Council and Planning Commission addresses click here.

Citizen Action

As our elected officials craft solutions that address the quality of life issues on the island, it is important that they hear from you.  Active and informed citizens are the hallmark of democracy. Get informed about the issues and then share your views:

• Advocate for zoning law enforcement
• Call council members
• Write council members
• Meet face to face with council members

• Write letters to the editor
• Run ads sharing your view(s)

People who think members of Council pay little or no attention to constituent mail, are plain wrong. Concise, well thought out personal letters are one of the most effective ways to influence law-makers

Tips on How to Write a Letter to Your Elected Official:

Keep It Simple

Your letter should address a single topic or issue. Typed, one-page letters are best.  If you have more information than will fit on one page, include it as background material, clearly marked as such, and attach it to the letter. Letters sent in the mail are more effective than emailed letters.

Say why you are writing and who you are. You must include your name and address, even when using email.

1. Provide more detail. Be factual not emotional. Provide specific rather than general information about how the topic affects you and others. If you are referring to a certain ordinance or law be sure to cite the correct number or title whenever possible. What new information can you shed on the debate?
2. Write each council member and the mayor individually. Send the letter by mail.  It is best to personalize each communication.  However if time is of the essence, don't hesitate to send a general letter via email to multiple officials.
3. Close by requesting the action you want taken: a vote for or against a proposed piece of legislation, or change in general policy. Do ask your elected representative to do something specific: For example: "Please vote for (or against) (whatever the legislation is) "or "We recommend the following changes to the proposed priorities".

Indicate your thanks, reiterate your most important message, and say that you expect a response. The best letters are courteous, to the point, and include specific supporting examples.