1) Do your homework.

2) Decide what points you have in your favor.

3) Gather as much *relevant* material as possible to show why the proposed development is inconsistent with the comp plan or LDRs. Your life style is not the issue, your health and safety are. (Example: The fact that you can't jog in your usual place is of no interest to the commission, but the fact that your house could flood is.)

4) Make sure each major point will be covered by some person.

5) Visual aids are extremely useful in making your points. If you have access to Power Point software, use it. If not, ask for help.

6) Type up the info and hand it in for the record. If you do not submit a hard copy, your remarks will not become part of the public record.

7) Be as professional as possible when you speak. Dress and behave respectfully even if you want to scream.

8) Try to think of it as a trial where you have to prove your points, not just state them. You can include attached material as part of the record.

9) Angry outbursts will not impress the commissioners. They know most people will vent and then forget. If you are organized and cool, that means you *will* remember. That scares politicians. (Klingons - "Revenge is a dish best served cold.")

10) Don't exclude anyone who wants to help. Get as much support as you can and keep records of who helps even a little bit. They will be more interested in your efforts and build a sense of community.

11)Petitions mean almost nothing! Warm bodies mean votes.

By Ellie Schwab