Help me! I'm being stonewalled by my city 😒 (Video)

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The Municipal "Cold Shoulder"

What can we do if the city ignores or denies our participation/petitions to urbanism?

When faced with a lack of response or outright denial from city officials, it can be frustrating and disheartening. However, there are several strategies and resources available to help you press for change effectively:

1. Understanding the Technical Brush-Off:

   • The Technical Brush-Off and How to Fight It: This article discusses common tactics used by city officials to dismiss public input and offers strategies to counteract them.

2. Illustrating Investment Potential:

   • Illustrating Investment Potential in Your Neighborhood: Learn how to showcase the potential benefits of investing in your community to gain support. Show that there is a lot more capacity already present in your community.

3. Starting or Joining a Local Conversation:

   • Local Conversation: The first step to creating a movement for change is to start or join a local conversation. This platform helps you connect with like-minded individuals in your area.

4. Mobilizing Your Community:

   • There’s a Course for That: Mobilizing Your Community to Become a Strong Town: Strong Towns offers a course designed to help you mobilize your community and drive change.

5. Conducting Walking Audits:

   • Walking Audit or Neighborhood Walk: In the session, Eric described the walking tour he conducted and the impact of neighborhood walks or walking audits.
   • Guide for Walking Audits: This guide provides detailed instructions on how to conduct effective walking audits.

6. Using Powerful Phrases:

   • Learn the 4-Step Process for Public Investment: Local Motive Action Guide: Remember, phrases like “I like my town because…” can be extremely powerful in garnering support and attention.
   • Check out Tristan Cleveland's powerful piece on connecting at the local level -- even with people who vociferously disagree with you. Remember, there's no single incantation that will transform someone's mind. 

By leveraging these resources and strategies, you can build a stronger case for your cause and increase the likelihood of being heard by city officials. Don’t give up—persistent and well-organized efforts can lead to meaningful change.