Lobbying at the local level (fighting city hall)
When it comes to local lobbying, the process is a little different because the local legislative process is different.
The biggest difference between local and state (or federal) lobbying is that there is usually just one chamber to deal with, (a council or a board), rather than two. The following is a brief description of one example for a city council.
In many cases, petitions or proposals are brought before the local council and members vote on the proposal based on its viability. If the council approves the viability of the proposal, it is assigned a “proposal number” and then referred to the city attorney’s office. Here it is assigned a city “ordinance number”, and the city attorney initiates a study of the ordinance and evaluates the effects it will have on the city in light of existing state and federal laws, city codes, and other ordinances.
After the city attorney finalizes an evaluation, the ordinance is sent back to the council where it will usually be scheduled for public hearings, debate and then a vote. This is the point where you have an opportunity to have the public weigh in an lobbying their representatives on the council.
Depending on the structure and rules of the government you're lobbying, the executive (such as a mayor) may have veto power.
There are wide variances in the process (from cities, to counties, to school boards). To research how the process works in your area, contact your local council member and ask for information.
The more you know about the process in your area, the more effective you will be.
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