Taking action

The problem might seem overwhelming, but it is one that can be solved.

Change is possible, but it’s not possible without action. If that change is going to happen, we need you. We can only do so much. You have the facts, now it’s up to you to take action.

Politicians listen to voters and as a voter you have a lot of power to make changes to the housing affordability situation in Alberta.

So what can you do?

    * Email or write a letter to:
          o Your MLA
          o The Premier
          o The opposition party leaders - Liberal, NDP, Wild Rose Alliance
          o Your local newspaper
          o Local mayor and councilors

    * Talk to your friends and coworkers and get them to take action too
    * Write a blog about it, comment on other blogs
    * Call your local TV station
    * Call radio talk shows – eg CBC Edmonton, CBC Calgary, CHED
    * Bring up the topic at a Chamber of Commerce or Board of Trade meeting
    * Support MLAs who will support towns and cities with infrastructure funding and work to cap and reduce development cost charges
    * Attend meetings where your MLAs are: make housing affordability an issue
    * Attend functions where your MLAs are: talk to them about your concerns

 

When you’re taking action and writing letters, make sure you do three things:

   1. Name and address on letter and envelope: The person you’re writing to needs to know who you are and that they represent you. Name and address also applies to an email.
   2. Be specific about the action you want: It’s always better to use your own words, but if you can’t think of them, you can try this sample letter. Feel free to modify it to suit your style.
   3. Give your reasons why: Asking for action on this issue without going into detail won’t work. You need to give specific reasons why you’re asking someone to take action on your behalf. Even better is if you can share personal experience about how this issue has affected you.

Wondering who your MLA is?