You are the front line of democracy. How much difference can one person make? You will be amazed! This is your City, and City Hall is the keeper of your tax dollars. What they choose to do, or not, will affect the quality of your life in Ottawa: every day, every breath you take, every move you make. Here is how to start:
1. Learn the issues. Study this site and the ones it links to. Read and participate in the forums. Read/watch/listen to local media coverage. If you can, attend a City Council session or committee meeting, the schedules are here http://ottawa.ca/city_hall/index_en.html.
2. Ask questions. Nothing is sacred here except reason. We are eager to help others learn the issues as best we can. If you think something doesn't seem right, dig in and ask away.
3. Take action! Talk with friends, neighbours, and coworkers; attend and help organize events; contact politicians and public servants; attend and speak to community associations; research a topic; write letters to the editors; phone call-in shows and talk back lines. These things will make a difference. Let us know how we can work together to make Ottawa better; send us a note at: info "at" friendsoftheotrain "dot" org.
4. Sign up at our site. The more people we have who have signed up, the
greater our weight is. Post comments here. Signing up is free, you don't have to donate.
Thank you!