Letter for S36 (PDF)

Dear Senator ________:
My name is ________________. I live at _________________ in Greensboro. I am aware that I
do not live in your district. However, there is currently a bill in the Redistricting committee
which specifically targets the City of Greensboro, bill S36.
First, I would like to point out the devastating effects this bill would have on democracy in North
Carolina. Even though you are not my representative, someone has asked you to vote on a plan
that only affects the residents of my city. When government representatives can vote on a bill
that has no effect on their constituents, they are not held responsible for their actions. Democracy
cannot work in a representative form of government if the legislators cannot be held accountable.
However, if this bill passes, perhaps some of your constituents might notice, and fear a similar
attack on their local governments.
Secondly, I would like to point out to you the incredible public reaction this bill has received
from Greensboro residents, the vast majority of whom oppose it. On Thursday, February 12, the
Guilford County General Assembly delegation held a public meeting at the Greensboro City
Council. The turnout was so great that about 75 people were stuck outside of the room, wanting
to voice their opinions against the bill. Many residents were able to voice their concerns on S36
to the delegation, and I would like to point your attention to multiple local news articles covering
this meeting, and the comments that were made. Even many local Republicans oppose this bill,
including council member Zack Matheny. If the people of Greensboro want a change in their city
council structure, let us vote on it ourselves. Raleigh should not be telling Greensboro how to run
itself.
We deserve to choose our own system of government, not have it imposed on us by a handful of
people in Raleigh. This bill is an example of big government encroaching on local politics. For
these reasons I please ask that you oppose bill S36 and encourage other members of the General
Assembly to do the same. The people of Greensboro deserve the democratic process.
Thank you for your time,
____________________