Get Involved
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The way land use decisions have been made in Cecil County in the past
is not necessarily how they have to be made in the future. We citizens
can get control of the process if we are organized,
persistent, and knowledgeable. Here's how to help:
Recognize the consequences of bad growth policies
Are your kids in overcrowded schools? Are the roads near your home
congested? Are your property taxes increasing every year? Is your
area experiencing groundwater problems? Are farms and other green space
near you being replaced by large developments of tract housing? These are
some of the consequences of poor residential growth
policies, or policies that are too easily circumvented by developers.
Become informed — join with others
There are many citizens' groups in Cecil County fighting to preserve
what we have and to promote smart growth. The best way to
get involved is to join a group near you and learn what the local issues
are. The list of citizens' groups that
supported the 2006 Land Use Forums is a good place to start. Or,
join CLUA — all of our meetings are open to
everyone, and we always welcome newcomers.
Contact our local officials
Make sure our county commissioners and members of our state
delegation know that you are dissatisfied with the status quo.
Let them know that you will be following their actions in office
regarding development in the county. Tell them your views on
specific growth-related issues. All of our local officials
can be contacted by e-mail.
Vote your convictions
Remember that, in spite of all their money, the developers don't
choose our civic leaders — we voters elect them. At election
time, find out
where the candidates stand on growth issues and vote accordingly.
CLUA will be active in the election
and will provide information on the positions taken by candidates
on land use and environmental issues. We may
endorse and support candidates for public office
of either party that will advance CLUA's vision for
Cecil County — which we hope is your vision, too.
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