I just wanted to let you know there is a controversy growing in
GIlbert that might be of interest to you. Our friend Amy Belanger
has graciously put together this document. If you feel moved write a
letter or make a phone call. Lets see how we can turn this into a
learning moment for all involved.
Greg
****************************
Action Alert: "Dan Thompson's yard is a lush, edible garden -- and
it's under fire from neighbors who find it unruly."
Gilbert Councilmember Dave Crozier told the Arizona Republic he would
pursue having the town ordinance changed to make Thompson's yard a
code violation -- if the town attorney rules that it isn't already
one. However, town manager George Pettit told Amy Belanger in an Oct.
11 phone call that an ordinance change hasn't been introduced by any
of the Council members and that Crozier says he isn't planning to
introduce one anytime soon.
Whether or not Crozier pursues an ordinance change, we shouldn't wait
to begin educating the community and decision makers. Even if no such
change is ever proposed, the attention to the issue introduces a
great public education opportunity.
Letters-to-the-editor are usually read by lawmakers and/or their
staff to help get a read on the public's views before they make a
policy decision. Our letters should make points that will educate
people and galvanize support rather than alienate -- the law is
currently on our side.
You can take it to the next level by helping with educational and
public relations initiatives, such as leading an educational tour of
a permaculture site, delivering a presentation on permaculture to a
Gilbert-area professional association or nonprofit board or writing
an article in a nonprofit newsletter. Let's take this opportunity to
spread permaculture.
You can take it to "City Hall" by sending a version of your letter to
the Gilbert Town Council, adding a request that they reject any
proposals to change the ordinance in ways that would prohibit
Thompson and other residents to grow their own food. Send your
letters Attn: Mayor and Town Council, 50 E Civic Center Dr., Gilbert,
Arizona 85296. Better yet, follow up with a phone call to make sure
they received your letter and understand your position: (480)
503-6871.
Or contact each council member (and the mayor, vice-mayor and town
manager) individually, especially Dave Crozier:
If you want to be a true activist, watch the agenda of the Town
Council meetings online and if the ordinance change appears on the
agenda, show up prepared to comment. Be aware that, in order to
comment at the public hearing in Gilbert, you must fill out a comment
form indicating the item number on which you wish to be heard. The
comment form will be available at the hearing. The Town Council
agendas (with item numbers) can be viewed at the following url:
<http://www.ci.gilbert.az.us/boards/agncouncil.cfm>http://www.ci.gilbert.az.us/boards/agncouncil.cfm.