Your city council, county commissioners, and local elected officials are your neighbors. They live in our community, shop at the same stores, and want to hear from the people they represent. On affordable housing, this group makes many key decisions, from zoning changes to development approvals. That means your voice can make a real difference.
If you’ve never spoken to an elected official before, this guide will walk you through it, step by step.
Step 1: Know Who Represents You
Most cities have council members who represent a specific ward or district, plus members who serve the whole city at large. Start by finding out who represents your neighborhood. If you live outside of the city or town limits, you’re most likely represented by the county, such as the county commissioners.
- Visit your city’s website and look for the city council page. If you live outside the city, visit the county website to learn more.
- Find your ward or district council member or county commissioner, along with their email and phone number
- Note the at-large members, too. They represent you as well
Knowing who to talk to is the first step in standing up for affordable housing and other issues that are important to you.
Step 2: A Little Homework Goes a Long Way
You don’t need to be an expert on any topic, but a little preparation helps you speak with confidence.
- Check upcoming agendas for housing-related items, like rezoning requests or new developments
- Learn the basics of what’s being proposed and where.
- Gather a fact or two about local housing costs. The National Low Income Housing Coalition’s Out of Reach report shows what it takes to afford rent in every Indiana county. The Homeward Bound Village blog has many articles and local facts and figures about affordable housing right here in La Porte County.
Think about your own connection: why does affordable housing matter to you?
Step 3: Choose How to Reach Out
There’s more than one way to talk to your elected officials. Choose an option that works best for you.
Email or Letter
Email is easy, creates a record, and gives you time to choose your words. Keep it short, polite, and focused on one issue.
Phone Call
A quick call to a council member or city office lets them know constituents are paying attention. Have a few notes ready before you dial.
Public Comment
Speaking at a council or commissioner’s meeting puts your message on the public record. Most councils allow two to three minutes per speaker. Indiana’s Open Door Law requires these meetings to be open to the public so anyone can attend.
A One-on-One Conversation
Ask a council member for a short meeting. Personal conversations build relationships that last beyond a single vote.
Step 4: What to Say to Be Heard
The most effective messages follow a simple pattern:
1. Who you are: Your name and the neighborhood or ward where you live
2. Why it matters: Why affordable housing matters to you, your family, or your community
3. Your story: A personal example, which is often more memorable than any statistic
4. Your ask: One clear request, such as supporting a specific project or plan
5. Thank you: Always close with appreciation for their service
A Sample Email:
Dear Council Member [Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I live in [Neighborhood/Ward/ County address]. I’m writing to ask for your support of [project or agenda item].
Affordable housing matters to me because [your reason]. I’ve seen [brief personal example], and I believe our community is stronger when everyone has a safe, stable place to live.
I hope you’ll vote yes on [item] at the [date] meeting. Thank you for your service and for considering my perspective.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Making Your Message Count
Be respectful, even when you disagree; remember, courtesy keeps doors open. Keep your message brief with one issue, or one ask. Bring a neighbor for support. A few voices carry more weight than one. Also be sure to follow up. Finally, thank council members after a vote, whatever the outcome. Stay involved; relationships built over time have the greatest influence
Your Voice Matters
Advocacy isn’t reserved for professionals or people with political connections. It’s for every resident who cares about their community’s future. When you take a few minutes to talk with your city council or county-level elected officials, you help build a La Porte County where everyone has a place to call home.
Other Blog Posts In This Series:
5 Ways La Porte County Shows Up for Housing Without Writing a Check
What Indiana Renters Can Do Right Now
From Policy to Porch Light: Where We Go from Here
Sources
• Michigan City Common Council meeting calendar
• City of La Porte Common Council
• Indiana Public Access Counselor (Open Door Law)
• National Low Income Housing Coalition, Out of Reach: Indiana
