Don't let a local problem or concern go unaddressed. Writing a letter to your mayor is an easy way to make your voice heard on the political issues and problems you perceive in your city. Identify what topic you would like to discuss, relate to the problem and offer solutions to the mayor.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Address the letter
Step 1. Find the mayor's address
Look it up in your local phone book or go to your city's website.
Similarly, you can find out if there is a specific committee to deal with your concern. Consider writing a separate letter to the Council
Step 2. Gather your writing supplies
You will need some clean stationery and writing implements or a computer and printer. Open a text editing program if you use a computer.
Step 3. Complete the envelope
Include your return address. Write it in the upper left corner of the envelope:
- Your name
- Your street address
- Your city and your zip code
Step 4. Include the mayor's mailing address
Write it in the center of the envelope:
- Mayor J. Doe
- City of (your city)
- Street Direction
- City and Zip Code
Part 2 of 3: Write the letter
Step 1. Go to the mayor
Dear Mayor Doe,
This is the standard greeting for a mayor. For the rest of the letter, you should maintain a loquacious and respectful tone. Don't worry about being too formal
Step 2. Introduce yourself in the first paragraph
Write three to five sentences telling him who you are in relation to the problem you mention. For example: As a citizen, employee or member… of the city, company or organization…
Keep your presentation brief. Don't provide irrelevant details about yourself. Instead, relate to your concern
Step 3. Describe the problem of your concern
You will have to give some specific details. Don't be afraid to use bullet points to mention the facts. For example: I am struck by the fact that …
Just address a problem in the letter. Write a separate letter for each problem if you have a lot of concerns to mention
Step 4. Say how you feel about the situation
Keep this part short, but make sure you relate to the problem. For example: I am appalled by the decision to …
Step 5. Offer some suggestions and some solutions
Avoid just complaining about the problem. Show the mayor that you've done your research. You can provide some examples of similar situations in other cities and of effective solutions.
Step 6. Ask the mayor for help
Be honest with the mayor and don't feel like you have to praise him. Instead, be upfront about the changes you would like to see. For example: As the mayor of our great city, I ask that you consider other solutions.
Make sure the letter is less than a page to this point. You should keep it brief to ensure that it is read completely. Ideally, your letter should contain three to five paragraphs
Step 7. Thank you
Be sure to thank the mayor in advance for addressing your concern. Offer to provide more information if needed as your letter should be brief. For example: Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Step 8. Sign the letter
Keep the final part respectful and be sure to sign your name. Include your mailing address directly below your name so the mayor is sure you live in his jurisdiction. For example: Sincerely, (your name).
Part 3 of 3: Finish the letter
Step 1. Review the letter
Look for simple spelling mistakes and grammar mistakes. It may help to have someone proofread the letter.
Step 2. Make your corrections
Please correct any errors in the review and recheck. You can find something else as you read the letter again.
Step 3. Print the letter
Just use black ink and print in a readable font and size to make the letter look as professional as possible. You can use Times New Roman 12.
Step 4. Get or buy a stamp
Glue the stamp in the upper right corner of the envelope. Make sure to use a stamp or your letter will be returned to you.
Step 5. Send the letter
After sending the letter, you should receive a response from the mayor or his office. Call their office to make sure they received the letter if you don't get a response after a few weeks of sending it.