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Myth busting - at public meetings and hearings - challenge the myths about people experiencing homelessness and siting affordable housing with the facts
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When you first hear of a proposal: Contact the elected official, developer or non-profit who is managing the project and tell them you are are a supporter and ask how you can help
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Do wide outreach, engage stakeholders and get community leaders engaged
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Garner media and political support early
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Be proactive - anticipate concerns and address them early as part of the project development including demonstrating the benefit of the project for your community -- show pictures and conduct tours of high quality homeless programs and affordable housing
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Communicate with your elected official: call, email, write your elected official - let them know you support the project and are part of SRCEH's Neighborhood YIMBY Council Campaign
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If there is a Information Meeting and/or Open House- encourage as many supporters as possible to attend; speak up in support at the meeting; challenge those who make discriminatory; inflammatory or offensive remarks
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Public process: attend the permit meetings and other public forums to express support for the project
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Approaches to framing the issue; communication and community outreach:
+ start your communication strategy early in the process
+ maintain control of the dialogue - take the offensive and frame your project precisely, positively and consistently
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Communication: emphasize:
+ good design of project: good design enhances existing neighborhoods and increase values;
additionally, well designed housing can revitalize older neighborhoods and set the standard for development in newer neighborhoods. Good design is also compatible with existing neighborhood architecture
+ good management of project: good management with strict standards for property maintenance as well as professional property management and compliance with local, state and federal regulations
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Legal perspective: Sacramento City's Non-Discrimination and Equality Municipal Code: "The City of Sacramento is home to people of every sex, race, color, religion, national origin, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity....Sacramento embraces the dignity, humanity and individuality of all people and strives to provide a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors of every conceivable background."
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Ensure that public input and decision-making is transparent
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Hold your elected officials accountable to their commitments