[Trees-executive] Sample Letter to Governor

[Jerry Landay]

Excomm:

    I was asked by a member of the Sierra Club to draft a sample letter FROM
INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE CITIZENS to Gov. Ryan urging him to sign HB 1776.  He has
the power of veto.  I relay it to IPSUCOT members AS PRIVATE CITIZENS.

    I urge you to consider writing a version of this, or reasonable
facsimile, UNDER YOUR OWN NAME, NOT THE ORGANIZATION'S,  and mailing it
paper mail at your earliest opportunity.  Encourage your friends to do the
same.

    The Gov's address and phone number are given at the end of the draft
letter.

    Jerry M. Landay

Dear Governor Ryan:

 The passage of HB 1776 was the bipartisan collaboration of citizens'
groups, a large number of Illinois cities, professional arborists, and a
group of Republican legislators, Sen. Weaver, and Reps. Rutherford, Winkel,
and Berns.  This collaboration suggests democracy is still alive and well in
Illinois.

 There is strong feeling in these cities, notably Champaign, Urbana,
Bloomington, and Normal that state standards can now provide a sensible set
of standards for Illinois Power and other utilities which have run roughshod
through trees on municipal and residential properties in the name of
"vegetation management."  HB 1776 was the result.  It sets statewide
parameters for tree pruning and management, respects private property, and
preserves local authority, without sacrificing the safety and reliability of
electric power.  It preserves the aesthetic, environmental, and property
values of these communities.

 I urge you to expeditiously sign the bill, which passed both houses of the
Legislature with comfortable margins, and represent the will of the
people -- who are watching its progress with great care and interest.

 Sincerely,


His address is:
Governor George Ryan
#207 State House
Springfield, IL 62706
Phone no.: 782-6830