From: Your Name <you@example.com>
Subject: Support the Parking Tax to Fund Parks and Trees!


Dear Councilmember,

I urge you to vote YES to support Mayor Nutter's proposed increase in the parking tax as a way to fund much needed budget increases for Fairmount Park and tree plantings.

The Mayor has proposed a budget that includes a $3 million increase for Fairmount Park in Fiscal Year 2009. Of that total, $2.5 million would be allocated to Fairmount Park, including $1 million for street and park trees, and a $500,000 increase for the Department of Recreation.

The park budget has been stagnant for so long that it is currently less than half of what it was 20 years ago, when adjusted for inflation. As a result, parks are in poor condition, becoming a liability rather than an asset. Poll results show that almost half of Philadelphians stayed away from a park because of safety concerns. We must do better.

Parks are important to the health and vibrancy of neighborhoods. Parks help bring neighbors together and improve the health of residents by providing places for play and exercise. Parks also raise value of nearby homes and attract new residents to live in our city.

Planting trees must also be a priority for Philadelphia. Trees provide billions of dollars in value to the city by raising value of homes, absorbing stormwater, reducing heat related deaths, and adding to quality of life. Trees are also a great tool in fighting climate change and the urban heat island.

We appreciate your leadership and support on this critical issue.

Sincerely,

Your Name
Your Organization
123 Your St.
Yousville, YO 12345
Phone: (123)456-7890
Fax: (123)456-7890x123
p.s.
Your Personal Statement