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From: Marce Schulz (no email)
Date: Tue Aug 08 2006 - 11:11:45 EDT
> The problem is no accountability. No accountability =
> repeated /spreading behavior. A civil lawsuit against the
> state or state agencies is different in many respects than
> the many frivolous or greed motivated suits that plague the
> US. The most important area it differs is that it actually
> benefits society if it is a just cause being fought for.
I agree with the sentiment but maybe not the method.
In this case, perhaps a mini-PR campaign would be more effective. A letter
to the editor of the local newspaper that lays out how tourist dollars --
especially those arriving by boat -- benefit the community and how such
behavior can discourage visitors; similar letters to the city council and
county government body; a notice and call to action posted at local marinas
and businesses where boaters gather.
And finally, the best way to garner attention is to interest a local
reporter to write a story on boaters and what they contribute to the area,
and how municipalities can help or hinder that contribution, using the
citation as an example of the bad, and giving examples of local policies or
behaviors that are more welcoming. In a query to the reporter, add some
stats -- like how much money boaters contribute, or at least how many
boaters visit the area in a typical season. The marinas would be able to
supply some numbers to start with -- how many boats from out of the area,
length of stay, etc.
I think publicity works better than almost anything to change the status
quo. And perceived economic impact is a bigger incentive than a lawsuit that
could be spun as frivolous and would take longer to have an effect.
JMO, and if I were there I'd help with a campaign effort.
Marce
Spellbound
sadly, still in Pittsburgh
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