[Lnc-business] report on Oklahoma visit

[Rich Tomasso]

There is certainly much to factor in to the decision process. Thank you 
Wes for getting a first-hand look at the situation on the ground.

In thinking about this drive I'm reminded again that every state is 
different. Both in terms of laws and in terms of logistics. That is a 
key reason that having competent local managers is important. Based on 
Wes' report it seems we have that, though they could probably use some 
more help.

Many good points have been made so I won't repeat them. I do think 
completing the drive in OK will provide a great moral (and morale) 
victory for us. Experience has shown that success begets success. Donors 
and activists like to see accomplishments. Donors also want to see 
effective management of the money, so if we are going to pull the plug 
on OK do it now rather than later.

There are expenses coming up this month and if this drive will take up 
more funds this calendar year that's a reality the EC needs to weigh 
heavily. We're finally above our reserves, not sure we can justify 
dipping below that line again. As the drive extends into 2016, how does 
that impact the BA line items in the budget?

(Aside, BA expenses are good opportunities for local affiliates to raise 
funds to lessen impact on national budget, but that's another thread.)

Local access for petitioners at places like grocery stores is tricky. 
For one of the last two drives I managed, I was told my petitioners 
wouldn't be allowed at stores. I planned around it. Then one of our 
charismatic petitioners talked with a store manager and got permission 
to petition on-site. I think he knew someone in the corporate hierarchy, 
but the point is, the right person with the right approach can turn that 
around.

Have the OK petitions worked in front of post offices? Those were 
previously not allowed but as of a few years ago you can, just don't 
block customers. What about gun shows or gun stores? They must like our 
position on that issue. Do we have any college groups? Collecting sigs 
on campus would be a good project.

The door-to-door petitioning is a good idea for validity, especially in 
a more densely populated area. Would be good for prospective candidates 
to do that. "I'm running for office" is a better pitch.

Wes mentioned scans of petitions and an online voter db. If the drive 
does continue I can carve out some time to do some online validity checking.

~Rich
  Region 8 Rep