I was just wondering if anyone has ever been involved in any local activism projects?

For the last few months I have been feeling led to become more involved in local politics/activism in some way. The pandering by politicians (gas-tax holiday and higher fuel efficiencies in new cars by 2011) and the seemingly victim-like roles by the public in regard to rising gas prices is driving me batty. I live in a very suburban location, in fact it was almost rural 10 years ago and I am aware that outside the urban areas life is all but dependent upon vehicle use. But, with a little investment in infrastructure by the town I could easily (safely) get around my community on foot or bicycle.

Anyway, I've thought about becoming a thorn in the side of the town commissioners to finally complete the sidewalk system that has been on their master plan for years and get crosswalk systems put up at stoplights. I won't even go into the fact that I just found out that DH and I are going to have to pay a new 3% tax on the used vehicle we are purchasing for the regional transit system (which doesn't even provide service to our town).

So, anyone BTDT in regard to making changes happen in your local community?