How does this e-mail show how an individual can influence government? “Dear Cynthia Citizen,

Thank you for your letter about your flooded neighborhood. I had no idea your street flooded with every rainstorm! Certainly I can see why that is a problem for you and your neighbors. I have the issue set for discussion at the next county meeting on Tuesday the 24th. If possible, I know it would help the other council members understand the problem if you and/or your neighbors could come speak about it. Bring pictures if you have any.

Sincerely,

Chris Carrod
County Council Member”

Council Member Carrod explains that the citizen must have help from her neighbors if she expects it back.
Ms. Citizen expects that her council member will pay himself for repairs to the streets in her neighborhood.
Council Member Carrod does not think the council will want to do anything about the flooded neighborhood.
Ms. Citizen sent her elected official a letter about her flooding problem, and now the council will discuss it.