Subject: Report and recommendations of the Redistricting Advisory Commission

On May 23, 2001, the Redistricting Advisory Commission completed its work and unanimously adopted a recommended plan for redrawing the boundaries for City Council Districts. The Chair of the Redistricting Advisory Commission, Frank Fiscalini, will make a formal report to the Council during the June 5 evening session. The commission should be commended for their hard work in a short period of time.

As outlined in the City Charter, it is now the Council’s responsibility to consider the report and recommendations of the Advisory Commission and adopt a redistricting ordinance. I think it’s prudent for the Council to listen to the report of the commission, ask questions of Advisory Commission members and City Staff, and listen to members of the public during the June 5 meeting.

I suggest that the Council consider taking comments from the public at two additional evening meetings in August to ensure that our residents have sufficient time to give input on proposed boundary changes. The goal of adopting the plan in August will give potential City Council candidates enough time to prepare for the upcoming 2002 elections.

Planning staff has committed to working with the Mayor and Council throughout the summer to answer questions anyone might have on how proposed changes may affect the plan recommended by the advisory commission.

Mayor Ron Gonzales