Item B: Ward Redistricting - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Using 2010 information from the Population Research Center at Portland State University, Lane Council of Governments (LCOG) staff estimates ward populations as follows: Ward 1: 18,548 Ward 2: 18,916 Ward 3: 15,658 Ward 4: 20,610 Ward 5: 21,265 Ward 6: 23,069 Ward 7: 19,342 Ward 8: 20,431 These estimates are based on dwelling units and do not account fully for residents of group housing -- for example, dormitories and off-campus “Greek” housing could add another 3,500 to the Ward 3 total. A summary of residential building data and location map from the last 10 years is provided in Attachment A. Although this doesn’t reflect population shifts among the wards, permitting data does provide a snapshot of new residential development in recent years. As U.S. Census data become available, numbers will become more reliable and yield more information on population demographics. The actual redrawing of boundaries awaits availability and preparation of the census data and transfer of this data to the local mapping system later this year. The redistricting decision in the past has been made by December 31, and guidelines drive completion of the process before key election-related dates in 2012. The Eugene City Council and Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) elections occur in spring 2012, and it could be helpful to potential candidates and others who would be involved in those races to make the final redistricting decision by this fall. A general time schedule in Attachment B outlines key steps in the process. Informing and involving the public can take many forms. A number of options are listed in Attachment C. At a minimum, redistricting information and data would be available to the community via the City’s public web site and handouts at public centers, and a public hearing would happen before the council adopts new boundaries. The framework for public information and involvement depends in part on the decision-making process the council chooses. The council also may want to reach out to specific groups, such as neighborhood associations, the League of Women Voters, Friends of Eugene, the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce, and others. RELATED CITY POLICIES The Eugene Charter provision related to redistricting is general and states: Section 33. Wards. The council shall divide the city into wards and redefine the boundaries thereof as necessary to accord persons in the city the equal protection of the laws. No person may vote at a city election in a ward other than that in which he or she resides. \\Cesrv500\cc support\CMO\2011 Council Agendas\M110214\S110214B.doc