Item 5: Ward Redistricting Scenarios Update

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results of redistricting generally are believed to support fair representation, accountability and greater responsiveness from elected leaders when wards are closer in population size. Note: The council discussed a criterion of no more than plus or minus three percent from equal population, which would allow for a range of six percent. The adopted motion, however, spoke to a three percent population difference between wards. 2.Work with 2010 U.S. Census data and do not assume potential growth. 3.Develop scenarios that consider geographic and neighborhood features, and strive for relative compactness and contiguity, without rigid adherence to these characteristics. Geographic and neighborhood features can be helpful in defining communities of interest; however, some also can act as barriers and sometimes fragment natural groupings. A ward is generally considered compact if it has a fairly regular shape, with constituents all living relatively near to each other. A contiguous ward is one in which a person can travel from any point in the ward to another without crossing the ward boundary. It can be difficult to achieve compactness and contiguity, whether as a result of certain geographic features or actions such as annexation. Neighborhood association boundaries are another consideration, though Eugene’s associations differ widely in size, by population and space. 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. The Eugene City Code includes the following: 2.692 Elections – Wards. The city council shall by resolution divide the city into eight wards, but neither this requirement nor any action pursuant to it disqualifies, or shortens the term of office of, a member of the council or the Eugene Water & Electric Board. Adopted Council Goals and Outcomes include: Effective, Accountable Municipal Government - A government that works openly, collaboratively, and fairly with the community to achieve measurable and positive outcomes and provide effective, efficient services. COUNCIL OPTIONS 1)Select one of the scenarios developed at the previous direction of the council as the new ward boundaries map. 2)Provide direction for creation of an alternative scenario. CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION The City Manager recommends the council select a scenario, and that a resolution adopting the scenario be prepared for the October 24, 2011, council meeting. S:\CMO\2011 Council Agendas\M111010\S11101025.doc