AGENDA DATE: 3/2/2022
TITLE:
Title
Public Hearing on Ordinances to Revise Local Magisterial District and Precinct Boundaries
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Public hearing to consider new magisterial and precinct boundary options for local decennial redistricting
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Kamptner, Herrick, Bessette, Washburne
PRESENTER (S): Greg Kamptner
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: Federal and State law require that Virginia localities adjust their magisterial district and voting precinct boundaries every 10 years, in order to provide for relatively equivalent population distribution among magisterial districts and in order to eliminate or minimize split voting precincts. As a part of the local redistricting process, Virginia Code § 24.2-129(B) requires that the local governing body provide notice and an opportunity for public comment regarding proposed redistricting plans, and conduct a public hearing on the proposals. Virginia Code § 15.2-1429 requires a public hearing on the proposed ordinance that will approve the redistricting plan.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission - To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all community members through the provision of the of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds.
DISCUSSION: As part of the public notice and comment process, County staff prepared and presented to the Board of Supervisors on February 2, 2022 three alternative proposals for adjusting County magisterial district and voting precinct boundaries to comply with State and Federal law, posted the alternatives on the County website, and invited public comment on the alternatives. The three alternatives are provided in the form of proposed ordinances provided as Attachments A, B, and C. The public hearing proposed for March 2, 2022 is a part of that process. During the presentation, staff will share a summary of public feedback received and observations about the three options from an equity perspective.
BUDGET IMPACT: There is no budget impact associated with the development of the proposed ordinance.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Following the public hearing, Staff recommends that the Board provide direction on a final redistricting ordinance for adoption on March 23, 2022.
ATTACHMENTS:
A - Option 1 Proposed Ordinance
B - Option 2 Proposed Ordinance
C - Option 3 Proposed Ordinance
D - Maps showing current and Options 1, 2, and 3 boundaries