Citizens to Have Say in County Redistricting

Manatee voters who want a say in shaping County Commission districts will have an opportunity to be heard at a redistricting open house next week.

Redistricting maps, which will be presented for discussion at the open house next Tuesday, are available now at mymanatee.org/redistricting.  The Open House will be held Sept. 27 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on the fourth floor of Manatee County Administrative Center, 1112 Manatee Ave. W.

“The Open House will present Manatee County residents and business owners with a true chance to be involved in the redistricting process,” said Deputy County Administrator Karen Windon. “Public input is an essential component of the formula that will shape the County Commission districts for years to come.”

The County's Geographic Information Systems staff used U.S. Census data to produce a draft of district maps based on populations. The GIS team's mission was to balance district populations while maintaining demographic balance.  The proposed districts were drawn based on existing districts, and modified based on geographic lines and natural and man-made boundaries, such as streets and rivers.
 
The proposed districts were reviewed by the Supervisor of Elections to ensure precinct boundaries were kept intact, and then reviewed again, and lines redrawn.  

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501.