Citizen input wanted about city's redistricting

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Directed by the votes cast at the Nov. 6 election, the way City Council members are elected now changes with the passing of Proposition 3. Members will be chosen from districts where they reside, and the process begins with a public forum to secure applicants for a new Citizens Redistricting Commission.

The forum set for Dec. 4 is hosted by Austin City Auditor Kenneth J. Mory at the One Texas Center, located at 505 Barton Springs Road, in room 325 at 7 p.m.

The Citizens Redistricting Commission will be responsible for determining the boundaries of future Council districts. The public forum will also identify applicants for the Applicant Review Panel, which is responsible for selecting a pool of 60 qualified commission applicants.

This forum is aimed at providing the public an opportunity to provide input on the best ways to encourage participation in Austin’s first redistricting process and how to secure a large pool of qualified applicants that reflect Austin’s diversity, according to Mory.

Tthe forum will include an opportunity to participate in breakout sessions to determine how to best identify applicant qualifications including relevant analytical skills, the ability to be impartial, and an appreciation for the city of Austin’s diverse demographics and geography.

Input can also be submitted in writing via email to oca_auditor@austintexas.gov or by mail or hand-delivery at the following address:

Office of the City Auditor, 301 W. 2 ^nd Street, Suite 2130, Austin, TX 78701.

Additional information about the redistricting process can be found online at the Office of the City Auditor’s website. at http://austintexas.gov/page/10-1-citizens-redistricting-process.