Redistricting commission to hold hearing

The Bakersfield Californian
April 6, 2011

The California Citizens Redistricting Commission is hosting a three-hour community hearing on redistricting from 6 to 9 p.m. on April 14 at city hall in Bakersfield. 

The Commission, made up of five Republicans, five Democrats and four independents, was tasked by California voters with redrawing political boundaries for California Senate and Assembly districts and the 53 U.S. Congressional districts in the state -- as well as state Board of Equalization districts. 

Sweeping changes in population recorded by the 2010 Census show that there is potential for sweeping change in political boundaries and the commission is seeking input from the people of Kern County about how they believe lines should be redrawn. 

"The Commission is taking testimony from local area residents before drawing its first round of draft maps which will be released in June. Final district maps must be certified by the Commission and presented to the Secretary of State by August 15, 2011," states a commission press release regarding the April 14 meeting. 

For more information about the process, and tools to help prepare a presentation to the commission, visit www.wedrawthelines.ca.gov. 

Bakersfield City Hall is located at 1501 Truxtun Ave. 

The city of Bakersfield is looking for someone to serve on the Keep Bakersfield Beautiful Committee due to a resignation. The open slot is for someone living in Ward 1. 

Applications are online at www.bakersfieldcity.us or can be picked up at the city clerk's office at 1600 Truxtun Ave. Applications must be turned in by 5 p.m. May 4. For more information, call the city clerk's office at 326-3767.