The California Citizens Redistricting Commission approved, in
four separate 14-0 votes, the first drafts of maps for the
redistricting of the Congress, state Assembly, state Senate and
Board of Equalization with little change to the districts that
represent San Benito County.
The California Citizens Redistricting Commission approved, in four separate 14-0 votes, the first drafts of maps for the redistricting of the Congress, state Assembly, state Senate and Board of Equalization with little change to the districts that represent San Benito County.
The commission released the four maps Friday in the first round of the redistricting process that is mandated by the federal government following the 2010 census. The commission’s goal is to create district boundaries based on needs of the communities across the state and “common sense boundaries,” according to statement from the group.
“These preliminary maps restore integrity to California’s Constitutional mandate to redistrict to ensure fair representation,” according to the statement. “Where possible, the Commission worked to keep communities whole to maximize their voices under these proposed districts.”
In San Benito County, the Assembly district is similar to the previous boundaries. The district lines still combine east Santa Clara County, Watsonville, half of Monterey County – including Salinas and King City – and all of San Benito County.
In the preliminary Senate maps, San Benito County is still included with Merced County, but larger portions of Santa Clara County and Monterey County are included.
The county’s congressional district includes all of Monterey County and parts of Santa Cruz County – including the city of Santa Cruz. The county is still in the west Board of Equalization zone – covering the entire coastline down to Santa Barbara. The proposal now includes all of Santa Barbara County and adds Siskiyou, Shasta, Tehama, Glenn and Sutter counties.
The commission is urging the public for input on the temporary maps to determine the best districts. Comments can be sent to [email protected] or through the mail to Citizens Redistricting Commission, 901 P Street, Suite 154-A, Sacramento CA. 95814. Comments can also be faxed to 916-651-5711.
Final maps must be submitted by Aug. 15.
To view the maps, go here.
