by DICK SCHNEIDER
Buda Chamber of Commerce
Every 10 years after the census is completed, we are required to go through the process of “redistricting”. This redistricting exercise is brought on because of the growth and population shifts that occur over the 10 year census period.
The federal government requires that in any given area, all county commissioners’ precincts contain an equal number of voters, within a certain plus or minus percentage, and that there is not a disproportionate number of minorities in any given district.
Our Hays County Commissioners are currently going through the redistricting process and are working diligently to come up with a plan that is as fair as possible to all citizens and complies with all of the regulatory requirements.
During the last 10 years, Hays County has experienced exponential growth that has more than doubled the population, which I believe is a good thing. The bad thing is that the bulk of the growth has occurred along the Interstate 35 corridor which has led to a disproportionate number of citizens in our corridor precincts.
That is the reason that dramatic changes must be made in the makeup of our precincts in order for the county to comply with federal requirements.
I recently attended an open meeting with Commissioner Mark Jones and County Judge Bert Cobb to discuss the redistricting exercise that they are going through and to review the various redistricting maps that have been developed so far. It appears that all of the maps have good points and bad points and that they are all able to solve our redistricting requirements. I don’t believe that everyone will be completely satisfied with the options that are offered but it is critical that we gain consensus.
The commissioners are doing good work on developing a plan that will satisfy the majority of our citizens.
Don’t forget to enjoy the rest of the Tunes and Toons that will take place in City Park on Friday nights in July. Only one month left of this Hot Hot summer. The kids will be back in school before we know it. Take advantage of what is left of the summer.
