On Monday (Oct. 31st), at noon, the Seattle Redistricting Commission will decide on a recommended map which will create updated boundaries for City Council Districts. The need for new boundaries is required after a census to adjust for changes in demographics.
The final vote will be on Nov. 8, but no new maps will be introduced after Monday. The good news is that all of the options leave Eastlake whole.
ECC Recommendation
We are recommending support of Commissioner Malaba’s Amended Draft Map (the current draft map) which will put Eastlake in District 3. (See below for how to provide feedback to the Commissioners).
Nickels, Juarez, and O’Sullivan “Discussion Maps”
There will be 3 discussion maps on Monday. One is the map supported by Commissioner Nickels which allows Eastlake to remain in District 4. Although we would prefer to stay in District 4 the chances of it being adopted are low. None of the other commissioners have supported it to date.
Next is a discussion map proposed by Commissioner Juarez. This puts Eastlake in District 3 and was an attempt to find a solution to the division of Magnolia but introduces other issues and has limited support.
The last is a new map (sent in last Tuesday) and sponsored by Commissioner O’Sullivan. It puts Eastlake in District 7. It has caused concern in the University District and the support is unknown. The commissioners were “intrigued.”
All maps are available for review at http://seattle.gov/redistricting/how-to-participate.
How To Give Feedback
Although no map is perfect, as the commission balances community requests and their mandate, participating is important. Use the link below to send your public comment to the commission by Sunday evening.
Suggested Message: As a resident of Eastlake I support Commissioner Malaba’s Amended Map (the current map) which keeps Eastlake whole and puts Eastlake in District 3.
If you wish you can add that your second choice would be support of either the O’Sullivan discussion map or the Nickel’s discussion map.
Thank you,
Eastlake Community Council Board
