What is redistricting?
"Following each decennial federal census, and using population figures validated by the Demographic Research Unit of the Department of Finance as a basis, the county committee shall adjust the boundaries of any or all of the trustee areas of the county board of education as necessary to meet the population criteria set forth in Subdivision (a).” (Education Code §1002. subdivision(b).)
Redistricting is the process of adjusting district lines every 10 years to reflect local population changes based on the most current release of the U.S. Census.
Why is it important?
Redistricting determines which neighborhoods and communities are grouped together into a district for the purposes of electing a board member to the Contra Costa County Board of Education.
What are the considerations for redistricting?
There are a number of criteria that have been used nationally and upheld by courts.
- Relatively equal size - people, not citizens
- Contiguous - districts should not hop/jump
- Keep districts compact - appearance/function
- Maintain "communities of interest"
- Follow city/county/local government lines
What is a "Community of Interest"?
A community of interest refers to a group of people with a common set of concerns that may be affected by legislation. Examples of communities of interest include ethnic, racial and economic groups.
Communities covered by the Voting Rights Act:
- African Americans
- Asians
- Latinos
While race is a community of interest, it cannot be the
predominant factor.
How can the public in Contra Costa County participate in this process?
The public may attend upcoming Board meetings (January 19 and February 9) to offer public comment and hear the Board discuss draft maps. Click here for information about attending Board meeting.