Cape Region voters deserve more representation
The process of changing voter-district boundaries to reflect the state’s changing demographics is officially under way. It’s a process that takes place every 10 years, following the U.S. Census. This year, legislators in both the House and Senate have pledged to conduct an open process that invites public input.
The concept of redistricting is simple. We all expect everyone to have equal representation in the General Assembly, but that happens only if all voting districts have about the same number of voters. Every 10 years, following the census, district lines must be redrawn to reflect population changes.
The concept is simple, yet actually drawing new district lines becomes so complicated, the average person’s eyes tend to glaze over. Last time around, the problems became so contentious the issue went to court before it was resolved.
This year, Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth, who is leading the redistricting process, says everyone who wants a say will have it. He promises to take into account all input he receives as he draws new district boundaries.
Less clear is what will become of this input. Problems arise because the public is likely to offer competing ideas about where boundary lines should go. Legislators should pledge not only to accept input, but also to deliberate on that input in a public forum.
The census clearly shows Kent and Sussex are growing; parts of New Castle County are losing population. That’s a key place to start this process. However the lines are drawn, Kent and Sussex voters must demand more votes in Legislative Hall.
On a related topic, county voting districts must also be redrawn. For Sussex residents, redrawing the five councilmanic districts is likely to have more direct consequences on residents than will statewide redistricting. Cape Region voters are by far the most underrepresented on council and so have the greatest stake in redistricting decisions.
The time to become informed and take action is now.
The League of Women Voters has scheduled a series of public forums to discuss the issues, the first at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, at the Beebe Medical Arts Building Conference Room, on Route 24.
