TO: AC Transit Board of Directors
FROM: Linda A. Nemeroff, District Secretary
SUBJECT: 2021 Ward Redistricting Project
ACTION ITEM
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Title
Consider receiving a report on the process and timeline for the 2021 Ward Redistricting Project; and the adoption of Resolution No. 21-033 establishing procedures for adjusting the boundaries of the wards of the Alameda - Contra Costa Transit District.
Body
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE:
The redistricting process is mandated by law and, therefore, has no strategic importance.
BUDGETARY/FISCAL IMPACT:
Notwithstanding staff time, the cost is estimated at $25,000 which includes the purchase of the necessary software, legal advice and consultation, translation and interpreter services, print ads, and publication of the required public hearing notice. In-house resources will be used to carry out the technical aspect and public outreach elements of the redistricting project.
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
Redistricting is the process of adjusting ward boundaries in order to equalize populations following the completion of the federal decennial census. The process is governed by federal and state laws, including the Federal Voting Rights Act; Transit District Law; and Elections Code Section 22000. The redistricting process aims to establish boundaries that recognize the importance of providing members of racial ethnic groups the same opportunity to participate in the political process and elect representatives of their choice as other members of the electorate. The Board should note that AB 849 (The Fair and Inclusive Redistricting for Municipalities and Political Subdivisions Act) signed into law on October 8, 2019, is only applicable to county and city governments and is not applicable to special districts; however, AC Transit's redistricting effort will aim to incorporate the public outreach requirements of that legislation which are substantially similar to AC Transit's 2011 outreach efforts.
The Board ...
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