This week, Merced County updated its “DistrictR” redistricting map-drawing tool with recently released data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
DistrictR is now available for residents to draw draft maps with official population data, adjusted to account for state and county prison populations. Residents are not required to submit complete maps; they can simply draw boundaries for their own desired district.
Redistricting determines how neighborhoods and communities are grouped together for the purposes of electing a County supervisor. For reference, the County’s current supervisorial districts are available on its website. Using public input and submitted maps as a guide, the Board of Supervisors will adopt a new map in accordance with the FAIRMAPS Act and AB 1276, which states districts must be:
- Geographically contiguous (each supervisorial district should share a common border with the next);
- Respectful of the geographic integrity of local neighborhoods or communities in a manner that minimizes its division;
- Drawn with easily identifiable boundaries that follow natural or artificial barriers (rivers, streets, highways, rail lines, etc.); and
- Drawn to encourage geographic compactness with boundaries not drawn for purposes of favoring or discriminating against a political party.
The County’s next redistricting public hearing will be held on November 16, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. in the Merced County Board Chambers located at 2222 M Street (Third Floor).
During this public hearing, the County will review draft maps, highlight identified communities of interest, and seek public feedback. Maps submitted by November 2, 2021 will be considered at this meeting. All legally compliant maps will be posted on the Draft Maps tab of the County’s redistricting website on November 9, 2021.
Maps submitted after November 2, 2021 will be considered for the fourth public hearing. The fourth and final public hearing is on December 7, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. in Merced County Board Chambers, 2222 M Street (Third Floor).
Merced County’s other redistricting map-drawing tool, “Maptitude,” will be updated with the new U.S. Census figures soon.
For more information on Merced County’s redistricting process or to sign up for updates and information, visit DrawMercedCounty.org.