Redistricting commissioners push for new Polk County maps
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Two of Polk County's five redistricting commissioners are calling for supervisors' proposed districts to be rejected because they don't provide fair representation.
Why it matters: The maps will determine political boundaries for the next decade.
Catch up fast: The county-appointed commission had recommended the district boundaries in the past, but a change in the law several years ago now delegates that task to the nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency (LSA).
- The LSA published its redistricting proposal last week.
- If supervisors reject it, the LSA will be required to create a new proposal.
What they're saying: Polk Redistricting Commission members Chris Coleman and Greg Lewis shared concerns during a public hearing Monday that four of Des Moines' five main public high schools would be within the newly proposed No. 5 district.
- A new map could lead to better representation, they said.
Between the lines: Redistricting could shake up Polk County's politics by giving Republicans an edge in this fall's elections.
What's next: Supervisors are expected to vote on the matter Tuesday.
