1992 CC MIN JAN 07 - Laserfiche WebLink

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He alleged the gerrymandering of boundary lines as I-215 was not used as the natural boundary line to the north thereby causing an imbalance of population between districts 5 and 6. Further, he pointed out that the ward system committee did not hold public hearings for community input. Mr. Eugene P. McMeans, 2025 S. Glenwood Ave., stated he was one of the six members appointed to determine district boundaries and indicated he was concerned about the allegation of "gerry- mandering." The committee submitted its unbiased recommendations based on its application of federal and state guidelines and evalu- ation of the 1990 census. Mr. John Longfield, 1809 Cottonwood, Colton, expressed concerns with the map and the need for public hearing to obtain answers to questions. Ms. Deirdre Bennett, 720 Atchison, Colton, suggested the use of route I-215 designation as presented earlier by Mr. Cappele. She urged the City Council to conduct an open forum and to reconsider boundaries if lines have been unfairly applied and avoid possible civil rights violations and lengthy litigation. Mr. Brett Buffington, 1000 Torrey Pines Dr., Colton, identified District No. 5 as an industrial area and the small group of residents therein would not be well represented if boundaries are not redefined. Council Member Cisneros posed questions as to the people affected by the proposed boundaries. Deputy City Attorney Julie Biggs relinquished the floor to Florence Adams, consultant to the committee, who provided answers. Councilwoman Cisneros recommended that the matter be referred to committee for public input. Councilman Roman warned about time constraints. City Clerk Helen Ramos announced February 4, 1992 as the latest date the matter could be considered by City Council for placement on the June ballot. City Attorney Brown advised that the City Council is attempting to respond to the proponents of the petition for redistricting. Ms. Adams stated that the portion of population being discussed will give a plus 2.88 deviation. She expressed a concern over dividing streets. She stated the I-215 line was closely followed and after applying federal and state guidelines there remained 34 property owners, mostly businesses. She agreed to attend a public hearing to provide information on federal and state guidelines; census geography; and on the factors used to define the boundaries. 4 JAN 7 1992