BURLINGTON, Vt. -
The city of Burlington is trying to reach a decision on the redistricting of the current seven wards. However, it's proving to be a difficult task. Right now, the city has seven district wards and 14 city councilors. But the population is constantly shifting. The 2010 census found that the Burlington population grew to over 42 thousand people, leaving three districts not equally represented
"The largest district has 40 more percent of people in it than the smallest district and that is something that the courts and precedents tell us we need to do something about," said Burlington Mayor, Miro Weinberger.
The US Constitution requires one person, one vote through equal representation. The committee made up of four city councilors has narrowed the plans down to four choices;
The first: shifting to four wards and 12 councilors
The second: seven wards and 13 councilors
The third: seven wards and 14 councilors
The fourth: eight wards and 16 councilors
While people browse the plans, many at the meeting voice to hold off on making any decisions.
"I think this is too critical to all of our wards to make a hasty decision," said former councilor, Kurt Wright.
Others want to make sure the decision isn't political, "All of you are elected officials, all of you have an investment in how that map works," said a Burlington resident.
Even with those who wanted to hold off on the decision, before the meeting Mayor Weinberger says not making a decision could put the city at risk when it comes to constitutional rights, "I think this committee has done quite a bit of work in the recent months and there are difficult decisions to make, it's a hard decision, there are trade-offs with all the plans."
In a vote of 3 to 2, the plan of four wards and 12 councilors received the majority. However, it's important to note that the this plan is just a recommendation and will now have to go to city council, which could turn it down and therefore, have the committee start all over. The city council will review the recommendation Monday.
To see the complete layout of the redistricting plans head to http://www.burlingtonvt.gov/Mayor/Press-Releases/
