Jack Young, LWVSC member and Fair Maps Coalition Co-chair for the LWVDE, addressed the Sussex County Council on 3/1/22 regarding the League's support for the proposed redistricting ordinance. The County Council's map was similar to the one proposed by the League. The County Council voted unanimously to pass the ordinance. Below please read his statement.
The League of Women Voters of Sussex County Supports the Proposed County Council Redistricting Ordinance.
March 1, 2022
Before the Sussex County Council is a proposed ordinance, map of proposed county councilmanic districts by street description, and a listing of census blocks included in each district. Each proposal incorporates the results of the 2020 decennial census.
Redistricting following the decennial census is required by “one person one vote” principles set forth in such U. S. Supreme Court cases as Reynolds v. Simms (1964), Wesberry v. Sanders (1964), and Baker v. Carr (1962).
Between 2010 and 2020, the total population of Sussex County increased by more than 40,233 residents, mostly in the eastern part of the County. The County now has a census total of 237, 378 residents, with each of the five districts ideally consisting of 47, 475 people. Based on the 2020 census, four of the five councilmanic districts exceeded an acceptable deviation from the ideal district population.
The process began last fall with requests for comments from the public. The League participated by providing a draft map.
In constructing the districts, the League was governed by the following principles derived from the Delaware Constitution and Code:
- Each district consists of contiguous territory.
- Each district is equal in population.
- Major roads, waterways, natural boundaries, and municipal boundaries are considered.
- The districts are not drawn to unduly favor any person or political party.
- In addition, communities of interest are included, where possible, in a single district. (A “community of interest” is any group who share common social, cultural, racial, ethnic, a school district or economic interests common to the population of that area).
On December 14, 2021, the County Attorney provided a draft map. The County’s map was very similar to the one proposed by the League and added a consideration of school board district lines. Both maps follow the above criteria for redistricting.
The public was again requested to provide comments by January 7, 2022. On February 1, 2022, an ordinance was introduced setting forth the proposed five districts. Only minor adjustment was required after the public comment.
This ordinance is consistent with the above principles, County Attorney’s December proposal and the League’s original submission.
The League, accordingly, supports enactment of the proposed ordinance.
Jack Young
Co-Chair Fair Maps Coalition
