Clerk proposes reducing city precincts from 74 to 59; commissioners debate access and timing

The city clerk briefed the commission on a proposed redraw of municipal precinct boundaries that would reduce the number of precincts from 74 to 59 and align precincts with consolidated polling locations and the city’s implementation of early and absentee voting.

Clerk staff said the proposal grew from the statewide adoption of expanded voter access (measures passed by voters in 2018 and 2022) and local reviews of where voters actually cast ballots during the 2024 cycle (absentee and early voting patterns led staff to consolidate some adjacent precincts into single polling locations). The clerk stressed that the recommendation considered registered‑voter counts, polling‑place accessibility, future availability of facilities (for example, changes in school or apartment availability), parking and visibility, and election‑worker demands for early, absentee and election‑day tasks.

Under the plan, 21,700 registered voters (about 13% of the city’s total registered voters) would vote at a different polling location than under the current map. The clerk provided alternative configurations for additional commission consideration (including versions with 60 or 61 precincts) but said polling locations themselves will be formally set later by the commission after staff completes walk‑throughs and building confirmations. Commissioners were told the state law and the city charter distribute responsibilities between the election commission and the legislative body for precinct boundaries and polling‑place designation.

Commissioners debated the proposal at length. Supporters praised staff analysis and said consolidations reduce cluttered polling locations with multiple lines and duplicate staffing, and ensure polling places are visible and accessible. Others, particularly representatives of the Third Ward, raised concerns that the proposed reductions have a disproportionate share of precinct eliminations in certain neighborhoods and could create barriers for some older residents, immigrant communities and historically low‑turnout precincts. Commissioners requested additional demographic and turnout data, asked staff to provide alternative maps (a 61‑precinct option was discussed) and emphasized targeted outreach and communications to affected residents. Several commissioners also reminded the room that polling‑place adoption requires formal commission action after staff confirms locations and that a public hearing and outreach would follow.

Ending: The commission scheduled public discussion and will consider the ordinance at a later meeting. The clerk said every registered voter will receive an updated voter card with their assigned precinct and staff will expand communications and partner with community groups to explain changes.