Pontiac council adopts new six‑district map after public hearing; some residents urge further tweaks

The Pontiac City Council voted 5–2 on Jan. 7 to adopt “Proposal A,” a new six‑district map that will replace the city’s seven‑district layout ahead of the 2025 election cycle.

Why it matters: The charter change voters approved in 2024 required the city to redraw council boundaries; the council must complete that work in time for candidates to collect nominating petitions and for the clerk’s office to update precincts and voter cards. Council members and dozens of residents argued over whether to adopt a map now or to seek a compromise “Proposal C” based on public feedback.

Council President Mike McGinnis opened the hearing by explaining the schedule and the legal standards the map must meet, saying the city’s map maker had produced two final proposals after earlier rounds of public input. “We are going to hold our 3rd public hearing during the council for you to be able to weigh in with questions, with feedback,” McGinnis said. The hearing drew residents from across the city; public…