Kings County supervisors adopt resolution opposing Proposition 50 on congressional redistricting

The Kings County Board of Supervisors voted 3-0 on Oct. 14 to adopt a resolution opposing Proposition 50, a proposed change to how congressional districts would be drawn in California.

County staff presented the item as a request that the board take a formal position. Matthew Boyette, deputy county administrative officer, told the board the resolution would oppose Proposition 50 because, according to opponents, it would transfer redistricting authority away from the existing independent 14-member citizens' commission and return it to the Legislature, potentially allowing map-drawing by lawmakers. "Before your board here this morning, for the consideration of a resolution to oppose Proposition 50," Boyette said. He summarized the opposition's argument that the measure could be used to "gerrymander it in the favor of a particular political party."

The item drew public comment both urging the board to stay neutral and urging support for the resolution. Red Fidiosi, speaking for Valley Voices, urged the board to remain neutral and "allow voters to make their own informed decisions at the ballot box." By contrast, a speaker identified as Mayor Matthews told the board she supported taking a position because of local consequences she said the measure would produce, including splitting cities across multiple congressional districts and weakening local representation.

Supervisor Rusty Robinson moved to approve the resolution; Supervisor Joe Neves seconded. The clerk called the roll: Neves, Verboom and Robinson voted yes. Two supervisors were absent. The motion passed 3-0.

The resolution opposes Proposition 50 as written and was entered into the county record. The board did not vote to endorse campaign activity; the recorded action is the adoption of a county resolution opposing the ballot measure.

The board will return for its next regular meeting on Oct. 21, where other items on the Oct. 21 agenda will be considered.