Orange County advisory committee rejects three proposed redistricting maps; debates over Horizon West and Pine Hills continue

The Orange County Mid Decennial Redistricting Advisory Committee on June 18 voted to reject three proposed draft plans after presentations by map authors, public commenters and extended committee discussion.

Public commenters pressed the committee to draw maps that give fast‑growing neighborhoods such as Horizon West focused representation. "We need a district map that gives Horizon West the focus and advocacy it deserves," said David Terry of Winter Garden. Commissioner Myra Uribe, speaking as a guest, said she has been "looking at maps" and that county residents are talking more about the process and its effects on upcoming elections.

The committee reviewed three sponsored plans during the meeting: SPEARS 4 (presented by Calvin Pham and sponsored by Member Spears), a map submitted on behalf of Vicky Vargo (presented by Joe Kelsheimer), and a plan by James (Jim) Callahan and sponsored by Member Washington. Each map drew detailed critique from committee members and legal staff about population deviation, municipal splits and whether the plans preserved communities of interest.

Attorney White, the committee's legal adviser, reviewed statutory compliance…