Board debates two‑zone plus at‑large plan for representation, asks staff for population maps

Staff presented a draft revision to Policy BBB that would divide the district into two geographic zones (aligned roughly with the two high‑school attendance areas) and create five elected seats: two zone seats per community plus one at‑large position. The chair summarized the proposal: "There will be 5 members elected at large representing 2 zones and will be known as the district school board," and staff showed maps and population estimates for 2020 and a 2024 Flow Analytics estimate.

Board members engaged in extensive discussion about the policy’s goals and execution. Director Wyatt asked staff to clarify that "every person in our district will vote for every position" and suggested legal counsel review language so voters clearly understand at‑large voting. Director Salvaggio expressed concern about relying on school boundaries for voting zones and proposed considering a four‑zone split or drawing zones by population to ensure "equitable representation"; he said, "My preference would be to cut the school district into 4... regardless of school boundaries." Staff agreed to prepare sample maps (including options for 2, 4 and 5 zones), examine ZIP‑code and voter‑registration data, and provide a draft policy and maps before the June 15 meeting.

Why it matters: The policy would change the mechanics of board representation and could affect geographic representation, the balance between West Linn and Wilsonville residents, and future election timing. The board asked for more data, legal review and draft maps before making any policy changes.