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Council opts to wait for 2030 census, directs staff to prepare redistricting process
Summary
Staff reported multiple wards exceed the 10% population deviation standard under the 2020 census (city population 27,096; ideal ward pop 3,871). Council discussed options — redistrict now, special census, or wait to 2030 — and reached consensus to wait and have staff prepare a process and resolution.
Staff presented an analysis of ward populations based on the 2020 decennial census, reporting the city population at 27,096 and an ideal ward population of about 3,871. Staff said several wards exceed the commonly cited 10% deviation standard and outlined three options for council consideration: redistrict now using 2020 data, commission a special census and then redistrict, or wait until the 2030 census and build a process to ensure the issue is handled on schedule.
Council members voiced concern about cost and accuracy of interim redistricting and the potential for rapid development to change figures; several aldermen favored waiting for the 2030 census while directing staff to draft a resolution and process so the work continues. One council member urged that the problem be corrected prior to the April 2027 election if feasible, but the prevailing consensus was to wait for 2030 and instruct staff to start preparatory work.
