Bill 16-37 Resolution Supporting Redistricting Reform

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RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA IN SUPPORT OF REDISTRICTING REFORM FOR INDIANA WHEREAS, the current redistricting process creates a potential conflict of interest—as state legislators are effectively choosing their own constituents; and WHEREAS, the redistricting process should be conducted in an open manner with real opportunities for public dialogue and feedback, not behind closed doors; and WHEREAS, public input and involvement in the redistricting process will empower our communities by allowing them to elect representatives who represent their interests on issues that are important to their lives; and WHEREAS, the boundaries of state districts are currently drawn by legislative incumbents, often sacrificing the integrity of neighborhoods and cities; and WHEREAS, important principles such as the protections of the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 and respect for neighborhoods and cities should be clearly listed for a Commission to abide by; WHEREAS, voters are more likely to participate when they feel that their vote will count and that they have a reasonable chance of electing candidates who represent their interests; and WHEREAS, elected officials are more responsive to constituents when voters have a choice of candidates, thus increasing accountability and serving the best interests of the voters of Indiana; and NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, as follows: Section 1. The Common Council urges the Special Interim Committee on Redistricting to produce a final report that supports comprehensive redistricting reform which incorporates the following: 1. The state of Indiana should establish a citizens -led commission composed of Indiana voters who are representative of the state's diversity, partisan balance, and geography, for all future redistricting. This Commission will oversee the process to draw the lines of the state Senate, state House of Representatives and Congressional districts. 2. District boundaries should be drawn according to clearly described criteria, including respect for: a. The U.S. Constitution's requirement of one person, one vote; b. The Voting Rights Act (VRA);