Survey available as city moves to next phase of redistricting process

(ABC 6 News) – The City of Rochester is moving to the map drawing phase of its redistricting process. The next phase includes virtual meetings, a digital survey and a recommendation to the City Council to review and vote on as early as the March 21, 2022 City Council meeting.

The feedback gathered will then be used to inform the final recommended map. Due to an increase in population, especially in Ward 1 and Ward 3, the Ward boundaries and precincts are all expected to change in some way.

The online Polco survey portal will be open February 25 to March 6.

The upcoming virtual sessions are as follows:

• February 25, Noon-1:00 p.m. – Overview and Introduction to Draft Maps
• March 1, Noon-1:00 p.m. & 6:00-7:00 p.m. – Public Comment on Draft Maps
• March 3, 7:30-8:30 a.m. & Noon-1:00 p.m. – Public Comment on Draft Maps
• March 5, 9:00-10:00 a.m. – Public Comment on Draft Maps

“We have appreciated the engagement of community members in the redistricting process,” shares City of Rochester Management Analyst Heather J. Heyer.

“Now that we have the map from the State, we enter another important phase. Feedback on the draft maps of our City Wards is especially important. From the beginning, our focus has been on a process that is accessible, transparent and timely.”

Following the adoption of a map by the City Council, Olmsted County will then continue its redistricting process. The City and the County have collaborated on the redistricting process as they do with elections administration. More information on that process can be found on the County website.

Additional information about the redistricting process, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions and other resources can be found on the City’s website.