MINUTES OF THE
REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE
Saturday, June 11, 2011 – 3:00 p.m. – Dixie State College, St. George, Utah
Members Present:
Sen. Ralph Okerlund, Senate Chair
Rep. Kenneth W. Sumsion, House Chair
Sen. Gene Davis
Rep. Francis D. Gibson
Rep. Don L. Ipson
Sen. Benjamin M. McAdams
Sen. Kevin T. Van Tassell
Rep. Roger E. Barrus
Rep. Melvin R. Brown
Rep. Gage Froerer
Rep. Neal B. Hendrickson
Rep. Brian S. King
Rep. Todd E. Kiser
Speaker Rebecca D. Lockhart
Rep. Merlynn T. Newbold
President Michael G. Waddoups
Rep. Christine F. Watkins
Rep. R. Curt Webb
Members Absent:
Sen. Stuart C. Reid
Staff Present:
Mr. John Q. Cannon, Managing Policy Analyst
Ms. Emily R. Brown, Associate General Counsel
Mr. Leif G. Elder, Policy Analyst
Mr. Jerry Howe, Policy Analyst
Ms. Chelsea B. Lloyd, Legislative Secretary
Note: A list of others present, a copy of related materials, and an audio recording of the meeting can be found at www.le.utah.gov.
1. Committee Business
Chair Sumsion called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.
Members of the Committee introduced themselves and indicated the areas of the state which they represent.
2. Overview of Redistricting
Mr. Howe presented an overview of redistricting, including the constitutional mandate, populations changes from the 2010 Census, as well as the criteria for establishing new state and local boundaries. He outlined the redistricting principles that were adopted at the May 4, 2011 meeting.
Mr. Elder presented an overview of the Utah redistricting website, which provides individuals the capabilities to draw, comment, and gather information regarding committee meetings.
3. Public Comment and Committee Discussion About Redistricting
Pres. Waddoups presented "Senate 1% Plan," explained his rationale for the plan, and solicited additional information from citizens regarding the regions of southern Utah likely to be affected by redistricting.
Chair Sumsion presented "Utah House Plan -- Sumsion A" and "Utah House Plan -- Sumsion B" and "U.S. Congressional Plan -- Sumsion C" and explained his hope to get input from residents of southern Utah.
Chair Sumsion asked for public comment.
Mr. John Pike, St. George City Council, encouraged the Committee to include St. George and the remaining portions of Washington County together. He explained that Washington County has urban and rural characteristics.
Mr. Steve Swann, citizen, commented on the redistricting online tool and inquired about the evaluation process for maps submitted utilizing the software.
Ms. Dorthy Engelman, Chair, Washington County Democrats, encouraged the Committee to not fragment existing communities. She noted her support for the "donut" plan and explained that southern Utah is best served when not linked to Salt Lake County.
Rep. Gibson commented that the Committee aims to divide the state into four equal congressional districts with no particular party affiliation or demographic held in favor.
Rep. Newbold raised questions about what other areas of southern Utah should be included in the congressional district which includes St. George.
Mr. Roland Hunter, citizen, explained that Washington County residents would benefit from more conservative representation in the federal government.
Ms. Lee Ann Riddoch, citizen, commented on the online redistricting tool and inquired about support services available.
Rep. Dave Clark explained the impact redistricting can have on communities and explained how quality candidates in districts can influence voter participation. He commented that redistricting requires keen attention to geography and local demographics. Rep. Clark explained that every county in Utah contains both rural and urban populations and that redistricting based on similar policy interests is not in the best interest for Utah residents.
Mr. Jon Stanard, citizen, commented on the online redistricting tool. He explained that many variables are considered in redistricting proposals, which makes it complicated.
Mr. Paul Heh, citizen, inquired about the redistricting proposal time line and when the legislation for the special session will be available.
4. Adjourn
MOTION: Rep. Webb moved to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously.
Chair Sumsion adjourned the meeting at 4:35 p.m.