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Seattle Redistricting Commission invites public participation

Members of the public can view proposed maps and offer feedback

The Seattle Redistricting Commission has begun the process of examining how to redraw the boundaries of Seattle’s seven City Council Districts and is inviting community members to learn about the process and provide feedback. You can review drafts of proposed maps and offer your feedback at the Seattle Redistricting Commission website. The designated public comment period is open February 16 – July 31, 2022.

“We are committed to making Seattle’s first redistricting process as transparent and accessible as possible. We want to be inclusive of all voices and perspectives as we work to shape the future of our city. The commission has drafted a comprehensive education and engagement plan to ensure that members of the public have multiple opportunities to learn about the process and provide their input.” – Neelima Shah, Chair of the Seattle Redistricting Commission

The Seattle Redistricting Commission, an independent, non-partisan body of five appointed Seattle residents, is responsible for redrawing the new Council district boundaries to reflect the city’s population growth. The commission follows City Charter mandated criteria using geographic information system (GIS) expertise and the latest 2020 Census data to draw new boundaries and produce districts that are approximately equal in population. To the extent practical, the Commission must also consider additional factors, such as following existing district boundaries, recognizing waterways and geographic boundaries, and acknowledging Seattle’s communities and neighborhoods. The consideration of public input and a minimum of one public forum per Council District is required during this process.

On February 15, the Commission reviewed four draft maps drawn using the mandated technical criteria. A discussion of those maps will now begin and both public comment and participation are requested by the Commission.

How You Can Participate

  • Visit the How to Participate section of the Seattle Redistricting Commission website to view the maps and provide comments.
  • Attend an upcoming community listening session, workshop, Redistricting 101 training, or regularly scheduled Redistricting Commission meeting.

If you would like more information or to request interpretation services for any of the meetings, trainings, or workshops, please contact Elsa Batres-Boni at Elsa.Batres-Boni@seattle.gov or (206) 256-6198.

For more information about the Seattle Redistricting Commission, visit http://www.seattle.gov/redistricting.