On Tuesday, Council will be deciding on the final map for the March 2020 ballot. Also, we’ll decide on the order the districts are elected. Council has heard some ideas from the public, but to get the conversation going more broadly, I am summarizing the ideas presented – please let me know your preference.
Lowest off-year turnout districts go first
The benefit would be that districts where people mostly vote in presidential years would be best served by electing their city council member when the most people vote – (For 107A: 1, 2, 3 | For 120D: 1, 2, 3)
Highest off-year turnout drop-off go first
The benefit would be that districts where people are motivated to vote in presidential elections would be best served by by electing their city council member when the most people vote. (For 107A: 1, 2, 4 | For 120D: 1, 2, 5)
Geographic districts with the least recent representation would go first
The benefit would be that areas of the city that haven’t had a voice on city council would bet one. (For 107A: 1, 2, 5 | For 120D: 1, 2, 3)
Districts with incumbents go first
The benefit would be that the city keeps the expertise and representation on regional areas that we’ve established by giving incumbents a chance to run for reelection
By lot – Districts (some or all) could be selected by chance
The benefit is that many of the turnout and geographic options result in different districts being prioritized in the southern part of the city. Some districts, especially those who vary by the other parameters, could be selected by chance.
What do you think? Email us at council@sunnvyale.ca.gov or come to the City Council meeting at 7 pm on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 456 W Olive Avenue in Sunnyvale. Check out the maps and all the information about the redistricting process at Sunnyvale Elections site.