Citizens' Districting Commission

Every ten years, districts must be redrawn so that each district is substantially equal in population. This process, called redistricting, is important in ensuring that each city councilmember represents about the same number of constituents. Redistricting is done using U.S. Census data, which is released around March 31, 2021. For the City of Modesto, the redistricting process must be completed by April 2022.

Redistricting determines which neighborhoods and communities are grouped together into a district for purposes of electing a councilmember. Our advisory redistricting commission, which is made up of members of the public, will provide input in selecting the next district map for our council districts in accordance with Modesto’s City Charter (Section 501, Method of Election). You have an opportunity to share how you think district boundaries should be drawn to best represent your community.

To the extent practicable, district lines will be adopted using the following criteria: (1) geographically contiguous districts (each city council district should share a common border with the next), (2) the geographic integrity of local neighborhoods or communities shall be respected in a manner that minimizes its division, (3) geographic integrity of a city shall be respected in a manner that minimizes its division, (4) easily identifiable boundaries that follow natural or artificial barriers (rivers, streets, highways, rail lines, etc.), and (5) lines shall be drawn to encourage geographic compactness. In addition, boundaries shall not be drawn for purposes of favoring or discriminating against a political party.

We will make a good faith effort to notify community groups of various kinds about the redistricting process. Our public hearings and workshops will be provided in applicable languages if residents submit a request in advance. Our City will notify the public about redistricting hearings and workshops, post maps online before adoption, and create a dedicated web page for all relevant information about the redistricting process.

Our redistricting commission will be holding hearings and workshops to receive public input on where district lines should be drawn. View the Commission Schedule to participate in upcoming meetings. You can also submit public comments, including suggested draft maps, by emailing Jessica Nunes.