Idaho Redistricting Commissioners Hit the Road

The Idaho Redistricting Commission just finished its second week of redistricting meetings. During the first meeting, Bart Davis, former U.S. Attorney and former Senate Majority leader, and Dan Schmidt, former Latah County Coroner and Senator, were selected as the co-chairs of the committee. The redistricting commissioners received in-depth training regarding how to use the mapping software as well as what is constitutionally required for them to fulfill their redistricting responsibilities. The Commission is responsible for drawing new congressional and legislative district boundaries to equalize population following the 2020 federal census.

The commissioners are scheduled to hold meetings across the state. The first set of meetings that have been scheduled will take place in the Treasure Valley. IAC will watch for more dates to be released. While IAC will not be participating in redistricting, we encourage individual counties to participate. In-person and remote public testimony will be allowed. The Commission encourages testimony regarding areas of local community interests including demographics, economics, geography, population trends, and political and historical factors. Those speaking at the hearings are encouraged to supply a copy of their testimony in writing.

Another way to get involved is to visit the Commission’s website, which as been updated with useful tools and information including meeting times and locations. The website also features a map drawing portal powered by Maptitude allowing anyone to create an account, draw maps and submit them for consideration. Please take a moment to check out the website and participate in the redistricting process through attending meetings and sharing your ideas on how you think your local legislative districts should be drawn.

The first set of meetings will be held as follows:

Treasure Valley

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

Caldwell Public Library
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Nampa City Hall, City Council Chambers

7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 16, 2021

Meridian City Hall, City Council Chambers
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

State Capitol, Lincoln Auditorium
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Friday, September 17, 2021

Eagle City Hall, City Council Chambers
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Over subsequent weeks, the Commission plans to hold meetings in North Idaho in Coeur d’Alene and Lewiston. They will then move to the Magic Valley region and then conclude in Eastern Idaho likely the week of October 4.

Feel free to reach out to IAC with any questions. Email Seth Grigg at sgrigg@idcounties.org or Sara Westbrook at swestbrook@idcounties.org.