Common Cause Indiana and the League of Women Voters of Porter County are inviting the public to a town hall on May 15 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. to discuss a people-first approach to drawing city council districts. 

The two groups will lead a conversation about creating an independent citizen redistricting commission that would draw future city council lines—giving residents more power in choosing who represents them at city hall.

“This public forum is an important opportunity for Valparaiso residents to learn about redistricting and share their thoughts about creating an independent, citizen-led redistricting commission for the city. Redistricting occurs by law after each census.  The purpose of redistricting is to redraw the boundaries of Valparaiso’s five legislative districts.  The new boundaries are important because they determine how residents are represented in city government. There will be a discussion following the presentation with time for resident feedback and engagement,” said Barbara Domer, Valparaiso City Councilwoman. 

‘Putting power in the people’s hands when it comes to drawing city district lines is one of the best ways to ensure effective, responsive government. Rather than letting partisan interests dominate how city council lines are drawn, this approach prioritizes neighborhood voices and community needs,’ said Julia Vaughn, executive director of Common Cause Indiana.

“The League of Women Voters have believed for a long time that the redistricting process should be the responsibility of a vested citizens commission.  The League believes that the redistricting process can create fair and free maps by opening the process to public scrutiny and input and public submission of maps. We believe that the criteria used to draw district maps must be transparent and available to citizens so they can have confidence the maps are not partisan or unfairly gerrymandered,” said Beckie Guffin, President, League of Women Voters of Porter County.  

WHAT: Public Forum on Independent Redistricting Commission
WHO: Common Cause Indiana, League of Women Voters of Porter County
WHEN: Thursday, May 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m. 
WHERE: Pines Retirement Village Community Room, 3303 Pines Village Circle, Valparaiso, IN, 46383