Washoe County’s population has grown by approximately 65,000 residents in the last decade, per the 2020 U.S. Census results, and Nevada law requires the county to consider redrawing the five Commission District boundaries to better reflect the change in population, a process known as reapportionment and redistricting. The county is seeking public input on potential redistricting plans.
Nevada law states that Commission districts should be nearly equal in population as practicable. Washoe County’s population variance between districts is already narrow, so the county could opt to not change any Commission Districts. However, population growth in specific areas of Washoe County has changed the urban/rural spread of the county, and redrawing districts to better balance that spread is another option as well.
Commissioners will consider several options for redistricting, and Washoe County will accept public input through October 15.
Residents are asked to log into the county’s mapping system and view the current district lines and the various changes that could be made, and then to voice their feedback through the online survey. Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 29, those without computer access can view the maps at the County Complex on 9th Street and Wells Avenue, Building A, and fill out hard-copy surveys there.
The Washoe County Board of County Commissioners will consider all redistricting options this fall. The Nevada State Legislature will call a Special Session to address redistricting of state and federal districts.
“We are excited to move forward with our redistricting options now, and maximize the amount of time for public feedback while aligning with redistricting at the state level,” County Manager Eric Brown said.
For more information on Washoe County’s population data and redistricting plans, and to take the survey, visit: https://redistricting-2021-proposed-plans-washoe.hub.arcgis.com/.
