Here we are. Only a week remains for voting and mailing in your ballot. If you are so inclined, you may drive to Buckeye’s Town Hall and vote in person. However, here is something to keep in mind if you are still wavering in your decision.
If you value accurate representation of your community, then keep in mind, the 2010 census will eventually lead to the redrawing of district lines. That could happen within months or a few years. Those lines will largely be based on population distribution but also include some other varying demographic factors. However, those lines MUST be drawn to include the sitting councilperson.
What does that mean for you? If you live in Tartesso, Sun City Festival, or Festival Foothills, and the councilperson lives in SunDance, then District 4 will continue to be represented by a councilperson who lives in a completely different region of our 660 sq. mile town. If you live in Sun Dance, and your elected official lives in Festival Ranch, are your issues similar to those of an active adult community 45 minutes North? Is this representation best for you?
Ideally what should happen is for District 4 to be the communities North of I-10 and West of the White Tank mountains. These communities face similar issues. Portions of Sun Dance and other areas South of I-10 that are in District 4 would in all probability be included in the other districts neighboring them currently. These areas face their own distinct issues. As it is right now, the Sun Dance community is divided among four districts and presently four councilpersons reside within Sun Dance.
Obviously this is a system problem and not one that is directly based on the candidates character or views. It is a problem and not a fair one at that. But it is a problem. However, we have this one moment to solve it. If we choose not to, then it will be ours for many years to come. In light of the impending situation, keep this in mind when prioritizing your reasons for selecting the candidate THAT WILL BEST REPRESENT YOU and bring YOUR VOICE to the table.
And whatever you decide, please vote!
In this with you,
Ray
