PRATTVILLE CITY COUNCIL
PUBLIC HEARING MINUTES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30, 2011
6:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER: The Prattville City Council met in public hearing on Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Council President Mike Renegar called the meeting to order. Roll was called and councilman Argo and Council President Pro Tempore Fank were recorded as being absent.

AGENDA

1. TO RECEIVE PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED CHANGES TO DISTRICT BOUNDARIES.

City Planner, Joel Duke, reported that since the last census of 2000 the city’s population has increased by 9,657 for a total population of 33, 960. The population was not evenly distributed throughout the city limits and caused some districts to be larger than others. The redistricting plan under consideration by the City Council seeks to equalize the districts at the ideal population of 4,851 each. The proposed plan seeks to maintain the present geographic shape and demographic characteristics of each district. The most notable change is the geographic size of District 4, which was reduced as population was shifted to surrounding districts. District 2 retains the geographic split established in 1992 and contains a Black population of 45.5%. The redistricting plan must have Department of Justice preclearance following adoption to ensure compliance with the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Councilman Boles asked City Attorney, David McDowell, regarding District 2, if we get in a lawsuit over the District, is the City going to be able to win.

Mr. McDowell reminded Mr. Boles that he hesitates to discuss lawsuits in a public forum. The Department of Justice requires preclearance and he believes that the city is acting appropriately.

Mr. Ed Packard, 809 Cottage Lane, Prattville, AL, submitted his written comments to the City Clerk for inclusion in the minutes, as attached.

Mr. McDowell stated that the City cannot move forward without the Department of Justice approval. The Federal Government can override what the State of Alabama authorizes. The city is bound by the DOJ.

Mr. Packard stated that the DOJ only reviews after being finalized at the local law. The DOJ doesn’t necessarily override, the Federal Government does. The DOJ may not authorize the district lines if there is a complaint.

Mr. Duke stated that the purpose of this hearing is to gain information and he will certainly look into Mr. Packard’s statements.

ADJOURN:

There being no further business to come before the council, Councilman Boles made a motion to adjourn and Councilman Miller seconded the motion. The public hearing was adjourned at 6:24 p.m.

APPROVED:

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Stephanie J. Southerland
City Clerk

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Michael E. Renegar, President
Prattville City Council