The recent release of the 2000 Census by the U. S. Census Bureau has triggered the redistricting process for single-member districts in the city of Arlington.

Redistricting is required when a significant change in population occurs in a single-member Council district. Redistricting is designed to realign districts so that populations and other specific characteristics are consistent with the federal Voting Rights Act. This is an open process where citizens are invited to provide input.

The Arlington City Council has adopted criteria and guidelines to facilitate the redistricting process and to assist any citizen who may wish to submit specific redistricting plans for consideration.

City officials say it is important that every citizen interested in proposing a redistricting plan obtain a copy of the adopted criteria and guidelines. Plans that are not in compliance with the criteria and guidelines will not be considered. Copies of the criteria and guidelines are available in the City Secretary’s Office, which is located on the first floor of the Arlington Municipal Building at 101 W. Abram St.

Citizens wishing to propose a districting plan must submit the plan to the City by Tuesday, Aug. 13 for consideration. The target date for adoption of a new districting plan is September 14.