The city of Phoenix is preparing to redraw its district boundaries, a process required every 10 years by the state constitution and city charter. The purpose of redistricting is to create City Council districts that have equal population, keep “communities of interest” together and comply with federal requirements to protect voting rights.

    Currently, the city of Phoenix is divided into eight council districts, each represented by a council member.

    Beginning this month and continuing through April, a technical forum will be conducted on the details of the mapping process and requirements, and redistricting information kits will be distributed. Starting in early February, public hearings will be held in each Council District to provide information to residents about the process and plan submission as well as gather input. Residents will be able to submit input on communities of interest and the proposed plans. That input will be forwarded to the consultant hired by the city to oversee the redistricting process. The company, Research Advisory Services, was the same one the city used when it last redrew its boundaries a decade ago.

During February and March, an online Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping tool will be available that will allow residents to draw proposed boundary lines on a web-based program, see statistical data on the proposed boundaries, and submit plans for review and analysis by the consultant. This mapping application also offers residents the opportunity to comment on submitted plans.

    For those who without Internet access, the redistricting consultant will provide materials for hand-drawn proposals. The consultant will evaluate proposed plans and input and develop four to five alternative proposals.

    Beginning in April, alternative proposed plans will be presented to the City Council at a public meeting; additional public hearings will be conducted in each district for public input. The consultant will then prepare a summary report, including public comments.

    The final plan will be presented to the City Council at a public meeting in June, at which time the City Council will adopt a new redistricting plan. The new council district boundaries will take effect in January 2013.

    A website with the full schedule of public hearings can be found at www.phoenix.gov/redistricting. Those without Internet access can call 602-256-4357 to ask to be sent a schedule.

Upcoming public hearings

Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 6 p.m.

Sunnyslope Community Center

802 E. Vogel Ave.

Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 2:30 p.m.

Devonshire Senior Center

2802 E. Devonshire Ave.

Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 6 p.m.

Valley Garden Center

1809 N. 15th Ave.

Friday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m.

Burton Barr Library Auditorium

1221 N. Central Ave.