New voting wards a positive step for city

Published 10:59 pm Friday, May 11, 2012

Tuesday, the Selma City Council moved past a significant political hurdle when it approved the new voting wards within the city.

After months of political posturing, threats of complaints to the Justice Department, unreasonable delays and often times poorly attended public hearings, the redrawn wards have been approved and are just days away from being sent away for judicial approval.

A few weeks ago, we were heavily critical of the council for the lethargic approach they took with this redistricting process. We were surprised a process that everyone knew was needed could inch so close to not being done in time.

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But today, we are complimentary of the compromises made. Even though it was a 5-4 vote, it appears much of the heavy lifting ahead of August’s municipal elections is complete.

The council must next gain approval of polling places, some of which will house voting precincts outside of the wards they serve, and residents must be informed of their new voting areas in enough time to reduce any confusion of the Aug. 28 municipal elections.

It is our hope that confusion can be kept to a minimum and we will work with the city and the Dallas County Board of Registrars to continue educating residents on the changes.