Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS REDISTRICTING?

Every ten years, districts must be redrawn so that each district is substantially equal in population. This process, called redistricting, ensures that each board member represents about the same number of constituents. In Nevada County, the Board of Supervisors is responsible for drawing supervisorial districts. Redistricting is done using U.S. Census data, which is released around October 20, 2021. For the County of Nevada, the redistricting process must be completed by December 15th (pending any legislative changes in progress now.)

You can learn more about redistricting by reviewing and watching County Counsel's redistricting presentation to the Board of Supervisors at their February 9th meeting here: Our local Nevada County League of Woman Voters also conducted an excellent redistricting seminar on February 13, 2021, and can be viewed here.

WHY DOES REDISTRICTING MATTER TO ME?

Redistricting determines which neighborhoods and communities are grouped into a district for purposes of electing a board member.

Our Staff Redistricting Commission will provide input in selecting the next district map for our supervisorial districts. You have an opportunity to share how you think district boundaries should be drawn to represent your community best.

You can contact the Commission at redistricting@co.nevada.ca.us to find out more about how the process works.

WHAT DO THE EXISTING SUPERVISORIAL DISTRICTS LOOK LIKE?

You can find a map of the County’s current supervisorial districts here.

WHAT CRITERIA WILL BE USED WHEN DRAWING DISTRICT LINES?

To the extent practicable, district lines will be adopted using the following criteria: (1) geographically contiguous districts, (2) the geographic integrity of local neighborhoods or communities shall be respected in a manner that minimizes its division, (3) geographic integrity of a city shall be respected in a manner that minimizes its division, (4) easily identifiable boundaries that follow natural or artificial barriers (rivers, streets, highways, rail lines, etc.), and (5) lines shall be drawn to encourage geographic compactness. In addition, boundaries shall not be drawn for purposes of favoring or discriminating against a political party.

HOW WILL THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS NOTIFY THE PUBLIC ABOUT REDISTRICTING?

Our Board of Supervisors will reach out to local media to publicize the redistricting process. Also, we will make a good faith effort to notify community groups of various kinds about the redistricting process. Our public hearings or workshops will be provided in applicable languages if residents submit a request in advance. Our Board of Supervisors will notify the public about redistricting hearings or workshops, post maps online before adoption, and create a dedicated web page for all relevant information about the redistricting process.

HOW DO I SUBMIT COMMENTS?

Please feel free to submit any comments or feedback you have on the redistricting process.  redistricting@co.nevada.ca.us Responses will be shared with the public.

NEED ASSISTANCE OR HAVE QUESTIONS?

We are happy to assist you. Please contact us via email at: redistricting@co.nevada.ca.us, or by phone at 530-470-2540.