County commissioners tentatively agreed to a redistricting plan creating five commission districts Monday, but did not take formal action to approve the plan until after they hear from the public.
Two new commissioners will be needed for the unassigned districts.
Commission chairman Dianne Novak produced the proposal and said she met with Marion and Hillsboro administrators to make sure they are happy with the recommendation.
Marion mayor Todd Heitschmidt, however, said different. The map divides both Marion and Hillsboro into two separate districts.
“I think all of us are concerned about the island part with the north half of Marion,” Heitschmidt said. “Roger (Holter, city administrator) is trying to get a consensus of what the council members think. We’re looking at it. To me, leaving an island out there doesn’t make sense. I think the commission members should think about what will be least likely to cause a lawsuit.”
Heitschmidt said Marion authorities want to see fair representation, and he questions whether the proposal provides that.
(Read more: PEABODY Gazette-Bulletin)