Letter to the Editor — Stop District Maps from Breaking Up Neighborhoods in Pleasant Hill

PLEASANT HILL, CA (June 11, 2023) — During the last City Council Meeting, it became evident that councilmembers are pursuing a districting ordinance with a troubling caveat that has the potential to fragment our neighborhoods.

The proposed ordinance includes provisions that would permit the City Council to place 4-district maps on the primaries ballot, incurring a substantial cost of approximately $100,000 for residents. Shockingly, Mayor Flaherty is advocating for a 4-district map that would divide communities and neighborhoods, including College Park, Gregory Gardens, and Poet’s Corner.

Despite opposition from the community, who strongly advocate for a 5-district map that preserves the unity of neighborhoods, it appears that the personal interests of the Mayor is influencing councilmembers support for this divisive ordinance.

Adopting a 4-district map would be a significant disservice to Pleasant Hill. Please urge the City Council to reject any ordinance that could lead to the division of our neighborhoods and instead embrace a community-supported 5-district map. Email: CityCouncil@PleasantHillCA.org.

Michelle Simone
Pleasant Hill resident

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