Newest City Council Redistricting Map Is Out

City of Houston

The latest version

Mayor Annise Parker introduced the map today, saying it had widespread support from various interest groups.

"One of the most notable differences between the consensus map and the original is that the consensus map preserves the Hispanic majorities in Districts H and I," the city's announcement says.

"We are very pleased the mayor and city staff sat with members of Houston's Hispanic community to find a way to address our representation concerns," said Laura Murillo, President and CEO, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. "We support this consensus map, and hope that City Council approves the changes."

The map keeps the combined Heights-Montrose Killer Yuppie district, which should provide an entertaining bit of politics among the well-heeled, white, politically active parts of town as a representative is eventually anointed.

Also endorsing the new plan was a key Asian-American group.

"The Asian American community of Houston came together to ensure our voice was heard at every opportunity," said Rogene Calvert, Director, Texas Asian American Redistricting Initiative. "We appreciate the Mayor's outreach to all communities to produce the best map possible. Redistricting can't meet everyone's needs, but today we join other Houston minority communities to support this redistricting plan."

(No black leaders were quoted by the city.)

The city laid it out this way:

The new plan includes four districts in which the total population and voting age population is majority Hispanic; two are majority African American and another is nearing majority African American; one district contains a large and significant Asian population; and three districts have Anglo majorities.

"This new map reflects Houston's ethnic diversity," Parker said. "I am amazed at the level of public participation in this process. It was truly a community effort. I am proud to have presided over a process that was entirely transparent and accessible."

The new proposed map is out: Let the fighting begin (again)!