Pros

Proposed changes make the redistricting process less partisan by replacing a commission made up mainly of members representing political parties and elected officials with the Charter Commission and a non-partisan Advisory Group which is intended to bring added diversity and citizen participation to the process.

Proposed changes provide a more open and transparent process including public information meetings and public hearings, as well as assuring that all work will be done in open meetings for which public notice will be given.

Proposed changes provide clearer guidance to the process by recommending specific principles for the redistricting and for the appointment of Advisory Group members.

Proposed changes are the result of dissatisfaction with the current process by members of the City Council and of neighborhoods and minority groups about the 2002 ward boundaries, which resulted in an unsuccessful court challenge.

Now is the time to improve the process or we must wait another 10 years.

Cons

Proposed changes put the process in the hands of the Charter Commission, whose members are appointed by the Chief Judge of Hennepin County District Court, and whose members may not represent the diversity of Minneapolis residents.  The terms of three of the 15 members will expire before the redistricting process must be done in 2012.

Proposed changes dilute the influence of political parties, whose expertise can be helpful.

Proposed changes do not go far enough in assuring diversity on the Advisory Group.

Proposed changes do not go far enough in providing principles to guide the drawing of boundaries.