The Gilroy City Council has formally adopted a district map that divides the city into six electoral districts, responding to a legal threat related to representation for its majority-Latino East Side. The decision follows months of public meetings and culminates a process initiated by a letter from attorney Kevin Shenkman, warning of potential legal action under the California Voting Rights Act. The new districts aim to enhance representation, with each district electing its own council member, while the council ensures compliance with state law to avoid costly lawsuits.
"I think it's a good thing that Gilroy has moved to districts and done so with a map that is decent—I’ve seen a whole lot worse."
"No city has won a lawsuit against districting under the state election law, and some, including Santa Clara, have paid out millions in legal fees after attempting to fight it."
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