Commissioners approve redistricting map during emergency meeting

Approved. Disapproved. Finalized, finally.

Those steps led to a Dec. 23 special meeting of the Antelope County Commissioners, where a new redistricting map was given the final nod.

Commissioners originally approved the district map on Dec. 7; however, a discrepancy was noted in population between two districts.

Originally, district three was light and four was heavy, according to county clerk Lisa Payne.

"In discussion with the secretar of state's office, (Antelope County Attorney) Joe Abler and Josie Schafer (University of Nebraska-Omaha Center for Public Affairs Research), we decided to move forward to do changing on sections," Payne said.

District four was condensed, while districts three and five saw an increase.

District three includes a portion of the city of Neligh, extending west of Highway 275 and bordered on the south by Wylie Drive, extending north to the city limits.

Payne said Schafer suggested using the original map.

"I wasn't for that. The lines on that weren't very clear. We did have to work with the person from UNO we contracted with for the files," Payne said.

Each district had a target population of 1,259.

District one includes the northern tier of Antelope County, including Orchard, Royal and Brunswick. Total population of the district is 1,274, which is 15 over the target population, putting the district at 101.2%.

District two includes the western portion of the county and includes the Village of Clearwater. The district includes 98.9%, or 1,245 residents, of target population.

The western portion of Neligh city limits is included in district three, as well as rural areas stretching from 519 to 534 Avenue. Total population is 1,207, or 95.9%, of the target population.

Oakdale and the eastern portion of Neligh are included in district four. Population in the area totals 1,262, or 100.2% of the target population.

The fifth district includes Tilden and Elgin. Population includes 1,307 residents, or 103.8%, of the target population.

"Hopefully the percentages are right," chairman Charlie Henery said.

Payne said population amounts and continuity are correct.

Commissioner Regina Krebs made the motion to accept this map and disregard all previous maps. Commisisoner Eli Jacobs seconded the motion.