The city of Goleta will hold a special, interactive District Elections Workshop outdoors, 6 p.m Monday, Aug. 2, at City Hall, 130 Cremona Drive. Tents will be set up outside of City Council chambers. As a courtesy to others, those attending should wear a face covering when within six feet of fellow attendees.
The workshop includes a presentation, tutorial, and hands-on practice using the online mapping tools available at www.DrawGoleta.org. Paper maps will be available for those who prefer that method.
Demographers and city staff will help attendees practice drawing and submitting their own maps. Spanish interpretation is available.
In November 2022, Goleta is moving to district elections for the first time in the city’s almost 20-year history. While the mayor will still be elected at large, the city will be divided into four geographic districts and voters will elect one councilmember from their district.
As public participation is an important part of deciding district boundaries for the city, community members are encouraged to attend the workshop and learn how to draw and submit ideas for district boundaries using online tools or a paper map. Bring a fully charged laptop and/or pencil and plan to be a part a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Goleta.
More information, including access to the online mapping tools, a schedule of events, and FAQs, are available at www.DrawGoleta.org. Also at that link are recordings of previous workshops. The Aug. 2 workshop also serves as the first of four official public hearings as required by state law. Maps must be received by Jan. 6, 2022, for consideration.
Direct questions via e-mail to cityclerkgroup@cityofgoleta.org or call 805-961-7505.