Owen County begins redistricting process to address population disparities

The Owen County Commissioners meeting held on April 3, 2025, focused on several key agenda items, including updates on asset management, redistricting of council districts, and the implications of recent legislative changes.

The meeting commenced with a discussion on the county's asset management plan, specifically regarding the building department's progress. It was noted that the department is nearing completion, with efforts underway to gather detailed information about county vehicles for accurate asset tracking.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the topic of redistricting the county council districts. David Sheldon, a representative from Knox County, presented the need for redistricting following the 2020 census. He explained that Owen County has a current population deviation of 38% among its four council districts, which exceeds the acceptable threshold of 10%. This discrepancy could lead to disenfranchisement of voters in overpopulated districts.

Sheldon outlined the redistricting process, emphasizing the importance of equal representation and the need to adjust district boundaries to reflect population changes. He proposed a plan that would involve splitting Marion Township into two precincts, which would reduce the population deviation to 7.6%. Importantly, this plan would not affect the current council members' residences, ensuring continuity in representation.

The commissioners were informed of a legislative grace period that allows counties to address redistricting until June 30, 2025. Failure to comply could result in legal challenges and financial penalties. Sheldon urged the commissioners to act swiftly, suggesting that they could finalize the necessary maps and ordinances by their next meeting in two weeks.

The meeting concluded with a brief intermission before transitioning to discussions with the highway department, where financial matters were expected to be addressed.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the urgency of redistricting in Owen County and the collaborative efforts required to ensure compliance with state regulations while maintaining fair representation for all residents. The commissioners are expected to review the proposed changes and take action in the coming weeks.