Board moves to reissue redistricting RFQ; asks staff to present responses without scoring

The board voted to reissue the request for qualifications (RFQ) for reapportionment and redistricting services and directed the superintendent to collect responses and present them at a future committee of the whole meeting without staff scoring or recommendation. The motion followed extended public comment urging the board to complete up‑to‑date maps before 2026 elections; several speakers, including former board members and community advocates, urged prompt action.

Why it matters: The board has faced litigation and contested maps in recent years. Several online commenters and speakers at the meeting urged choosing a demographer quickly so candidates and voters will know districts before qualifying for the 2026 cycle. The board clarified it wants an open, transparent selection process; Vice President Godet earlier described the board's preference for trustees to make the selection decision rather than accept a staff recommendation.

Board discussion: Trustees debated process and timing. Some members warned about rushing; others said timely decisions are necessary to avoid running elections under outdated maps. The motion on the floor directed staff to reissue the RFQ and bring back submissions for board review without scoring; the board approved the motion.

Next steps: Staff will reissue the RFQ, collect proposals and present candidate firms (without staff scoring) at a future committee meeting, enabling trustees to evaluate and select a demographer with board‑level oversight.