Agenda - 04-20-1993 - VIII-E - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Coalition for Fair Represeitation Statement to commissioners concerning representation task force proposal April 20, 1993 We are pleased that the commissioners are finally responding to the public's concerns about fair representation in Orange County. We look forward to a thorough analysis of the inequities in our current system and the opportunities that such a process will provide for reform. We regret that the commissioners are acting hastily in creating this task force and thus preventing substantial citizen input concerning the make-up of the committee. It is extremely important that this process get off on the right foot or the issue will become even more divisive than it already is. The committee as it is now proposed virtually ensures further frustration and disenfranchisement. The major source of inequality in our current system is the lack of institutionalized representation for the minority rural population. The task force proposal gives no indication of this political reality. We have no problem with the members proposed, but it is far from representative of the views of those who have been active on this issue. The issue of fair representation deserves to be dealt with in the most inclusive and sensitive manner. We have a wonderful opportunity to build bridges among the diverse citizenry of our county by reinventing and strengthening our government. It would be a shame to allow hidden agendas or petty politics to fuel antagonism at this point. Therefore we are requesting that you authorize the formation of a task force to examine representation issues. Additionally, we ask that you invite the broad range of community leaders involved in this issue to a meeting in order to agree on the make-up of the task force. Let's work together to make this process as smooth as possible. For further info: Mark Marcoplos 933-5562 Phil Jacobson 929-3833 Betty Ibrahim 942-7898 Lee Mortimer 489-7028 Helen Urquardt 929-2651