AG: Updated data critical to reapportioning districts

Friday, May 15, 1998 | 2:29 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- Attorney General Frankie Sue Del Papa said Thursday the Clark County Commission may reapportion its election districts before the 2000 census but it must use data that has a "very high degree of accuracy."

The Clark County district attorney's office asked for a legal opinion on what population data, other than the census, could be used for reapportioning the commission before the U.S. Census.

"Proper reapportioning of election districts is one of the most important elements of our democratic system," Del Papa said. "It is critical that every step is taken to ensure that the principle of 'one person, one vote' is adhered to."

The commission could use data gathered from house-to-house, demographic and economic surveys. Deputy Attorney General Kateri Cavin who wrote the opinion said this method, if properly done, "would in all likelihood produce sufficiently accurate data to satisfy legal requirements."

Other data that might be used include voter registration records in combination with other population information, such as "Housing Unit Method" calculations, annual U.S. Census Bureau information and direct surveys.

Cavin said state Demographer Dean Judson was a "great help" in suggesting what methods may be used to get an accurate count.

"The entire process of redistricting is highly complex," Del Papa said. "The population data sources referred to in the opinion are not all inclusive, but are meant to provide the Clark County Commission with examples of the type of highly detailed and specific population data that must be used according to case law, if they decide to redistrict."

She said the office issued an opinion in January to Washoe County that its county commission has the authority to reapportion its districts before the next census if population changes have occurred.