Communities of Interest

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Your input is needed to shape the new voting districts for the City Council, and one way you can participate is by assisting the City in developing a list of "communities of interest" or "COI" that can be utilized in the process to develop districts.

 

What is a Community of Interest (COI)?

A Community of Interest, as defined by Article 21 Section 2d(4) of the California Constitution is a group of people that share common social or economic interests, live in a geographically definable area, and should be included within a single district for purposes of effective and fair representation in future City Council elections.

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Some COIs are considered "protected classes" in that they have rights through State or Federal civil rights or voting rights laws. Some examples of protected classes in districting include Latinx, Asian, or Black individuals.

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There are other potential COIs that can also be considered in districting. Examples include but are not limited to: people who live in a particular neighborhood; groups with cultural, religious or historical bonds; people who share concerns such as environmental hazards, transportation interests, renters or homeowners, etc.

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COI does not include relationships with political parties, incumbents, or political candidates.

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How You Can Participate in the Process

• Use our online Communities of Interest form to provide comments.

• Complete the pdf version of the COI form (English, Español, 中文) and return it by email to districtelections@ci.millbrae.ca.us OR return it by mail to City Clerk, 621 Magnolia Ave, Millbrae, CA 94030 OR drop off your completed form in the Water Bill collection box outside of City Hall.

• Attend one of the City's Public Hearings and Community Workshops on districting

 

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What criteria will help the City Council understand the importance of your community in the districting process?

When documenting your community, it is important to outline the following topics to assist the City Council in the districting process:

• The shared culture, characteristics, or bonds of your community.

• The distinguishable geographic boundaries of your community and the number of people living in your area.

• Your community’s relationship with the City and how it is affected by policy decisions made by the City Council.

 

The public can submit any feedback, but it is important to remember that your input can be best used if it addresses all three of these topics.

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For any questions call us at (650)259-2373 or email us at districtelections@ci.millbrae.ca.us