Galveston Co. commissioners unanimously vote for new redistricting map

GALVESTON COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A new redistricting map has been approved after Galveston County commissioners voted unanimously on Monday.

Normally, commissioners create new precinct maps every decade with new census data. These boundaries determine your commissioner, constable, and justice of the peace.

However, Galveston County commissioners decided to conduct mid-decade redistricting.

According to Galveston County Judge Mark Henry, in a statement to ABC13, the new map would create more room for government fiscal efficiency and improve partisan outcomes.

"The Commissioners Court adopted a new districting plan that aligns Constable, Justice of the Peace, and Commissioner precincts. This will improve judicial function for the Justices of the Peace, create opportunities for government fiscal efficiencies, and enhance partisan outcomes. It has always been my belief that overlapping Constable, Justice of the Peace, and Commissioner precincts would be the most efficient and beneficial setup. I ran on the promise of being a fiscal conservative and turning Galveston County Republican. This map accomplishes just that."

Nearly 50 neighbors attended Monday's meeting. The majority of them expressed concern that the changes will dilute the voting power of minority voters. During the meeting, they expressed concerns over how historically Black and Brown communities will be spread into different areas and not have the same voice.

"Redistricting should bring communities together. Not diminish the ability of longstanding to participate effectively in the democratic process," one person said.

The speakers pointed directly to changes to the constable and justice of the peace for precinct three. The new map shifts representation from the southeast to the north.

Monday's vote comes as legal battles play out in courts. Some groups, including the NAACP and LULAC, have sued the county over its precinct map.

Henry said they shared the proposed map on the county's website eight days ago and offered a way for people to give feedback. Henry said only two people left remarks.