Clayton Hill
Jefferson City
Dear Editor,
This year's legislative session has ended. Nothing of real value was achieved in my opinion. Two legislative requirements -- the budget and redistricting were completed -- but with mixed results. I do support two of the bills/laws passed -- voter registration requirements and the improved eminent domain bill protecting agriculture properties.
The budget is only a partial achievement. The massive funding approved is questionable. Most of the increased burden falls on us through the out-of-control federal funding (to include COVID-19 as an excuse) supported by borrowing and printing more -- a false reality that only puts us in further debt that reduces value of existing dollars.
Additionally, suggesting teachers raises to a statewide minimum could probably force school districts that have a lesser tax base hardship to accomplish this funding goal and be a tax burden not an improvement.
Looking at the two congressional district maps in comparison (previous and new), the previous is no better or worse than this latest version. Both accomplished balance with irregular and gerrymandered boundaries that defy rational, regular borders with cohesive mass following county and city lines or prominent divisional lines such as the Missouri River.
Previously, the 4th and 5th were most objectionable -- the 5th stretching to rural counties to the east and the 4th, irregular to the extent of stretching it, to make sure the two military installations remained in a single district. The current version is most offensive in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th districts. The 2nd is almost completely circumvented by the 3rd. The 3rd and 4th split Boone County and Columbia.
For sure, residents in each of the new congressional districts have a duty not to return a sitting Congress person to the Capitol who does not now reside in their represented district. Make them move or face stiff competition from a candidate who does live therein.
In retrospect, why would anyone expect normal, concise boundaries among districts when politicians are responsible? False parameters by politicians (existing representative's residency and party affiliation, demographics, voting trends and military base locations) result in the poor districts now being used and are counter to a truly equitable Constitutional Republic representation. Only impartial statisticians without allegiance should be the new "norm" to accomplish redistricting. A challenge in the courts should be considered by those who have standing; I would prefer the previous congressional map be used or one determined by a three-judge judicial panel.