Beware the Ides of March

Last night the HoCo County Council tabled the councilmanic redistricting legislation (CB 57-2011) after failing to come to an agreement on the changes recommended by the Redistricting Commission. According to this story by Lindsey McPherson in Explore Howard, after attempting to iron out their differences in a recent work session, “the council had still not reached consensus on what, if any, changes should be made to the commission's plan.”

“Council Chairwoman Mary Kay Sigaty, a Columbia Democrat, council member Greg Fox, a Fulton Republican, and council member Courtney Watson, an Ellicott City Democrat, all filed amendments to the plan that are in conflict with one another.”

It looks like Dr. Ball and Jen Terrasa are the only ones without a plan. That may be the best plan.

By tabling the bill the council is basically kicking the can down a very short road. If the council fails to reach agreement to any changes by March 15^th, the recommendations of the Redistricting Commission become law.

And perhaps that will provide enough political cover for all concerned.