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I have tried to get educated on this issue and understand you are facing a possible lawsuit in which <br />most cities don't win if they fight it. <br />Here are my thoughts regarding this very important topic: <br />1. There are advantages and disadvantages to both at large and district elections. I am sure you <br />are aware of both the pros and cons of both so I won't insult you by listing them. Neither is <br />always the best way to ga. The efficacy of district elections is directly related to the larger <br />size of cities and one system does not fit all cities. <br />2. If there are advantages and disadvantages to both districts and at large then why not try to <br />capture the best of both world and prevent the worst of both world. I strongly encourage you <br />all to rethink an earlier decision, as I have been told, which was not to look at mixing districts <br />with at large. Having 4 districts and 3 at large seats with the Mayor being appointed by the <br />council, as happens now, could well get you the best of both systems. This would provide the <br />city with better representative government of our minority populations without the risk of <br />parochial district thinking. <br />3. l understand time is of the essence and that you are facing a March 31st deadline. No <br />deadline is sacrosanct even though attorneys like to make folks believe they are. Even given <br />a March 31st deadline you still have time to seriously look at a mix of districts and at large. <br />4. You have a great and smart staff that can provide you with the data to consider a mix of <br />districts and at large. <br />5. 1 know you all want both a government to represents all our citizens and you want the best <br />council possible. My humble opinion is this will be the most important decision you will make <br />regarding RWC's future ever_ It will be way more important than traffic and housing in the <br />long run. <br />I know you guys are thoughtful and smart. Please listen carefully to each other and the various <br />arguments and use your deep concern for RWC as your guiding principal. Your decision will have <br />lasting impact on how great this city can become. <br />Thank you for listening. I would be at the public hearing but will be out of town. Remember this is <br />why you get the "Big Bucks"a <br />My Very Best <br />Ed Everett <br />