The Bartlesville City Council recently voted unanimously to begin a process that could result in new boundaries assigned for all five of the city’s wards. During a Jan. 19 meeting, the council voted to approve publication of proposed new ward boundaries. If approved next month, the new boundaries will go into effect in time for the next municipal election cycle.
During a previous council meeting, Vice Mayor Dale Copeland raised the issue of possible changes to the existing ward maps, saying population growth in wards 2 and 5 has prompted the need to look at whether new boundaries should be drawn.
Copeland and some City staff members have been working with Washington County Election Board officials to determine whether changes are needed, using the most current Census reports and considering demographic and geographic elements. Copeland said growth in the south end of the city has caused “a bit of an imbalance” in the southern-most wards, including Ward 2 — which has grown substantially in recent years — and Ward 5. To provide the most balanced option, changes were made to all five wards.
Copeland, who represents Ward 5 on the council, will reside in Ward 1 if the changes are ultimately approved. Ward 1 Councilor Ted Lockin’s residence would be in Ward 4. Lockin said during the recent meeting that he does not intend to stand for re-election in November.
If approved, candidates for the November election would be required to reside within the new ward boundaries in time for the filing period, to be held in August.
The proposed changes will likely be considered further during a meeting set for Feb. 22.
To view a current map of the city’s five wards, see 2000 current wards. To find your representative, see City Councilors.
For more information, call 918-338-4282 or 918-338-4132.