Potential electoral boundary changes may impact Lynden

The Whatcom County Council is preparing for a public hearing on April 15 to discuss significant proposed electoral boundary changes in Lynden, Washington. This move comes as a direct result of the City of Lynden's annexation of more than 36 acres of land from the county last year. Notably, the 128th precinct, which encompasses county property to the north and east of Lynden, is slated to be divided into four sections if the proposal is approved. Similarly, the 611th precinct, covering the city’s southwest area, would be split into two sections under the new ordinance. These changes are crucial for complying with Whatcom County law, which stipulates that precincts cannot contain more than 1,500 registered voters.

The growing population of Lynden, now exceeding 16,000 according to the latest U. S. Census, underscores the need for these adjustments. Despite these precinct changes, the boundaries for congressional, legislative, and county council districts will remain unchanged. This hearing presents an opportunity for community members to voice their opinions on the restructuring of electoral boundaries.