The New York State Legislative Taskforce on Redistricting and Reapportionment (LATFOR) voted unanimously yesterday to hold a redistricting meeting in the North Country. The vote comes on the heels of a call from Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, Assemblywoman Teresa Sayward and Assemblywoman Janet Duprey for LATFOR to hold such a meeting in the Northern region of the state.

“I am grateful for the positive response from LATFOR in regard to our request for a redistricting hearing in Northern New York,” Blankenbush said. “Our region is quite distinct from other areas of the state, and the concerns of our constituents in regard to redistricting deserve to be heard. LATFOR’s acknowledgement of our region’s unique issues and subsequent decision to hold a local meeting is a meaningful victory for the North Country in the redistricting process.”

“I am pleased that LATFOR has responded to our calls for a redistricting meeting in the North Country. It’s important that all parts of the State of New York are represented and every voice is heard,” Assemblywoman Sayward said.

“I am pleased LATFOR has so quickly responded to our request to hold a redistricting hearing in the North Country,” Assemblywoman Duprey said. “It is critical that our rural area receives the same opportunity to be heard as other more urban areas of the state. I extend thanks to the members of LATFOR for their willingness to be sure the residents of the North Country are provided an opportunity to express their concerns and recommendations on the redistricting process.”

In August, Assemblyman Blankenbush traveled to Syracuse to testify at the Central New York LATFOR hearing, making the case to keep the 23rd Congressional District intact. The Assemblyman noted that he was the only person from outside Central New York to speak at the hearing.

The North Country redistricting hearing is scheduled for November 2, time and location to be determined.