Redistricting Hearing Features Hopkinton Legislators

State Sen. Karen Spilka and state Rep. Carolyn Dykema, whose districts include Hopkinton, both members of the state legislature's Joint Special Committee on Redistricting, will be at a public hearing Saturday, June 18, at the McCarthy Center at  from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Using census data, U.S. congressional districts must be redrawn every 10 years to reflect population shifts. This will be a particularly tough process in 2011 in Massachusetts.

The state's population grew more slowly than other states, so its congressional delegation will be reduced from 10 seats to nine.

District lines for state representative, state senator and governor’s council seats must also be redrawn.

Saturday's forum is an opportunity for Hopkinton residents to learn more about the committee, redistricting and what it means for them. 

The hearing is open to the public. Residents are invited to make comments or ask questions.

There will be 10 more redistricting hearings of this type, but this will be the only one in the area. 

Spilka said getting residents' feedback will allow legislators to do the best possible job for the Commonwealth.

U.S. Rep. Edward Markey, D-7, whose congressional district does not include Hopkinton, is also scheduled to be at the meeting.

For those who cannot attend the hearing, the Joint Special Committee on Redistricting hosts this website which has the schedule and locations of other hearings and a contact page for residents to submit questions or comments.