Michael's Rules of Order: Rules of Engagement for Saturday's Redistricting Meeting

• These guidelines should also come into play: the Redistricting Guidelines revised 3-8-11. A. 1) Population Equality (each district within 5% of 85,558) 2) Minority Representation (maybe for the first time we can have a City Council made up of a majority who are minority members so as to better reflect the demographic profile of Dallas) 3) Continguity, and Compactness (best measured in average district perimeter in miles - the lowest number wins!) B. 1) Incumbents (The configuration of districts should be neutral as to incumbents.) 2) Communities of Interest (Do not fragment neighborhoods!  Shortening boundary lines is the easiest way to do this.)

• This will never work.  There's not one person at Dallas city hall (council/mayor/city manager) who think the rules apply to them.  Forget breaking them; they don't even acknowledge them.  

• Actually, rules for the conduct of meeting participants are usually designed to produce the desired results of the rule-maker.  Limiting the time for public input and council member dialogue certainly limits the level of democracy.

• Expect the unexpected... Rules are only meant for one thing... TO BE BROKEN!!!

• Well, will be watching this inside my cozy Dorm tomorrow! Maybe some, Popcorn and Dr. Pepper on the side. Hook-Up the 19 Inch to the Laptop. Lol

• 1. That rule will need some kind of "in case of emergency" exception. 2. Both of us, probably. Just to be on the safe side.  

• New rule: No more drinking before 4. OK, 2. That said, are you bringing the flask tomorrow, or am I? I forget.

• When are we going to switch to a pro-wrestling format for redistricting forums? More fun to watch, easier to write about, better outfits. Just a thought.   

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