Outcry over perceived inequities in voting power among Highlands Ranch Community Association delegates has resulted in the formation of a committee to explore redistricting.

HRCA board president Greg Terry provided an update to the delegates during the Recreational Advisory Committee meeting July 19, and said the organization’s governing documents will provide guidance in determining the proper course of action. The issue arose because some members of the RAC are upset that other members have more influence over major decisions, including elections for new HRCA board members.

Similar proposals for change were made in 1996 and 1997, but the results of those inquests have gone missing. Members of the RAC are cautious about the potential costs of a feasibility study for redistricting; advice from legal counsel will be part of the process, Terry said.

If redrawing district boundaries is not feasible, HRCA leaders could still recommend ways to equalize voting power in the community. One delegate at the meeting asked about the potential of changing bylaws to overhaul the voting system. A timeline was not given to the redistricting committee for a final recommendation.

Attorneys who have already been consulted on the issue suggested that a rule change enabling every delegate to get one vote might be the best way forward.

Highlands Ranch is divided into 89 delegate districts. Delegates are elected to represent their neighborhoods by the district residents, and also serve as members of the RAC. In that capacity, they propose amendments to the HRCA bylaws, authorize the board to borrow funds on behalf of the community association, and make recommendations to the board on various matters.