Special Town Meeting Results: Woodstock Redistricting

Both proposed items that went to a Special Town Meeting March 16th were passed unanimously by voters in attendance.

The first item was an ordinance establishing two voting districts in Woodstock. This is due to the recent split of Woodstock into two districts for the State House of Representatives, a result of the 2020 census and in compliance with State and Federal laws. Previously the entire town had been in the 50^th district; this fall it will be divided roughly in half, with the north and west sections of town becoming part of the 52^nd district.

The second item was an amendment designating Woodstock Middle School as the designated polling place for elections and primaries. The town hall will remain the polling location for referenda.

Now that both items have passed, the Registrars of Voters are able go through the list of registered voters and let people know which district they fall into. According to Katlyn Gugliotti, Democratic Registrar, now the real work begins. “We will be mailing postcards out to all registered voters letting them know of the change in voting districts and polling location. Because of how the map was drawn, people on one side of some roads will be on the 52^nd district, while their neighbors across the street from them will be in the 50^th district.”

Additionally, residents will be able to inspect a large map of the Woodstock districts and view a list of street addresses that will be posted on the bulletin board outside of the registrar’s office in the lower level of the town hall. During business hours, residents can be buzzed into the back door and review these items. Registrars are in their office Tuesday mornings from 8:30-10:30. Click here for further contact information. The map is also available to view in the lobby of the town hall and in Woodstock libraries.

Jessica McComiskey, Republican Registrar, was pleased with the voter turnout. “We had more people than we expected, and they asked thoughtful questions that led to discussions about the process of voting in the new location and notification of voters, among other things.

First Selectman Jay Swan states that one advantage of the redistricting is that Woodstock now has two representatives in Hartford instead of just one. This allows Woodstock to have more than one person to advocate for the town and assist with issues that need to be addressed with the State.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding redrawing of congressional and legislative district lines can be found here.

A map of the two districts in Woodstock can be found by clicking here.