Starkville (Mississippi) Alderman Henry Vaughn is concerned about the city’s annexation plans, especially the possible affect on the area’s Black political power, reports the Associated Press. Vaughn says taking in more territory could increase the strength of five wards that have been represented by White aldermen while decreasing the strength of two wards with Black alderman.
Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill told the Commercial Appeal that redistricting is “nothing more than opportunity for the city to grow.” According to the 2010 Census, Starkville’s population was nearly 60 percent White, almost 35 percent Black and about 6 percent other. Combined with the new planned annexation area, the city would become increase White numbers slightly, while reducing Black numbers just a bit. With or without annexation, the city’s officials are scheduled to redraw aldermen wards after the 2020 Census to balance out any population changes.
