Redistricting is certainly

a legislative process. So, like any other legislative process, it should

be treated like any other legislation, open for public inspection as it's

written, discussed and voted on by the legislature. Why is redistricting

being handled differently?

On Aug. 2, 2001, with little

fanfare and absolutely no action, the second day of the General Assembly

Special Session charged with redrawing the lines for the state legislative

seats was officially completed in less than 30 minutes! Thirty minutes!

Why so short a time? What was publicly accomplished? What was the

cost to the public ?

However, I am aware that elsewhere

during the day, numerous meetings and caucuses were being privately conducted

Gov. Barnes and Lt. Gov. Taylor,

it is obvious and apparent that you have crafted a plan of complete "blackout"

of public discussion regarding this redistricting issue. This repudiates

our legislative system of government and is therefore not in the best

interests of Georgia's citizens.

Why not debate the redistricting

issue in open session?

I request you immediately provide

full notice and admittance of interested citizens and the media to all

redistricting meetings, so all may know what is being discussed and written.

As a citizen of Georgia and

of the United States, it is my right to have access to this information.

I am asking you to provide it, starting now.

I look forward to a positive

response.

Charles Steiner, Jr.

Alpharetta

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