Illinois state senators heard from members of Springfield s east side community on what lawmakers should know about Springfield as they tackle the redistricting process.
The hearing was open to any members of the public wishing to share their thoughts with lawmakers. Four witnesses testified Friday asking lawmakers not to change the legislative boundaries in Springfield to protect communities of interest.
Two witnesses drew more questions from Senate Republicans, however.
Senators heard from Erica Austin, Springfield School Board member who represents a district on the city s east side. Austin lives in the 96th House district represented by Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, and 48th Senate district represented by Doris Turner, D-Springfield. The district encompasses neighborhoods that are majority Black in Springfield and Decatur.