The main focus of Littleton’s current redistricting process is correcting the 20 percent disparity in population between districts 1 and 3.

District 1 has a population of 11,308, while District 2 has a population of 9,129, according to the most recent census data.

“That’s way too large a gap,” City Clerk Wendy Heffner said.

The goal is to make the city’s four districts as equal as possible. Many municipalities base their districts on the number of registered voters, but Littleton focuses on total population. An even split would place 10,450 people in each area.

Redistricting occurs every four years in Littleton, as mandated by the city charter. In addition to a near-equal number of people, the charter states that each district must be contiguous, compact and as close to rectangular as possible.

Littleton’s Election Commission will have the final say in the matter, but commissioners presented three options for residents to consider. All three call for District 1 to lose more than 800 residents and District 3 to gain about 1,200. Maps displaying each of the options are posted on the city’s website, www.littletongov.org.

The city placed the maps on display in the Littleton Center and Bemis Library more than three weeks ago, Heffner said. Comment boxes were placed at each location. As of a Redistricting Citizen Comment and Review session held June 29, the Election Commission had received 78 comment cards.

The Election Commission has the final say in the matter, but commissioners feel citizens should be able to have their voices heard.

“I believe in transparent government. I really want it to be transparent,” Heffner said.

The choice will be made the first week of July at the Election Commission’s next meeting. The redistricting plan will then be presented before the city council, likely on July 19. The city charter calls for redistricting to be completed at least three months prior to election day for which it becomes effective.