The influence of Manteca urban voters on the outcome of future South San Joaquin Irrigation District is expected to grow after redistricting.

That’s because Manteca based on census figures increased to nearly 84,000 residents, up about 17,000 from the 2010 count of 67,096. The district’s other two cities — Ripon and Escalon — gained just over 2,000 more people. As such redistricting will continue the 113-year trend of population in the 72,000-acre district continues its 102-year trend of moving from a rural base to urbanized centers.

Due to Manteca’s size, all five division seats currently include chunks of the city.

The SSJID board when they meet Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the district office at 11001 East Highway 120 in Manteca will consider approving a redistricting timeline that includes public hearings.

That involves setting the first public hearing date for March 8 and the final public hearing on March 22. Both hearings will take place at 9 a.m.

Under state law, divisions of special districts should:

• Be nearly equal in population

• Be as compact as possible

 • Consist of geographically contiguous area

• To the extent feasible, have boundaries that coincide with existing recognized natural boundaries

• To the extent feasible, preserve existing communities of related and mutual interest

 SSJID is required to update its districting maps by April 17.

To complete the task Flo Analytics has been awarded a $24,650 contract to work with staff to evaluate census data, experts, and community feedback to assess the county’s population and communities of related interests to develop preliminary options for the five SSJID districts.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com