JCC Notebook: County No Longer Needs Fed. Preclearance for Voting and Election Changes

By Desiree Parker Saturday, November 12, 2011

News from the county this week is pretty short: the county picked up the nod from a federal court and no longer needs to get preclearance for certain voting and election practice changes, and the county is holding another first-time homebuyer class next week. County No Longer Needs to Get Preclearance for Voting/Election Changes

Since 1965, the Voting Rights Act has required certain localities to submit plans that affect voters to the Department of Justice for approval. For James City County, that will no longer be required.

On Thursday, the county received consent from the U.S. District Court that the county is in compliance with the VRA, and that the county has a clear record of nondiscrimination.

Under this exemption, the county will continue to comply with all other provisions of the Act except the requirement to seek preclearance for any changes to voting and election practices. This will save the county time and money.

The county recently had to submit its redistricting plans for review under the VRA; the next time redistricting is needed, this won’t be necessary.

The county applied for preclearance in August.

Free Class for Homebuyers

The Office of Housing and Community Development will hold a first-time homebuyer class next week.

Anyone who is currently purchasing a home or is considering a purchase in the future can benefit from the class. Topics covered include personal finances, credit and credit scoring, qualifying and applying for a loan, choosing the right home and what happens at a loan closing.

For many applicants, the mortgage company requires them to complete a home buyers class prior to loan approval. Those who attend both sessions will receive a certificate of completion.

The class will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 15, and Thursday, Nov. 17, from 6-9 p.m. at the Suite 1A of the Parks and Recreation Administration Building.

Space is limited. Please call 259-5340 to register.