Should Forks Share a State Senator with the Poconos?

A new political map will combine Forks Township and 19 other Northampton County communities with Monroe County to create a Poconos-based state senate seat - the 45th district.

Residents have 30 days to review the new map and voice their opinion. A state commission still has to vote to approve the changes so that they will be in place for the 2012 election.

Forks Township Supervisor C. David Howell told the Morning Call this week that he doesn't think his community would be well represented under the plan.

Both Forks and Palmer townships are currently part of the 24th district represented by Republican Bob Mensch. Under the state's redistricting plan, Palmer would shift from the 24th district to the 18th distict, represented by Democrat Lisa Boscola.

A Monroe County Republican, state Rep. Mario Scavello, who lives in the Mount Pocono area, is considered a front runner for the 45th district seat if the new map is approved.

Answer our poll question about the new map and add your comments below.