By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.comThe Baltimore County Council on Sept. 15 approved a redistricting map with amendments from Councilman Israel “Izzy” Patoka (D-District 2) and Council Chair Michael P. Ertel (D-District 6). Members of the Baltimore County Council discuss the redistricting map during their Sept. 15 legislative session prior to approving the amended plan expanding the council to nine districts. Left to right, Councilman Israel “Izzy” Patoka (D-District 2), Council Chair Michael P. Ertel (D-District 6), Councilman Julian E. Jones (D-District 4) and Councilman Pat Young’s (D-District 1). The new lines make way for the increase of the county council districts from seven to nine, which will go into effect during the 2026 election year. Tensions were high as members of the community voiced their satisfaction and dissatisfaction with various motions and comments made by the council members during the debate.