Bill > HF157

This bill modifies Iowa state law regarding how cities can fill vacancies in elected city offices. Currently, a city council can choose to fill a vacant elected position by appointment, but this bill adds a new condition that allows eligible voters to petition for a special election only if the remaining term of the vacant position is at least one year long. Specifically, if the city council publishes a notice of intent to make an appointment, voters now have the right to file a petition demanding a special election, but only if the remaining term is one year or longer. If such a petition is filed within fourteen days of the notice or appointment, the initial appointment becomes temporary, and the city council must then call a special election to permanently fill the position. This change gives voters more direct input in filling city office vacancies for positions with a substantial remaining term, while preserving the council's ability to make temporary appointments for shorter-term vacancies.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF157