This bill amends the process for filling vacancies in elective city offices in Iowa. It specifies that if a city council opts to fill a vacancy through appointment, eligible electors have the right to file a petition for a special election to fill the vacancy, but only if the remaining balance of the unexpired term is at least one year. The council is required to publish notice of its intention to fill the vacancy by appointment, and if a petition is filed within fourteen days of the notice or appointment, the appointment will be considered temporary, and a special election must be called.

The bill also allows councils to publish notice in advance if an elected official resigns with a future effective date. The amendments clarify the conditions under which a special election can be requested and ensure that the process is transparent to the electors of the city or ward. Overall, the changes aim to enhance the democratic process by giving citizens a voice in filling significant vacancies in their local government.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 372.13