This bill amends the process for filling vacancies in elective city offices by allowing city councils to challenge petitions for special elections. Specifically, if a city council opts to fill a vacancy by appointment and a petition for a special election is filed by eligible electors, the council can contest the petition in district court if the unexpired term is less than one year. The bill introduces new legal language that permits this challenge and stipulates that if the court determines that holding a special election would impose an undue financial burden on the city, the council can proceed with the appointment instead of calling for an election.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the council must publish notice of its intent to fill a vacancy by appointment, informing the public of their right to petition for a special election. If a valid petition is filed within fourteen days of the notice or appointment, the council's appointment is deemed temporary, and a special election must be called unless successfully challenged. The bill aims to streamline the process for filling vacancies while considering the financial implications for cities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 372.13, 362.3