This bill amends existing laws regarding the appointment and election processes for filling vacancies in elective county and city offices in Iowa. It stipulates that if a vacancy occurs, the county board of supervisors or city council can appoint someone to fill the position temporarily, but only if the remaining balance of the unexpired term is less than six months. If the remaining term is at least six months, eligible electors can petition for a special election to fill the vacancy. The bill also introduces a new provision that allows the board of supervisors or city council to declare a vacancy based on a written affirmation of resignation received more than 73 days before the next general election, ensuring that the office will appear on the ballot with the description "To Fill Vacancy."

Additionally, the bill specifies that the person elected during the general election will assume office as of the date of the declared vacancy and will serve the remainder of the unexpired term. The amendments include the insertion of language that clarifies the conditions under which a special election can be requested and the process for handling anticipated vacancies, thereby enhancing the transparency and responsiveness of the electoral process in filling such positions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 69.14A