This bill proposes significant reforms to the governance and financial management of townships in Iowa, primarily by shifting from an elected board of township trustees to an appointed one. The county board of supervisors will now appoint three registered voters to serve as township trustees for three-year terms, replacing the current elected trustees. Additionally, the township clerk will also be appointed for a four-year term, with both positions requiring training on township budgets and responsibilities before taking office. The bill mandates that township budgets be submitted to the board of supervisors for approval, ensuring greater oversight of financial planning.

Moreover, the bill redefines the employment status of township officials, stating that they will be considered employees of the county rather than the township, which affects their retirement benefits under the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). It also includes provisions for the transition of elected officials based on county population sizes, with terms terminating on specified dates between 2027 and 2031. The legislation repeals outdated sections of the Iowa Code and establishes new procedures for budget amendments and the appointment of fence viewers, further streamlining township governance and enhancing accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39.3, 39.21, 39.27, 49.41, 43.73, 50.7, 64.1A, 64.2, 64.3, 64.11, 64.19, 64.24, 65.3, 65.1A, 85.61, 97B.1A, 97C.2, 165.35, 359A.2A, 359A.6, 331.248, 331.322, 331.324, 331.502, 331.512, 331.901, 359.11, 359.17, 359.49, 359.50, 359.51, 359A.8, 359A.14, 39.22