This bill amends Section 50-707A of the Idaho Code to change the population threshold for cities that can elect councilmen by districts. Specifically, it lowers the threshold from "one hundred thousand (100,000)" inhabitants to "twenty-five thousand (25,000)" inhabitants. This change allows smaller cities to establish districts for council elections, provided they adopt an ordinance and establish the districts at least 120 days before a general election. The bill also stipulates that each district must consist of contiguous election precincts and aim to have an equal population based on the most recent federal decennial census.

Additionally, the bill outlines that cities with fewer than 25,000 inhabitants that choose to establish districts will have the council determine the implementation method at least 90 days before the next general election. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 50-707A