Urgent: New Bill Threatens Local Control Over ACHD!
This bill, House Bill No. 326, proposes changes to Idaho's single-countywide highway district governance, specifically for counties with more than 200,000 residents (such as Ada County, where ACHD operates).
Key Takeaways from the Bill
Adds Two Appointed Commissioners
In addition to the five elected highway district commissioners, two additional commissioners would now be appointed:
One appointed by the Governor
One appointed by the County Commissioners
These appointed commissioners would have the same powers as elected commissioners but would not represent a specific subdistrict.
Staggered Terms for the New Appointees
The first county-appointed commissioner serves until December 31, 2026.
The first governor-appointed commissioner serves until December 31, 2028.
After that, each appointed commissioner serves a four-year term and may be reappointed.
Restrictions on Who Can Serve
County commissioners, mayors, and city council members are not eligible to be highway district commissioners.
Process for Filling Vacancies
If an elected commissioner seat becomes vacant:
The remaining highway district board has 30 days to appoint a replacement.
If they fail to do so, they must submit three nominations to the governor, who has 10 days to appoint someone.
If an appointed commissioner seat becomes vacant:
The governor or county commissioners must appoint a replacement within 30 days.
Emergency Clause
This bill would take effect immediately upon passage.
Implications
This shifts some control over ACHD (or other large highway districts) away from voters by allowing political appointees to serve as commissioners.
Potential for increased state and county influence over local transportation decisions.
Appointed commissioners may not be directly accountable to voters, unlike elected commissioners who represent specific subdistricts.
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