Urgent: House Bill 326 Threatens Local Control of ACHD!
“Current Status on House Bill 326:
HB326 passed the House Transportation Committee and is being sent to the House Floor for a vote. This step does not take public input. The next opportunity for public input will be when the bill reaches a Senate Committee.”
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). It would expand the ACHD Commission from 5 to 7 seats, by adding two appointed commissioners appointed by the Governor of Idaho and the Country Commission. More information on the language of the bill can be found below.
This bill politicizes local offices, complicates decision making, and subverts the will of voters who, just 4 short months ago, voiced overwhelming support for their current nonpartisan representation.
Implications
This would shift control over ACHD (or other large highway districts) away from voters by allowing political appointees to serve as commissioners, instead of nonpartisan civil servants.
It would also shift control towards state and county influence over local transportation decisions that voters have spoken on.
Appointed commissioners would not be directly accountable to voters, unlike elected commissioners who represent specific subdistricts.
Talking Points for Testimony Against House Bill 326
HB 326 would take away local control of ACHD by adding two unelected, appointed commissioners who would have the same power as elected ones—without voter accountability.
Key Points to Emphasize:
Local control and voter representation – ACHD decisions should remain in the hands of those elected by the people to their role.
In the last election cycle, 3 seats at the ACHD were up for grabs - one ran uncontested, the second won by 4,000 votes, and the third won by 11,000 votes. The voters have endorsed the current system and direction of ACHD.
Transparency and accountability – Appointed officials are not accountable to the public.
Can you imagine a similar situation in which the governor appoints a commissioner to a City Council in Twin Falls?
This change is unnecessary – If there are governance concerns at ACHD, they have not been clearly identified.
What to Avoid:
Discussions about bicycle and pedestrian safety – While important, this bill is about governance, not infrastructure. Shifting the focus could weaken the argument. Consider highlighting other roles you play in the community, such as a parent, teacher, or business owner.
Traffic safety as a primary concern – The issue at hand is who governs ACHD, not specific transportation policies.
Call to Action in Testimony:
Ask Legislators to Vote NO on HB 326 – We deserve fair, democratic representation in ACHD decisions.
Highlight Personal Impact – Share a story about why safe biking and walking infrastructure matters to you.
Demand Transparency – Why is this bill being pushed now? What problem is it trying to solve?
HB 326 is a direct attack on local representation and safe streets. We need elected leaders, not political appointees, making decisions about our roads. Vote NO on HB 326!
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.
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