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City Cast Boise

What's being decided by local governments, why it matters, and how you can get engaged.

City Cast Boise invited all qualified Boise City Council candidates to complete a short questionnaire to help voters learn more about the people running to represent them in city government. All candidates were sent the same questions, and as you'll see, some questions are more policy-oriented and some are a little more fun!

Hallyburton faces perhaps the most challenging path to reelection, with former City Council member Lisa Sánchez running to unseat him, and 

 looking to divide voters between Hallyburton and Sánchez.

Read the rest of the questionnaire responses 

1. What’s the most pressing issue you want to address as a Boise City Council member?

The most pressing issues in Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley are related to growth. As a Boise City Council member, I am committed to addressing the immediate issues related to growth we're facing today (housing, transportation, public safety, etc.) while creating long-term plans that empower good growth in the future. As someone born and raised in Boise City Council District 6, I've seen a lot of changes--good and bad--over the last 40+ years. It will take hard work and deep collaboration, but I am confident we can preserve and amplify the aspects and values of Boise we hold dear while building a brighter future for generations to

As a former firefighter, nonprofit leader at the Boise Bicycle Project, elected official, and community college professor, I've spent my entire life serving the community and helping it overcome challenge after challenge. I know from experience that we are stronger together.

2. How would you describe the City of Boise’s current relationship with the Idaho Legislature, and how would you work to change it?

As political division has grown at the national level, I have seen the Idaho State Legislature taking more and more steps to remove local control from Boise and other cities in Idaho. I've even seen the Legislature take steps to limit Boise and ACHD's ability to make our streets safer in and around our local neighborhoods. At the same time, I've worked hard to improve Boise's relationships with municipalities in the Treasure Valley and beyond, and I am confident those relationships are stronger than ever. I believe there is a great opportunity for cities and community members across Idaho to work strategically to ensure our State elected officials truly understand the problems our communities face.

I am committed to this level of municipal collaboration and to continuing to build relationships with State elected officials on both sides of the aisle. To be clear, I don't think this is a quick fix or that the road ahead will be easy, but the work in relationship and coalition building is underway and must be continued.

3. What is a transportation issue in your district that you’d like to tackle during your term?

In 2021, I led and approved the Boise Pathways Master Plan, setting the stage for 112 miles of off-street walking and biking paths extending into every neighborhood. Pathways and key connections have already been constructed, and more are coming soon. A major focus for my third term on Boise City Council will be to construct three multi-mile pathways in NW Boise, the Boise Bench, and West Boise. I also plan to work with neighboring municipalities to ensure pathway connections extend across jurisdictions.

I am realistic that regional passenger rail will not be up and running by the end of my third term. However, I will be working with City of Boise staff, Valley Regional Transit, COMPASS, neighboring municipalities, and other stakeholders to ensure no stone is left unturned in bringing Boise to Caldwell passenger rail to our community. Every effort must be made today to establish regional rail as part of Boise's near future.

4. What is the city not doing about housing that you think it should be doing?

Boise's affordable housing land trust is making a difference in creating 100s of units of affordable housing for the average Boisean and for families exiting homelessness every year. These efforts are generating important options that the market is not creating on its own, and they should be expanded.

The market is also struggling to create smaller starter homes, duplexes, triplexes, and ADUs that provide an important gateway into homeownership, neighborhood stability, and the ability to live close to wear you work. I and working hard to make it significantly easier for small-scale local developers and regular community members to build these types of smaller units. This effort could include pre-approved building designs, a more streamlined ADU approval process, and flexibility in setbacks (similar to historic ADUs seen in the North and East Ends).

We must be examining every option to make housing affordable for renters and home buyers, and I am excited to work with nonprofits and housing advocates to explore additional solutions

5. Do you support the open spaces and water levy? Why or why not?

I am a vocal and enthusiastic supporter of the Clean Water and Open Space Levy. I've seen the incredible multigenerational impact past Open Space Levy projects have created, and I believe it is vital to Boise's future that projects continue. During my 6 years on Boise City Council, we've used 2015 Open Space Levy funds to protect the foothills from development and increase community access to trails, to restore habitat along the Boise River, to bring parks and pathways into neighborhoods throughout Boise, and to create wildlife preserves like the Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve. Those funds are almost gone.

The new Clean Water and Open Space Levy will build on that legacy and ensure Boise has the ability to protect and create access to open space across the city. Without these funds, opportunities will slip through the cracks that may never emerge again. It's important to remember how these projects protect the climate and promote the physical, social, and mental health benefits that allow communities to thrive as they grow.

6. How do you stand out from your competition?

I've spent my entire adult life in service to the community, and I know the value that each and every community member brings to the table. As the founder and 16-year director of the Boise Bicycle Project, I worked closely with our neighbors facing the biggest barriers, as well as the nonprofit leaders working alongside them to overcome those barriers. I've worked across sectors and across divides to create life-changing programs and system-changing policies at the local, state, and national levels. I believe Boise needs leaders who can bring the diverse strengths of our community together to solve the local issues our families experience every day. I am proud of my long and unique history of bringing people together across divides to make Boise stronger, brighter, and more inclusive.

I've always said, if you want to create change, start with community-building at the local level. I believe my ability to do just that sets me apart from my fellow candidates.

7. The City of Boise has a tradition of welcoming refugees, which has been hindered by federal policies under the Trump administration. How do you want the city’s relationship to refugee settlement to continue or change in the near future?

I've been working alongside the refugee community for the last 18 years, and I have benefited from each and every moment. I am a firm believer that everyone has something to learn as well as something to share, and I cannot begin to describe how much I've learned from interacting with refugees from all over the world who now call Boise home. I believe welcoming refugees into our community is not only the right thing to do, it's the smart thing to do. Despite having to restart their lives in a foreign land after fleeing unimaginable circumstances, our refugee population has created thriving businesses, expanded Boise's vibrant culture, brought important skills into our workforce, and contributed creative solutions to community-wide problems. Boise is stronger because of our long history of support for refugee resettlement.

I am proud of my role as an elected official, community college teacher, and former nonprofit leader in helping Boise achieve its "Welcoming City" status for refugee resettlement. I am proud of establishing a City Council Liaison role to Neighbors United (a community-wide refugee resettlement collective impact group) and of serving in that position for all 6 of my years on City Council. While the Trump administration has made a decision to significantly restrict, and in some cases block, refugee resettlement in the United States, I believe there will be a time when we welcome refugees once again. It is vitally important that we continue to empower our existing refugee population to grow, thrive, and contribute to Boise, while ensuring systems remain in place for future resettlement efforts.

8. The current Mayor and City Council have publicly supported its LGBTQ+ residents. In your opinion, should that remain a city priority?

Boise must continue to serve as a beacon of hope in Idaho and ensure every person is safe, welcome, and valued in our community. When state and federal laws attack the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, or any segment of the population, for that matter, I believe Boise has a responsibility to stand up for their human rights. When state and federal rhetoric amplifies violence against the LGBTQ+ community, or any marginalized community, I believe Boise has an explicit responsibility to speak up and to take steps to ensure their public safety.

I believe in a City of Boise where everyone is welcome and where nobody should live in fear for themselves, for their loved ones, and for their neighbors. If Boise does not stand up for our LGBTQ+ community while their rights and livelihood are under attack, the people we care about will move away, businesses with LGBTQ+ staff and family members will move away, mental health and suicide rates will increase, and the fabric of our community sewn together by our diverse strengths will crumble.

I believe Boise has to be a community that stands up for its neighbors. As a council member, I will continue to stand with our LGBTQ+ community.

9. Who’s an unsung hero (a person, business, group or agency) in your district?

Our community center staff and teachers at Taft and Whittier are unsung heroes creating life-changing impact for our youth and our community every day. Many of the amazing kids they work with do not have places to go after school, often face barriers and challenges that are unimaginable, and could easily go down a dangerous path without a helping hand. Our community center leaders make all the difference. They create places and spaces for youth to flourish, to expand their education, and to see themselves as valued. It is hard to quantify the impact that these unsung heroes have on our youth every day, but I've seen it firsthand during my time at the Boise Bicycle Project and on Boise City Council, and it is truly remarkable.

10. What’s your favorite meal in Boise?

It's gotta be a tie between Bar Gernika's Tuna Melt and Kibrom's Ethiopian Food!

Hallyburton faces perhaps the most challenging path to reelection, with former City Council member Lisa Sánchez running to unseat him, and the more conservative Lynn Bradescu looking to divide voters between Hallyburton and Sánchez.

City Council Member Jimmy Hallyburton Faces Two Contenders, One Former Ally in District 6

Meet the 2025 Boise City Council Candidates: Jimmy Hallyburton, District 6, Incumbent

What's being decided in Boise City Hall and why it matters. We monitor local elections, political news, and Boise City Council.

Local Government, and How to Play a Part

Local Civics

Sánchez’s return to City Hall would be remarkable, as her exit was marked with contention and a lawsuit. But that’s in the past: Her resume is strong, and she’s always been able to motivate Boise voters. Can she do it again?

With a growing number of households renting in Boise, between 35% and 40%, I believe we need to have elected officials who can shape renter protection policy from the perspective of renters. We need a more diverse body of representatives on the Boise City Council, especially from a socioeconomic perspective. The life of a renter is volatile and depending on the property owner/landlord, the stability of housing can be unpredictable. I know firsthand how unexpectedly losing a rental home with only 30 days to find new housing can cause a cascade of other issues, including job security and loss of community. Property owners are well represented on the Boise City Council at present, but renters are not. If I were to return to the Boise City Council, I would lead an effort to ensure that a voting district does not lose their duly elected representative due to sabotage or error by the City of Boise. When a voting district elects their council member with 57% of the vote, that district's voice should take priority, even if that council member is a woman of color who is a low-income renter. At present, the City of Boise would benefit from ethics training for its leaders and administrators.

When I was on the Boise City Council (2018-2022), I developed productive working relationships with members of the Idaho State Legislature. It is how I was able to put forward a well-crafted renter protection ordinance in 2019, and then was able to protect the 2019 rental application fee ordinance from preemption at the Idaho State Legislature in 2021 and in 2022. It is my understanding that the 2023 Boise City Council put forward multiple renter protection ordinances that were then overturned by the Idaho State Legislature in 2024. There were two former Idaho State legislators serving on the Boise City Council in 2023, so I cannot explain the thought process behind their decision to pass multiple renter protection ordinances and then their inability to protect these same ordinances from preemption in 2024. Based on the loss of the renter protection ordinances in 2024, it does not appear to be as productive a working relationship as our constituents need it to be. Upon my return to the Council, I would pick up where I left off, and renew my successful partnership with members of the Idaho State Legislature to bring forward thoughtful legislation that is derived from consistent constituent engagement and collaboration.

Having recently visited the Sunset Neighborhood Association, I know that the neighborhood association leaders are taking every opportunity to engage the City and ACHD to ensure more walkability/bikability in the neighborhood through connectivity such as providing more sidewalks and safer streets for folks to use. Safety is key to getting more people to embrace other forms of mobility, and at present, we need to create more opportunities for more people in the district to share what their priorities are for improving this particular issue. Although we have outlawed cell phone usage while driving, I believe unlawful cell phone use while driving is still a safety issue, and one that requires additional work to address. We need to bring all the stakeholders together (police, pedestrians, drivers, cyclists, scooter riders, etc) to create an initiative to minimize cell phone use while driving.

The City of Boise has not addressed fair housing issues, and with the recent disruption to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, we need to be proactive about education and prevention of fair housing harm that is being experienced by our community members. "Affirmatively furthering fair housing" (AFFH) is a way to ensure that our community members are protected from harm as we grow our city.

Yes. I believe that protecting our open spaces and water is a great investment in our community that we can enjoy now and in the future. It is a beautiful gift to our future Boiseans.

I have experienced success as a former council member and harm at the City of Boise. I believe these experiences give me empathy that is currently missing from the council. I am the only candidate carrying a copy of their birth certificate to prove their US citizenship if I am stopped by ICE.

I want the City to keep being the welcoming city it has been for refugees. I know when the City wants to make something happen, we always find a way.

Yes. I have been arrested in support of Add the Four Words. It is an issue I believe in and will always support, and we must be vocal about supporting our people.

Janjou did what we needed them to do during the pandemic, and they led the effort in our district to be safe and to keep their business running for our people.

Sánchez’s return to city hall would be remarkable, as her exit was marked with contention and a lawsuit. But that’s in the past: Her resume is strong, and she’s always been able to motivate Boise voters. Can she do it again?

Lisa Sánchez Challenges Hallyburton to Return to Boise City Council

Meet the 2025 Boise City Council Candidates: Lisa E. Sánchez, District 6, Challenger

Ellstrom is a home physical therapist and political newcomer with his eye trained on political neutrality. He’s challenging West Bench incumbent Colin Nash.

The unedited responses for District 2 candidate Josh Ellstrom are below.

The most pressing issue is obviously housing and growth. We have constantly been one of the fastest growing states in the nation year over year. Many zoning changes were implemented to incentivize developers. The supply and demand equation cannot be "developed" in a rate to lower housing costs. While we must increase housing we also need to respect old Idahoans while building housing for new Idahoans. MX-3 zoning allows for a 50% reduction in parking requirements if at least 25% of units are for low income housing. This pushes many cars onto the streets and into surrounding neighborhoods. Fairview and Hilton proposal is aiming for 205 units (1, 2, & 3 bedroom) and 136 parking spots, Fairview and McKinney 215 units and 162 parking spots. When development negatively impacts neighborhoods, it creates disdain. We can look to the Franklin and Orchard development and surrounding streets as a model. While I commend the zoning changes ideation, it has created undue burden for parking and stress for surrounding neighborhoods.

There is currently a partisan ideology crisis in many states and Idaho is not unique in this matter. Increasing communication and collaborative actions in a matter that benefits the citizens is necessary in my opinion. As the only unaffiliated candidate (including current city council) I am in the unique position to provide fair representation without prejudice. Putting the people over the party is just common sense and quite frankly a necessity for a happy populace

Transportation has become increasingly dangerous these days. As I'm sure we've all noticed: tailgating, speeding and light runners have increased dramatically. Boise PD issued 23,450 tickets in 2018 and we are down nearly 50% to just 12,552 tickets in 2024. We have maintained a 1.4 officer per 1,000 citizen ratio in tbe last decade but our enforcement is down dramatically.

If we can increase and prioritize safety, we would also get the added benefit to reclaim and clawback at lost revenue. Increasing traffic enforcement will also yield a positive impact on taxes. Increasing safety while reducing tax burdens is a win-win.

The American dream is home ownership. I would like to see a blend of attainable home ownership incentives implemented. The overwhelming push is apartments, which yes are needed, but if some of these incentives provided more ownership opportunities like condos or townhouses, they could be coupled with low income down-payment assistance and quite possibly get more people into owning versus renting.

I support open spaces and clean water. Do I support it in a levy? Not currently with the totality of circumstances. Factoring in the 7.6% city council property tax increase plus the boise school trustee raise of 18%, its hard to ask struggling homeowners for more. We have to remember that every tax increase also raises rent prices. We can and should increase fiscal responsibility to provide great things for Boiseans without cost burdening them.

I am not tied or bound by partisan ideology, I am the only independent in a sea of a partisan attached council. I have been fiscally responsible my entire life. I did not grow up with a silver spoon, therefore I have learned many things. If it's expensive I learned how to do it myself. I can weld, build stuff, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and tear a car apart and put it back together. If you put me in a room with a problem, I will find a solution. Life forced me to be frugal and forced me to learn real world skills. I have been in my district going on 20 years. Unfortunately, ideology often impacts decisions, as a problem solver, my brain uses logic and rational thought processes.

I have met and worked personally with many refugees, true refugees. Many have gone on to create businesses, families and jobs. The Biden administration redefined the ideation of refugees to such an extent that many people have a negative view on true refugees. Many of the refugees I have worked with were fleeing from war torn countries with true threats and possibilities of death. As with everything in life, there is always a balance. There will always be people in need, with our current housing crisis, what we prioritize will speak volumes. Equations always need balance. This can tie back to working with state representatives, if a certain country is receiving massive monetary aide, we could work with the state representatives to propose a bill to reallocate funds for housing if that country exports a notable amount refugees.

Everyone in Boise regardless of identity should safe and prioritized by their city. Boise representatives need an ability to be equitable for all Boiseans.

My neighbor Ed. Despite being older and semi-retired, he never skips a beat when he sees someone in need. Ed brings the neighborhood together and it wouldn't be the same without him.

One of my favorites is Big Bun, fantastic locally owned family business that puts out amazing food. Very excited when they opened a second location. Grab yourself a burger 🍔.

Josh Ellstrom Challenges Colin Nash for City Council District 2

Meet the 2025 Boise City Council Candidates: Josh Ellstrom, District 2, Challenger

City Cast Boise invited all seven of the candidates who are on the ballot for Boise City Council to participate in a ten-question survey. They all received the same questions, and their answers are unedited.

Three seats are open, with a total of seven candidates across the council seats. Six of the seven candidates responded within the given timeframe; only Lynn Bradescu did not.

Three council seats are up for election on Nov. 4. Early voting starts today, so here's what Boiseans need to know for the city council election.

Boise City Council Candidates Answer Our Questions

How Boise City Council Candidates Set Themselves Apart

A lawmaker-turned-City Council member, Colin Nash is an incumbent but this is his first time seeking a council seat via the ballot box. In 2023, he was appointed to fill a seat on the Council and has served the West Bench’s District 2 since. He faces two challengers in Josh Ellstrom and Derek James Smith.

Housing affordability remains the most pressing issue facing Boiseans. Research shows Boise will need roughly 20,000 new homes over the next decade, with nearly half affordable to households earning 80 percent of the area median income or less. Meeting that need requires sustained local investment, thoughtful zoning reform, and strong partnerships with industry and nonprofits.

We must also expand housing options for families and individuals exiting homelessness, creating clear pathways from shelter to stability. Ensuring every Boisean has a safe, attainable place to live is not just a housing goal; it is central to our city’s health, safety, and prosperity.

Addressing housing affordability will keep us safe, ensure our children and grandchildren can afford to live here, and protect our quality of life. It will also allow more people to live near where they work, reducing congestion and the negative impacts of regional growth that disproportionately affect Boise as the economic and social hub of the Treasure Valley.

Having served both in the Idaho Legislature and at Boise City Hall, I bring a unique perspective to this dynamic. Some parts of the city’s relationship with the Legislature are within our control, while others are shaped by being a capital city that’s often perceived as more progressive than much of Idaho.

There are areas where we work well together—for example, Boise plays an outsized role in the state’s Child Abuse Investigation Unit, and many of the zoning reforms we’ve implemented locally are now being considered at the state level. And there are others, like Pride flags, where the city has an interest in signaling its support for queer Boiseans and does not intend to abandon that charge.

I’ll continue to maintain respectful relationships and look for common ground, but my job isn’t to do what I think the Legislature will like—it’s to do what’s best for Boise. That includes advocating for safer streets, like through the adoption use of red-light cameras at the behest of my constituents, even when those positions aren’t popular at the Statehouse and may be preempted by the legislature. My focus will remain on advancing Boise’s interests in a way that’s strategic and responsible, without drawing unnecessary legislative backlash that could make life harder for Boiseans.

Unfortunately, the city has limited tools to address many of our most pressing transportation challenges due to the structure of ACHD and constraints from the Idaho Legislature. That said, I’d like to see VRT extend its best-in-class routes farther west along Fairview Avenue, where they currently stop short. I’ll continue investing in Boise’s pathway system, having already secured the first ongoing funding for projects like the Settler’s Canal Path and the upcoming Tuttle Lateral Pathway at Spaulding Ranch, which will connect through Milwaukee Park. I’ll also keep advocating to ACHD for stronger Safe Routes to School programming to ensure every child can travel safely to and from school.

The city has not committed ongoing local tax support for affordable housing, instead piecing together one-time or external funding sources like federal grants and done so to much success. While I appreciate this resourcefulness and fiscal discipline, it’s not a sustainable strategy for meeting the scale of our housing challenges. With more than 1,000 homeless households in Boise, we need stable, ongoing funding to help families exit homelessness more quickly, reducing not only the visible impact of homelessness but also the emotional and social toll it takes on our community and the strain it places on emergency services.

Yes. The open space and water levy is a smart, high-value investment in Boise’s future. For most households, it would cost about $40 a year for two years but generate tens of millions of dollars in land acquisitions that expand park access across the city—especially in West Boise, where more families will live within a 10-minute walk to a park. It also positions the city to act quickly when valuable foothills properties become available for conservation. In just two years on the council, levy funds have helped make two park acquisitions in the West Bench possible and develop a third, demonstrating the real and lasting impact of this funding.

As Boise City Council President and a former legislator representing the West Bench, I bring both the experience and trust needed to be effective in this role. My record shows I have the knowledge and focus to take on Boise’s most serious challenges and the integrity to reflect our shared values. You know where I stand and I’ve shown that I can build consensus on the council to deliver results that benefit both District 2 and Boise as a whole.

The City of Boise has a proud tradition of welcoming refugees, and that should continue. My primary experience working with refugees has been teaching English to African refugees at a local elementary school. Their needs are often just like those of all Boiseans—they want safe neighborhoods, affordable housing, and safe routes to school for their children. I’m committed to ensuring Boise remains a city that delivers on those needs and continues to be a place where refugees can build stable, thriving lives as part of our community.

Yes. Boise must remain a safe and welcoming place for all Boiseans—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. I’m unapologetically supportive of our LGBTQ+ community and will continue to lead in both word and deed to ensure Boise remains a city where everyone can live openly and authentically.

I’m a big fan of a new local small business, Common Ground Coffee, run by Sarah and Laurie on Ustick and Esquire. They’ve created a welcoming, walkable gathering place for neighbors in my district and a great example of the kind of small business that builds community.

My guilty pleasure food is a mixed breakfast burrito at Los Betos on Fairview.

Colin Nash is an incumbent but this is his first time seeking a council seat at the ballot box. In 2023, he was appointed to fill a seat on the Council and has served the West Bench’s District 2 since. He faces two challengers in Josh Ellstrom and Derek James Smith.

Colin Nash Looks to Keep City Council District 2 Seat Against Challengers

Meet the 2025 Boise City Council Candidates: Colin Nash, District 2, Incumbent

Morales is unchallenged in his bid for a second term representing District 4 and East Boise. Luckily, he was still kind enough to fill out our survey.

The cost of purchasing or renting a home in Boise has increased dramatically over the past ten years while new home construction is not meeting projected needs. Many Boiseans have become overburdened by housing costs and among many resulting issues of that, the potential is limited for generations of Boiseans to continue living in the community they love and near their families. While continuing to pursue grants and public private partnerships to build truly affordable housing for those making less than the area median income, the City of Boise must continue to address the market rate housing issue with further action to make it easier and quicker to build more homes of all kinds throughout the city.

The current relationship has room for improvement and like any relationship, communication is profoundly important because it builds trust and enhances understanding which helps to prevent misunderstandings and resolve conflicts. I trust City of Boise Governmental Affairs staff to continue being an important part of this effort and would like to play a more active role as a council member in lobbying for the things that will help protect wellness and quality of life for all of our neighbors.

Significant road improvement concepts have been adopted for streets like Nez Perce and Linden in District 4 however along with other efforts like signalized crossings at Malad and Federal Way they remain buried on the list of priorities for limited ACHD funding. For these streets in need of safer infrastructure now, I'll continue pushing for cost effective interim solutions like new paint, plastic candlesticks for medians or bulb outs, radar speed signs, crossing flags, etc.

Communities across the country continue to push the needle in their responses to the burden of increased home prices. Things Boise should also be doing include: changing building code to allow for single stair housing at 5 or 6 stories tall in proper zones, allow the market to make decisions on parking needs for projects on transit corridors, consider the reduction of minimum lot sizes, allow housing by right on church properties, and speeding up the townhome development process along with allowing them by right in more zones.

Yes! Our region faces record wildfire risks, degraded air quality, and habitat loss while our growing population increases usage of our river, foothills, and parks. Without renewed funding, we risk losing opportunities to build new pathways, expand parks in underserved areas, and protect clean water. Building on what we achieved in 2001 and 2015, we can extend those impacts to new parts of the city, strengthen wildfire resilience, protect wildlife, enhance water quality, and expanding access to nature. Together, we can safeguard Boise’s beauty, resilience, and health for generations to come.

While I had two initial competitors file for the 2023 campaign season, this 2025 season there were not any other candidates that ended up filing for this race.

Boise’s long standing commitment to welcoming refugees is a strength. I want our city to continue celebrating those who’ve built new lives here, sharing their stories of resilience, and recognizing the wonderful role they now play in our community as friends, neighbors, and leaders. We should keep supporting events like World Refugee Day and ensure inclusion and representation for refugee communities across city programs and initiatives.

Yes. The city should continue to publicly support marginalized communities until everyone is afforded the same rights. When I testified in support of continuing to fly the Progress Pride flag, I noted that while states like Utah acted to protect LGBTQ+ neighbors a decade ago from discrimination, Idaho has not and has moved backward by passing resolutions calling for the overturn of same-sex marriage. Boise must continue to lead with inclusion, fairness, and respect for civil liberties.

A J Balukoff is my unsung hero in District 4. His humble and enduring commitment to service has strengthened Boise deeply, serving on countless boards in education, the arts, healthcare and more throughout our community alongside service in his church and advocacy as a gubernatorial candidate. I'm inspired by how his continued education changed his life and how he worked through other adversities to find success in business but more importantly with his family. I’m grateful for his mentorship and support over the years. His lifelong investment in people and ideas reflects the best of Boise’s spirit: steady, generous, curious, compassionate and focused on helping others succeed.

The Percy Potatoes and Skirt Steak at The Percy

Jordan Morales Wants to Keep Representing Boise City Council District 4

Meet the 2025 Boise City Council Candidates: Jordan Morales, District 4, Incumbent

Another political newcomer, Derek Smith has new ideas for City Hall. Autonomous buses? I’m listening. I’m also listening because his Bench restaurant of choice is unimpeachable.

The dream of homeownership in Boise is under threat. The current city council has prioritized the interests of rent-seeking corporations over those of home-seeking residents. Out-of-state investment firms are not only purchasing single-family homes but also developing apartments on nearly every available plot of land. Homes and condominiums are critical tools for individuals and families to build equity and wealth. While the city council race is nonpartisan, I am running to represent Boise’s working-class citizens, who are consistently outbid on homes by big businesses empowered by city hall.

To say the state and the city have a contentious relationships is to say, "the ocean is slightly damp." Boise, and Idaho, are not unique as other states have conservative state legislature with liberal city officials. However, those paying the price are the residents of Boise. When the Governor and Mayor are at odds, the cooperation needed to get out of this housing crisis becomes non-existent. I would change this relationship quite easily, by not antagonizing the state legislature. Young people cant afford an apartment, let alone a home, and prioritizing social issues to antagonize the state legislature is peak post-modernism.

Autonomous busses are the future of American public transportation. Full stop. Directing any funds or attention in any other direction is a step in the wrong direction. Our current public transportation system is underutilized and tax payer subsidized, the city want to push people to use a mode of transportation that most people find inconvenient. I'd get on the phone it Tesla and request that Boise become a test market for their autonomous bus system. If you're reading this, go ride a bus (as I have) and you will be shocked at how few people are on such a massive vehicle. Our bus system is incredible inefficient.

The city is not prioritizing condos/homes and the Boise residents who need them more than any other time in American History. Home builders in the valley are starting to offer down payment financing so people can become home-owners without needing to save for a down payment. We as a city should be prioritizing home ownership for individuals though this type of business practice with Idaho based businesses, NOT out of state investment firms that view the individual as a commodity from which all resources should be extracted.

In theory, yes. In this reality (where the largest demographic at risk of becoming homeless is adults over the age of 55 living alone - because their fixed income doesn't meet the rising cost of living) I say no to additional taxes for our most vulnerable citizens. I believe we should move to crowdfunding methods to raise money for non essential projects. As someone who has 2 daughters and loves the park system, I would gladly pay $1000 for this project. But I cannot, in good conscious, support anything that raises taxes on the many for something that will only be used by a fraction of the population.

I prioritize affordable home ownership, not affordable hosing at the cost of affordable living. I come from the world of manufacturing, where producing enough to meet the demand of the people is paramount. The current city government prioritizes corporate investors, not it's residents. I refuse to accept the status quo, because that means siding with big business over the individual. For decades, massive corporations have exploited every loophole to extract as much wealth out of the individual as possible, building apartments is the next step in that endeavor.

I am a harbinger of change, one where the people are put first, not the corporation.

While the city assists in the coordination amongst various refugee groups, almost no funds from the city currently goes toward refugee resettlement. I would continue to encourage the current system, which emphasizes societal integration, so those who are fleeing war and persecution can find purpose and meaning in this cruel world. We don't have the money to replace the funding from the federal government, heck we don't even have the money to build some parks... but we are a city who finds wealth in out volunteers and our charitable nature. As a city, I would continue to help coordinate the efforts of the volunteers to best assists the refugees.

For the record: to treat someone differently based upon their sexual orientation is personally unacceptable and incredibly divisive.

Making the pride flag an official city flag was an act of defiance against the state, regardless of your feeling on whether this was good or bad, it is going to have consequences. From discussions with those in the legislature, the state is attempting to exact it's retribution by taking away Boise's sales tax reimbursement, roughly $21 million. So, the question is, "Is the cost of never being able to afford a home (and rising taxes) worth having the pride flag on city hall?"

The challenges faced by the LGTBQ+ community in Boise are: unaffordable living expenses, high taxes, and wages that don't allow them the same level of disposable income of previous generations. AKA they are the same as every American.

Questions like this further divide us along identarian lines, when we should be identifying with our economic class. The virtue signaling of the city does nothing to improve the daily lives of it's residents. In my city, I don't categorize people by the flag they wave, they are all residents and deserve to be homeowners. Anything that delays that reality I deem to be unimportant.

My wife, Ashley. Without her love, I would still be in the hell of my own creation. She is not an extrovert, so it's my duty to take her love to the world around me and try and make it a better place for all the residents of this great city.

Anything ordered from The White Rabbit off Latah.

Another political newcomer, Derek Smith has new ideas for city hall. Autonomous buses? I’m listening. I’m also listening because his Bench restaurant of choice is unimpeachable.

Derek James Smith Has New Visions for City Council

Meet the 2025 Boise City Council Candidates: Derek James Smith, District 2, Challenger

We know Hey Boise readers are involved, and often want to be 

involved. Volunteering is a great way to feel more connected to your community, while having a direct impact on small things. That’s how a community works, after all!

A few Hey Boise readers had volunteer opportunities they’re involved with and asked for help spreading the word. Two of these are timely this week!

City of Trees Marathon, which still needs volunteers

 (for water aid stations, line-enforcers, cheerleaders, etc.) this Saturday!

, a frequent volunteer at Corpus Commons, says the 

Idaho Rivers United has their last Greenbelt clean-up

 of the season tomorrow at 5 p.m. Meet at the Gene Harris Bandshell in Julia Davis Park, or sign up and sign a waiver in advance.

The City of Boise — particularly the Parks and Recreation Department — always hasve upcoming availability for 

. Check out their roster, whether it’s keeping the Boise River ecosystem thriving, helping pollinator populations, or dedicating to a specific service project.

In a similar vein, here are a couple public surveys and chances to give your input on our community!

 is open for your feedback on the Foothills trails. Have a signage qualm? A directional recommendation? Speak up!

The Ada County Highway District is scheming up the future of 15th and 16th Streets, and want your help as west downtown expands. Especially if you live in or frequent those streets, please weigh in on 

Want to Get Involved? Here Are Some Ways to Volunteer.

Boise voters will head to the polls on Nov. 4 to choose City Council members and decide on land conservation, and more. This guide highlights who’s on the ballot, how to understand the clean water levy, and how to make your vote count.

There are three seats up for grabs in this election and seven candidates.

This election will prove more challenging for Hallyburton, who ran unopposed in 2023. Bradescu is a member of the Ada County Republican Central Committee. Sánchez is a former City Council member who has faced questions about her 

Boise voters are being asked to approve an 

 over 2026 to 2027 to fund the purchase and protection of open spaces, parks, wildlife habitats, and clean water initiatives.

A “yes” vote will continue efforts to conserve land, reduce wildfire risks, develop parks, and expand recreational pathways. This would cost homeowners about $40 a year, on average. Supporters argue the levy preserves Boise’s natural environment and addresses park shortages in certain areas. They point to the city’s 

But it's not clear yet whether Boiseans will accept another property tax hike for open space, 

 the levy will pass. A “no” vote means no new funding, so the city would rely on the remaining $1 million from previous levies.

Can’t remember if you’re registered to vote? 

Confirm if you’re registered in Idaho, here

 in Ada County takes place Oct. 20 through Oct. 31. 

 online. Return your ballot by mail or at any of the following drop box locations by 8 p.m. on Election Day.

You can cast your vote in person from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day at your assigned polling location. 

. Be sure to bring your photo ID with you. Here’s what else you can 

Your Boise 2025 November Ballot Guide

Not all elections will be as impactful as the last election. But every election does matter, and with democracy under threat, voting sends a message, even if it’s only on a short ballot. So here’s what to know about the upcoming election.

Find Your Ballot & Voting Place

The races on May 20 ballots in Ada County are trustee or director positions for entities including an auditorium district, library districts, and sewer districts.

Like many Boiseans, there’s only one contest on my ballot, and it’s to select two Greater Boise Auditorium District (GBAD) directors out of four candidates. 

GBAD builds and manages convention facilities publicly

, with the most prominent being the Boise Centre. 

 is voted on by the public, with each trustee serving a term of six years.

Board vice chairman Jody Olson is not running again, meaning there will be at least one new member after the election.

Jim Walker, a current member, is running for another six-year term. He will compete with three other candidates for two positions: Danielle Horras, Sophie Sestero, and Aimee Pollard Tylor. 

The Meridian Library District faced an unsuccessful effort by a group called the Concerned Citizens of Meridian to dissolve the district in 2023. Two of the men who led the effort at the time — Phil Reynolds and Mike Hon — are running for two library board positions against a Democratic-affiliated candidate and the incumbent board chair. The trustee positions are non-partisan.

Hon is running for a board position again under many of the same priorities, while Reynolds says he’s changed his tune — although 

Jeff Kohler is the board’s current chair, and is running for a second term. He’s running alongside Garrett Castle, who began door-knocking to support a Meridian board trustee in 2023 and serves as a district chair for the Ada County Democrats.

The League of Women Voters of Idaho is hosting a 

 tomorrow, May 7, at 6 p.m. at the Cherry Lane library.

Two pairs of contenders are running in the race for two seats on the Ada County Free Library District board.

Suzette Moore, has paired up with Rachel Moorhouse

 to run for the two open seats. In a statement on “recent library controversies,” Moore and Moorhouse expressed their support of Idaho’s law to “collaboratively and respectfully” examine “any materials available to minors that might not be in compliance with Idaho law.”

The two are challenged by Johnathon Baldauf and Travis Worwood, 

 prioritize protecting libraries from book challenges.

The other two individuals named on the ballot, Lori Billaud and Sabrina Napolitano, are no longer running.

 and will remain open until May 16 at the Ada County Elections office, the Eagle Public Library, Boise’s Library! at Bown Crossing, and the Boise, Eagle, Garden City, Meridian, and Star City Halls.