This week the Local Government Committee reported out of committee House File 2191. As amended, the bill moves school board and city elections from November in odd years to even year general elections. If enacted, that means every even year Iowans would get to vote on all elected officials. This change likely means more civic engagement and higher voter turnout for city and school elections. These elections, currently held in odd years, have a large impact on property tax policies and policies that directly affect Iowans where they live.
After moving school board elections to November starting in 2019 Iowa saw a 156% increase in school board election turnout. The increases we have seen in voter turnout for local elections since 2019 has been an important step in increasing Iowans’ voice in policies that directly affect their local community. By having all elections held in November of even years we can co
