What’s on the Ballot in Boise This November?

Boise voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, to weigh in on a few key local issues. While this isn’t a major federal election year, there are still important decisions to be made that directly impact our community.

Boise City Council Races
Three City Council seats are up for election:

• District 2: Colin Nash (incumbent), Josh Ellstrom, Derek James Smith
• District 4: Jordan Morales (incumbent, unopposed)
• District 6: Jimmy Hallyburton (incumbent), Lynn Bradescu, Lisa Sánchez

These races will shape the direction of Boise’s growth, housing, and infrastructure over the next few years.

Clean Water and Open Space Levy
Boise voters are also being asked to approve an $11 million levy to fund:

• Open space preservation
• Park development
• Trail and pathway connections
• Clean water initiatives
• Wildfire mitigation

If passed, the levy would cost the average homeowner about $40 per year for two years (2026–2027). This is Boise’s third such levy, following successful measures in 2001 and 2015 that helped preserve over 13,000 acres of open space. [cityofboise.org]

How to Get Informed
There are already some excellent resources available to help you make an informed decision:

• VoteIdaho.gov – Check your registration, find your polling place, view your sample ballot, and more.
• Idaho Statesman Voter Guide and Election News – Candidate Q&As, editorial endorsements, and local election coverage.
• KTVB Voter Guide – County-by-county breakdowns, ballot questions, and election day logistics.
• Idaho EdNews – Coverage of school board races and education-related issues.

Key Dates

• Early Voting: October 20–31
• Election Day: Tuesday, November 4 (Polls open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
• Bring ID: A valid photo ID is required to vote in person.

Final Thoughts
Local elections may not get the same attention as national ones, but they often have a bigger impact on your daily life. Whether it’s the future of Boise’s parks or who represents your district on the City Council, your vote matters. Happy Voting! 

Stay well,
Tori Thomas