Several fast-growing communities in Idaho’s Treasure Valley are about to experience another major shift: fresh leadership.
After the recent elections, Nampa, Caldwell, and Garden City will welcome new mayors at a time when expansion, population increases, and development pressures are already reshaping daily life.
Each mayor-elect says they intend to approach this growth with caution, strategy, and clearer communication.
Nampa: Managing Expansion While Balancing Revenue Limits
Growth Comes With Infrastructure Demands
Rick Hogaboam, formerly the Chief of Staff, will soon step into the role of Nampa’s Mayor. As one of the top 100 fastest-growing cities in the United States, Nampa faces rising demand for public services, infrastructure upgrades, and long-term planning.
Hogaboam emphasized that residents expect growth to financially support itself, noting that voters want new development to cover its fair portion of the city’s expenses.
Concerns Over State Tax Policies
However, Hogaboam explained that recent Idaho laws designed to reduce property taxes have unintentionally restricted city revenue. According to him, these limits make it harder for Nampa to keep up with rapid expansion.
He hopes that lawmakers will reconsider these policies during the upcoming legislative session. Hogaboam plans to begin his term by reviewing department operations, identifying challenges, and addressing policies—such as House Bill 389—that have created financial strain.
Caldwell: Idaho’s Fastest-Growing City Aims to Slow the Pace
Population Growth Surges Past 21%
Caldwell has undergone a dramatic transformation, with its population increasing by more than 21% between 2020 and 2024—the highest percentage growth in Idaho. Mayor-Elect Eric Phillips says the city needs to rethink how quickly development is approved.
Infrastructure Struggling to Keep Up
Phillips believes Caldwell must pause its “growth on steroids.” While some streets have been repaved, many remain the same width as they were decades ago.
He argues that prioritizing transportation improvements will help families stay in the community and maintain quality of life.
Garden City: Revitalization Brings New Energy and New Challenges
A Community Changing Rapidly
Garden City has experienced some of the most dramatic changes in the Treasure Valley. Older mobile home parks have been replaced by modern apartment complexes, and major projects—like a new soccer stadium and riverside park—are underway.
Preparing for Continued Expansion
Bill Jacobs, a current City Council Member and the newly elected Mayor, expects Garden City’s popularity to continue rising. Growth, he says, will expand eastward and include more infill development.
To ensure the community’s needs are met, Jacobs plans to engage residents directly. He wants to build trust by focusing on transparency—answering questions about city management, budgets, and smart development.
Treasure Valley’s newest mayors are taking office at a pivotal moment. With Nampa navigating revenue restrictions, Caldwell working to slow and stabilize growth, and Garden City managing rapid redevelopment, each leader faces unique challenges.
Their shared goal, however, remains the same: guide their cities responsibly while keeping residents informed and involved. As they prepare to take office in early January, the future of these fast-growing communities will depend heavily on thoughtful planning and open communication.
