Nampa Mayor Dies After Collapsing During Town Hall Meeting – Soulfy

“I’m heartbroken and devastated,” Philips said. “From him to go to answering a question, to gone… I started getting a chest pain, got dizzy and laid down. Next thing medics were checking on me and taking vitals,” he said.

Hogaboam had been sworn in as mayor on Jan. 5 after winning 62.9% of the vote. His time in office lasted only a few months.

City Council President David Bills has assumed the role of acting mayor while officials determine the process for appointing an interim replacement ahead of a special election expected later this year.

Before becoming mayor, Hogaboam served as Canyon County clerk and as a member of the Nampa City Council. He also briefly served in the Idaho State Senate in 2021.

Hogaboam was a father of five and a grandfather of one. His official biography described him as committed to building a community “where citizens are proud to live, work, eat, play, and worship.”

Public officials across Idaho expressed condolences following news of his death. Gov. Brad Little called the loss “heartbreaking.”

“Rick served with a real heart for public service and dedication to the community,” Little said. “His family, city staff, and the Nampa community are in my prayers,” he said.

Former Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling also paid tribute. “I am deeply grieved and saddened to hear of the passing of Nampa Mayor Rick Hogaboam,” Kling said. “Rick was such a talented, smart leader who served with integrity and a servant’s heart,” she said.