In a recent special meeting of the Billings City Council held on June 16, 2025, council members engaged in a significant discussion regarding the potential costs and implications of holding a primary election for the mayoral position. The meeting highlighted the council's responsibility to address electoral processes and the financial considerations involved.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the estimated cost of running the primary election, which was projected to be around $100,000. Council member Nees expressed concerns about this expenditure, suggesting that the funds could be better allocated to public safety, particularly for police personnel. Nees pointed out that the cost of the election was comparable to the annual salary of a police officer, emphasizing the need to prioritize community safety over electoral processes.

The debate also touched on the merits of different electoral systems, with some council members advocating for a primary election over a "jungle election" format. A jungle election allows multiple candidates to run without party affiliation, with the top two advancing to the general election. Critics of this system, including council member Lior, argued that it could lead to a mayor being elected with less than 50% of the vote, which they believe undermines public confidence in the electoral process. Lior strongly supported the idea of a primary election, asserting that it would provide voters with a clearer choice and ensure that the elected mayor has a majority backing.

The council's discussions underscored the tension between fiscal responsibility and the desire for a democratic electoral process. As the meeting concluded, members were encouraged to voice their opinions before a vote was taken on whether to proceed with the primary election.

This meeting reflects ongoing debates within the Billings community about how best to conduct elections and allocate resources. The decision to hold a primary election could have lasting implications for the city's governance and the public's trust in its elected officials. As the council moves forward, the outcome of this discussion will be closely watched by residents who are invested in the future leadership of Billings.