Here's a news item from the Associated Press:  BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The Senate passed the first of three constitutional amendments to allow Idaho cities and publicly-owned hospitals to sign long-term financing contracts without a vote, if no taxpayer money is pledged to repay debts. Senators supported the amendment, 34-0, to allow hospitals more flexibility. The chamber is due to take up the remaining measures Tuesday afternoon. To be successful, all must pass voter muster next November after receiving at least two-thirds support in each house of the Legislature. In 2006, the Idaho Supreme Court ruled that the state Constitution forbade the city of Boise from building a new airport parking garage without residents' approval — even though the city planned to use parking revenue, not taxes, to pay off the building. Cities and publicly-owned hospitals say that decision has hurt their ability to buy snow plows, enter into long-term electricity contracts or even purchase medical equipment.

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