The newly-elected mayor of an Idaho city has died shortly after collapsing mid-speech during a town hall with other mayors. Nampa Mayor Rick Hogaboam, 47, suffered a medical emergency while speaking during the Wednesday evening meeting. The mayor of another town, a former firefighter who was sitting next to him, rushed into action and immediately administered CPR as others called 911. Paramedics, police and firefighters were called to the scene, but nothing could be done to save him. The nature of what caused his medical emergency remains under investigation. Hogaboam, a Republican father-of-five, was sworn in as mayor on January 5 this year after winning the November election with 62.9 percent of the vote.
A Lifetime of Leadership
He has served the city of Nampa and Canyon County for many years, including as Chief of Staff for his predecessor Mayor Debbie Kling. He previously served as the Canyon County Clerk, a Nampa Councilman, the chair for District 3 of the Idaho Association of Counties and had a brief stint as a substitute Idaho State Senator. Caldwell Mayor Eric Philips was also received medical treatment outside the town hall and was transported away by medics. 'I'm heartbroken and devastated. 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,' Philips told KTVB. 'I have a very heavy heart tonight,' he added. The city of Nampa has asked the community to keep Hogaboam's 'family and loved ones in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.'
A Dedicated Family Man
'As we begin to mourn this unbelievable loss, please provide grace while we navigate the loss of not only our Mayor, but also our friend,' city officials added. Hogaboam is survived by his wife Mimi, five children and one grandchild. The mayor was reportedly the 'sole provider' in his family. The TVP has issued its condolences to the Hogaboam family, with its members praising the Nampa mayor's commitment to his constituents.
'On behalf of every mayor and county commissioner in our Partnership, and of our citizens, we are heartbroken to have lost one of our esteemed colleagues,' the coalition said in a statement. 'Rick Hogaboam was an exemplary public servant, a dedicated family man, and a true friend. Our prayers are with Rick's family and the Nampa community at this time,' the TVP added.
Kling also paid tribute to her successor, whom she said was a 'smart, talented leader, who will be greatly missed.' The former mayor is 'extremely grieved' by his death and has offered her prayers to Hogaboam's 'amazing wife and young family.' The Daily Mail has approached the TVP and city of Nampa for comment.