12/10/2025
Happy Birthday, Star! Celebrating "New" Star's Modern Anniversary!
Photo: Awwww you remembered!
Every December, Star gets a little brighter, and not just because of the Christmas lights twinkling along State Street. This month marks a truly special milestone in our hometown’s story. On December 10, 1997, after nearly seven decades as an unincorporated rural community, Star officially became a city once again. Happy Birthday, Star!
Many folks may not realize Star has been incorporated twice. The first time was way back in 1905, when the community was growing alongside the Boise Valley Interurban Railway. That early chapter ended in 1929 when residents voted to disincorporate over a dispute about paying for a section of the new state highway. Without a city government, Star spent almost 70 years as a quiet farming community along the Boise River.
Everything changed in late 1997. With just about 500 residents, Star petitioned Ada County to bring back cityhood. The county approved the request, issued the official order, and appointed a mayor and council. On December 10, the proclamation took effect, and Star stepped confidently into its second life as a city.
Since then, we’ve watched Star blossom from a tiny farm town into one of the most desirable communities in the Treasure Valley. Our population has surged past 24,000+++, new neighborhoods have filled in former pastures, and families from all over have discovered (some claim invaded) the charm that locals have loved for generations.
Today, Star is governed by four at-large city council members and a full-time mayor who leads the administration. It’s a streamlined system that helps the city stay responsive, efficient, and focused on the needs of a rapidly growing community.
So here’s to New Star’s 28th birthday. Here’s to the people who fought to bring their city back in 1997, and to the neighbors, volunteers, and small-business owners who continue shaping its future. Twenty-eight years later, Star is stronger, friendlier, and more full of life than ever.
Happy Birthday, Star. You don’t look a day over 25.
