Iowa State Extension and Outreach collaborates with local governments to develop the leadership skills and knowledge needed to generate policies for the betterment of Iowa’s communities. For more information or pricing on any of these programs, contact Eric Christianson (ejchr@iastate.edu, 515-451-5662)
Goal Setting and Strategic Planning
For local government councils, boards and commissions to address critical issues, identify priorities, and develop action plans to accomplish those priorities.
Introduction to Planning and Zoning for Local Officials
Basic training for local officials and staff working in the area of land use planning.
City Finance 101
Understand city financial information to make better decisions regarding budgets, projects and safeguarding the assets of a community.
Township Trustee Training
The basics for township trustees and clerks including open meetings, finance, and state codes governing townships.
Iowa Government Finance Initiative Workshops
More deeply understand issues relating to public finance, debt capacity, and community and economic development.
On The Road: Budgeting, Examinations, and Accounting for Municipalities
Hands on training for accurately completing required financial reports, budgets and proper internal control procedures for cities.
Council / Board Effectiveness Training
Training on legal requirements such as open meetings, public records, gifts, and conflict-of-interest laws, duties, and methods for enhancing board effectiveness.
Open Meetings / Open Records
We cover the basics of Iowa’s sunshine laws. The sessions may be delivered together or as two separate one hour sessions. $500
Nuisance Abatement Training
Learn the basics of developing and enforcing local nuisance abatement codes.
Urban Renewal / Tax Increment Financing 101
Learn the basics of Iowa’s Urban Renewal laws including the mechanics of Tax Increment Financing for local economic development.
Local Government Management Training
Extended training for city staff on essential knowledge for including finance, managing conflict, and human resources.
In addition to those listed we are able to offer additional training programs on a wide variety of topics including:
- Open Meetings / Records
- Urban Renewal and Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
- Grant Writing
- Geographic Information Systemys (GIS)
- Customer Service Training for Local Government Employees
