Balancing Local Finance: Limitations, Service, and Community


Descrition

As the 2026 legislative session redefined several municipal finance policies, city leaders face the challenge of reconciling mandated revenue limitation with the rising costs of providing local services. This workshop moves beyond the headlines, diving into the 2026 legislation and considering the anticipated immediate and long-term impacts on your city's bottom line. Attendees will participate in interactive polling to benchmark and engage with peers and discuss local impacts and strategies. The session will also feature a panel of city officials sharing how they are adapting their long-term plans in light of the new policies.

Speakers
Erin Mullenix

Title: Research Scientist
Company: ISU Extension and Outreach
Email: erinm1@iastate.edu
Bio: Erin Mullenix is a Research Scientist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach - Community and Economic Development. She is also the Founder and Principal Consultant at Morgan Creek Insights. Erin brings over 15 years of experience in public policy, finance, evaluation, and evidence-based research to her work with local governments. Previously, she served as the Research Director for the Iowa League of Cities and as the Director of Data-Driven Science for Iowa State University. Her experience spans federal, state, and local government roles, as well as private industry. Erin's degrees are in Industrial Engineering (BSE), Spanish (BA), and Public Administration (MPA).


Location

Monte Carlo

Date

09-24-26

Start time

9:30 AM

End time

10:30 AM

IOWA League