Legislative Values
The League’s legislative values are the cornerstone which our legislative strategy is built around.
The Iowa League of Cities Legislative Values below were adopted for the 92nd General Assembly, which encompasses both the 2027 and 2028 Legislative Sessions. These Values have been reviewed by the Legislative Policy Committee and adopted by the League Executive Board. They will be revisited again in the summer/fall of 2028.
The five headlines; Home Rule, Financial Sustainability, Economic Development, Infrastructure, and Public Safety, are reflective of core areas of importance that have been important to cities for at least decades, if not centuries. They are derived from many surveys of Iowa League members over the years, the continued discussion amongst our membership, and by engaged members like yourselves serving on the Board and League committees.
Legislative Values
Home Rule
Local decisions are best made by locally elected officials who understand the unique needs, priorities, and values of their communities. The League supports preserving municipal authority and opposes unnecessary state preemption of local decision-making.
Financial Sustainability
Cities must have stable, predictable, and diverse revenue options to provide essential public services, maintain infrastructure, plan for the future, and meet the expectations of residents. The League supports policies that preserve local flexibility and promote the long-term fiscal health of Iowa communities.
Economic Development
Strong cities are essential to Iowa’s economic success and its ability to attract and retain people. The League supports policies that promote quality of life, strengthen local economies, and give communities the tools to pursue intentional growth, attract investment and opportunity, and build places where people want to live, work, and raise a family.
Infrastructure
Safe, reliable, secure, and resilient infrastructure is fundamental to healthy communities. The League supports long-term investment in transportation, utilities, water systems, cybersecurity, public facilities, and other infrastructure essential to the future of Iowa’s cities and the state as a whole.
Public Safety
Every community deserves access to effective public safety services. The League supports policies that strengthen partnerships among local governments, emergency responders, and state agencies while recognizing the diverse needs of communities across Iowa.
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