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 91st General Assembly, which encompasses both the 2025 and 2026 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 2026.
The five headlines; Local Control, Financial Stability, 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
Local Control
Residents and the quality of life for Iowans benefit from Home Rule: The Constitutional right to make local decisions at the local level – closest to those affected and tailored to fit unique conditions, needs, and concerns.
Financial Stability
Cities need financial stability to provide predictability, quality of life, transparency, and fairness for residents. This requires that the State maintain its commitment to hold cities harmless for state policies, not pass unfunded mandates, ensure that local governments have diversified revenue options and preserve dedicated levies.
Economic Development
No economic development takes place in Iowa without sewer, water, and other city funded infrastructure. Iowa League of Cities, in partnership with the State of Iowa and regional councils of Government supports the use of various tools and funding to promote quality of life, community vitality, economic development, and to address housing needs. Maintaining the flexibility of economic development tools is essential to cities of all sizes.
Infrastructure
Cities of all sizes require the resources to meet infrastructure, technology, and human needs necessary to transport, connect, and thrive.
Public Safety
Safety is essential to the health, stability, and vitality of Iowa. Cities must have the human and economic resources, tools, and technology to provide public safety services for their communities.
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