About The League

The Iowa League of Cities is:

• An association of more than 870 cities in Iowa, large and small.
• A resource for city officials for answers to city government questions.
• An advocate for cities on state and federal issues.
• A sponsor of affiliated programs providing municipal services.
• Over 105 years strong.

What does the League do?

The League provides guidance.

• Confused about how to pass a city ordinance, handle junk cars or other issues?
• City officials can call the League Membership Services staff on our toll-free members-only help line.

The League leads a grass-roots advocacy effort for local government

• Frustrated by laws that dictate what your city can and cannot do?
• Our Governmental Affairs staff represents cities' interests before state agencies and monitors legislation affecting cities including taxes, public works and others. League staff also assists city leaders when talking to their lawmakers by providing necessary information and assistance.
• Occasionally, the League files Amicus briefs on legal cases with potential to impact many cities.

The League is a resource for insurance and investment needs.

• The League consolidates common city needs enabling group purchasing power and specialized assistance. Programs created by or sponsored by the League provide cost-effective quality services to cities.
• The League’s affiliated programs offer health, workers' compensation, liability and casualty coverage as well as a prosperous, liquid asset investment program. Other programs assist cities in developing services to better serve their citizens.

The League keeps cities informed with a constantly updated slate of workshops and publications, including:

• Monthly Cityscape magazine;
• Weekly Legislative Link during the state's legislative session;
• An annual listing of New Laws related to cities after each legislative session;
• An annual series of workshops targeted to cities under 1500 in population;
• An annual series of workshops to assist city officials in budgeting;
• Action Calls on immediate legislative concerns at the state or federal level;
• Special Reports on topical issues, including Home Rule, Condemnation and Law Enforcement;
• Biennial Directory of League member cities in Iowa; and
• Annual municipal salary and fringe benefits survey of city officials and staff.