Research
The League research provides local leaders information and data resources to help them address current issues and most effectively lead their communities forward.
Resources
President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act into law. The League and the National League of Cities’ year-long (NLC) “Cities Are Essential” advocacy campaign resulted…
COVID-19 Impacts on Local Finance Amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, considering impacts to local finances and budgets is a challenge. This page was…
Property taxes play a significant role in municipal government as the primary funding source for city budgets. Check out a variety of special reports regarding this topic.
What is the census data used for? Census data is used annually to distribute more than $1.5 trillion in federal funds. Nearly…
The U.S. Census has announced a delay in its planned release of redistricting data to states. The Census has indicated that this data will…
Cities that have active Tax Increment Financing (TIF) must do a range of filings or reports each year, and below are various places…
2021 MFPRSI Update now available. City employees receive retirement benefits from one of two state-sponsored systems. Most city employees (and elected officials…
Iowa State University Outreach & Extension Partnership
The League partners with the Iowa State University Extension & Outreach’s Community & Economic Development Program (CED). Two staff members share responsibilities between the League and CED, and this partnership brings an abundance of mutual benefits. Some of the collaborative projects are featured below.
Surveys
The League recently conducted its biennial Utility Rate Survey, concluding in winter 2020. With 365 cities and local government organizations participating, we hope this information…
We asked our members about the League’s services, check out their responses in our membership survey.
Grants
The League received a three-year grant sub-award as a part of the Rural Shrink Smart project, led by Iowa State University and funded by the National Science Foundation. This grant explores small and shrinking rural communities in Iowa that have been able to protect the quality of life and community services for their residents even as they lose population. The League serves as the grant’s “Community Partner.”
Latest Publications
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This publication is designed to assist cities begin their annual budget process. Learn about revenues, expenditures, legislation and other budget issues.
We asked our members about the League’s services, check out their responses in our membership survey.