By some estimates energy consumption in buildings accounts for one-third of all the energy used in the U.S. and two-thirds of the…
State law allows cities certain powers and abilities to provide services and shape the development of areas outside their established boundaries. This…
Many communities around the state have dilapidated buildings. These buildings are in various stages of vacancy and/or disrepair – some may be…
While the Code of Iowa regulates certain land use activities, many cities establish additional procedural regulations for the handling of zoning issues.…
Annexation can serve as a significant development tool for cities, both economically and physically. Cities are allowed to annex territory for several…
Involuntary annexation means that some or all of the property owners within the proposed annexation area are opposed to the action. As…
Cities are responsible for maintaining most of the public property in the community, including the city streets. However, there are some questions…
While many cities have factory-built homes within their boundaries, they are limited in how they can zone such residences. The Code of Iowa and…
Eminent domain provides state and local governments in Iowa the ability to require private property owners to sell their property for a…
A growing principle in municipal government planning efforts is the incorporation of sustainability concepts. These ideas can reach into nearly all parts…