Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in Iowa
How local government works in Iowa, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse Iowa’s Local Wiki pages below.
All 99 Iowa counties are governed by an elected Board of Supervisors (3 or 5 members, four-year terms) that holds broad authority over nearly every aspect of county government, combining legislative and executive functions. For a public meeting or records request, contact the board of supervisors' office or the county auditor, who also handles elections administration locally.
Local government in Iowa
- County governments99
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages940
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - School districts342
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts445
Single-purpose governments — fire, water, library, parks, housing, transit, and more.
Counts: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Census of Governments — Government Units listing. A consolidated city-county is counted once.
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