City councils or county boards of supervisors are the primary policymaking entities responsible for setting the direction of the community’s government. These policies address how land in the community is to be used in the future.

This Fact Sheet addresses three important functions:

• Adopting plans and ordinances
• Approving development proposals
• Making appointments to boards, commissions and, in some communities, staff positions.

Planning and Zoning workshops are presented throughout Iowa by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Community and Economic Development local government specialists. Information about these workshops and other programs can be found at www.extension.iastate.edu/communities/programs-and-services.