Because of its status as an advisory body, the role of the planning commission is often not well understood by citizens, others in local government, or even the commissioners themselves. This frequently leads to isolation or marginalization of the commission. What can the commission do for itself to ensure relevance and effectiveness? This Fact Sheet offers some tips and references.

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.