Legislative Priorities

COGs Deliver for Iowa

Iowa’s 17 Councils of Governments: Small in Number, Big in Impact

Across Iowa, regional planning organizations are shaping the future of our communities. Over the past three years, Iowa’s Councils of Governments (COGs) have delivered meaningful impact on these communities through a wide range of transformative projects. These numbers reflect strategic leadership, thoughtful collaboration, and unwavering commitment to local priorities. From housing and infrastructure to economic development and land revitalization, COGs are driving results that matter.

3,081

Projects Completed

740 Communities Served

$1.5 Billion in Total Project Investment

Now is the Time to Build on the Momentum to Accelerate our Impact!

Increase COG Assistance to $400,00

Iowa’s 17 COGs currently receive $350,000 annually, limiting their support for local governments. Increasing this to $400,000 would enhance their ability to manage over $56 million in grants, leveraging state funds for significant federal returns. Our goal is $70,000 per COG to fully match federal investment and expand statewide service delivery.

Support Land Redevelopment Trust

We back legislation to create Land Redevelopment Trusts that acquire and prepare neglected properties for redevelopment. These trusts help transform vacant and abandoned sites into valuable community assets aligned with local priorities.

Advance Housing Initiatives

To grow homeownership and drive economic development, Iowa must expand its housing supply. ICOG supports increased investment in Housing Trust Funds, enhancements to the Workforce Housing Tax Credit and continued funding for the Housing Renewal Program.

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Now is the Time to Build on the Momentum to Accelerate our Impact!

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