Dedicated to Making Good Government Better

Our Mission

The Office of Citizens' Aide/Ombudsman was established by and operates under the authority of Iowa Code Chapter 2C. The office has adopted rules, Iowa Administrative Code [141], regarding the office's organization, practices and procedures.

The Office of Citizens' Aide/Ombudsman serves as an independent and impartial agency to which citizens can air their grievances about government. By facilitating communications between citizens and government and making recommendations to improve administrative practices and procedures, the Ombudsman promotes responsiveness and quality in government.

The Ombudsman has authority to investigate complaints about Iowa state and local government, with certain exceptions. The Ombudsman attempts to resolve most problems informally. Following an investigation, the Ombudsman may make findings and recommendations and publish a report.

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