Iowa Open Meetings & Public Records Training Event

Woodbury County Planning & Zoning to Offer Free Iowa Open Meetings & Public Records Training Event

Sioux City, Iowa (June 2, 2026) – Woodbury County Planning & Zoning will host a free training session on Iowa’s Open Meetings and Public Records laws immediately following the Woodbury County Zoning Commission’s regular meeting on Monday, June 22, 2026.

The Zoning Commission meeting begins at 5:00 PM CDT in the basement of the Woodbury County Courthouse, located at 620 Douglas Street, Sioux City. The 90-minute training session will begin immediately after the meeting adjourns, expected between 5:30 and 6:00 PM.

This training is specifically designed to meet the mandatory training requirements for newly elected or appointed public officials serving on a governmental body under Iowa Code §21.12 (effective July 1, 2025). It is also open to all interested board and commission members, county staff, and members of the public who want to strengthen their understanding of Iowa’s Sunshine Laws.

Training Topics Will Include:

• Definitions and requirements for “governmental bodies” and “meetings” under Iowa Code Chapter 21, including electronic and hybrid meetings.
• Proper procedures for meeting notices, agendas, minutes, and closed sessions.
• Key responsibilities under Iowa Code Chapter 22 regarding public records, including request timelines, costs, redactions, and the role of the lawful custodian.
• Enforcement mechanisms, penalties, and best practices for balancing transparency with necessary confidentiality.
• Relevant case law and real-world application scenarios.

Participants who complete the session will receive a Certificate of Completion documenting compliance with state requirements. Woodbury County Planning & Zoning will maintain attendance records for verification purposes.

There is no cost to attend.

How to Register Registration is requested in advance to ensure adequate materials and certificates. Please email Daniel Priestley at dpriestley@woodburycountyiowa.gov no later than 10:00 AM CDT on Friday, June 19, 2026. Include the following information in your registration email:

• Full name
• Address
• Phone number
• Governmental body or organization you represent

“This is a great opportunity to complete your mandatory training locally in a convenient setting while gaining practical knowledge you can apply immediately,” said Daniel Priestley, Woodbury County Zoning Coordinator. “We encourage all board and commission members to attend and to share this opportunity with others.”

For more information or questions, contact Daniel Priestley at dpriestley@woodburycountyiowa.gov.

Daniel J. Priestley, MPA
Woodbury County Zoning Coordinator
620 Douglas Street #609
Sioux City, IA 51101
Phone: 712-279-6609
Fax: 712-279-6530
Website: WoodburyCountyIowa.gov