Institute of Public Affairs

University of Iowa

GOAL SETTING WORK SESSIONS

FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT POLICYMAKERS

The goal setting process assists policy leaders to develop a future focus, set strategic directions, and determine priorities.  It provides an opportunity for elected officials and key staff to work together in an informal setting to discuss issues and opportunities facing the community and develop consensus on strategies that deal with these issues.  Since 1980, the Institute’s staff has facilitated hundreds of such sessions for city councils, boards of supervisors and various types of boards and commissions.  This experience has shown that strategic planning is a key element of effective policy leadership.

METHODS

• Skilled third party facilitation
• Active participation of all council or board members
• Structured, informal work session
• Environmental scan and issue identification
• In-depth discussions and analysis
• Staff input
• Implementation planning

RESULTS

• A shared vision and focus
• Issues/opportunities clearly identified
• A clearly defined set of goals and priorities
• Improved teamwork and decision making
• Consensus on an action agenda
• Increased citizen awareness and support

EXPERIENCE

• Knowledge and experience in local government issues and trends
• Significant experience in facilitating sessions with local government elected officials, board and commission members, staff and citizens
• Ability to tailor sessions to unique needs
• Experience with all population sizes and types of boards
• On-site program delivery
• Affordable costs

COSTS

Fees are based on population size, number of sessions, travel and other direct expenses.  The base fee schedule may be accessed at http://inrc.continuetolearn.uiowa.edu/ipa2/services.htm.

For further information, please contact:

Jeff Schott, Associate Director, Institute of Public Affairs

The University of Iowa, 200 INRC

Iowa City, IA 52242

(319) 335-7586

E-mail:  jeff-schott@uiowa.org