The Office of 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.
The Office of 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.
Services:
- Investigate a complaint against an agency, official or employee of Iowa state and local government independently and impartially, and in a confidential manner, to the extent possible as provided by law
- Work with an agency to attempt to resolve a problem when an investigation shows that the agency has acted contrary to law, unreasonably or unfairly, or has made a mistake
- Make recommendations to agencies for administrative or policy changes, when appropriate
- Make recommendations to the Iowa General Assembly for legislation, when appropriate
- Answer questions relating to government or refer a person to suitable agency or entity for answers
Eligibility:
Open to all individuals.
Intake Process:
Contact by letter, telephone, TTY (teletypewriter), fax, e-mail, or visit the office in person.
Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm.
Mailing Address:
1112 East Grand
Des Moines, IA 50319
Payment:
No cost to participant.
Handicap Accessible: Yes
Appointment Needed: No
Website: Visit Website