State of Iowa – Office of Ombudsman

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.

Parent Organization: State of Iowa – Office of Ombudsman

Location Information

1112 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50319, USA

Phone 515-281-3592 | Fax 515-242-6007

Program: Private: State of Iowa – Office of Ombudsman

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:

You can contact them by letter, telephone, TTY (teletypewriter), fax, e-mail, or visit the office in person.

Hours:

Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

Payment:

No Cost to Participant

Handicap Accessible: Yes

Appointment Needed: No

Website: View Website