Meeting Public Comments

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A bill for an act eliminating the Iowa smart planning principles and other local comprehensive planning and development guidelines.(Formerly HF 2148.)
Subcommittee members: Webster-CH, Driscoll, Weiner
Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Time: 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
Location: Senate Lounge
Comments Submitted:
The purpose of comments is to provide information to members of the subcommittee.
Names and comments are public records. Remaining information is considered a confidential record.

03-12-2026
Madeline Sturms
The Smart Planning Principles Chapter 18B are critical to empowering thoughtful decision making happens at the local level. Residents should be proud that the State of Iowa values the thoughtful insight from planning professionals that bring longterm vision, datadriven insight, and expert guidance to the local decisionmaking table. These principles do not carry an unfunded mandate, & they provide great benefits without causing any harm. The principles require that jurisdictions should consider & may apply principles such as collaboration, efficiency & transparency at a time when cities & counties are working towards innovative service delivery to best serve the taxpayers. Agricultural land protection, supporting job growth & business development, & housing choices are all critical components for Iowas business & industries to flourish. The principles protect the integrity of public decision making & ensure all voices are heard during the lawmaking process. Do not support HF2618.
03-12-2026
David Anderson
Why are we wasting our time on this? Section 18B is one of the better ways to keep Iowa a nice place to live, so why get rid of it? No on HF 2618.