The following videos and resources highlight council operations topics relevant to the role of county extension council members. NOTE: There are "Chapters" in some videos. Click on the bulleted list icon on the video player to access the chapter feature.
Conducting Public Council Meetings
Conducting Publich Council Meetings
Why can't we all go for coffee after the council meeting? Through the use of scenarios, you'll get an overview of the Open Public Meeting laws. Get guidance to respond to citizen requests for council records, going into a closed session, and accommodating comments from the public. Also, learn the guidelines for socializing with fellow council members outside of meetings.
Resources
Legal Resources for Council Operations Topics
The Legal Resources page also has videos and resources related to council operations provided by our IECA legal counsel, Whitfield & Eddy Law. Because of the proprietary nature of this information, you will need to use the universal login to access this page. To request the password, please contact Jennifer Vit or Julie Baumler and note which county extension council you serve on.
Following is a listing of council operations resources found on the Legal Resources page:
Webinars
- Conflicts of Interest
- Is it Legal? (2023 and 2022 versions)
Selecting Nominating Committees
Selecting Nominating Committees
This 3-minute video encourages council members to thoroughly consider candidates to appoint to the council nominating committee.
Parliamentary Procedure as a Tool for Effective Meetings
Parliamentary Procedure as a Tool for Effective Meetings
Looking for ways to streamline your meetings, provide more productive discussions, and conduct council business with integrity? Learn some parliamentary procedure tips that can help your council move business forward.
Resources
- Contact Terry Janssen: 712-225-6196, tjans@iastate.edu
- Download PowerPoint slides
- Simplified Parliamentary Procedure (can order a hard copy or download a PDF copy)
- Open Meetings, Open Records Handbook
- Roberts Rules of Order
Efficient, Effective, & Engaging Council Meetings
Efficient, Effective, & Engaging Council Meetings
Struggling with three-hour meetings or to get quorum? Learn the steps a council can take to streamline meetings for better effectiveness, how to use a consent agenda, and what items merit extended discussion.
Resources
Consent Agendas
Consent Agendas
Get a quick overview of consent agendas in just 3 minutes.
Background Screening
Background Screening
This 3-minute video covers why we do background screening, resources for background screening, and the council's role in background screening.