Rural Water
The Law Shop offers the following representation services and professional guidance for rural water districts and associations (non-profit or 357A) within the State of Iowa:
We Provide Unbundled Legal Services
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Board Member Training
General training of new and existing board members on district or association protocols, board member duties and responsibilities, and public body legal authorities where applicable.
Board of Director Meetings
Meeting attendance to provide general legal guidance as needed and maintain firsthand working knowledge of relevant protocols, issues and concerns impacting the district or association.
Agendas and Minutes
Preparation of board and member meeting agendas and minutes consistent with the best interests of the district or association as well as laws regarding open records and meetings where applicable.
Rules and Regulations
Review of existing policies and drafting of new or amended policies for district or association rules and regulations.
Open Records and Meetings
Guidance on and drafting of documents in compliance with relevant laws regarding open records and meetings where applicable.
Public Bidding
Guidance on compliance with public bidding requirements for district or association construction projects where applicable.
Easements and Land Acquisitions
Preparation of standard easement and water user agreement forms; review of easements and supporting documentation prior to filing with county recorder; preparation and filing of land acquisition or disposal documents.
Franchise Proceedings
Active involvement with district or association, city council, and county proceedings relating to potential water or sewer franchises; document drafting for franchise proceedings.
Public Notices
Preparation of public notices required by law; arrangements for publication of notices unless publication is handled directly by district or association.
Professional/Project Liaison
Liaison services when needed for projects and other matters involving others such as customers, engineers, contractors, city councils, outside entities, government agencies, project sponsors, lenders, bond counsel, litigation counsel, etc.
28E Agreements
Negotiation, drafting and review of intergovernmental agreements that allow a public body or bodies to provide a specified service or services to citizens or members in a more cost-effective manner.
Debt Collection
Advising as to filing of actions in small claims court ($6,500 or less) and filing utility liens with the county treasurer for collection with property taxes; referrals to litigation counsel for larger debt collection claims (>$6,500) requiring action in district court.
Employment Matters
General guidance on employee matters and handbook as well as referral to employment law counsel or other experts as may be needed from time to time.