Your Neighbors. Your Services. Your 99 Counties.
Much of the work that keeps Iowa safe, healthy, and connected happens quietly behind the scenes. The Iowa State Association of Counties (ISAC) is proud to launch the “Behind the 99” campaign to pull back the curtain on the essential people and programs that make our state thrive.
What is "Behind the 99"?
Iowa’s 99 counties are the backbone of our state. From the gravel roads of rural townships to the bustling public health clinics of our urban centers, the Behind the 99 initiative is a storytelling effort designed to highlight the vital services provided by your local county officials and staff.
Did You Know?
- The First & Last Mile: Nearly every Iowan lives within just a few miles of a county-maintained road. In fact, counties are responsible for 78% of all roadways in the state.
- The Backbone of Safety: County governments form the backbone of public safety, overseeing the majority of Iowa’s emergency response infrastructure, including more than 70% of the state’s 911 call centers.
- A Local Connection: County officials aren’t just administrators; they are the friends and neighbors you see at the grocery store and community events. Across Iowa, more than 15,000 county employees work every day to keep communities running smoothly.
- Public Spaces & Places: More than 200,000 acres of your favorite parks, running trails, picnic spots, or campgrounds are county run and you may not realize it. From maintenance to conservation, it’s your county quietly improving your quality of life every time you step outside.
The Pillars of County Service
Counties provide the critical “first and last mile” access to your home and your life. Whether you’re a county official, citizen, or community advocate, you can help amplify the people and services that keep Iowa safe, healthy, and connected.
Our campaign focuses on the four core areas where your county works for you:
Toolkit Materials
Learn how county services shape your daily life. Share the stories, celebrate the people, and help us elevate the essential work happening in all 99 counties. Get started by downloading the campaign materials and getting involved in the effort.
