Her Story
About Laura
Laura J. Liegois is a public administration professional and municipal leader currently serving as the City Manager for the City of Fort Madison, Iowa. With nearly three decades of experience in government operations, she has built a career focused on community development, public service, strategic planning, and effective municipal management. In her current role, she oversees daily city operations, collaborates with elected officials on policy and administration, and works to ensure the delivery of essential services for residents while advancing projects that support Fort Madison’s growth and future development.
Before joining Fort Madison, Laura served as City Manager for the City of Chariton, Iowa, from 2019 to 2023, where she managed municipal activities, budgets, and operations while partnering with community organizations to promote economic growth. During her tenure, she played a key role in advancing the city’s first housing addition in 30 years and led major infrastructure initiatives, including the Chariton Downtown Square Sidewalk project. She also founded and operated Municipal Connections, a consulting firm that supported government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses through grant writing, project management, public relations, policy development, and strategic planning. Earlier in her career, she spent nearly a decade managing solid waste operations for the City of Muscatine and served in leadership roles focused on environmental services and public works.
Laura holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Ashford University and has academic experience in government studies as a professor at Muscatine Community College. She is recognized for her servant-leadership approach, strong communication skills, and ability to bring teams and stakeholders together to achieve community goals. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Laura is actively involved in civic organizations, including serving as President of Fort Madison Rotary, Board Member and Treasurer for United Way Great River Region, and a Chamber Ambassador. Her dedication to volunteerism and community service has earned her multiple honors, including the 50 Faces of Volunteerism in Iowa award, Muscatine Chamber Volunteer of the Year recognition, and the Iowa Governor’s Volunteer of the Year award.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Laura
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success has been working hard and educating myself continuously. I am a servant leadership style person who walks beside my staff to get the job done together. Having strong relationships built in the communities has led to success, along with my team and the community.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Educate yourself as much as you can on the things that you need to know to be successful. Always be open for learning and training. Be trainable.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You need to have some thick skin and be prepared for when people aren't happy. It can be very lonely at the top but very rewarding. Be ready to listen and continue to educate yourself. Build relationships in your community and with colleagues. Build your team internally and make sure everyone is heard. Make a plan and update it yearly.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Legislative mandates from the state government affect municipalities more than federal. Property tax reforms have been challenging. Ever-changing views of people and understanding cultures in new communities are important. Being open for new ideas while continuing what's important.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty about situations and how to fix them rather than band-aiding problems. Problem solving by talking about issues and figuring out fixes. Being genuine when reaching out. Listening to people so they feel heard, then working together to solve problems.
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