Heading up the town
Tim Zisoff, Indianola City Manager, became interested in city government at an early age. As a child, Zisoff often walked to city hall in Hammond, Indiana, to visit his grandmother at work. During those visits, shed sometimes introduce him to people such as the mayor and council members. That interest stuck.
Now, hes been overseeing the day-to-day operations of Indianola since 1987. That means working to prepare a balanced city budget, overseeing all contracts and city departments except electric and water and coordinating those departments. He also is responsible for carrying out policies established by the city council.
Originally hired in 1979 as administrative assistant, Zisoff was part of the committee hiring the citys first manager. The city manager form of government is not the most common form of city government in Iowa. But as cities grow and the day-to-day operations become more complex, it is more common for towns to hire a professional who is trained to oversee those operations, according to Zisoff.
The city manager is a kind of traffic coordinator making sure all the departments are headed in the same direction. This form of government also gives citizens one person to talk to about city issues. My doors always open, Zisoff said.
For those who cant make it to city hall, Zisoff can be reached at 961-9410, by e-mail at or through the citys web site. Just click on the comment/suggestion link and any comments will go to Zisoff.
After 21 years working for the city of Indianola, Zisoff said he hasnt lost interest yet, and thats because of the variety.
It changes every single day. Theres always something different, Zisoff said. City government is also the best place to work in government to actually see the results of your work. Its the place where you have the most affect and can see best the results.
When hes not behind his desk at city hall, you can find Zisoff riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. He and wife Danette often take motorcycle trips, either on their own or with a group of other H.O.G. owners. He also loves to camp and really enjoys following the activities his boys, Josh, 16, and Eric, 14, both in and out of school.
