Practical Resources for City Leaders
Explore NDLC’s collection of resources, guides and handbooks—all created to help your city operate smoothly, strengthen community engagement, and deliver exceptional service to residents. Resources that keep city leaders connected and informed.
Handbooks & Guides
The North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC) offers comprehensive guides and handbooks designed to promote clarity, compliance, and best practices for effective city leadership. These resources help officials navigate the responsibilities of public service with confidence and integrity.
ADA Accessibility Resources
ADA Digital Accessibility
Digital accessibility is now required for local governments. These resources explain ADA Title II regulations and WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards for accessible websites, mobile apps, and electronic documents.
ADA Accessibility ResourcesARPA Guide
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Guide
NDLC has gathered a selection of trusted resources to guide cities through each step of the reporting process.
ARPA GuideGovernment Basics
City Government Basics
Understanding local government is key to effective leadership. North Dakota has three forms of city government—city council, city commission, and modern council—each differing in the executive officer’s voting authority during meetings.
Government BasicsElection InformationElection Handbook and Forms
Election Handbook and Forms
This resource is designed to help city officials understand key procedures, timelines, and responsibilities to ensure fair and efficient local elections.
Election InformationHR Reference Guide
HR Collaborative and HR Reference Guide
The HR Collaborative Reference Guide equips human resource managers with trusted information and practical guidance for developing effective, consistent, and fair policies that align with state and federal laws.
HR Reference GuideOfficials Handbook
North Dakota City Officials Handbook
This North Dakota City Officials Handbook covers the essential elements of city government—providing clarity, guidance, and practical information to help officials lead effectively.
Officials HandbookManuals & Guides
Open Meetings & Records Guide
For detailed information and official guidance, NDLC directs city and park district officials to the North Dakota Attorney General’s resources on open meetings and open records—ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance in local government.
Manuals & GuidesPlanning and Zoining Guide
Planning and Zoning Guide
Many North Dakota cities use planning and zoning authority to guide growth. In partnership with the North Dakota Planning Association, NDLC offers a Planning and Zoning Guide to help city leaders navigate local regulations and best practices.
Planning and Zoining Guide