Govt Org
Hours:
8am-4:30pm
Modern-day Pottawattamie County evolved out of the Pottawattamie Purchase of 1847. It was named after the Native American tribe Potawatomi, that once possessed the Iowa Territory. Potawatomi is a Native American term meaning “Keepers of the Council Fires,” or “Makers of Fire.” Pottawattamie County is honored to carry on their name as one tribe of many that was forged by the flames of settlement. Just like the Potawatomi rose from the ashes and found a home here, you too can Find Your Fire in Pottawattamie County.
Pottawattamie County is located in the southwest corner of Iowa. The county seat is in the city of Council Bluffs. Other cities in Pottawattamie County include Avoca, Carson, Carter Lake, Crescent, Hancock, Macedonia, McClelland, Minden, Neola, Oakland, Shelby, Treynor, Underwood, and Walnut.
Craig Carlsen has been a resident of Council Bluffs since he was hired by Iowa Western in 2005. After serving 17 years in the Marketing Department, Craig became the Public Relations Manager for Pottawattamie County. He plays a pivotal role in leading strategic communications, overseeing brand management, and engaging residents on social media.
Craig also serves on several boards and committees, and has been involved with projects that make a lasting impact. He helped market the launch of Council Bluffs’ free city-wide wireless internet network, BLink, and he boosted awareness for the construction of Dream Playground Re-Imagined.