Iowa Code § 400.21: Notice of appeal.

If the appeal be taken by the person removed, discharged, demoted, or suspended, notice of the appeal, signed by the appellant and specifying the ruling appealed from, shall be filed with the clerk of the commission. If the appeal is taken by the person making such removal, discharge, demotion, or suspension, such notice shall also be served upon the person removed, discharged, demoted, or suspended.