Iowa Code § 6B.2C: Approval of the public improvement.

The authority to condemn is not conferred, and the condemnation proceedings shall not commence, unless the governing body for the acquiring agency approves a preliminary or final route or site location of the proposed public improvement, approves the use of condemnation, and finds that there is a reasonable expectation the applicant will be able to achieve its public purpose, comply with all applicable standards, and obtain the necessary permits.