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County Employees Graduate from Leadership Council Bluffs

Posted June 23, 2025
Posted by Public Relations

Two Pottawattamie County employees—Jamie Smothers from the Treasurer’s Office and Sgt. Jim Doty from the Sheriff’s Office—recently graduated from Leadership Council Bluffs as members of Class 37. Hosted by the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce, the yearlong program gives participants behind-the-scenes access to key community sectors, encourages civic engagement, and builds connections among emerging leaders across industries. 

More than 20 Pottawattamie County employees have completed the program over the years, underscoring the county’s long-standing commitment to professional development and community leadership. Today we're highlighting the county's most recent graduates, along with insights from leaders who supported their participation. 

🎓 Jamie Smothers, Deputy, Treasurer’s Office 

Inspired by her supervisor, County Treasurer Lea Voss—a 2010 graduate of the program—Jamie Smothers applied to Leadership Council Bluffs hoping to build relationships and learn more about the city she calls home. 

“There is so much you learn about the community we live in—so many interesting things,” Smothers said. “The City of Council Bluffs really is a big deal.” 

Voss echoed that spirit of discovery about her time in the program. “Growing up in Council Bluffs, I had no idea how much I would learn and enjoy it. Even after all those years, I had never been to the Squirrel Cage Jail—which was right out the front door of our office!” 

Among Smothers’ favorite moments was Public Safety Day, where the group visited a fire station and took part in a hands-on fire investigation simulation. “I could listen to Fire Chief Justin James talk for hours,” she said. “He is very knowledgeable about our town and has had some interesting experiences.” 

She also found unexpected optimism during a visit to the State Capitol. “It was refreshing to see representatives from both parties work together respectfully—even when they didn’t agree on certain issues. In the world we live in today, that meant a lot to witness.” 

The experience has already made an impact on her approach to leadership at the Treasurer’s Office. “Being a deputy, always maintaining good relationships with my coworkers is a must.” 

Her advice for future participants? “Make each month count and always wear comfortable shoes!” 

🎓 Sgt. Jim Doty, Sheriff’s Office 

For Sgt. Jim Doty, a lifelong resident of Council Bluffs, the program was an opportunity to step outside his professional role and get more involved in the broader community. 

“I have always known that Council Bluffs is rich in history,” Doty said. “I was blown away by how much more history the city has that I never knew about—especially some of the buildings and sites that are still around today.” 

One of the most eye-opening lessons, he said, was seeing how public perception on social media can differ from the full context provided by community leaders. 

“It was a great lesson in how there’s more to the story than what you see online.” 

While his daily responsibilities with the Sheriff’s Office may not change, the relationships he built during the program will be valuable going forward. 

“In the future I’m sure I will be reaching out to them—and vice versa—for their assistance and expertise.” 

Chief Deputy Steve Winchell praised Doty’s participation in the program: 

“We are always proud as an agency when our staff step out of their usual day to day to pursue opportunities to engage with the public. The relationships Sgt. Doty was able to build during this time will make us more effective as an agency going forward, and he will be able to utilize tools he learned to make him more effective as a leader.” 

Pottawattamie County is proud to support employees in programs that grow leadership skills, expand networks, and strengthen connections across the community. Applications for Leadership Council Bluffs Class 38 are closed, but if you're interested in learning more about the program, please visit https://www.councilbluffsiowa.com/leadership-council-bluffs/

Photo from the Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Council Bluffs Class 37. 

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