Communications & Media Inquiries

The City of Urbandale values the opportunity to provide information to the media, residents, businesses, and stakeholders. If you would like to receive press releases or media advisories from the City of Urbandale, please e-mail Derek Zarn at dzarn@urbandale.org and request to be added to the list.

Media Inquiries, Interviews, and Requests

Reporters, film crews, editors, producers, and persons in similar occupations should contact and work directly with Derek Zarn, Urbandale's Director of Marketing and Communications. Derek will assist you in scheduling interviews with staff and elected officials, as well as allocating resources and finding locations for filming in Urbandale. The Communications Team ensures that the Urbandale community is kept well informed by helping to promote awareness of events, programs, initiatives, services, and opportunities in Urbandale. Please email your requests to Derek Zarn, dzarn@urbandale.org or text/call 515-380-1741.

History and Role

A communications and marketing role was formally added to the City organization in 2017. In 2022, a Department of Marketing and Communications was created to help support the City's strategic priorities and organizational mission. The City's external and internal communications efforts are led by Derek Zarn, Director of Marketing and Communications. Internally, one or two staff members from each department represent the Communications Team. These employees provide departmental and professional perspectives on communications.

Derek Zarn
Director of Marketing and Communications
City of Urbandale, Iowa
e-mail: dzarn@urbandale.org
mobile: 515-380-1741

Derek joined the City of Urbandale in 2017 as a Communications Specialist and now serves as the Director of the Marketing and Communications Department. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Iowa State University.