Latimer Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Latimer, Iowa government websites.

  About Latimer City Government
Annual Budget $1.2 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

Latimer, Iowa, is governed by the Latimer City Council, which consists of five elected members. Each council member serves a term of four years, with elections held every two years for staggered seats. The council is responsible for making decisions on local policies and governance, representing the interests of the community.

For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the city of Latimer has an approximate annual operating budget of $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives, ensuring the efficient operation of local government.

The Latimer City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 6:30 PM. These meetings take place at the Latimer City Hall, located at 105 Main Street, Latimer, IA 50452. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.

  About Latimer, Iowa

In the heart of Franklin County, Latimer offers a charming blend of small-town warmth and historical significance. With a population estimated at approximately 569 residents, this tight-knit community showcases the spirit of rural Iowa. Founded in the late 19th century, Latimer has maintained its character while adapting to modern developments. The city features a number of well-established neighborhoods, including areas known for their family-friendly atmosphere and close-knit community events, which foster a sense of belonging among residents. The local economy is primarily driven by agriculture, small businesses, and some light manufacturing, providing essential employment opportunities for its inhabitants. Distinctive features of Latimer include its local parks, community events, and a commitment to preserving its history, making it an inviting place for both residents and visitors alike.

Law enforcement in Latimer is primarily provided by the Latimer Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining peace and safety within the city limits. For broader law enforcement needs, the Franklin County Sheriff's Office serves the surrounding areas and provides additional support, especially in criminal investigations. Anyone seeking arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history in Latimer can start by contacting the Latimer Police Department’s records unit. They typically provide access to local crime reports and arrest records. For county-wide records, individuals may need to reach out to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, which oversees a detention facility where individuals may be booked. Additionally, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (part of the Iowa State Police) maintains a statewide repository of criminal history information, which can be accessed for thorough background checks. Many of these records can also be accessed through online lookup portals offered by the state and local agencies, streamlining the process for those who prefer digital access to their information.

The judicial needs of Latimer are addressed by the Franklin County District Court, where residents can seek various legal services and file necessary documents. To request court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the Iowa Judicial Branch or visit the court clerk's office in person for more direct assistance. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained through the Franklin County Clerk-Recorder or the Iowa Department of Public Health's vital records division. For property records, residents may contact the county assessor's office or the recorder’s office, both of which facilitate access to property information and assessments. Furthermore, public records requests can be made under the Iowa Open Records Law, allowing individuals to obtain a wide array of public information. Typically, agencies respond to these requests within 5 to 10 business days, providing transparency and accountability for the community. These resources serve to ensure that Latimer residents have access to the information they need, further contributing to the city's commitment to public service and community engagement.

About Latimer

Latimer, a quaint town in the heart of Franklin County, Iowa, boasts a population of approximately 694 residents. With a ZIP code of 50452, Latimer offers a charming blend of small-town warmth and historical significance. The community is dedicated to preserving its heritage while embracing progress and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Latimer, Franklin County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within the county. These include the Hampton Police Department, Sheffield Police Department, and other local agencies. Each department has jurisdiction within its respective city limits and collaborates with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes and regional law enforcement initiatives. Together, these agencies work to maintain public safety and respond to emergencies throughout Franklin County.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Franklin County Jail, located in Hampton, is the primary detention facility for the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are fingerprinted and photographed. The jail provides an inmate lookup service through the Sheriff's Office, allowing the public to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, and visitors are required to adhere to scheduled times and security protocols.

Court Records

The Franklin County Courthouse, situated at 123 1st St, Hampton, IA 50441, serves as the hub for judicial records and proceedings in the Latimer area. This facility houses the district court, which oversees civil and criminal cases. Individuals seeking access to court records, such as case files, judgments, and transcripts, can visit the courthouse or explore the online resources available at https://www.co.franklin.ia.us/courts.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Franklin County encompasses various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation provides additional resources for background checks. Residents can request criminal records through the Sheriff's Office or the Iowa Courts Online Search system, which offers access to statewide criminal history information.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Franklin County are maintained by the Franklin County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of arrests made within the county, including the charges and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Iowa Open Records Law, these records are accessible to the public, although certain restrictions may apply to protect privacy and ongoing investigations.

Public Records Access

Latimer's public records are maintained by the Franklin County Recorder's Office, located at 123 1st St, Hampton, IA 50441. This office is responsible for managing and preserving various records, including real estate transactions, property deeds, and vital records. Residents and interested parties can access these records by visiting the office or by utilizing the online portal at https://www.co.franklin.ia.us/recorder.

Economy & Demographics

Latimer's economic landscape is supported by a diverse range of industries and employers. The Franklin County Assessor's Office, located at 123 1st St, Hampton, IA 50441, maintains records related to property values, tax assessments, and commercial/industrial developments within the Latimer area. These records provide valuable insights into the local economy and can be accessed by the public through the office's online portal at https://www.co.franklin.ia.us/assessor.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Latimer Police Department, located at 123 Main St, Latimer, IA 50452, is responsible for maintaining law enforcement records within the city. This includes incident reports, arrest records, and other public safety documentation. Residents and authorized parties can request access to these records by contacting the department directly or visiting their website at https://www.latimer.ia.us/police.

Vital Records

The Franklin County Recorder's Office is the primary source for vital records in Latimer. This includes birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses. Individuals seeking to obtain these records can visit the office in person or submit a request through the online platform at https://www.co.franklin.ia.us/recorder. The office staff is available to assist with navigating the process and ensuring the timely delivery of requested documents.

Business & Licensing Records

Latimer's business community is supported by the Franklin County Economic Development Corporation, located at 123 1st St, Hampton, IA 50441. This organization works to promote economic growth and assist local businesses. The corporation maintains records related to business registrations, licenses, and permits within the Latimer area. Entrepreneurs and business owners can contact the FCEDC for information on starting or expanding their operations in Latimer.

Elections & Voter Records

Latimer voters are served by the Franklin County Auditor's Office, which administers elections for all Franklin County residents. The Franklin County Auditor is located at 12 First Avenue NW, Hampton, IA 50441, phone (641) 456-5625. The office maintains voter registration records, processes absentee ballot applications, manages polling place operations, certifies election results, and provides information about candidates and ballot measures. The county website provides election information and results at www.franklincountyiowa.org.

Iowa residents can register to vote online through the Iowa Secretary of State's website at sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterinformation/voterregistration.html. Voters must be U.S. citizens, Iowa residents, at least 18 years old by election day, and not currently declared mentally incompetent by a court. The voter registration deadline is 11 days before an election, though Iowa also offers same-day registration at the polls on election day with proper identification. Acceptable forms of ID include an Iowa driver's license, Iowa non-operator's ID, U.S. passport, military ID, tribal ID, or certain other photo IDs. Voters without ID can cast a provisional ballot.

Latimer is an incorporated city and holds municipal elections for mayor and city council positions. Iowa cities typically hold municipal elections on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November in odd-numbered years. Latimer's next city election will be November 4, 2025, for city offices. City council terms are typically four years, with staggered terms. Candidate filing information and local ballot measures are available through the Franklin County Auditor's office.

Latimer residents can find their assigned polling place by using the polling place locator at sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx or by contacting the County Auditor's office. Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on election day. In the November 2024 presidential election, Franklin County reported approximately 62% voter turnout, with strong participation typical of Iowa counties in presidential election years.

On November 3, 2026, Latimer and Franklin County voters will participate in the midterm elections. Iowa's U.S. Senate seat held by Chuck Grassley will not be up in 2026 (his term expires in 2029), but Iowa's other U.S. Senate seat held by Joni Ernst will not be up either (her term expires in 2027). However, Iowa's U.S. House seats will be contested, and Latimer is in Iowa's 4th Congressional District. The Iowa Governor's office will be on the ballot in 2026, as Iowa holds gubernatorial elections in midterm years. State legislature seats including Iowa Senate and Iowa House of Representatives districts covering Franklin County will be contested. County-level offices such as County Supervisor positions may also be on the ballot depending on term expirations. Local school board positions and any city ballot measures may appear on ballots for Latimer voters.

Iowa offers no-excuse absentee voting. Voters can request an absentee ballot by submitting an application to the Franklin County Auditor by mail, email, fax, or in person. The online absentee ballot request portal is available at sos.iowa.gov. Absentee ballot requests must be received by the Saturday before election day for mail ballots, or voters can request ballots in person at the Auditor's office up until the day before the election. Completed absentee ballots must be received by the county auditor by the time polls close on election day. Iowa also offers early voting in-person at the County Auditor's office beginning 29 days before the election.

Election records that are public in Iowa include voter registration lists (available for purchase for political purposes), campaign finance reports filed by candidates and committees (searchable at www.iowa.gov/ethics), candidate nomination petitions and statements, and precinct-by-precinct election results. The Franklin County Auditor publishes unofficial election results on election night and certified results following the county canvass.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ⚠️ Limited Online | Vital Records: ✅ Online Ordering | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.2/10 — Franklin County and Iowa provide strong online access to property records, court documents, business filings, and voter information, though law enforcement booking logs require direct contact with the Sheriff's Office rather than real-time online access.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Latimer, Franklin County, Iowa to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Latimer, Iowa, you will be transported to the Franklin County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Franklin County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Franklin County Clerk of Courts for case information.
The Latimer area is served by public school districts in Franklin County, Iowa. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Iowa Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
Crime statistics for Latimer, Iowa are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Latimer Police Department on their official website. The Iowa Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
The Latimer Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Iowa government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
The Latimer Public Library main branch is located in Latimer, Iowa. Check the Latimer city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
Fingerprinting services in Latimer, Iowa are available through the Latimer Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Franklin County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
To obtain vital records in Latimer, Iowa, contact the Iowa Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Franklin County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
Police reports from Latimer, Iowa can be obtained from the Latimer Police Department or the Franklin County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Iowa Open Records Law, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Iowa DMV.
A background check in Latimer, Franklin County, Iowa typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Iowa criminal history report through the Iowa Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.
  Nearby Cities in Franklin County, Iowa

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Alexander Chapin Coulter Hampton Popejoy