Iowa Code § 7.5
The governor, whenever the governor deems such action to be in the interest of the public, shall have power to direct the attorney general to appear for and on behalf of any county, city or other municipality of this state or for and on behalf of any officer thereof or contractor therewith, whenever any such county, city or other municipality or officer or contractor is a party to any action or proceeding in any court wherein is involved the validity of any alleged patent on any matter or thing entering into highway, bridge, or culvert construction, or on any parts thereof, and may employ such legal assistance in addition to the attorney general as the governor may deem necessary and may pay for the same out of any fund in the state treasury not otherwise appropriated. Whenever the attorney general is so directed by the governor it shall be the attorney general's duty to comply therewith.
Iowa Code § 7.5
Employment by executive council, §13.7