In a proactive effort to combat the spread of COVID-19, the City of Des Moines has announced the closure of several municipal buildings, effective March 17, 2020. This includes City Hall, the Municipal Service Center, and the Wastewater Reclamation Authority, with public access restricted until at least April 12, 2020. Mayor Frank Cownie stated that the city's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of its residents and staff, which led to the declaration of a state of emergency. To mitigate the impact of this closure, city services will remain accessible through phone, email, and the city’s website, enabling residents to continue receiving essential services. The closure has since been extended through May 17, 2020, as the pandemic situation evolves.

All deadlines for city permits, licenses, and certifications have been indefinitely suspended, allowing residents additional flexibility during this time. For ongoing updates and information related to COVID-19, residents are encouraged to visit [DSM. city/covid19](https://dsm. city/covid19). This decisive action exemplifies the city’s commitment to public health and safety during an unprecedented crisis.