Stay informed about government news and updates in Des Moines, IA.
The City of Des Moines is hosting free SCRUB and MEGA SCRUB events on Saturday, July 18, 2020, allowing residents to dispose of storm debris caused by severe weather. The events will take place at multiple locations, with guidelines in place to ensure safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents are encouraged to follow health precautions while utilizing this essential community service.
The City of Des Moines plans to install flashboards on the Center Street Dam on July 21, 2020, aiming to elevate water levels and enhance recreational activities on the Des Moines River. This installation will temporarily lower water levels for 24 to 36 hours, impacting local boaters and users of Birdland Marina. Residents can contact the Parks and Recreation Director for further information.
The Des Moines City Manager has unveiled a plan addressing a $17 million budget shortfall for Fiscal Year 2026, stemming from decreased property tax revenue and increased service costs. Key recommendations include utilizing city reserves, departmental reorganization, and adjusting fees to minimize impacts on residents and city staff. Public Budget Information Sessions will be held to engage the community in the budget process.
The Johnston City Council has unanimously approved the first reading of a proposal to implement a 5% franchise fee on gas and electric bills, aimed at funding additional fire and police personnel. Mayor Paula Dierenfeld emphasized the necessity of alternative revenue sources due to new state laws that limit property tax growth, with the franchise fee projected to generate approximately $1.5 million annually.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced a statewide cell phone ban policy for schools and the establishment of a new DOGE task force during her Condition of the State speech. The proposed legislation aims to reduce distractions in educational settings and enhance efficiency in state and local government operations. Reynolds emphasized the importance of these initiatives in addressing challenges faced by Iowans, particularly in education and public safety.
Metro communities in Iowa, including Des Moines, have decided to move Trick-or-Treating to Halloween on October 31, 2025, following strong resident feedback. This change may mark the end of the traditional Beggars' Night held on October 30, as local officials seek uniformity in celebration across the metro area. Community leaders emphasize the importance of maintaining Halloween traditions, such as children sharing jokes while trick-or-treating.
Brenton Skating Plaza in Des Moines, Iowa, has officially opened for the 2024-2025 season, offering a festive outdoor ice-skating experience along the Principal Riverwalk. Special programming, including discounted sessions for seniors and students, and free "Learn to Skate" sessions beginning December 7, 2024, are set to enhance the winter fun for all ages.
Sixteen recruits graduated from the Des Moines Police Academy on November 22, 2024, marking a significant milestone as the first class under Police Chief Michael McTaggart. The ceremony highlighted the academy's commitment to diversity, featuring recruits who collectively speak at least six languages. This new cohort will undergo field training as they begin their careers serving the Des Moines community.
Water levels on the Des Moines River will temporarily decrease starting November 21, 2024, as the City of Des Moines removes flashboards from the Center Street Dam to mitigate flood risk. Boaters and residents are advised to prepare for this change, which is expected to last 24-36 hours. The process will be weather-dependent and may be rescheduled to November 26 if conditions are inclement.
The City of Des Moines is hosting its third community meeting on November 18, where residents can provide input on the preliminary design concepts for the new North Side Community Recreation Center. This meeting aims to recap feedback from earlier sessions and engage the community in the planning process, emphasizing local involvement in city development projects.