Energy and Water Benchmarking for a Sustainable City

The Des Moines City Council has implemented the Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, requiring large buildings to report their energy and water usage annually. This initiative aims to enhance awareness of resource consumption, potentially leading to significant savings in energy costs and improved building performance. By comparing usage data, building owners can identify opportunities for sustainable improvements.

Resident Guide to RAGBRAI Des Moines

RAGBRAI is set to roll through Des Moines on July 26-27, bringing significant traffic and street closures. Residents are advised to prepare for delays and consult the provided guidelines for navigating the event safely. Public safety arrangements are in place to ensure emergency response remains effective during the bike ride.

SCRUB and MEGA SCRUB Events Coming Up This Weekend

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.

Des Moines Residents Can Pick Up Tiny Tree Orders This Saturday

Des Moines residents can pick up their free Tiny Trees on May 11, 2024, at Polk County River Place, contributing to the city's urban forest expansion. The event, organized by the Department of Public Works' Forestry Division, has seen a 17% increase in tree orders this year, showcasing strong community engagement in sustainability efforts. Those who missed the ordering period can still receive trees, with a second-chance giveaway scheduled for May 18.

Flashboards Installed on the Des Moines River Tuesday Morning

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.

Metro cotton candy manufacturer making changes to products after Red Dye 3 ban

Fairytale Cotton Candy, a leading manufacturer based in Des Moines, Iowa, is reformulating over 9,000 products in response to the FDA's recent ban on Red Dye 3, a synthetic dye linked to health concerns. The company aims to replace this dye with natural ingredients, reflecting a growing consumer demand for healthier food options while maintaining product quality. The changes are timely as the FDA's ban takes effect in January 2027, prompting manufacturers to adapt sooner to meet consumer preferences.

City Manager Releases Overview of Recommendations To Address Budget Gap

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.

Johnston City Council approves first reading of 5 franchise fee for gas and electric bills

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.

2024 National Night Out Events

On August 6, 2024, Des Moines residents will join millions nationwide for the 35th Annual National Night Out, fostering community relationships with law enforcement through free food and activities. The event, organized by the Des Moines Police Department's Neighborhood Based Service Delivery section, emphasizes community collaboration to address local issues. Various neighborhoods will host unique celebrations with food, entertainment, and opportunities to engage with first responders.

Metro cotton candy manufacturer making changes to products after Red Dye 3 ban

Fairytale Cotton Candy, a leading manufacturer in Des Moines, is reformulating its products following the FDA's ban on Red Dye 3, a synthetic colorant linked to potential health risks. The company aims to replace the dye with natural ingredients, responding to consumer preferences and upcoming regulatory changes. This shift reflects a broader trend towards healthier food additives in the industry.