Your trusted source for local Des Moines, IA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Des Moines Parks and Recreation has announced potential prescribed burns across various parks from November 2022 to May 2023, emphasizing the ecological benefits of controlled fires for native plant and animal communities. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through social media notifications and text alerts regarding burn locations, ensuring public safety during this process.
Des Moines Public Works is proactively preparing for potential snowfall by equipping over 100 pieces of snow removal equipment ahead of forecasts indicating a chance of snow early next week. Deputy Public Works Director Adam Smith emphasizes the importance of early preparation to ensure timely snow clearing across the city's 2,200 lane miles. The collaborative effort involves more than 200 equipment operators from various city departments.
The longstanding football rivalry between the West Des Moines Valley Tigers and the Dowling Catholic Maroons is set to continue on Friday, October 14th, with the game broadcast live on WHO 13. The Coaches Corner featured insights from both teams, including coaches and players, highlighting the stakes of the matchup. This highly anticipated event promises excitement for local fans and athletes alike.
The Des Moines Public Works Forestry Division is inviting residents to participate in the 2022 Fall Tree Photo Contest, accepting entries until October 31st. The contest encourages community engagement with the city's urban forest and offers winners the chance to influence future street tree plantings. This initiative highlights Des Moines' commitment to environmental appreciation and community involvement.
The Des Moines Fire Department is urging families to develop and practice home fire escape plans during Fire Prevention Week, which runs from October 10-13, 2022. The campaign emphasizes fire safety education for all community members, including events at local libraries, and the recognition of elementary school students through a poster contest. Fire Marshal Jonathan Lund highlights the importance of preparedness in ensuring safety during emergencies.
Des Moines Parks and Recreation has been honored with the 2022 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, marking a significant achievement as the first Iowa agency to receive this recognition since its inception in 1965. This award underscores the department's commitment to quality service and community engagement, as highlighted by Director Benjamin R. Page.
The Des Moines City Council is set to consider purchasing the former Nationwide building at 1200 Locust Street for $30 million to consolidate government operations and enhance services. This acquisition aims to improve efficiency, address overcrowded facilities, and foster economic development along the Des Moines River, marking a significant shift in city operations.
The City of Des Moines will initiate community-wide adult mosquito control treatments starting on August 25, 2022, in response to the detection of West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes. Conducted by Clarke, the city's mosquito management provider, the treatment aims to reduce mosquito populations and protect public health. Residents are encouraged to take additional precautions against mosquito bites.
The Des Moines City Council has unanimously approved the allocation of $63 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to support various community initiatives, including affordable housing, infrastructure upgrades, and food assistance. This funding is part of a larger financial response to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the U.S. Treasury providing nearly $95 million directly to the city. City Manager Scott Sanders emphasizes the inclusive nature of this initiative, which aims to benefit the community for years to come.
Des Moines is undertaking a comprehensive Property Condition Survey to assess the health of its neighborhoods and the condition of over 96,000 houses. This initiative, led by outreach coordinators, aims to provide valuable data for city planning and neighborhood improvement, focusing on safety and structural integrity. The findings will help identify areas needing attention and support.