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The Greater Des Moines Partnership and regional partners have launched a Small Business Recovery Grant program to support small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 will be available for businesses with up to 30 employees, prioritizing those that have not yet received federal or state assistance, emphasizing a collaborative approach to community recovery.
The Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) invites public participation in an online meeting regarding the Des Moines River Activation and Possible Dam Mitigation Project, running from May 4 to June 3, 2020. This initiative encourages local residents to provide feedback that will influence the project's final design, expected to be completed by summer 2021.
Des Moines was awarded Gold recognition for its new website by the Horizon Interactive Awards, a prestigious international competition. The redesign, launched in April 2019 in collaboration with Revize Software Systems, focuses on user-friendly navigation and accessibility for over 650,000 users in its first year. This award highlights the city's commitment to enhancing online services for its residents.
Mayor Frank Cownie and the Des Moines City Council support the decision to close Des Moines Public Schools for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, prioritizing the health and safety of students and staff amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift to distance learning is seen as a necessary measure to protect lives and flatten the curve, with strong encouragement for residents to adhere to health guidelines.
The City Council of Des Moines, Iowa, is set to hold a public hearing via teleconference regarding the proposed property tax levy for the Fiscal Year 2021 on April 8, 2020. Residents are encouraged to participate by voicing their support or concerns, particularly in light of the current COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings. The proposed tax rate remains unchanged from the previous year at $16.64 per $1,000 of taxable property value.
The Des Moines City Council will hold a meeting on March 23, 2020, with only select officials present due to COVID-19 safety protocols, allowing for remote participation by council members and the public. Key public hearings have been postponed to the next meeting scheduled for April 20, addressing significant local developments such as zoning changes and support for homeless services. This meeting underscores the city's commitment to public safety during the pandemic while ensuring community engagement through electronic access.
The City of Des Moines has announced the closure of several key municipal buildings, including City Hall and the Wastewater Reclamation Authority, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision, aimed at safeguarding public health, will remain in effect until at least April 12, 2020, with the possibility of extension. Residents are encouraged to access city services online or via phone during this period.
Mayor Frank Cownie declared a state of emergency in Des Moines on March 15, 2020, in response to the community spread of COVID-19. The proclamation prohibits gatherings of 250 people or more on public property and encourages the public to avoid large private gatherings. This decisive action aims to protect public health and safety as the situation evolves.
Des Moines Parks and Recreation offers a variety of engaging activities for families during spring break, from arts programs to sports clinics and nature workshops. Taking place from March 16 to March 20, 2020, these events aim to keep children entertained and active while fostering community engagement. Families can enjoy structured activities at the Pioneer Columbus Community Recreation Center for minimal fees.
The Des Moines Civil & Human Rights Department is relocating to a new office at 2309 Euclid Avenue, effective February 28, 2020, to improve service delivery to the community. Director Joshua V. Barr emphasized the move's potential to enhance the city's commitment to justice and equality. The department will continue to engage with the community through events like the upcoming Civil & Human Rights Symposium at Drake University.