Your trusted source for local Des Moines, IA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a non-profit organization, has delivered its 1,900th bed to a child in metro Des Moines, emphasizing the importance of a good night's sleep for children's well-being as they return to school. The initiative addresses bedlessness among children and relies on community support and volunteer efforts to fulfill its mission.
City Manager Scott Sanders of Des Moines announced the date for the third reading of ordinances concerning encroachment removal and prohibited camping, scheduled for September 16, 2024. This initiative is part of broader efforts to address abandoned properties and fulfill Council directives aimed at improving city management. The announcement highlights the city's commitment to enhancing public safety and community welfare.
The Des Moines Fire Department has launched a Mobile Integrated Healthcare program to address the rising number of non-emergency 911 calls, aiming to provide proactive healthcare solutions for residents. By visiting high-volume callers and connecting them with community resources, the initiative seeks to improve healthcare outcomes while alleviating pressure on emergency services.
City Manager Scott Sanders commended the jurors for their fair ruling in the _Foote v. Holtan_ case, which addressed issues stemming from the 2020 riots in Des Moines. His statement emphasized the dedication of the police department and the challenges faced during a tumultuous period in the city’s history. This press release highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure justice and community safety in Des Moines.
Jeffrey Wann has been appointed as the new Chief Information Officer for the City of Des Moines, overseeing the modernization of IT infrastructure across 17 departments. With over 30 years of experience, including roles at the Federal Reserve and the State of Missouri, Wann aims to enhance city services through advanced technology solutions.
The Wakonsa Bridge on the Inter-Urban Trail in Des Moines remains closed following severe weather that compromised its structural integrity due to a fallen tree. City officials are working diligently to assess the damage and devise a safe removal and repair plan, emphasizing safety for all trail users. Updates on the bridge's status can be found on the city's website.
Seasonal mosquito treatment efforts have commenced in Des Moines, Iowa, to tackle elevated mosquito populations and mitigate the risk of West Nile Virus. The city, in collaboration with Clarke Mosquito Control, is employing section-based treatment scheduling to effectively manage mosquito counts across various areas. Residents can opt for notifications and even request to opt-out of treatments through designated channels.
The City of Des Moines has launched the Ladder Up Social Equity Grant Program to support organizations addressing economic disparities in the region. This initiative, fueled by community feedback, aims to uplift underrepresented residents through various forms of financial and business support, with an annual budget of $100,000. Applications are open until May 31, 2024.
Plans are underway for the future of Des Moines City Hall as the City Council has approved the purchase of the former Nationwide building to consolidate city services. The historic City Hall, serving since 1912, will be reimagined for community use, potentially as a museum or performance space. Interior redesign efforts are set to continue through 2024, with departments moving into the new facility by 2026.
Mayor Connie Boesen's May 2024 update highlights key developments in Des Moines, including improvements to Cohen Park and the launch of the sustainability initiative "Think Green This Spring." The article emphasizes the city's commitment to enhancing community spaces and promoting environmental awareness, alongside plans for the future of City Hall. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged with city initiatives to make Des Moines a vibrant place to live.