CITY MANAGER REPORT

June 18, 2026

SeaTac Airport Expansion: What It Means for Des Moines — and How to Weigh In

The Port of Seattle is proposing a major expansion of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), and right now, your voice matters.


What's being proposed?

The Port of Seattle owns and operates SEA Airport and wants to add 19 new gates, a second terminal, expanded cargo facilities, and other improvements to handle more flights and passengers in the years ahead. The project is called the Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP).


Why should Des Moines residents care?

More gates and terminals mean more flights — and more noise, traffic, and air quality impacts for communities closest to the airport. Des Moines sits directly in the flight path, so this expansion could significantly affect daily life here.


Where things stand right now

The Port recently released an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) — a detailed study of how this expansion could affect surrounding communities. The public comment period is open now through July 21, 2026. This is the formal window where your input becomes part of the official record and must be considered before any final decisions are made.


What the City is doing

Des Moines is partnering with the cities of Burien and SeaTac through a formal agreement to submit coordinated comments on behalf of our communities. The City Council received briefings on June 4 and June 11 — videos and materials are available on the City's SAMP webpage.


How to make your voice heard

There are two types of upcoming meetings — and they serve different purposes:


Learn about the plan (Port of Seattle meetings)

The Port is hosting open houses to present information about the expansion from their perspective. These are a good opportunity to review the details and ask questions directly of Port staff and consultants.


  • Tuesday, June 23, 6–8 p.m. — Mount Rainier High School cafeteria, 22450 19th Ave S., Des Moines
  • Virtual meetings — June 30 (noon) and July 9 (6 p.m.) via Zoom
  • Full schedule at sea-samp.com/get-involved


Translation assistance and childcare are available at all in-person Port meetings.


Learn how to comment effectively (Cities of Des Moines & Burien joint meeting)

This meeting is hosted by your cities — not the Port — and is focused on you. Staff will walk residents through how to write an effective comment letter, what issues to raise, and how to make sure your concerns are formally on the record.


  • Monday, July 14, 6 p.m. — Burien City Hall


Other ways to comment before the July 21 deadline



For more information, past meeting videos, and City updates, visit flow.page/samp-equity.

City Offices Closed

City Offices will be closed Friday, June 19th in observance of Juneteenth. Emergency Services and Marina Fuel Dock will remain open.

Match Day is Here!

The excitement is building as Team USA takes on Australia tomorrow in the World Cup, and Des Moines is ready to cheer them on!


We're thrilled to share that both our Free Youth Soccer Clinic and the USA vs. Australia Watch Party at The Des Moines Theater are officially SOLD OUT. Thank you to everyone who registered and helped make these events such a tremendous success.


The overwhelming response demonstrates the excitement our community has for soccer and for coming together to celebrate this historic sporting event. We look forward to welcoming our registered participants for a fun-filled day of soccer, community, and World Cup excitement.


If you weren't able to secure a spot in Des Moines, don't worry—the celebration continues throughout the South King County region. Our neighboring communities in Burien and SeaTac still have World Cup-themed activities and fan experiences planned, providing additional opportunities to join in the excitement and connect with fellow soccer fans. See below for more details.


Thank you, Des Moines, for your incredible enthusiasm and support. We can't wait to kick off this special day with all of our registered participants and fans!


Burien Fan Zone

Burien is hosting an official community fan experience featuring match viewings, entertainment, activities, and opportunities to connect with fellow soccer fans throughout the tournament. It's a great way to experience the energy and excitement of the World Cup close to home.


Learn more at: www.burienfanzone.com


SeaTac's World Cup Celebration


As the gateway city for many visitors arriving in our region, SeaTac is embracing the global spirit of the tournament with a variety of community events and activities designed to celebrate the cultures, connections, and excitement that make the World Cup so special. Residents and visitors alike can find opportunities to participate in the festivities and experience the international energy surrounding this historic event.


Learn more at: www.seatacwa.gov/our-city/fifa-world-cup-2026


From Des Moines to Burien to SeaTac, South King County is ready to welcome the world. Whether you're kicking a soccer ball at a youth clinic, cheering for Team USA on the big screen, or exploring regional fan experiences, there's never been a better time to celebrate community through sport.


Let's show the world what South King County hospitality looks like. See you at the match!

Stars, Stripes & Sunshine Returns July 4!


Celebrate Independence Day with a full day of family fun at Stars, Stripes & Sunshine on Saturday, July 4, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Des Moines Marina and Beach Park!


This free community celebration has something for everyone, including live music, a farmers market, food trucks, arts and crafts, bounce houses, Gaga Ball, tug of war, dunk tank, photo booth, Robo Bots, and a beer garden for adults. Whether you're looking for great entertainment, delicious food, or fun activities for the kids, you'll find it all along our beautiful waterfront.


Mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and kick off your Fourth of July with one of Des Moines' favorite summer traditions. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

Celebrating Two Major Milestones on Our Waterfront


Last week was a memorable one for the City of Des Moines as elected officials, project partners, community members, and City staff gathered to celebrate the completion of two significant waterfront projects!


Marina L-M-N Dock Replacement — New, modern docks have replaced aging infrastructure at the Marina, better serving boaters and protecting one of the city's most valued assets for the long term.


Redondo Fishing Pier Grand Opening — The pier is back. Closed since 2019 due to safety concerns, the fully rebuilt pier is open again for fishing, sightseeing, and taking in the views of Puget Sound.



Both openings drew enthusiastic crowds and recognized the many partners, elected officials, and community members who helped make them happen. Come check them out!


Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating these exciting milestones

16th Ave S Sewer Project — Almost Done

The 16th Avenue S Force Main Project is wrapping up. Starting around June 22, crews will spend approximately two days completing road striping and lane markings. Expect lane closures and flaggers in the area — allow extra travel time and drive carefully through the work zone. Schedule may shift depending on weather.

Summer Fuel Savings at the Des Moines Marina

Boaters can save all summer long at the Des Moines Marina Fuel Dock!


Take advantage of our Seasonal Discount Days and receive $0.10 off per gallon of fuel every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday throughout the summer. The discounted price is reflected right at the pump, making it easy to save while enjoying time on the water.


Whether you're heading out for a day of fishing, cruising Puget Sound, or simply fueling up for your next adventure, there's never been a better time to visit the Marina.



For fuel dock hours and marina information, visit the Des Moines Marina website or contact the Marina Office at (206) 824-5700.

Marina Steps Update

Construction crews continue to make steady progress on the Marina Steps Project, where the installation of the southern retaining wall is now nearly complete. Final structural fill and compaction activities are on track to wrap up by late June, bringing a welcome reduction in heavy equipment operations and noise for nearby residents. During the month of July, work will focus on concrete wall construction and electrical infrastructure installation to pave the way for the new steps, accessible walkways, and park areas.

Barnes Creek Trail Update


Following the successful completion of the underground storm detention vault, construction crews on the Barnes Creek Trail Roadway Improvement project are now transitioning their efforts toward the joint utility trench installation.



To keep this momentum going safely and efficiently, the City of Des Moines and Ceccanti, Inc. have decided to maintain the current traffic configuration through the end of December 2026, extending the "Local Access Only" restriction on South 240th Street past its original August timeline. Keeping the road closed to thru-traffic prevents driver confusion and allows crews to work continuously on utility trenching, sidewalks, lighting, and final paving without daily setup delays. Full access will be strictly maintained for local residents, pedestrians, mail services, utility services, and emergency services, with dedicated traffic control on-site and existing detours remaining active.


We appreciate your continued patience as we work to build a safer, more connected Des Moines!

A Little Bit of History...

This week marks an important milestone in our community's history. On June 17, 1959, the City of Des Moines officially incorporated, giving local residents the opportunity to govern their own community and shape its future.


At the time of incorporation, Des Moines was a small waterfront city of approximately 6,000 residents. What began as a quiet community known for its beautiful shoreline, fishing, and farming has grown into the vibrant city we know today.


Over the past 67 years, Des Moines has expanded its parks, trails, neighborhoods, marina, businesses, and public services while maintaining the strong sense of community that makes it such a special place to call home.


As we celebrate our birthday, we honor the vision of those who helped establish our city and the generations of residents who have contributed to its growth and success.



Happy Birthday, Des Moines!

“On Wednesday, June 3rd at approximately 3:50 PM I contacted the City of Des Moines using the FixIt Form regarding standing water on a roadway. I received a reply that my report was received and forwarded to the appropriate department for review and follow-up.


Next morning the matter was remedied. Thank you to staff for taking care of the road hazard promptly.”

Sincerely,

N. Curtis

Thank you, as always, to our wonderful and hardworking staff. This Staff Kudos section will serve as a way to recognize and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our City of Des Moines employees, volunteers, Councilmembers, and more.

Applying for a job with the City of Des Moines is simple!


  1. Browse current Job Openings
  2. Click on a job title to learn more
  3. Apply!


Job Opportunities


Looking for a fulfilling career with competitive pay and excellent benefits? The City of Des Moines is hiring for several positions, including:


  • City Mechanic
  • Court Administrator
  • Finance Intern
  • Police Officer-Hiring Incentives Available!
  • Seasonal Harbor Aide
  • Seasonal Maintenance Worker(s)
  • Volunteer Opportunities with Des Moines Community Enrichment Services 

Current and Past Issues of the City Manager Report


Missed an issue or want to take another look? You can find this report and all past City Manager Reports anytime on the City’s website—your go-to spot for staying informed.


Be in the know! Sign up today!


Get The Latest Updates From Mount Rainier Pool Management


Stay up-to-date with pool activities, events and closures!

City Council Meeting Recap


There is no meeting tonight. The next meeting will be June 25th and here is what’s scheduled to be on the agenda. 

 

City Council Regular Meeting:

  • Recognition of Eddie Ochart’s 25 Years of Service
  • 2025 4th Quarter Financial Report
  • 2026 1st Quarter Financial Report
  • Strategic Plan Implementation Update: Economic Vitality
  • Proposed Seattle Times Editorial Regarding Airport Impacts
  • Telecom Franchise Agreement, NFC Northwest, 1st Reading
  • 2026 Stormwater CMP Replacement Project
  • Washington State Department of Transportation Property Acquisition
  • Automated Traffic Safety Ordinance Update 


City Offices Closed in Observance of Juneteenth

June 19


FREE! World Cup Soccer Clinic

Field House

June 19


Camp KHAOS Starts

Field House

June 22


Day Trip: Muckleshoot Casino

June 24


Citizens Advisory Board Meeting

City Hall

June 24


Day Trip: Gig Harbor Gondola Boat Ride

June 25


City Council Meeting

City Hall

June 25


Craft Cafe

Des Moines Activity Center

June 26


Pop-Up Karaoke

Activity Center

June 26


Out to Lunch: Palisades-Seattle

June 30


Day Trip: Ferry to Bainbridge Island – Japanese American Exclusion Memorial & Winslow Street Shopping

July 1


City Offices Closed in Observance of Independence Day

July 3


Stars, Stripes and Sunshine

Marina

July 4


Planning Commission Meeting

City Hall

July 7


Out to Lunch: Roanoke Tavern-Mercer Island

July 8


Day Trip: Enchanted Farms Tour with Animal Encounters – Duvall

July 9


City Council Meeting

City Hall

July 9


Airport Committee Meeting

City Hall

July 13


Day Trip: Snoqualmie Falls with Brunch at Salish Lodge

July 15


Summer Concert: Spike and the Impalers

Beach Park

July 15


Out to Lunch: Lady of the Lake Public House Dinner Trip with Schmidt House Tour

July 17


Dessert Social

Activity Center

July 21


Senior Bingo

Activity Center

July 21


Out to Lunch: Seventeen51-Lacey

July 22


Summer Concert: Kitty Mae

Beach Park

July 22


Day Trip: Seattle Underground Tour with Lunch at O’Donnells

July 24


Out to Lunch: Jack’s BBQ-SODO

July 28


Summer Concert: Nite Wave

Beach Park

July 29


Citizens Advisory Board Meeting

City Hall

July 29


Day Trip: Deception Pass Cruise – Sails from La Conner

July 30


Council Workshop

City Hall

July 30


Day Trip: Mini Golf-Kent

August 4


Planning Commission Meeting

City Hall

August 4


Day Trip: Thrifting Around Bremerton 2.0

August 5


Summer Concert: Abbagraphs

Beach Park

August 5


City Council Committee of the Whole & Study Session

City Hall

August 6


Airport Committee Meeting

City Hall

August 10


Day Trip: Red Wind Casino – Olympia

August 12


Summer Concert: Stevie and the Blue Flames

Beach Park

August 12


Dessert Social

Activity Center

August 13


City Council Meeting

City Hall

August 13


Out to Lunch: Browns Point Diner

August 14


Family Bingo Night: Back to School Bingo

Activity Center

August 14


Day Trip: Whidbey Island -Shopping and Scenery

August 18


Summer Concert: Huey Lewis Tribute Band

Beach Park

August 19


Pop-Up Karaoke

Activity Center

August 21


Day Trip: Archie McPhee’s with Lunch at Salmon House-Wallingford

August 25


Citizens Advisory Board Meeting

City Hall

August 26


Out to Lunch: Clove Indian Restaurant-Renton

August 27


City Council Meeting

City Hall

August 27



Have An Upcoming Event You Want To Share?


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

June 19


World Cup Viewing Party

Des Moines Theater

June 19


MIBBB Fest 2026

Quarterdeck

June 20-21


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

June 20


Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

June 20


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

June 20


Waterland Pridefest

Des Moines Theater

June 20


Celebration! From Vine to Jar: A Deep Dive into Tomato Gardening & Preservation

Woodmont Library

June 21


STEAM Family Story Time

Woodmont Library

June 22


Summer Meals

Woodmont Library

June 23


Tinker Tuesday

Woodmont Library

June 23


Writing Group

Des Moines Library

June 23


Unplugged Summer

Woodmont Library

June 23


Summer Meals

Woodmont Library

June 24


Summer Break Karaoke

Des Moines Library

June 24


Chess Basics for Beginners

Des Moines Theater

June 24


Family Story Time

Des Moines Library

June 25


Summer Meals

Woodmont Library

June 25


Lego Brick Building

Des Moines Library

June 26


Library Teen Advisory

Woodmont Library

June 26


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

June 26


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

June 27


Waterland Yoga

Soundview Park

June 27


Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

June 27


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

June 27


From Fandom to Fans of Your Own: A Workshop with YA Author, Lily Meade

Woodmont Library

June 27


A Book Club for the Ages

Woodmont Library

June 27


North Hill BBQ

North Hill Community Center

June 28


Summer Meals

Woodmont Library

June 29


Summer Meals

Woodmont Library

June 30


Tinker Tuesday

Woodmont Library

June 30


Chess Basics for Beginners

Des Moines Theater

July 1


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

July 3


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

July 4


Redondo Boardwalk Beats

Redondo

July 4


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

July 4


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

July 4


Chess Basics for Beginners

Des Moines Theater

July 8


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

July 10


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

July 11


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

July 11


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

July 11


Waterland Yoga

Soundview Park

July 11


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

July 11


Shark in the Park

Wooton Park

July 12


Seattle Aquarium Beach Naturalist Program

Des Moines Beach Park

July 12


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

July 14


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

July 15


Chess Basics for Beginners

Des Moines Theater

July 15


Seattle Aquarium Beach Naturalist Program

Des Moines Beach Park

July 15


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

July 16


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

July 17


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

July 18


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

July 18


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

July 18


Waterland Parade & Block Party

Des Moines

July 18


Southside Run Club Dog Dash

July 19

Beach Park


Argosy Cruise

Des Moines Marina

July 19


Chess Basics for Beginners

Des Moines Theater

July 22


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

July 24


Waterland Yoga

Soundview Park

July 25


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

July 25


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

July 25


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

July 25


Chess Basics for Beginners

Des Moines Theater

July 29


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

July 31


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

August 1


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

August 1


4th Annual Beauty of our African Roots

Highline College

August 1


Redondo Boardwalk Beats

Redondo

August 1


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

August 1


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

August 7


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

August 8


Waterland Yoga

Soundview Park

August 8


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

August 8


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

August 8


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

August 10


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

August 11


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

August 12


Friends of Saltwater State Park Naturalists Low Tide Beach Exploration

Saltwater State Park

August 13


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

August 14


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

August 15


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

August 15


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

August 15


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

August 21


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

August 22


Waterland Yoga

Soundview Park

August 22


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

August 22


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

August 22


Marina Mamas Walking Group

Des Moines Marina

August 28


Des Moines Creek Park Run

Beach Park

August 29


Des Moines Farmer’s Market

Des Moines Marina

August 29


Uncle Ernie’s

Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant

August 29


Coffee and Chess

Second Love Coffee Roasters

August 29