City Manager Report - September 19, 2025

CITY MANAGER REPORT

September 19, 2025

Parking Sign Update on Marine View Drive

Oops…we got a little ahead of ourselves!

You may have noticed new 30-minute parking signs pop up along Marine View Drive. These were installed in response to concerns from several local businesses about the impact of long-term parking on their operations. The goal was to free up more spaces so customers could easily park when visiting our local businesses.

While the intent was good, we realize we made a mistake by not sharing the “what” and “why” with you beforehand. We truly value our residents, businesses, and visitors—and we should have brought you into the loop first.

For now, the signs have been bagged while we work with the business community and refine the process. We’ll keep you updated on next steps and make sure communication comes first.

Thank you for your patience (and for keeping us on our toes!).

Mount Rainier Pool Celebrates 50 Years-This Sunday!

Join the Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District in celebrating Mount Rainier Pool’s 50th Anniversary on Sunday, September 21! The celebration kicks off with a rededication ceremony at noon, featuring dignitary speakers, a ribbon cutting, plaque unveiling, and a community photo. Afterward, enjoy a free public swim from 1–3 p.m. and take home a commemorative 50th birthday rubber duck (while supplies last). It’s a family-friendly event you won’t want to miss!

City Council Meetings on Zoom

The City of Des Moines is now offering residents the option to attend City Council meetings via Zoom. This provides a convenient way to participate in local government from home or anywhere with an internet connection. Meetings continue to be recorded and available on the City’s website afterward, ensuring transparency and allowing the community to stay informed and engaged with council decisions.

If you wish to attend the meeting via Zoom, it’s easy, just click the link on our website, also below.

If you wish to make public comment during the meeting, please email the City Clerk, by noon the Wednesday before the meeting, to register!

Zoom Link on Website

Email the City Clerk

Curious About Your City's Finances?

Okay, so a tagline about City financial data might not be the most exciting introduction, but knowing where your tax dollars go is an essential part of the City being transparent with you! We recently put together this one-page document with City demographics and financial info.

Check it out by clicking the link below!

City's Finances

Public Records

The City of Des Moines is committed to transparency and open government. Public records are available in accordance with the Washington State Public Records Act, and community members may submit requests for information through the City Clerk’s Office. Our staff works diligently to provide timely responses while ensuring compliance with state law. More information, including how to submit a request, can be found on the City’s website.

Request Public Records

Looking for classes and programs?

Community Enrichment Services (formerly Parks, Recreation & Senior Services) has something for everyone! From activities to keep you active and creative to programs for all ages, our team is here to help you stay engaged. Check out the list below for a snapshot of what we offer. For full program details, schedules, and registration, be sure to visit our online registration site or browse the City Currents magazine—both updated regularly so you never miss out!

Club KHAOS: Kids Having an Outrageous School Year
Club KHAOS: Break Camps
Indoor Tot Time
Youth Open Gym-Basketball
Youth Basketball League
Skyhawks Sports Programs
Art with Amy
Gift Making Workshop
Melanie's Dance Unlimited
Good Manners - Basic Dog Obedience
Basket Weaving
Adult Open Gym-Basketball

Online Registration

50+ Travel Programs

Explore the Northwest without the hassle of driving—just sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey! Our trips are designed for adults ages 50 and older and feature a variety of destinations, from cultural outings to scenic adventures. Travel days vary, offering flexibility to fit different schedules. These trips are a wonderful way to discover new places, meet new friends, and create lasting memories.

Seattle Japanese Garden and lunch at Pagliacci’s Pizza, September 24
Silent Movie: Charlie Chaplin in The Gold Rush and lunch at Uptown Grill, September 28
Swans Trails Farms – Harvest Festival, September 30
Smith Tower with lunch at O’Donnells, October 8
Seattle Symphony: Warner Brothers presents Bugs Bunny at the Symphony, October 10
Bainbridge Island: Japanese American Exclusion Memorial with lunch at Treehouse Café and Troll Hunt, October 16
Amazon Spheres, October 18
Snoqualmie Casino, October 21
Museum of Glass and lunch at Woven Seafood and Chophouse, October 30
UW Volleyball game vs. Michigan State, November 7
Holiday Boutique Craft Show and lunch at the Old Spaghetti Factory, November 13
Gilman Village Shopping Trip, November 19
Wing Luke Museum and lunch in Chinatown, November 26

Senior Out-to-Lunch Program

Join fellow seniors for a fun and social outing at some of the Puget Sound region’s favorite restaurants! Our Senior Out-to-Lunch program offers adults ages 50+ the chance to enjoy a no-host lunch or dinner while exploring a variety of local eateries. It’s a great way to share a meal, discover new spots, and connect with friends old and new.

Brunos European Restaurant, September 26
Mt. Si Tavern, October 2
Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Company, October 22
The British Pantry, October 29
Jack’s BBQ, November 6
Wild Irish Pub, November 12
Mizu Japanese Steakhouse, November 21

Before Des Moines had a dedicated community center, Des Moines Elementary School, built in the early 1900s, served as the heart of community life. Beyond its role as a school for local children, the building hosted town meetings, social dances, holiday celebrations, and other gatherings that brought residents together. It was the place where neighbors shared news, celebrated milestones, and strengthened the sense of community—proving that even in its early days, Des Moines valued connection, learning, and togetherness.

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.

Staff Kudos

“Good Afternoon;

I wanted to take a moment to offer a special thank you to the Parks Staff (Robert in particular), Bonnie, and all those who participated in making our South County Mayor’s lunch a great success!

All of them commented on what a lovely venue and location we have. Several of them will make a trip back in their spare time with friends and family members.

Robert was very helpful both in the parking lot and inside; guiding people to appropriate parking spaces and also turning up the heat.

Thank you again for rolling out the red carpet (or red buildings!) for the region.”

Traci

If you want to share a staff KUDOS with me, email me today!

Apply Here Today!

Job Opportunities

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

Police Officer
Senior Mechanic
Youth Soccer Referee - Fall Season

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

Browse current Job Openings
Click on a job title to learn more
Apply

Need help? Call Human Resources at 206-878-4595 or email HR@DesMoinesWA.Gov

Your City

Your News,

Be in the know! Get the latest updates straight from the City Manager, Mayor and more - stay informed about what's happening in your community!

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City Council Meeting Recap

There was no meeting last night. The next meeting will be September 25th and here is what is on the agenda.

City Council Regular Meeting:

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation
Police Updates
2024 Crimes in Washington Report
Animal Control Options
Summer and Fall Outreach Efforts
Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update, Second Reading
Confirmation of City Manager's Re-Appointment of Lisa Leone to the Municipal Court Judge Position
Public Works Maintenance Equipment Purchase
Property Acquisition - Wooton Park Open Space
Short Term Rentals, Second Reading
Revenue Enhancement Options
Planning Commission Discussion

Click here to review packet

Click here for a listing of all future Committee and Council meeting items

Fall Community Academy

September 24

Police Department

Citizens Advisory Board

September 24

Des Moines City Hall

City Council Regular Meeting

September 25

City Hall

Monthly Desert Social

September 25

Activity Center

National Coffee with a Cop Day

October 1

Highline College - Building 8

City Council Committee of the Whole and Study Session

October 2

City Hall

Halloween Costume Swap

October 3

Field House

Live Music & Dancing with Randy Litch

October 8

Activity Center

City Council Regular Meeting

October 9

City Hall

Airport Committee Meeting

October 13

City Hall

Medicare Market Update Seminar

October 13

Activity Center

Shredding Event

October 15

Activity Center

Fall Festival & Community Resource Fair

October 18

Redondo Square

Boo Bash Family Dance Party

October 18

Activity Center

City Council Regular Meeting

October 23

City Hall

Citizens Advisory Board

October 29

Des Moines City Hall

Monthly Desert Social

October 30

Activity Center

City Council Committee of the Whole and Study Session

November 6

City Hall

Airport Committee Meeting

November 10

City Hall

City Council Regular Meeting

November 13

City Hall

Monthly Desert Social
November 20

Activity Center

City Council Committee of the Whole and Study Session

December 4

City Hall

Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration

December 6

Des Moines Marina

Airport Committee Meeting

December 8

City Hall

Live Music & Dancing with Randy Litch

December 10

Activity Center

Citizens Advisory Board

December 10

Des Moines City Hall

City Council Regular Meeting

December 11

City Hall

Burning Boat Event

December 31

Des Moines Marina

Have An Upcoming Event You Want To Share?

Email Us Today!

Uncle Ernie

September 20

Arturos Mexican Restaurant

Des Moines Farmer’s Market

September 20

Des Moines Marina

Marine Mammal Stewards Program with SR3

September 20

MaST Center

Discovery Day

September 20

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

September 20

Des Moines Beach Park

Oktoberfest 2025

September 20

Quarterdeck

Oktoberfest 2025

September 21

Quarterdeck

Marine Mammal Stewards Program with SR3

September 21

Redondo Beach

Mount Rainier Pool Celebration

September 21

Mount Rainier Pool

Creek Restoration

September 21

Saltwater State Park

What’s Up Des Moines

September 23

Quarterdeck

Weekly Wine Tastings

September 25

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mama's Walking Group

September 26

Quarterdeck

Marine Mammal Stewards Program with SR3

September 27

Redondo Beach

Des Moines Farmer’s Market

September 27

Des Moines Marina

Discovery Day

September 27

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

September 27

Des Moines Beach Park

LITT Yoga Festival

September 27 & 28

Des Moines Beach Park

Marine Mammal Stewards Program with SR3

September 28

Redondo Beach

Weekly Wine Tastings

October 2

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 3

Quarterdeck

Discovery Day

October 4

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 4

Des Moines Beach Park

Des Moines Historical Society Open 1-4

October 4

Forest Restoration

October 4

Saltwater State Park

Weekly Wine Tastings

October 9

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 10

Quarterdeck

Discovery Day

October 11

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 11

Des Moines Beach Park

Weekly Wine Tastings

October 16

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 17

Quarterdeck

Discovery Day

October 18

MaST Center

Lighthouse Celebrate Event and Auction

October 18

Des Moines Beach Park

Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 18

Des Moines Beach Park

Creek Restoration

October 19

Saltwater State Park

Weekly Wine Tastings

October 23

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 24

Quarterdeck

Discovery Day

October 25

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 25

Des Moines Beach Park

Weekly Wine Tastings

October 30

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 31

Quarterdeck

Trick or Treat Path

October 31

Marine View Drive

Discovery Day

November 1

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 1

Des Moines Beach Park

Des Moines Historical Society Open 1-4

November 1

Forest Restoration

November 1

Saltwater State Park

Weekly Wine Tastings

November 6

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mamas Walking Group

November 7

Quarterdeck

Discovery Day

November 8

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 8

Des Moines Beach Park

Weekly Wine Tastings

November 13

Marina Mercantile

Marina Mamas Walking Group

November 14

Quarterdeck

Discovery Day

November 15

MaST Center

Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 15

Des Moines Beach Park